IU Health North Hospital

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.

03/19/2026

March 19 is Certified Nurses Day—a worldwide day of recognition to honor certified nurses everywhere and thank them for their dedication, achievements and commitment to patient safety.

Mariah Martin, RN, a certified nurse working in the Intensive Care unit (ICU) at IU Health North, shares about her nursing journey and what being certified means to her.

Why did you become a nurse?

"My certification is Critical Care Registered Nurse (CCRN). I became a nurse to better the lives of my patients. Most of the time, when patients are in the hospital, they are at one of the most vulnerable times in their life. My goal is to ease their burdens, pains and struggles any way that I can. Often, it is the littlest things that help the most, such as an encouraging word, a hand hold or even basic hygiene—anything I can do to show them I truly care and want the best for them. That extends to patients’ support systems as well."

What’s a nursing initiative you’re proud to be a part of?

"From 2024-25, I was on the Professional Governance Council for the adult ICU. Through my work with this council, we started a distraction cart. In this cart are items like sudoku, magazines, crossword puzzles, activity blankets and baby dolls. These items help distract patients who might be slightly confused, need comfort or just need something to pass the time. We also have many patients on the unit who might be on the ventilator for several days. In the distraction cart, we keep hair ties and detangle spray for those patients whose hair gets knotted or tangled from being on the ventilator for so long."

What does being certified mean to you?

"Being certified means I have increased my knowledge base, so I can continue to provide the best up to date nursing care and broaden my nursing foundation. Through receiving my certification, I also have gotten the opportunity to strengthen my critical thinking skills. I take pride in knowing that in order to be the best ICU nurse I can be, I challenged myself and validated my knowledge by earning my certification."

Help us wish all of our certified nurses a happy Certified Nurses Day in the comments.

03/17/2026

Small rocks make a big impact at the IU Health Schwarz Cancer Center -

Acts of kindness can start with the smallest things, even a painted rock. At the IU Health Joe & Shelly Schwarz Cancer Center in Carmel, kindness rocks have become a meaningful, lighthearted way for patients, families and team members to share encouragement and connection during difficult moments.

Janell Guyman, a clinical patient educator at the cancer center, supports patients as they begin their cancer journey. She provides education, answers questions and stays with patients through their first few treatments. While Guyman has been in her current role for just over a month, she brings more than 13 years of oncology experience at IU Health. The idea for kindness rocks began forming about five years ago.

“I did a three day walk for breast cancer with my family. There were stops in between with snacks and along the way, there were these little rocks with inspirational messages. It had a cute little message, telling me to just breathe,” Guyman explains.

Inspired by the experience, Guyman tracked the rock’s journey through social media as it traveled across multiple states. She loved the simplicity and impact of the idea and knew she wanted to bring it to Schwarz.

“I mentioned it at work, and my supervisors said to go for it. So, I talked about it to my husband, and he made the stand out there for the rock garden,” she says.

The stand is just outside the Schwarz entrance and is designed so that patients with limited mobility and children can access it. Ann Bredensteiner, manager of Integrative Health and Supportive care, created the sign for the rock garden, while team members across the center helped bring the idea to life. To make the rocks, one can paint an inspirational message or picture on it and leave it at the rock garden for someone else to pick up.

“We all pitched in and did different parts of it. The nurses painted some rocks to start it off. It's just a way to lift the spirits in a place where maybe they're not always high,” Guyman says.

To extend the experience beyond the hospital walls, Guyman and other team members created take‑home rock painting kits for patients and their families. The kits went out fast, and the positive effect was seen throughout the center.

“Patients loved it. The take-home bags went really quickly. Team members love the rocks because they can take a quick moment to destress and paint,” Guyman explains.

Guyman now hopes to see the kindness spread even further by encouraging participants to share their rocks on social media using the hashtag , allowing patients, families and team members to follow the journey and see where each message of encouragement lands.

The project’s meaning is simple, but necessary.

“We all need more kindness, right? The world is hard enough, and not just for those who have cancer, but anybody going through medical problems,” Guyman says. “Spread kindness and lift up someone’s day.”

03/16/2026

This winter, the IU Health North Medical Staff held its annual get-together to take care of some medical staff business, but also to focus on recognition and fellowship.

Annual awards were given out during the casino-themed dinner, including the Candle Award, Sanctuary Award and Tsangaris Award.

The Candle Award goes to…

The Candle Award recognizes an advanced practice provider (APP) who demonstrates compassion with their interactions around others, aspires to be a preeminent leader in clinical care, nurtures the continued professional development of those around them and is dedicated to their patients and their families. The nominee also exhibits leadership by establishing true empathetic connections that enhance relationships and performance.

The winner of the 2025 IU Health North Candle Award is Rachel Anderson, a nurse practitioner specializing in Gastroenterology – Hepatology (first photo, pictured second from right).

Part of her nomination says, "Rachel is such a patient, compassionate listener to each and every patient she cares for... She always has a positive attitude and is down to earth and genuine. Her care for those around her is a quiet, calm strength that the rest of us admire so much. Her smile is the best and we are so lucky to have her holding down our specialty GI care on the north side."

Drum roll for the Sanctuary Award...

The Sanctuary Award honors physicians who provide extraordinary patient care with a focus on quality, teamwork and compassion for both patient and family.

IU Health North’s 2025 Sanctuary Award went to hospitalist Todd Biggerstaff, MD (second photo, pictured second from right).

Part of his nomination reads: "This provider has been a long-time IU Health employee at both Methodist and North hospitals and a dedicated hospitalist with the service line for 23 years. In my short time as medical director, I have received several instances of positive feedback regarding not only the care he provides, but his bedside manner and his dedication to speaking with patients and families. He prioritizes spending time at the bedside and providing compassionate care with each of his patients. He is a valuable member of our team and he lives the IU Health values each day he comes to work at IU Health North."

The winner of the Tsangaris Award is…

The Tsangaris Award is a distinguished physician service award, honoring someone who is committed to quality and is dedicated to patients, the hospital and the community.

The winner of the 2025 Tsangaris Award at IU Health North is Jay Bhatt, MD, who specializes in Neurology (third photo, pictured on right).

His award reads: "IU Health physician. Member of the IU Health North Medical Staff (2005 – 2025). President of the IU Health North Medical Staff (2016 – 2017). Medical Staff Vice President and Credentials Chair (2013 – 2015). His hobbies are juggling, camping and playing pickleball. Besides the important titles like husband to Lisa and father to Sam, Nick and Ahnna—at IU Health North, he is more likely known as Best COVID ED physician, the Susan Lucci of parking spot losers, the better half or the Don Selzer duo, the winner of the 2023 dance-off and a friend to all."

03/11/2026

IU Health North Hospital earned The Joint Commission’s Gold Seal of Approval® and the American Heart/Stroke Association’s Heart-Check mark for Advanced Primary Stroke Certification.

The hospital underwent a rigorous, unannounced onsite review this October. During the visit, a team of Joint Commission reviewers evaluated compliance with related certification standards including program management, supporting self-management and delivering and facilitating clinical care.

Joint Commission standards are developed in consultation with health care experts and providers, measurement experts and patients. The reviewers also conducted onsite observations and interviews.

“We’re honored to receive this recognition, which reflects the high standards of patient care we strive for, every day,” says Susanne Crotty, stroke program and quality coordinator at IU Health North. “This recertification is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our teams, who work tirelessly to support patients and their families. Being awarded the Advanced Primary Stroke Center Certification once again affirms the exceptional stroke care we deliver and reinforces our ongoing commitment to the health and well‑being of the communities we serve.”

“Advanced Primary Stroke Certification recognizes healthcare organizations committed to striving for excellence and fostering continuous improvement in patient safety and quality of care,” says Ken Grubbs, executive vice president of Accreditation and Certification Operations and chief nursing officer, The Joint Commission. “We commend IU Health North Hospital for using The Joint Commission certification process to reduce variation in clinical processes and to strengthen its clinical program to drive safer, higher quality and more compassionate care for individuals served.”

Pictured from left to right: Kristi Curry, Supervisor of Imaging Services; Manpreet Kaur, Emergency department Registered Nurse; Susanne Crotty, Stroke Clinical and Quality Coordinator; Kaci Elliott, Critical Care Registered Nurse; Amber Hinton, Critical Care Clinical Nurse Specialist; Ashley Bridges, 5B unit Co-Manager; Sam Bonvillian, 5B unit Co-Manager; Lindsey Hardesty, Imaging Services Specialist.

03/10/2026

Please welcome Dr. Frank Yuk, MD, to IU Health North Hospital. Dr. Yuk specializes in adult and pediatric spine surgery. Having had two spine surgeries himself, Dr. Yuk is able to empathize with his patients from personal experience.

Dr. Yuk has degrees from Johns Hopkins University and the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. He then went on to complete a neurosurgery residency at the Mount Sinai Hospital as well as an orthopedic spine fellowship in adult and pediatric scoliosis at the Hospital for Special Surgery. After several years of private practice, Dr. Yuk joined the IU Health North team in early February.

In his free time, Dr. Yuk can be found golfing, traveling, trying new restaurants and spending time with his wife and two children. Please help us welcome him to the IU health team in the comments.

Learn more here: https://iuhealth.org/find-providers/provider/frank-j-yuk-md-4269406

03/03/2026

Jeff Usko was facing three health challenges when his gastroenterologist referred him to the bariatric and medical weight loss team at IU Health North Hospital.

03/02/2026

02/26/2026

This Heart Month, the IU Health Metro Region executive team shares what truly fills their hearts—leading with purpose, compassion and commitment to the communities we serve. From downtown Indianapolis to the suburbs, our leaders reflect on what inspires them to care for patients, support teams and strengthen health across the region.

02/25/2026

A new sleep apnea path at IU Health North -

Dave Ennis is a husband, father and operations director for a local school system. When sleep apnea began interrupting his rest, he knew he needed to explore solutions.

Sleep apnea is a potentially dangerous sleep disorder that causes a person to stop breathing for short periods of time during sleep. This causes you to become sleep deprived because you get poor quality sleep and puts you at greater risk for accidents, high blood pressure, heart disease and other conditions.

Ennis first tried a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine, a device that uses a mask and hose to deliver steady, pressurized air to keep airways open. CPAP therapy is a common and effective treatment for obstructive sleep apnea. However, for Ennis, it proved uncomfortable, and his sleep issues persisted.

“I’m a high-energy person to begin with, but there are times when you hit the wall,” Ennis says. “Working in the kid business, you need that energy.”

Exploring Other Options

Seeking alternatives, Ennis connected with Dr. Noah Parker, a head and neck surgeon at IU Health North who specializes in the surgical management of snoring and sleep apnea. Along with Dr. Sachin Shah, who specializes in sleep medicine, the duo use a multi-disciplinary approach to achieve optimal options for their patients.

Dr. Parker performed a scope and found that Ennis’s airways were constricted.

“There would’ve been a number of surgeries needed,” Ennis recalls. “What I appreciated about Dr. Parker as a surgeon is that he wasn’t just wanting to cut. He wanted to find the best option that worked for me specifically.”

A New Approach

During their discussion, Dr. Parker mentioned the Genio implant as a potential option. Genio is an FDA-approved, battery-free neurostimulation implant designed to treat moderate-to-severe obstructive sleep apnea in patients who cannot tolerate CPAP therapy.

“It works by activating the muscles in the throat to open the airway and improve breathing during sleep,” Dr. Parker explains. “It has been shown to improve daytime sleepiness, reduce snoring and lower sleep apnea severity scores.”

Ennis was intrigued.

“I did some research on it, and I liked that only one surgery was needed,” he says.

After weighing his options, Ennis decided to move forward with the implant.

A First in Indiana

In October 2025, Dr. Parker implanted the Genio device through a small incision under Ennis’s chin.
Dr. Parker is the first surgeon in Indiana to successfully place a Genio implant, a distinction he says reflects the importance of careful patient selection.

“Patients have a number of medical factors, surgical factors and personal preferences that go into the decision-making process for CPAP alternatives,” Dr. Parker says. “It’s important to help patients choose the right approach for their individual needs.”

Activation and Early Results

Following surgery, Ennis needed time to heal before the device could be activated.

“It’s important to allow the implant time to heal in place so a stable and consistent signal can pass to the nerve that activates the muscles responsible for opening the breathing passageway during sleep,” Dr. Parker explains.

In January, Ennis returned to IU Health North to activate the device. He now controls it through an app on his phone.

“It’s nowhere near as invasive as a CPAP machine,” Ennis says. “I’ve noticed an improvement, even in the short time I’ve had it. I’m looking forward to fine-tuning it to get it just right.”

More Options, Better Rest

For those experiencing sleep apnea, Dr. Parker emphasizes that there are multiple treatment paths available.

“We have both non-surgical and surgical options for patients, including surgeries of the throat and multiple neurostimulation options,” he says. “For patients who are appropriate candidates and desire neurostimulation, Genio is an excellent option.”

Now, Ennis is able to continue living his busy life, with better rest and renewed energy.

“The whole process has been very easy to go through, even for someone who is working,” Ennis says. “I love that there are options for people when CPAP isn’t working effectively. Kudos to the doctors and the IU Health team.”

Pictured: Dave Ennis (left) and Dr. Noah Parker (right)

02/17/2026

Labor and Delivery nurse supports families with teamwork and compassion -

Welcoming a new member of the family is one of life’s most meaningful moments, and having the right support makes all the difference. At IU Health North Hospital, the Labor and Delivery team are determined to provide the best care possible.

Kate Hagan has been a Labor and Delivery nurse for 11 years, five of them at IU Health North. Supporting parents and their newborns is where she finds purpose in her work.

“Labor and Delivery is just the best. It’s like magic, seeing the amazement in their eyes after a long labor, and getting to share that moment with them while they build their families,” she says.

The strength of her team is just one of the reasons Hagan enjoys her role.

“We just have a great team. That is one of the things that's kept me staying here for the last five years,” she explains.

Hagan has responsibilities as both a charge and a triage nurse. As the charge nurse, she helps oversee the unit, making sure other nurses have the resources they need, acting as a liaison for physicians and staying aware of patient needs across the unit. As a triage nurse, she checks in patients, assesses vitals and coordinates care to support safe and timely treatment.

One thing Hagan wants patients and families to know is that the Labor and Delivery team is committed to exceptional care at every step.

“We always have the support that we need at the hospital,” Hagan says. “We have a great team of nurses, techs and everybody involved here.”

Are you passionate about caring for others? Explore nursing opportunities at IU Health. Visit careers.iuhealth.org.

02/13/2026

At IU Health North Hospital, holidays bring a special kind of joy to the Labor and Delivery unit. Each celebration comes with a handmade surprise: tiny, themed hats created for babies born on that holiday. Valentine’s Day is no exception.

The hats are lovingly crafted by Cynthia Schafer, a registered nurse on the unit, who donates her time and talent to make each occasion memorable. Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and other holidays are among the moments Schafer marks with her creations.

Amy Cummings, another nurse on the unit, says the hats make a big impact on the patients.

“The patients don’t expect it when they come in, but they’re really excited about it,” she says.

Team members on the unit also feel the joy of the holiday hats.

“We have a great unit already, but it just adds to the camaraderie when we’re working on a holiday to have these little hats,” says Cummings.