SPRING 2026 Could your heart valves need care? Know the signs page 6 livingWell
12 SMART STRATEGIES FOR ALL-DAY ENERGY Stay sharp with these steps. 4 NEW NAME, SAME GREAT CARE FOR OUR COMMUNITY A fresh look links to our past and our future. 7 THIS SCREENING HELPS STOP CANCER BEFORE IT STARTS Here’s how a colonoscopy can protect your health. 10 TIRED OF LIVING WITH EAR OR SINUS PAIN? Our experts offer solutions! LIVING WELL is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of FAITH HEALTH 2700 W. Norfolk Ave., Norfolk, NE 68701 402-371-4880 www.faith.health KELLY DRISCOLL President and Chief Executive Officer SHANTELL SKALBERG Vice President of Business Development, Communications, Foundation and Marketing KAITLYN KOZIOL Director, Marketing and Public Relations CARRIE KRUSE Media Specialist, Marketing and Public Relations Faith Health Affiliate Hospitals: Niobrara Valley Hospital, Lynch, NE Genoa Medical Facilities, Genoa, NE NOT JUST FOR BONES Orthopedic care helps you get back to the activities you love. Faith Health Board of Directors: Jacque Collison, Board Chair Brad Dinkel, Board Vice Chair Tom Schueth, Secretary Diane Becker, Treasurer Maryanne Hartzell, MD, Chief of Staff Lane Handke, MD, Faith Health Medical Director Brent Berner Rose Brock Regina Busboom Jason Doele Josh Gossman Stef Lacey, MD Michael Moreno Leon Rosenthal Preston Sunderman Information in LIVING WELL comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your health care provider. 2026 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. PRINTED IN THE USA 8 INSIDE YOUR BREAST HEALTH MATTERS Consider whether BRCA gene testing might be right for you. 14 2 Faith Health
Kelly Driscoll, RN, MHA, FACHE, President and CEO This year we are celebrating 30 years as an organization committed to working together to care for the people in the communities of Northeast Nebraska and beyond. With the support and trust of our staff and providers, our patients and their families, and you, we have been able to evolve and grow to expand the services we provide to continuously deliver care that truly makes a difference. We have evolved from Faith Regional Health Services to Faith Health. We have updated our vision to represent alignment among our entities. The change brings a clearer and stronger way to represent the care we provide as a unified health system—a refreshed identity that reflects who we are and where we are going, honoring our legacy and embracing the future. Our mission and values remain the same and are the anchors for our shared vision “to be a trusted health care destination where people choose to come.” So, while our name and look have changed, who we are and what makes us Faith has not. Our people, our mission and values, our heart, and our commitment to excellence and high-quality care that matters remain the same. The last 30 years has shaped us and provided a strong foundation for everything ahead, and as Faith Health, we are able to look forward, rooted in faith and driven by innovation. We are honored to share this journey with you. Your trust, support and partnerships inspire every decision we make, and we are proud to continue to evolve from our foundation to what lies ahead, together with you as Faith Health. Honoring our legacy. Embracing the future. Our name and look may have changed, but our mission hasn’t.” www.faith.health 3
Honoring our legacy. Living our future. Thirty years ago, two hospitals united around a shared belief: Health care in Northeast Nebraska could be stronger if they worked together. That decision shaped what has grown into Faith Health, an organization rooted in faith, compassion and a deep commitment to the communities we serve. Today, as Faith Health, we carry that legacy forward with clarity and purpose. Our name reflects something powerful: one connected system of care, working together to serve the whole person—body, mind and spirit. Growing with our communities Over three decades, we’ve grown alongside the families who place their trust in us. What began as a unified hospital has expanded into a network of clinics, specialty services, advanced technology and regional partnerships. Through every stage of growth, our calling has remained the same. We believe health care is more than appointments and procedures. It is service. It is presence. It is walking alongside patients and families during life’s most important moments. As Faith Health, our unified identity reflects the way we already care—and this is collaboratively, seamlessly and with compassion at the center of every decision. 4 Faith Health
Rooted in faith. Focused on the future. Faith has always been at the heart of what we do. It directs how we care for patients, surround families with support and walk alongside each other as a team. The Faith Health name reflects both our foundation and our forward movement. It honors our Christ-centered heritage while positioning us to continue growing, innovating and expanding access to advanced care across the region. Our symbol represents hope and healing and a clear sense of momentum. There is a nod to our regional legacy within the cross, illustrating an intersection and our position as a hub for health care services, going in and out to care for our communities. It signals that while we are grounded in tradition, we are always looking ahead, strengthening services and investing in the future of health care for Northeast Nebraska. One name. One team. At Faith Health, patients experience a connected system designed around them. Whether visiting a clinic, receiving specialty care or coming through our hospital doors, they are supported by one unified team. Our promise remains clear: Higher Standard. Higher Calling. Thirty years ago, unity strengthened our foundation. Today, as Faith Health, unity continues to guide our future, inspiring us to serve, to grow and to care for our communities for generations to come. Curious about what drives our care? Visit www.faith.health/about-us/ mission to learn what’s at the heart of all we do. www.faith.health 5
Your heart works hard every day, beating more than 100,000 times to pump blood throughout your body. Inside your heart are four valves that act like doors, opening and closing with each heartbeat to keep blood flowing in the right direction. When one or more of these valves doesn’t work as it should, it can affect how efficiently the heart pumps blood. This condition is known as heart valve disease. Heart valve disease can develop when a valve becomes stiff and doesn’t open fully, or when it doesn’t close tightly and allows blood to leak backward. Over time, this can make the heart work harder than it should and may lead to symptoms that affect daily life. How heart valve disease develops Some people are born with heart valve conditions, while others develop them over time due to changes in the heart or underlying health conditions. Common causes include: • Normal aging and wear over time. • High blood pressure. • Heart failure or a previous heart attack. • Autoimmune conditions. • Prior radiation therapy to the chest. Heart valve disease is more common than many people realize, especially in older adults, and it often goes undiagnosed until symptoms appear. What you need to know about heart valve disease Talk to our experts Faith Health Cardiology offers expert evaluation and ongoing care for heart valve disease. Schedule an appointment with a Faith Health cardiologist at a convenient location near you. • Albion, Boone County Health Center: 402-395-3156 • Atkinson, West Holt Medical Clinic: 402-925-2811 • Columbus, Faith Health Cardiology: 402-564-9610 • Creighton, Creighton Area Health Services: 402-358-5700 • Genoa, Genoa Community Hospital: 402-993-2283 • Lynch, Niobrara Valley Hospital: 402-569-2451 • Neligh, Antelope Memorial Hospital: 402-887-6264 • Norfolk, Faith Health Cardiology, 402-844-8284 • O’Neill, Avera St. Anthony’s Hospital: 402-336-5122 • Wayne, Providence Medical Center: 402-375-7953 Visit www.faith.health to learn more. Recognizing the symptoms Not everyone with heart valve disease notices symptoms right away. When symptoms do occur, they may include: • Chest discomfort. • Fatigue or weakness. • Shortness of breath, especially with activity. • Light-headedness or fainting. • Rapid or irregular heartbeat. • Swelling in the feet, ankles or abdomen. Because these symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for normal aging, it’s important to talk with your cardiologist if something doesn’t feel right. Diagnosis and care Heart valve disease is often discovered during a routine exam or through imaging tests performed by your cardiologist. With early detection and ongoing care, many people can manage symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Krishna Velagapudi, MD, Faith Health Cardiology 6 Faith Health
At Faith Health, we believe living well starts with prevention. One of the most effective ways to protect your colon health is to have a colonoscopy. This procedure allows your doctor to examine your colon for polyps, which are small growths that can sometimes turn into cancer if left untreated. Colonoscopy: One test that helps prevent colon cancer Why it matters Colorectal cancer often develops without symptoms, meaning you could have polyps or early cancer and not know it. A colonoscopy allows our general surgeons, David Keleny, MD, and Nicholas Boyle, MD, to identify and remove precancerous polyps during the same procedure— helping stop cancer before it starts. “Colonoscopies aren’t just screenings; they’re a powerful step in protecting your health,” says Dr. Boyle. Comfort-focused care Our general surgery team prioritizes your comfort and safety at every step. Colonoscopies are performed with sedation, and most patients return home the same day, resuming normal activities within 24 hours. While the preparation the day before is important, the procedure itself usually takes less than one hour. “Early detection can make all the difference,” says Dr. Keleny. Is it time to schedule? Screening colonoscopies are recommended beginning at age 45, or earlier for those with a family history of colorectal cancer or other risk factors. When found early, colorectal cancer is highly treatable, making routine screening an important part of staying healthy. Get it done If you’re due for a screening or have questions about colon health, talk with our Faith Health General Surgery team. You can call 402-844-8325 to schedule a colonoscopy and visit www.faith.health to learn more. “The prep wasn’t as bad as everyone made it out to seem.” —Kim Rusk David Keleny, MD, Faith Health General Surgery www.faith.health 7
Staying active looks different for everyone. For some, it’s a daily walk or time in the garden. For others, it’s a recreational exercise, household projects or keeping up with the grandchildren. No matter what the activity, movement is key to staying healthy. But when it causes pain or injury, orthopedic care can help. Specialty care for everyday needs Many people think orthopedic care is only for competitive athletes or serious injuries. In reality, common issues like joint pain, muscle strains, ligament sprains or tendon injuries often develop during everyday activities. Left untreated, even minor injuries can start to interfere with daily routines. As we age, the body doesn’t always recover as quickly. What once healed on its own may linger longer, causing stiffness, weakness or limited mobility. Occasional soreness is normal, but ongoing pain is not something you simply have to live with. Early evaluation can prevent minor problems from becoming larger ones. At Faith Health Orthopedics, our specialists provide care for injuries and conditions affecting bones, joints, muscles, ligaments and tendons, treating patients of all ages and helping them safely return to the activities that matter most. Typical treatments Treatment often begins with nonsurgical options— such as physical therapy, joint injections, bracings and other treatments—designed to improve comfort and function. These approaches can restore movement, reduce pain and strengthen muscles. When surgery is necessary, our orthopedic surgeons offer advanced procedures—such as joint replacement and arthroscopic surgery—with coordinated rehabilitation and follow-up care to support a safe recovery. Enjoy an active life For many patients, especially older adults, orthopedic care is more than healing an injury. Being able to move comfortably, stay active and maintain independence plays a major role in quality of life. With personalized treatment plans and expert guidance, patients can regain confidence in their movement. Move confidently at any age with orthopedic care Jared Rickert, DO, Faith Health Orthopedics 8 Faith Health
Ready to go back to the activities you love? Let Faith Health orthopedic specialists John Lammli, MD, and Jared Rickert, DO, help you stay active, strong and independent. Call today for an appointment! Norfolk: 402-844-8158 Columbus: 402-564-9610 Shoulder • Arthritis. • Bicep tendon tear or rupture. • Bursitis. • Collarbone fracture. • Dislocation. • Inflammation. • Instability. • Labrum tear. • Rotator cuff tear. • Tendinitis. Knee • ACL injury. • Arthritis. • Bursitis. • Fracture. • Kneecap dislocation. • Meniscus injury. • Sprains and strains. • Tendinitis. Hip • Arthritis. • Bursitis. • Dislocation. • Fracture. • Sprains. • Strains and tears. • Tendinitis. Common conditions we treat John Lammli, MD, Faith Health Orthopedics www.faith.health 9
Break FREEfrom chronic sinus and ear infections Some sinus and ear conditions just don’t go away. They can linger for months—or even years—making it difficult to breathe, hear clearly or feel comfortable throughout the day. Recognizing the signs and knowing when to seek care is key to long-term relief. Ear infections that don’t stop What it is: Chronic ear infections happen when fluid repeatedly builds up behind the eardrum or infections never fully clear. The eustachian tube, which helps drain fluid and regulate pressure, is often involved. Signs to look for include: • Ongoing or recurring ear pain. • A feeling of fullness in the ear. • Fluid or drainage. • Muffled or changed hearing. Both children and adults can be affected. Over time, repeated infections or longterm fluid buildup can affect hearing. Our ENT specialists evaluate and treat chronic ear infections with personalized plans. Treatments may include medications, minor procedures and therapies to restore hearing and comfort. 10 Faith Health
Find the care you need Schedule an appointment with Justin Oltman, MD, or Eric Rohe, MD, at Faith Health Ear, Nose and Throat to find relief from chronic sinus or ear conditions. Call 402-844-8275 or scan the QR code with your cellphone camera to learn more! How sinus and ear conditions are connected The ears, nose and sinuses are closely linked. Inflammation in one area can trigger symptoms in another, which is why chronic sinusitis and ear infections often occur together. Treating the underlying cause, not just the symptoms, is the best plan for lasting relief. Time to see an ENT specialist Schedule an evaluation with a Faith Health ENT specialist if your symptoms: • Last for months. • Keep returning. • Continue to interfere with daily comfort and activities. Faith Health ENT combines experience, advanced diagnostics and personalized care to help you manage chronic sinusitis and ear infections—so you can breathe easier, hear clearly and feel like yourself again. When sinusitis won’t quit What it is: Chronic sinusitis occurs when the sinuses remain inflamed for 12 weeks or longer. Blocked drainage can cause ongoing congestion, pressure and discomfort. Signs to look for include: • Nasal congestion or blockage. • Pressure or pain in the face or forehead. • Thick nasal drainage. • Trouble smelling. • Headaches or feeling tired. What causes it: Allergies, nasal polyps, a deviated septum and repeated infections can all play a role. At Faith Health, our ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists provide expert evaluation and treatment for chronic sinusitis. Treatment ranges from medications to advanced procedures, helping patients breathe easier and regain comfort in daily life. Faith Health Ear, Nose and Throat physicians Eric Rohe, MD (left), and Justin Oltman, MD. www.faith.health 11
Make lasting change to feel your best Start by balancing your blood sugar You can choose from many positive changes to improve your well-being. One you might overlook? Keeping your blood sugar steady. Balanced blood sugar plays a key role in energy, focus and long-term health for people of all ages. Keep your energy even Steady blood sugar helps you avoid afternoon energy slumps, mood swings and lapses in mental focus—all things that can make it harder to stick to healthy routines. When blood sugar levels stay consistent, your body and mind are better equipped to manage your day. “When people feel more even energy throughout the day, it’s often easier to keep up with healthy habits,” says Timothy Davy, MD, a physician at Faith Health Norfolk Family Medicine North Medical Offices. “Small choices can really add up over time.” Here are a few strategies to work into your day that may help you feel sharper and more productive: Fuel your body. Choose a variety of foods, including fiber-rich complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. These foods release their energy more slowly into your bloodstream instead of causing spikes. Complex carbs include whole grains, such as brown rice and whole-wheat bread. Pairing carbs with proteins (like beans or skinless chicken) and healthy fats (like nuts, seeds and olive oil) can also help stabilize blood sugar. For example, instead of just an apple, have an apple with peanut butter. Have your morning meal. Eating breakfast helps keep blood sugar steady throughout the day and can help you manage hunger later on. 12 Faith Health
Managing diabetes or prediabetes? If you have diabetes or prediabetes, maintaining steady blood sugar is even more important. Talk with your doctor regularly for support. Your expert guide Faith Health Family Medicine provides primary care for screenings and personalized guidance to help patients manage their health at every stage of life. Annual wellness visits are a great opportunity to discuss blood sugar, nutrition and lifestyle habits with a trusted provider. Drink more water. Dehydration can cause blood sugar to become more concentrated. Staying hydrated supports overall metabolic health. Not sure where to start? At Faith Health Family Medicine, we can help you create realistic health goals based on your lifestyle, medical history and long-term needs. Contact a primary care provider near you. • Battle Creek: 402-675-9065 • Humphrey: 402-923-0150 • Laurel: 402-256-3042 • Neligh: 402-887-1313 • Norfolk—Medical Offices North: 402-844-8205 • Norfolk Sunny Meadow: 402-370-4100 • Pierce: 402-329-4195 • Wakefield: 402-287-2267 • Wayne: 402-375-2500 Visit www.faith.health to learn more about our services! Keep moving. Regular physical activity helps your body use insulin more effectively and supports healthy blood sugar levels. Get to bed on time. Lack of sleep can raise blood sugar levels and reduce restorative rest. Ongoing sleep deprivation has also been linked to an increased risk of diabetes. Aim for seven to nine hours of sleep each night. www.faith.health 13
BRCA gene testing isn’t just a lab test. It’s a way to take charge of your health. BRCA stands for breast cancer genes, BRCA1 and BRCA2, which help regulate normal cell growth. Changes in these genes can increase your risk for breast, ovarian and other cancers. At Faith Health, our breast care specialists guide patients through testing, explain results and create personalized plans for breast health. Because these gene changes can run in families, knowing your BRCA status can provide valuable insight for both you and your loved ones. Who should consider testing? BRCA testing may be especially important for those with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, cancer diagnosed at a younger age, or certain ancestry-related risk factors. Even if your family history isn’t clear, our breast care team can help determine whether testing is right for you and guide you through the process. Why it matters Knowing your BRCA status can help guide your health care decisions and open the door to proactive strategies. A positive result may lead to earlier screenings, personalized care or preventive measures. Even a negative result provides valuable information, helping you and your team of experts make informed choices to protect your breast health. What to expect Testing is simple and requires no special preparation. Blood is collected, usually from the arm, and results are reviewed with one of our breast care providers. Counseling before and after testing helps you understand your Take charge of your breast health Consider BRCA testing You take good care of your health by eating right, exercising and reducing stress. But are you also having regular mammograms? If not, you could be overlooking a vital form of self-care. What is a mammogram? A mammogram is a low-dose breast x-ray. Medical experts say it is the most effective way to look for changes in the breasts that could eventually become cancerous. Mammograms can find signs of cancer years before symptoms—such as a lump, pain or nipple discharge—show up. When breast cancer is found early, it is often easier to treat. Women with breast cancer that is diagnosed in its early stages are: Time for a mammogram? Don’t skip this important screening 14 Faith Health
• Less likely to need aggressive treatments such as mastectomy. Mastectomy is the surgical removal of the breast. • Less likely to need chemotherapy. • More likely to be cured. Simply put, mammograms can save lives. Talk with your doctor about having regular mammograms starting at age 40. What happens during a mammogram? After you check in, you will remove your shirt and bra and put on a loose-fitting top that opens in the front. The technician will give you wipes so you can remove all traces of deodorant, antiperspirant, lotion, powder or perfume from your breasts and underarms. These products can show up on the x-ray. Next, you’ll enter the x-ray room. Before you get started, be sure to tell the technician if you think you may be pregnant or if you have breast implants. The technician will guide you into the right position in front of the x-ray and gently place your breast on its surface. They will place a plastic plate on top and press down to flatten your breast tissue, which will create the highestquality pictures. The technician will ask you to be still while they take the x-rays. You’re likely to feel some discomfort, but it usually goes away quickly. Most results are received within one week, though it can take up to 30 days. The mammogram facility also will send the results to your doctor. If you have questions about your report, talk with your doctor. Sources: American Cancer Society; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Cancer Institute; U.S. Food and Drug Administration To make an appointment for a mammogram, call 402-644-7121, or scan the QR code with your cellphone camera to learn more. Kinzie Norris, MD, Faith Health Breast Care results, explore next steps and make confident decisions about your care. Many insurance plans cover the cost of BRCA testing, if criteria are met, making it accessible for most patients. Gain peace of mind Beyond science, the biggest benefit is peace of mind—knowing your risks, understanding your options and having a trusted breast care team to support you every step of the way. Be informed Schedule a consultation with Kinzie Norris, MD, at Faith Health Breast Care today by calling 402-844-8167, and discover more services we offer by visiting www.faith .health/medical-services/ breast-health. www.faith.health 15
Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 2700 W. Norfolk Ave. Norfolk, NE 68701 Find peace of mind At high risk for breast cancer? Consider BRCA testing. See page 14 Your trusted partner in health We’re deeply grateful for these honors—not because they define our work, but because they reflect the care and commitment we bring to those we serve every day. To find what’s behind these honors, visit www.faith.health/about-us/news or scan the QR code!
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