IU Health North Hospital

04/30/2026

Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month: Listening to her body saved her life -

As a high school Spanish teacher, Traci Rodgers (pictured first) is used to managing unexpected situations. When she noticed lumps on the left side of her neck in late 2024, she trusted that instinct and went to see her primary care physician. At the time, her doctor didn’t see an immediate cause for concern. However, when the lumps were still there in early 2025, a biopsy was recommended.

The results were unexpected and devastating: cancer. More specifically, Rodgers was diagnosed with stage one left palatine tonsil HPV-positive squamous cell carcinoma.

“When they told me I had cancer on my tonsil, at first, I thought it could affect my ability to speak, and that’s my job,” she recalls. “It’s your worst nightmare.”

Connecting with the right care team

A family connection helped guide Rodgers to IU Health. Her husband had a family member who worked for the health system, which led her to Dr. Michael Sim, MD (pictured second), a surgical oncologist specializing in head and neck oncology and microvascular reconstruction at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel.

By February 2025, Rodgers was scheduled for surgery. She underwent two procedures; a neck dissection in February, followed by tonsil removal in March.

“She had 22 lymph nodes removed during a neck dissection and had the tonsil cancer removed via transoral robotic surgery,” Dr. Sim explains. “She received highly effective surgery with less morbidity, and she was able to receive lower doses of radiation due to surgery. This helps minimize long term side effects.”

“Dr. Sim was very instrumental. After he took my tonsils out and saw the biopsy of the lymph nodes, he was the one who decided my treatment course,” Rodgers adds. “He was the best.”

Treatment and perseverance

Following surgery, Rodgers received 28 rounds of proton radiation and six rounds of chemotherapy. Despite significant side effects, including weight loss, radiation burns, a feeding tube and fatigue, she continued teaching throughout most of her treatment.

Beyond radiation and chemotherapy, Rodgers also began occupational, physical and speech therapy to address speech changes, swallowing challenges and weakness from surgery. Her rehabilitation care team included Hannah Wischmeyer in physical therapy for range-of-motion work, as well as Carrie Morris and Beth Maier in occupational therapy for lymphedema and myofascial release.

Rodgers formed a meaningful connection with Julia Porter (pictured third), a speech-language pathologist and team lead for Oncology Rehabilitation. Porter, herself a survivor of head and neck cancer, first met Rodgers after her tonsil surgery.

“She came up to see me and said, ‘Through this process, I'm going to be seeing you quite a bit, because it can affect your speech.’ And it did,” Rodgers says. “There were times when my voice was super hoarse. The left side of my mouth and my tongue aren’t as flexible. When I hear myself speak, I sound different than what I used to.”

“We know that early rehabilitation for head and neck cancer can have a positive impact on long-term outcomes for swallowing,” Porter adds. “This support can mean survivors are more likely to be off a feeding tube or eating a normal diet after treatment, which is huge now that we have younger survivors living more years of life after diagnosis. Traci was great at keeping up with her exercises and eating during this crucial period, even if it wasn’t particularly enjoyable to swallow at the time due to side effects of treatment.”

Life after cancer

Over time, Rodgers’ sense of taste and ability to eat returned to normal. She continues to receive regular follow-up care, including PET and CT scans and HPV-specific blood tests—all of which have been negative for recurrence.

Today, Rodgers is actively involved in the head and neck cancer community. She now serves as a patient ambassador for the Head and Neck Cancer Alliance, a nonprofit organization Porter is also involved with.

“It’s been great seeing Traci is willing to use her experience to help others who are facing this diagnosis,” Porter says.

Raising awareness

April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, an annual observance focused on early detection, symptom awareness and prevention.

“The most common presenting sign of HPV-related head and neck cancer is a neck mass. Patients should seek evaluation if they have a persistent neck mass that does not go away after several weeks,” Dr. Sim says. “For prevention, it's important to stop smoking and heavy drinking, which significantly increases risk for head and neck cancer. The HPV vaccination is also an effective way to help prevent HPV-related cancers. It's important to seek evaluation sooner than later as chances of cure are better when cancer is caught in earlier stages.”

For Rodgers, the experience has reshaped how she approaches life. She credits her recovery to staying active, maintaining a positive outlook, leaning on support from her husband and placing trust in her care team.

“It's hard, but you have to really stay positive,” she says. “You have to keep moving physically and just trust in the people that are taking care of you.”

To learn more about head and neck cancer services at IU Health, visit iuhealth.org/find-medical-services/head-neck-cancer.

04/24/2026

In honor of Earth Day, 30 team members at IU Health North participated in a hospital campus clean-up event on Friday, April 24.

Observed every year on April 22, Earth Day is a time to reflect and take action to better the health of the planet.

Caitlin Vendely, a Community Outreach consultant for the IU Health Metro Region, says clean-up events like these are important for patients, visitors and team members alike.

“Earth Day is the perfect opportunity to get outdoors and show a little extra love to our environment," Vendely says. "Not only does cleaning up our hospital grounds help create a more positive experience for patients, visitors, and team members—it also contributes to a safer, healthier environment by reducing harmful waste, preventing injury from hazardous litter and protecting nature from contamination.”

04/22/2026

Occupational therapists help patients get back to what matters most-

April is National Occupational Therapy Month, a time to recognize the essential role occupational therapists play in helping patients regain independence and return to the activities that matter most in their lives.

While many occupational therapists work closely with physical therapists in a hospital setting, their spheres of influence are different. While physical therapists often work in getting patients back to general strength, endurance and mobility levels, occupational therapists help with specific tasks like getting dressed, cooking and more.

“We help patients regain their overall independence and work with the interdisciplinary team to assure a safe discharge plan,” explains Cheryl O’Bryan, an occupational therapist at IU Health North Hospital. “We want to make sure you can safely do the basics, so then you can get home and get back to the fun stuff in life that makes you, you.”

At IU Health North, the occupational therapy team works closely together to deliver personalized care. Collaboration and mutual support are central to how the team develops care plans and meets patients where they are in their recovery.

“I love the small team environment here. We all support each other and truly care about what's best for our team and our patients,” says O’Bryan.

Occupational therapy is often a journey that takes time, allowing therapists and patients to build meaningful connections along the way. For the IU Health North team, those relationships are just as important as clinical outcomes.

“Everyone we see is going through what might be the hardest time in their life due to injury or illness,” O’Bryan says. “If we can help to make their day better with some compassion, kindness and increased independence, I call that a win.”

To find out more about occupational therapy services at IU Health North Hospital, visit iuhealth.org/find-locations/iu-health-north-rehab-services-iu-health-north-hospital.

04/16/2026

Registered nurse finds her calling in progressive care-

Taylor Bubp has always known she wanted to be a nurse. At IU Health North Hospital, she’s building a meaningful career alongside a supportive team that feels like home.

Bubp began her IU Health journey at IU Health Fishers in the Medical‑Surgical unit before transitioning to the Progressive Care unit (PCU) at IU Health North in July. While she valued her experience and colleagues at Fishers, she’s grateful to have found another close‑knit team.

“We all get along very well together. We can always depend on everybody for the work stuff, but then also the personal stuff,” she says.

Working in the PCU comes with a different set of responsibilities than her previous Medical‑Surgical role. Patients in the unit often have higher acuity needs, requiring more frequent monitoring and specialized care. Closely tracking vital signs, including oxygen levels and cardiac drips, is a critical part of Bubp’s day‑to‑day work.

Despite the fast pace and added responsibility, Bubp values the opportunity to connect with patients and make a difference during some of their most vulnerable moments.

“I love being a nurse. I always wanted to be a nurse, so it just fulfills me and fills my cup,” she says.

Turn your calling into a career. Explore nursing roles at careers.iuhealth.org.

04/14/2026

Understanding breast cancer surgery: What women 55 and older should know -

A breast cancer diagnosis can feel overwhelming at any age, but many women over 55 find comfort in knowing that treatment options today are highly personalized and more advanced than ever. Surgery is often the first step in breast cancer treatment. As Dr. Folasade Imeokparia, breast surgeon at the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel, explains, at IU Health, breast cancer surgery is designed around the individual, considering not only the type of cancer, but also a woman’s overall health, lifestyle and personal preferences.

A Personalized Approach to Breast Cancer Surgery
No two breast cancer diagnoses are exactly alike. Breast surgeons work to understand each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Highly specialized cancer teams develop a treatment plan tailored to the individual. This personalized approach is especially important for women 55 and older, who may be managing other health conditions or weighing quality of life considerations alongside treatment decisions."

Common Types of Breast Cancer Surgery

"The surgical approach to treat each breast cancer depends on factors such as tumor size and biology, location and individual health needs.

A lumpectomy, also known as breast conserving surgery or partial mastectomy, is often an ideal option for women with smaller tumors. This procedure removes the cancer with a normal rim, or margin, of healthy breast tissue. A lumpectomy works to preserve as much of the breast as possible. Lumpectomies are typically performed through a small incision to maintain the natural shape of the breast. Radiation therapy is usually recommended as part of the treatment plan for someone after lumpectomy.

For some women, a mastectomy may be recommended. This approach involves most of the breast tissue and may be necessary depending on the extent or location of the cancer. A mastectomy may focus on a flat closure, or maintenance of skin through skin-sparing or ni**le sparing approaches with planned reconstruction."

Breast Reconstruction: An Option for Many Women

"For women who undergo a mastectomy, breast reconstruction may be an important part of the recovery journey. IU Health offers advanced reconstruction techniques and consultation with our skilled plastic and reconstructive surgeons. Many women choose reconstruction to help regain a sense of wholeness and confidence after surgery, though it is a personal choice. Breast reconstruction can be discussed as part of the surgical planning process, allowing women to explore their options and decide what feels right for them among the recommendations given."

Understanding Lymph Nodes

"Understanding lymph node status is an important part of breast cancer management. However, following lymph node surgery, lymphedema may develop. Lymphedema is chronic limb swelling caused by lymphatic dysfunction. It is often irreversible and can impact quality of life and add costs to treatment. With better understanding of the biology of breast cancers and advances in medical treatments, lymph node surgery is not a necessity in all cases. When it does develop, lymphedema management is a priority at IU Health. Our occupation and physical therapy teams offer expertise and compassion in interventions to manage the condition. Our plastics and reconstructive surgeons may be able to offer immediate lymphatic reconstruction as a strategy to prevent lymphedema in some patients."

What to Expect When Making Surgical Decisions

"Choosing the right surgical option is a deeply personal decision. Women are encouraged to ask questions and take an active role in understanding their choices. Breast surgeons work closely with patients to explain recommended procedures and typical recovery. This collaborative process can help women feel more confident and supported as they move forward with treatment."

Moving Forward with Confidence and Support

"Breast cancer surgery is typically the beginning of a larger healing journey, and IU Health’s breast cancer team supports women from diagnosis through treatment and into survivorship. With focused expertise, personalized care and access to advanced treatment options, women can feel reassured that they are not navigating this journey alone. Understanding your surgical options is an important step toward making informed decisions and moving forward with confidence."

To learn more about breast cancer care at IU Health, visit iuhealth.org/breast.

04/07/2026

Every interaction counts for Guest Relations team lead -

A strong team is built on steady leadership, and Bill McDonald exemplifies that every day as a team lead with Guest Relations at IU Health North. McDonald has worked for IU Health for over 15 years, holding positions at IU Health Fishers and a hospital call center before making IU Health North his home.

McDonald initially came to IU Health North looking to step back from a previous management role. His wife, who also worked for IU Health, had recently retired, and he was seeking a calmer pace. Instead, he found a new sense of purpose working alongside the Guest Relations team.

“It was eye opening, to see the people and the visitors that come through IU Health North. This role was different and extremely enjoyable to come to work, not only with my coworkers, but with the people I engage with that pass through here,” he says.

After about two years with the team, McDonald was encouraged to step into a team lead role. While he holds a management title, he sees himself first and foremost as a part of the team.

“Being a team lead really is doing some things behind the scenes, but everybody is still at that equal level. It tends to bring us together, and the communication is better,” he explains.

In his role, McDonald helps schedule and train team members, but he’s just as likely to be found working side by side with them—restocking supplies, cleaning high‑traffic areas or welcoming people at the front desk. Connecting with patients, visitors and fellow team members is one of the most rewarding parts of his day.

“If I can engage with people, that makes me a happy camper. We're highly engaged with the team, both clinical and non-clinical,” McDonald says.

As a grandfather, McDonald has a special place in his heart for pediatric patients and their families. He understands how a warm welcome can ease anxiety before an appointment.

“I love to see the pediatric patients. We want to make them feel at ease, because the parents then recognize that we've lowered some of their anxiety or nervousness before an appointment,” he explains.

Although McDonald never planned to return to a leadership role, he’s grateful he did, especially with a team he trusts and a hospital culture he respects.

“The team’s devotion and commitment to coming in every day and in being the same happy people I see every day, is great. If there are issues, we lean on each other,” McDonald says. “With IU Health North, I’ve always been impressed. Everybody seems focused and understanding in their roles, and that makes it pretty easy, even when you get to a team lead level.”

04/07/2026

April is Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month, and one man shares his story about his diagnosis and care

04/01/2026

Christine Helbert, a registered nurse working in IU Health North’s Imaging department, is with her patients every step of the way.

She gently provides care, education and support to complete the test at hand, all while keep patients calm from the moment she says, “hello.”

One patient says, “Chris gives instructions and information so that nothing is a surprise. In a very scary situation, Chris brings calm and confidence. IU Health North is so blessed to have her.”

Because of Helbert’s compassionate care, she was recently honored with a Lasting Impression Award. This award recognizes regional team members who are living out the IU Health values—purpose, excellence, compassion and team—as they work to support patients and each other.

Over at the hospital’s information desk, senior Guest Relation associate Kent Mcconnell was assisting one patient with a billing issue.

The patient had trouble contacting billing services on their own, so Mcconnell reached out to the department directly.

“Kent listed those concerns and provided the means for a solution,” says the patients.

Because of Mcconnell’s quick actions, he was also honored with a Lasting Impression.

Help us congratulate Helbert and Mcconnell in the comments.

03/31/2026

The IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center has been named in Current Publishing's “Best of Suburban Indy 2026.” The facility recently received a gold rating in the category of cancer treatment centers. View the full list at the link below.

Best of Suburban Indy 2026

03/30/2026

March 30 is National Doctor's Day—a time of recognition to honor physicians everywhere and thank them for their expertise, dedication, achievements and commitment to patient care.

Dr. Michael Tsangaris, MD, a pediatric pulmonologist, has cared for patients at IU Health and Riley Hospital for Children for 37 years. One of IU Health North's most tenured doctors, he shares his thoughts on a few questions below, as well as a photo from the start of his career.

What has kept you connected to the organization and community over the years?

"What kept me connected to the organization was departmental and divisional leadership in the IU School of Medicine that recognized the value and importance of clinical service—my area of excellence. They said that their job was to give me the tools I needed to do my job. That has always been the case. In more recent years, I’ve been inspired by IU Health leadership and the emphasis on focusing on the organizational macro view of the 'why we do what we do,' that should drive our day-to-day activities. I’ve had a seat at the leadership table for the last several years. I trust that, as an organization, we are in good hands. What comes to mind when asked about my connection to community is the pool of talented and committed professionals that make it easy for me to take care of patients; primary care and specialty physicians and APP’s, nurses, respiratory therapists, social workers and “behind the scenes” administrative team members. I can’t think of a time when I’ve asked for help and been told, 'We can’t do that.'"

What moments remind you why you chose pediatric pulmonology as a profession?

"In Pediatrics, there are always several people to take care of that accompany every patient that walks into my office: the patient themselves and their parents and family. In my Pediatric Pulmonary practice, I see four types of patients:

The infant with a diagnosis that has an excellent prognosis—as long as my advice is followed. I sometimes worry as much about the wellbeing of the parents as I do that of the patient. One of my rewards is to see the parents become much more comfortable and confident in their ability to manage acute exacerbations of their child’s chronic respiratory disease.

The child who thinks they are an adult with whom I have to have a candid discussion about why they need to take their medicine as prescribed. Interestingly, the parents always appreciate my having that discussion with their child.

The former child who is now an independent adult. It is a privilege to have watched them grow up. I’m proud of their accomplishments and to know that I played a role.

The formerly 'special needs child' who ages out of pediatrics into the “special needs adult” world. They will be dependent on parents and family for the rest of their lives. By this time, the parent knows exactly what to do and what their adult child needs. I just provide support and help them get the tools they need to get it done. They see me as a family member."

03/26/2026

March 30 is National Doctor's Day—a time of recognition to honor physicians everywhere and thank them for their expertise, dedication, achievements and commitment to patient care.

Dr. Megan Crittendon, MD, an emergency medicine physician, has worked at IU Health for 21 years. She started out in IU Health West's Emergency department on the hospital's opening night in December 2024 as a new graduate. Since then, Dr. Crittendon has taken on a variety of leadership roles as she worked with teams at IU Health Fishers, North, Tipton and West hospitals. Most recently, she served as IU Health North and Tipton's Emergency department medical director, as well as IU Health Tipton's EMS medical director.

She shares her thoughts on a few questions below, as well as a photo from earlier in her career.

What has kept you connected to the organization and community over the years?

"I have remained connected to IU Health because I believe deeply in its mission. IU Health consistently strives to do the right thing for our patients and the communities we serve, and that commitment has never wavered. I trust the quality of care provided each day by our physicians and nurses, and I’m proud to be part of a team that puts patients first. As healthcare continues to evolve, innovation is critical to finding new ways to reach and care for patients, and IU Health continues to lead in that effort. I am proud to call IU Health my professional home."

What moments remind you why you chose this profession?

"The moments that resonate with me most are those when I’m able to genuinely connect with a patient, a staff member, or colleague. Delivering excellent medical care is a fundamental expectation of my role, but it’s the meaningful human connections and the opportunity to make a positive difference in someone’s life that keep me fulfilled."

03/24/2026

Sometimes, the most meaningful care is simply being present.

During an incredibly difficult moment in the Labor and Delivery unit at IU Health North Hospital, a patient experiencing a stillbirth found comfort and support from registered nurse Colleen Stone (pictured first), who remained by their side with empathy and compassion.

“Colleen shared both my joy and sorrow and did everything possible to make the sudden tragedy of my child’s stillbirth more bearable,” says the patient.

Stone helped the family create meaningful keepsakes by coordinating photography with their baby and making handmade cards with hand and footprints. When the patient’s epidural stopped working, Stone also became a strong advocate, ensuring their pain and concerns were addressed promptly and thoroughly.

“When my epidural stopped working and I was in so much pain, she did everything she could to help alleviate my pain and advocated for me to the anesthesiologists. She communicated so well with the other nurses, caring for me and with the doctors, ensuring that I was in good hands and that everyone was on the same page,” explains the patient.

Moved by Stone’s empathy, advocacy and unwavering presence, the patient nominated her for a DAISY Award. This award honors extraordinary nurses who bring compassion and care to their patients.

A similar commitment to advocacy and listening earned another nurse the same recognition.

In the Progressive Care unit (PCU), registered nurse Joseph Fischer (pictured second) met with a patient and their family to explain a medication ordered by a physician. During the discussion, it became clear that the medication’s side effects would make it difficult for the patient to take. Fischer quickly took action to find an alternative.

“He immediately contacted the doctor and got an alternative drug they could take. He was so attentive to their needs and sensitivities,” says a family member of the patient.

Fischer’s attentiveness and willingness to listen helped the patient and their family feel supported and respected.

“He truly listened and we felt heard. That is so special to find in a nurse,” says the family member.

Fischer’s thoughtful advocacy and compassionate care also earned him a DAISY Award, reflecting the impact nurses across IU Health make every day through listening, presence and patient‑focused care.

Help us congratulate Stone and Fischer in the comments below.