She doesn’t perform life-saving surgeries, but Ruth Ann “Ruthie” Duncan has been a lifesaver for many.

By TJ Banes, IU Health Senior Journalist, tfender1@iuhealth.org

Her co-workers say Ruthie Duncan connects well with patients. She often is one of the first faces they see when they come into the transplant area of IU Health University Hospital.

At age 72, Duncan says she just “loves helping people.” That may mean offering directions to a specific office or waiting room, or navigating them through their daily lives.

A long-time Eastside resident, Duncan graduated from Howe High School. She is the mother of two adult children and grandmother of two granddaughters.

“I’ve been a mom to so many of my kids’ friends. Even today they’ll come up and hug and kiss me. It makes me feel so good,” said Duncan. When her granddaughters were younger, their friends came to her home swimming and she often heard her summoned as, “Mom” or “Nana.”

So it came as little surprise to many of her coworkers when Duncan came to IU Health three years ago and formed a special friendship with a transplant patient and volunteer.

More than 30 years ago, Daniel Moore, 31, came to Riley Hospital at a year old to receive his mother’s kidney. He was one of the youngest patients to receive a transplant. He overcame various health challenges and graduated from the Indiana School for the Blind and Visually Impaired. For several years, Moore has navigated the hospital halls with the assistance of a mobility cane, serving as a dedicated volunteer.

Shortly after Duncan joined IU Health, Moore walked into her office and introduced himself. He continued volunteering in the transplant department and, overtime, the two formed a special friendship.

“He’s really attached to the transplant department,” said Duncan. Even though Moore has moved to different areas of the hospital, he still checks in with Duncan every morning he volunteers, promptly at 7:30 a.m., during his lunch break and as his shift ends at 4 p.m.

“He’s so intelligent and often uses big words so I’ll just say, ‘Daniel, tell me what that means,” said Duncan. Once when someone asked Moore how he finds his way around the hospital he said: “I’ve overcome a lot of obstacles to get where I am. Finding my way around the hospitals was the easy part. I even know the tunnels.”

After spending so many hours volunteering, Moore said, “I don’t take this job lightly. It’s the closest thing to a real job I’ll ever have and it’s taken me a long time to build trust with everyone.”

The more Duncan got to know her new friend, the more she learned about his interests and even his “bucket list.” Duncan met him two years before he turned 30 and Moore told her he wanted to celebrate his milestone birthday by renting a limousine and inviting a bunch of friends to dinner. With Duncan’s help, that party happened and among the guests were IU Health’s Dr. Asif Sharfuddin, who specializes in nephrology; Trysha Miller, transplant social worker and Mary Taber, transplant nurse coordinator. They gifted Moore with a cake, balloons, and an IU Health jacket embroidered with his name.

Also on Moore’s “bucket list” was attending the Indianapolis 500. He has fond memories of watching the race with his late grandfather.

Through a friend, Duncan was able to secure race tickets. Moore was given VIP treatment with golf cart transportation and a tour of the pits. During the holidays, when Moore mentioned that he’d like tour the downtown lights, Duncan again helped him fulfill a wish by taking him through the Indiana State Fairground’s light display.

“I just love my job and the opportunities I’ve been given,” said Duncan. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her dogs and cats, and getting “wind therapy” on the back of a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle any chance she gets. She also enjoys sewing and stitched a homemade green flannel blanket for Moore when he moved into his apartment. Green is Moore’s favorite color and also the color symbolizing hope through transplant.

How does Moore feel about his friend?

He tells others: “She’s my best friend at the hospital.”

Heather Brandt produces remarkable results with the guidance of her health coach.

Heather Brandt, Revenue Cycle Services quality expert, was 22 years post gastric bypass surgery when she began to experience health complications. When she realized she needed to make a change, she turned to Healthy Results — IU Health’s wellness program that offers a variety of programs to improve your physical health and emotional well-being.

Healthy Results served as a solid foundation for Brandt. After completing her initial health screening, she knew exactly what she wanted to target on her health and wellness journey—weight loss and lowering her blood sugar. The various course offerings and challenges allowed Brandt an opportunity to take control of her health. Earning money to help pay for her insurance was a bonus.

“I initially began participating in Healthy Results for the financial incentive,” says Brandt. Team members who are benefits eligible and participate in Healthy Results programs can benefit financially. Participating in the programs awards points that contribute toward a bi–weekly financial incentive of up to $1,000/year. “Once I decided I wanted to make lifestyle changes, I knew I needed to sign up for health coaching.”

Brandt began meeting with Healthy Results coach, Jill Dodson, in 2021.

Throughout Brandt’s health coaching journey, she approached each session with innovative ideas to improve her health. Dodson served as a sounding board, providing advice, serving as a listening ear and ultimately encouraging Brandt every step of the way.

“I enjoyed meeting with my coach because she provided unconditional support,” says Brandt. “She’s supported all of my ideas. We both learned from each other.”

Brandt’s dedication, combined with Dodson’s guidance, has yielded remarkable results. At the end of 2023, Brandt celebrated a significant milestone: 50 pounds lost and stable blood glucose readings.

“I don’t have to take any prescribed medication now,” says Brandt. “I’m saving money while also earning money.”

Through health coaching, Brandt also experienced a greater awareness of her personal health, increased time spent participating in health activities and improved overall well-being.

As Brandt looks ahead to 2024, she’s excited to dive back into the new learning opportunities, peer challenges and celebrating more success with Dodson.

Ed and Heather Carpenter met at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, when she was a nursing student and he was undergoing pre-race medical tests. This year, they’ll co-chair Rev, the Foundation’s signature event. Read the full news release (PDF).

“To me, nursing is the ability to make a difference every day. I get to enter in with patients when they’re going through some really hard times. [Nursing] is quite the calling that I feel like I’ve had put on my life. It’s a privilege.”

-Jenelle Morgan, RN

By Bonnie Le, registered nurse at IU Health West

Untreated sleep apnea, a condition characterized by frequent pauses in breathing during sleep, can potentially increase the risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke. Approximately half of atrial fibrillation patients also suffer from sleep apnea, highlighting the importance of seeking medical evaluation and treatment to mitigate these health risks.

Have you ever been told that you snore like a chainsaw? Have you ever been rudely awakened by your spouse because they were afraid you’d stopped breathing? Do you experience frequent daytime sleepiness? If you’re like many Americans, you may write off these experiences as minor annoyances. You may, however, be experiencing a potentially serious condition called sleep apnea.

Sleep apnea is a condition where one’s breathing stops and starts frequently during sleep. The most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea. This is often caused by obesity or enlarged tonsils, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. While the brain’s respiratory center usually prompts a breath before a serious lack of oxygen in the bloodstream occurs, untreated sleep apnea can lead to other problems.

One of these potential problems is a condition called atrial fibrillation. In atrial fibrillation, the top two chambers of the heart (the atria) beat at an extremely fast rate. This causes a quivering motion in those chambers, which creates the ideal environment for blood clots to form.

According to Dr. Omar Batal, cardiologist at IU Health West, “Sleep apnea is potentially associated with atrial fibrillation, and about 50% of patients with atrial fibrillation may have sleep apnea. Untreated sleep apnea may make it more likely to have recurrent atrial fibrillation.”

So, what’s the big deal? Well, the blood clots created by atrial fibrillation are a major source for cerebrovascular embolisms – better known as strokes. When blood clots are ejected out of the heart into the bloodstream, the first place they travel is the brain. If they’re too large to fit through the smaller vessels, they can cause a blockage that leads to brain damage. The longer brain tissue goes without its blood supply, the more serious and long-lasting the stroke symptoms become. Familiarize yourself with the signs of a stroke.

If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, what can you do to lower your risk of atrial fibrillation and stroke? The first thing to do is talk with your doctor about doing a sleep study to screen for sleep apnea. You can learn more about sleep apnea and take a short online assessment by searching “Sleep Apnea” on IU Health’s website. If your family and friends are ribbing you about your snoring – listen! They may just save your life.

Find more information about atrial fibrillation here.

Written by Dr. Amna Ahmed, cardiologist at IU Health West Hospital

February is American Heart Month, an annual observance to encourage people across the country to pay attention to their heart health. For women, this is vital. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, over 60 million women in the United States are living with heart disease. In fact, it is the leading cause of death for American women. It is responsible for one in every five female deaths. That is more than breast cancer. Research has shown that only about half of U.S. women recognize heart disease is their number one killer. It is crucial to know the signs and symptoms of heart disease so you can lower your risk.

Know the symptoms.

For women 55 and older, heart disease shows up differently than in men. The symptoms can be subtle—like feeling tired, having trouble breathing or experiencing discomfort in unexpected places like your back or jaw. These signs often don’t scream “heart problem,” which can delay getting the right diagnosis and treatment. It is very important to keep in mind that hormonal changes after menopause can raise the risk of heart disease, especially if you have risk factors like diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity or family history of heart disease. After menopause, women surpass their male counterparts in risk of heart disease

Among the prevalent forms of heart disease in women, a few stand out. Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause, characterized by plaque buildup in the arteries which restricts blood flow to the heart. Additionally, heart failure, where the heart cannot pump blood efficiently, affects women commonly post-menopause. Arrhythmias, irregular heart rhythms, can pose risks, often associated with palpitations or fainting spells. Understanding these common heart diseases empowers women to recognize symptoms early and seek timely medical care, enhancing their heart health journey.

Focus on prevention.

Taking care of your heart starts with the choices you make every day. Eating well is a big part of it—focus on lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats like the ones in fish and nuts. Being active regularly matters too. Try to aim for around 150 minutes each week doing things you enjoy, whether it’s walking, swimming, dancing or whatever gets your heart pumping. Managing your weight is very important in reducing your risk of developing heart issues. Finding ways to manage stress, like meditation, yoga or hobbies you love, can also help your heart. If you smoke, quitting can also make a huge difference.

Check in with your doctor.

Regular check-ups to evaluate your risk factors are your best defense against heart disease. Keep an eye on your blood pressure, cholesterol levels and watch out for signs of diabetes by getting checked regularly. Talking openly with your doctor about your heart health concerns and asking questions can be a game-changer in taking care of yourself.

Getting help early, understanding your medications and any procedures recommended is crucial. Stick to the treatment plan your doctor suggests and don’t hesitate to talk about any concerns or side effects.

Lean on others.

Having a support network is invaluable. Connecting with others in similar situations, whether through support groups, community events, or online forums, can offer guidance and encouragement.

Your heart is the engine of your vitality. Taking charge of its well-being means making smart choices, keeping up with check-ups and embracing a supportive lifestyle. Prioritizing your heart health isn’t just about looking after yourself; it’s an investment into a long and healthy life.

Learn more about heart disease and treatment options here.

Five new rooms have opened in the Emergency Department at IU Health Saxony–soon to be IU Health Fishers. Before they opened, team members tested the rooms and equipment by running through mock patient scenarios during a Day in the Life event.

The Emergency department will undergo several more phases of renovations to continue improvements to existing patient rooms and ancillary areas.

The work is part of IU Health’s Fishers Community Impact Project, a $300 million investment which includes a significant expansion of the IU Health Saxony Hospital campus and services, and the addition of offsite, outpatient access to primary care and specialists to more holistically meet the needs of Fishers and surrounding communities.

Annie Morken is a speech-language pathologist at IU Health’s neuroscience center. She works with patients who have a variety of neurological diagnoses to improve their cognition, voice, and swallowing functions. “I knew I wanted to be a speech pathologist in high school. I’ve always been really passionate about it.”

Sleep allows us to reset from the day before and prepares our brains and bodies for a new day. When you find yourself tossing and turning, it’s time to take a look at the habits and behaviors that could be keeping you up at night.

The choices you make throughout the day can significantly impact your quality of sleep. Making small changes to your routine can get you back on track to the 7-9 hours of sleep needed to wake up feeling energized and refreshed.

So, what can you do to control your ability to fall and stay asleep?

Exercise during the day

Restorative sleep relates to your activity levels throughout the day. The more exercise you get in, the deeper you will sleep. But even starting with small victories, like going on a 15-minute walk, can improve sleep quality.

Establish a consistent routine

Our bodies operate much better when they are used to a routine. To set your internal clock, pick realistic sleep-wake goals and stick with them – that means on weekends too!

Reduce screen time

The light and stimulation from bright screens can keep you up well after you’ve powered them down for the night. Avoiding screen time one to two hours before bed can help your brain know it’s time to sleep.

Limit the consumption of alcohol and nicotine

Smoking and drinking have both been shown to disrupt your sleep cycle. If you do either of these, try to avoid or limit them, especially within five hours before bed. These lifestyle changes may be challenging, but in the long run, will be worth it.

Leave your worries on paper

If you struggle to fall asleep because your mind is racing, you may find comfort in reminding yourself that you can only control your actions. Thinking about stressors before bed will not change them and may even worsen your worries.

Try journaling and putting your thoughts onto paper before bed. Remember that sleep is good for you. When you go to sleep you aren’t pushing off tasks or avoiding them, but rather investing in yourself and your health!

Don’t count sheep

If you have been lying awake for more than 20 minutes, get up and do a non-stimulating activity, like reading or stretching.

If you are still unable to get restful sleep after trying these suggestions, you may need professional help. To learn if you are at risk for sleep apnea, take a quick, free assessment to determine if you would benefit from receiving treatment from our highly skilled IU Health Sleep Medicine team. Our providers can help you determine if you have a sleep disorder or a belief about sleep that prevents you from getting good sleep.

IU Health has a growing team of certified anesthesiologist assistants (CAAs) who, under the direction of an anesthesiologist, care for patients before, during and after a surgery or procedure. “I want to give my deep gratitude to all of our CAAs. They are such an important part of our anesthesia care team,” said Dr. Adam Lemmon, vice chair of clinical operations for the department of anesthesia. “Our CAAs help us deliver that safe, effective, efficient patient care. I love working with now north of 30 CAAs and I look forward to growing that team even more in the future.”