Adventist Health Mendocino Coast

09/13/2025

“And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose.” — Romans 8:28

09/12/2025

Join us for our next Food for Life Online Cooking Class on Tuesday, September 16.

Presented by our Nutrition Education team, we will discuss reversing metabolic disorders and reducing inflammation in the body.

The class features three plant-based cooking demonstrations along with handouts of easy and affordable recipes participants can prepare at home to help reduce inflammation and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance.

When: Tuesday, September 16, 4-6 pm
Where: online via Zoom. Join here: https://ahlink.org/46sG4yd

This is a hybrid class in which there will be in-person attendees as well as virtual attendees. Those attending on Zoom are welcome to participate via questions/comments in the chat.

Questions? Call the Outpatient Nutrition Education Office at 707-456-3132 or email earsleaf@ah.org.

09/12/2025

Sunburn damages your skin’s protective layer and can increase your risk of heat-related illnesses. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with at least SPF 30 — and reapply more often if you’re swimming or sweating!

Want to learn more about other summer safety tips? See our website here for more! ahlink.org/4mNgF7T

09/11/2025

We remember those lives lost on September 11, as well as the survivors, families and many acts of heroism witnessed that day. We thank the first responders, emergency personnel and the men and women who protect us and keep us safe today and every day.

09/10/2025

The International Association for Su***de Prevention’s theme for Su***de Prevention Day is Changing the Narrative on Su***de. This is about reframing how we perceive this complex issue from a culture of silence to one of openness, empathy, and support. At Adventist Health, this is just the environment we are working to create. If you know someone struggling with depression or suicidal thoughts, reach out and offer support and hope. If you are struggling with these thoughts yourself, ask for help. We know it can be hard to share these thoughts with others, but your life is worth living. If you do not know who to reach out to, call or text 988 to connect with a counselor at the National Su***de and Crisis Lifeline. Conversations are free and confidential.

09/09/2025

Getting a flu shot every year is important for your health and the health of the people you love. When you’ve received the shot, you’re less likely to get the flu and spread it to people at high risk of complications, such as adults older than 65, women who are pregnant and infants. Follow these simple tips to make this important vaccination easier.

Find out what to do before and after your flu shot to make the process easier. Learn how to manage arm soreness, activities to avoid and post-flu shot care.

09/07/2025

A loved one’s struggles with Alzheimer’s can be difficult for the entire family. This World Alzheimer’s Month, we encourage you to remember simple strategies to cope and to help your family experience connection and calm.

Learn more about the importance of caring for yourself as a caregiver on our blog. ahlink.org/4g1Xl3X

09/05/2025

Recently, we had the honor of celebrating the 70th Anniversary of Parents and Friends, Inc. at their carnival-style community celebration filled with games, prizes, music, and food.

During the celebration, they gave a heartfelt presentation recognizing their community partners and we were truly humbled to be included. Standing alongside so many dedicated local organizations was a reminder of what makes our small town so special. It really does take a village, and we’re grateful to be part of this one.

Our partnership with Parents and Friends, Inc. is one we hold close to our hearts. Their mission is to empower individuals with developmental challenges to live, work, and thrive in our community, work that makes a difference every single day.

Here’s to 70 years of impact, inclusion, and community spirit!

Learn more about Parents and Friends, Inc. and their incredible work here: https://parentsandfriends.org/

09/05/2025

Naoky Tsai, MD, a gastroenterologist and hepatologist at Adventist Health Castle, joins host Japhet De Oliveira for a meaningful conversation about his father's influence on his decision to pursue medicine, his decision to come to the United States for further training, and his establishment of the first liver transplant program in the state. Listen here: ahlink.org/4mExa6q

09/04/2025

This week we are excited to shine a spotlight on Dr. Jason Kirkman, Medical Director of our Cardiopulmonary Department. Dr. Kirkman has been serving our community for an incredible 42 years, dedicating his career to advancing patient care and supporting the health of our coastal community.

His path to medicine began early. Growing up in a family that deeply respected physicians, Dr. Kirkman was especially inspired when his older sister graduated from UCSF School of Medicine. “The pageantry of her graduation made a big impression on me when I was only 9 years old,” he recalls. Combining his strength in math and science with his desire to help people, he found medicine to be the perfect fit.

In medical school, Dr. Kirkman began research in echocardiography, a focus that would define much of his career. In 1983, he took over the internal medicine practice of Dr. Burton Tepfer at Mendocino Coast District Hospital, assuming leadership of the echocardiography service when Dr. Tepfer moved on. “I’ve been reading echoes here ever since,” he shares, and he has passed the National Board of Echocardiography exam three times—something highly unusual for an internist.

What he values most about his work is simple but powerful: the people he works alongside, and the ability to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives.

When asked what he values about being part of our family, Dr. Kirkman points to the organization’s commitment to safety and quality of care. His advice to those considering medicine echoes the same values: “Teamwork is essential to good outcomes. Being part of an effective team is more gratifying than ordering everybody around. And expect to work hard.”

Outside of medicine, Dr. Kirkman finds balance through music and swimming. A lifelong musician, he always has a project in the works and has played keyboards in rock bands since high school, including Code Red, a group made up entirely of hospital staff that once played at various events in our community and at the hospital. Music, he says, allows him to focus fully in the moment and recharge.

Dr. Kirkman, thank you for your decades of dedication, leadership, and compassion. Your expertise and vigilance have saved lives and continue to make an incredible impact on our patients and community.

09/04/2025

During the fall and winter, it’s not only important to prevent flu but pneumonia too! Although most often mild, pneumococcal disease can result in serious illness or lifelong disabilities. Vaccination is the safest, most effective way to protect yourself from the disease. Here are four risk factors to be aware of.

09/03/2025

Meet Reilly Waddington, a new grad joining the team at Adventist Health Howard Memorial.

We asked Reilly which "Be Statement" from our core values resonates with her most. She chose "Be a Force for Good."

“I resonate with the statement ‘Be a Force for Good’ because I feel this is the basis of working in healthcare — to have a positive impact on our patients, our team, hospital, and community. To work each day to improve not just ourselves, but the lives around us.”

When she’s not delivering compassionate care, Reilly loves getting outside to hike and backpack.

And a fun fact: Reilly owns a snake — because "dogs aren’t allowed in rentals."

We’re so excited to have Reilly bringing her adventurous spirit and passion for making a difference to our team!

09/03/2025

Last week, our team had the honor of joining our community to recognize Overdose Awareness Day. It was a powerful time to reflect, remember, and stand with those impacted by substance use and loss.

Through open conversations and brave storytelling, we heard deeply moving experiences of struggle, resilience, and healing. These stories reminded us of the strength it takes to keep going, the power of empathy, and the vital role we each play in building a supportive, stigma-free community.

We also shared valuable resources to ensure that help is always accessible, because no one should ever have to face this journey alone.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to making this day so meaningful.

Your presence, openness, and support made a lasting impact.

09/03/2025

Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes made from breathable fabrics to help your body regulate its temperature. For extra protection, grab your sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat!

To learn more about further summer safety tips, visit our website at ahlink.org/4mNgF7T

09/01/2025

Happy Labor Day! Thank you to our team members for your continued hard work and dedication in caring for our communities. Wishing everyone a weekend full of rest, renewal, and meaningful moments with loved ones.

08/30/2025

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest." — Matthew 11:28

08/29/2025

Shane Voshell, Human Resources Director of the Oregon Network, joins host Japhet De Oliveira for an engaging conversation about how the pandemic gave him a new perspective, his passion for human resources, and how his faith ties into everyday life. Listen: ahlink.org/4fyxUY5

08/26/2025

Today we recognize Women’s Equality Day, a time to honor the achievements of women throughout history and reflect on the importance of equity and inclusion in every part of society — including healthcare.

At Adventist Health, women lead and serve in every corner of our organization, helping shape the care we deliver and the love we commit to bringing to every interaction.

To the women who heal, lead, support, and inspire: thank you!

08/25/2025

Better outcomes. Shorter recoveries. More precision than ever before.

Adventist Health and Rideout is bringing the da Vinci 5 surgical robotic system — the most advanced in its class — to patients in the Yuba-Sutter area.

This tremendous step forward in care is made possible by the single largest commitment in Adventist Health Rideout Foundation history, showing the power of a community united around exceptional healthcare.

Intuitive

08/25/2025

Your children are made for more adventures, milestones, and healthy growth. Our pediatric experts are dedicated to helping your family thrive. From your baby's first kicks to their well-child visits to their high school sports physicals, we are here for them and we are here for you.

Visit ahlink.org/41SZGsy for tips or to find a pediatrician or family medicine provider near you.

08/22/2025

Nick Johnson, Chief Finance Officer at Adventist Health Castle, joins host Japhet De Oliveira for an insightful conversation about the personal side of finance, lessons he's learned over the years, and growing in his faith.

Listen here: ahlink.org/4lZMIBm

08/20/2025

We're celebrating a $1 million gift and a powerful partnership with Valley Strong Credit Union. This generous donation will help expand our cardiac catheterization lab (cath lab) at Adventist Health Hanford. Cath labs are facilities where diagnostic and therapeutic procedures related to the heart and blood vessels are performed using catheters or tubes. By expanding from one cath lab to five, our team will be able to serve 2,000+ patients each year and provide life-saving care close to home.

This gift will elevate our cath lab waiting area and overall experience for patients and their families.

Thank you, Valley Strong Credit Union, for sharing our commitment to building a healthier and stronger future for the communities we serve.

08/20/2025

You were made for more friendly faces, helping hands, and warm hearts. Our volunteers, like these from Adventist Health Castle, generously share their kindness and compassion by greeting visitors, helping patients, and offering support wherever it's needed.

Interested in becoming a volunteer? We'd love to welcome you. Learn more at ahlink.org/3Hkm5YM.

08/19/2025

Protecting your health never goes out of style. Even if you were fully vaccinated as a kid, vaccines are still important as an adult. From flu to shingles and pneumococcal, staying up to date matters. Find out which adult vaccines are recommended and when you should get them.

There’s a common misconception that only the elderly or people chronically ill need to worry about getting vaccinated. But even if you’re a healthy adult, it’s important to stay up to date.