When the coronavirus began spreading, hospitals across the country assembled designated COVID-19 teams and units to care for patients. Caregivers with diverse medical backgrounds were brought together for one common purpose: to provide care, comfort and support. At Hillcrest Medical Center in Tulsa, Kristin Canady, RN, has been one such nurse joining the front lines…

Since the age of 4, Frances Giessen, RN, had her sights set on working in health care. In college, she started taking pre-med courses but redirected her interests toward nursing when she realized the main thing she wanted to do was simply help people. Now, a year and a half into her nursing career in…

In June 2013, Christi M. was looking forward to spending the day outside with a friend. While applying sunscreen, her lighthearted attitude instantly changed. She felt a small lump on her breast. After confiding in her friend, she immediately contacted her Utica Park Clinic OB/Gyn to learn that, unfortunately, the doctor was out of the…

When participating in her walking exercise routine in early 2008, Marilyn Roby noticed an increasing pain at the top of her left thigh. Chalking it up to a pulled muscle, she continued her routine with then boyfriend and now husband Robert. “I did ice and heat like you are supposed to, but it just didn’t…

Jodi Simmons, RN, BSN, MHA and chief nursing officer (CNO) of Hillcrest Medical Center, Tulsa, OK The COVID-19 virus hit Oklahoma fast. Chief Nursing Officer (CNO) Jodi Simmons had planned a spring break trip, but had a bad feeling about the virus and decided not to leave town. Two days later, Hillcrest Medical Center was…

For the protection and safety of patients, visitors and our staff, we continue to restrict visitation and take every measure to reduce the spread of COVID-19. However, we understand how important it is to stay connected to loved ones and friends, whether they are in the hospital or at home. We encourage you to call,…

A slight heart attack took Louis Jackson by surprise in April 2019. “It was a surprise for me and forever life changing,” said Jackson, who was 59 years old at the time. Jackson was home when he began to experience intense chest pain. “The pain would come and go, but at one point it just…

It’s not always easy to get enough quality shut-eye when you’re expecting. The emotional and physical demands of pregnancy can stand in the way of getting restful sleep. Sleep is important for everyone, but even more so for pregnant women and their growing babies. Practicing good sleep hygiene is one of the ways for expectant…