UCHealth

Jason Kowell was hospitalized at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central after an unexpected illness left him weak and unable to move on his own. For someone who had always been active, the sudden loss of independence was both frustrating and overwhelming. “It was hard not being able to do the simple things, like walking or getting out of bed,” Jason said. “I knew I had to start somewhere to get back on my feet.” With support from his care team, Jason began working with UCHealth’s mobility program. Starting with small steps, he soon found himself walking laps around his hospital unit—progress that gave him hope and strength. At the same time, an advanced AI model identified Jason as being at a higher risk for falls. This proactive technology allowed his care team to create a personalized plan that kept him safe while encouraging movement. “Having a team that believed in me made all the difference,” Jason said. “They got me moving safely, and that helped me feel like myself again.” For Jason, the combination of safe movement and personalized care turned a challenging hospital stay into a step toward recovery and independence. His story highlights how innovation and compassion can work together to help patients regain strength and return to the lives they love.

Teaching children to adopt healthy habits from a young age is vital for their long-term well-being and development. In its 20th year, UCHealth’s 5210+ Challenge program has been doing just that! The 5210+ Challenge is a program in Northern Colorado that provides daily components that encourage students to make healthy choices regarding exercise, sleep, nutrition and screen time. Each year, over 22,000 students participate from 119 schools across 11 districts. This program not only motivates students, but also engages adults and creates more opportunities for quality time. One mother said, “This program is something that motivates our family. As parents, our kids see us making better choices, like what’s for dinner. They recognize it and get excited about those new choices.”

For one expecting mom, access to in-person American Sign Language (ASL) interpreters made all the difference. Angela Lavin, a Green Valley Ranch resident who is deaf, was driving just blocks from her home when a truck suddenly veered straight toward her small green Kia. The crash crushed her car, leaving her pinned behind the dashboard, bleeding and shaken. “It was very scary. I was shaking. I was stuck behind the dashboard,” Angela said. She passed out and woke up at UCHealth University of Colorado Hospital near her home, where she learned she had suffered fractures to her femur and neck—injuries that would keep her hospitalized for two weeks. Despite the fear and pain, Angela found a moment of relief when a woman in the emergency room began seamlessly communicating with her in American Sign Language (ASL). It was her first hospital experience as an adult, but the presence of in-person ASL interpreters ensured she felt heard, understood and supported during her recovery. “It’s a miracle, and the interpreters and doctors were miracle workers,” Angela said. “They treat you like family.” Now pregnant with her first child, Angela has chosen to return to the same hospital for her care and delivery. She knows that communicating clearly with her medical team will be crucial during this significant life event.

🌙 Did you know a good night’s sleep can boost your mood, strengthen your memory and even improve your overall health? From establishing a calming bedtime routine to creating the ultimate sleep-friendly environment - discover how to unlock the power of great sleep. Take a moment to explore the amazing benefits of getting quality sleep and learn some easy tips to help you enjoy a restful night.

At UCHealth, we are dedicated to putting patients first. For those individuals called to join our team, we want you to find more than just a career here. We want you to help make extraordinary possible. https://bit.ly/41qB7nC

Supriya Niroula Khatri, a registered nurse at UCHealth Memorial Hospital Central, recently turned her decade-long hobby of creating henna designs into an act of kindness for a patient. While building rapport through casual conversations, a patient noticed and admired the henna design on Supriya’s hand and expressed a wish to wear henna herself. Inspired by this, Supriya sought approval from her charge nurse and told the patient, “If you are here tomorrow, we can make some time, and I will do it.” The next day, Supriya arrived with her henna supplies and spent 30 minutes crafting an intricate design on the patient’s left hand, mirroring the pattern on her own. It was the first time Supriya had shared her henna artistry with a patient, creating a personal and uplifting moment. Reflecting on the experience, she shared, “It felt good when you see a smile and you see happiness in your patient with your small effort.” Her compassionate gesture resonated with her colleagues as well. Elizabeth Ferriman, one of her peers, highlighted Supriya’s kindness, writing, “The small amount of 30 minutes of kindness improved this patient’s life and hospital stay.” The patient even remarked on how loved and cared for she felt, likening the experience to being surrounded by family. Thank you, Supriya, for your work to improve lives♥️

Brave Heart♥️ Tess needed a double-knee replacement so she could keep up with her family, and the love & support of her life partner, Don, to help her through the surgery and recovery process. She hopes her story inspires people to not be afraid to go after what they want in life. Watch here: https://lnkd.in/gzF7KeJJ

You may have heard the saying, "What goes best with a cup of coffee? Another cup." In our fast-paced lives, filled with endless responsibilities and commitments, it's common to feel overwhelmed and fatigued. During these times, many of us seek a little pick-me-up to help re-energize ourselves, which is where caffeine comes into play. Whether it's the freshly brewed coffee, the taste of tea or an energy drink, caffeine uniquely provides that much-needed boost. This raises the question, "Is caffeine good or bad for you?" Dr. Will Baker, a cardiologist, sheds light on this topic by explaining the different factors involved, and the evidence is mixed. Discover Dr. Baker's insights that help differentiate the facts from the myths surrounding caffeine:

Christine Marcum's battle with salivary gland cancer highlights the importance of early detection, skilled care and a strong support system. Despite being asymptomatic, she was diagnosed with advanced cancer affecting her right parotid gland, ear canal and lymph nodes. Dr. Susannah Orzell, a UCHealth head and neck surgeon, performed a complex surgery to remove the tumor while preserving critical facial nerves. Christine also underwent reconstructive surgery to address temporary facial paralysis and ensure her eye could close properly. Following surgery, Christine started a meticulous radiation treatment process under the care of Dr. Mac Daly, a radiation oncologist specializing in head and neck cancers. The treatment required precise planning to target the cancer while protecting sensitive areas near her brain. With the support of a highly coordinated team, Christine completed 42 days of radiation, which was made more manageable by the kindness and efficiency of her caregivers and the bonds she formed with fellow patients. Despite the challenges of radiation, including weight loss and taste changes, Christine drew on her mental strength and the encouragement of her "village" to persevere. Her caregivers offered practical tips to maintain her strength, and her friends sent uplifting messages and gifts. Christine's determination helped her avoid a feeding tube and return to the activities she loves, such as hiking, golf and pickleball. Today, cancer-free, Christine encourages others to trust their instincts, seek timely medical attention and value the strength of a supportive community.

This time of year is especially hectic. Everyone is caught up in a whirlwind of activities, dashing from one obligation to another, their minds racing with to-do lists. Amidst this chaotic hustle and bustle, the inevitable can occur. One moment of distraction, and suddenly, before you know it - you’ve lost your balance and taken a tumble. Falls are responsible for more than 95% of hip fractures and are the most common cause of traumatic brain injuries. For adults 65 and older, they caused 38,000 deaths in 2021, making it the leading cause of injury death for that age group. With these stats in mind, Alison Weston, an injury prevention specialist, offered her fall prevention tips ahead of the busy holiday travel season: