Bishop Spencer Place

09/29/2025

It’s a cozy afternoon in Vern’s Pub at Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place, where residents Carol, 96, and Jean, 95, share laughter like the lifelong friends they are. Their bond began in 1932, when Jean attended Carol’s second birthday party. From there, childhood adventures turned into a friendship that would span nearly a century.

They spent summers at a Michigan camp, later followed their love of history to Vassar College, and even traveled abroad together—adventures they now look back on fondly.

After college, Carol married, asking Jean to be her maid of honor, while Jean became active in the Junior League. As they raised families, holiday gatherings and weekend visits kept them connected, and their children became friends, too.

In 2006, Carol moved to Bishop Spencer Place with her husband. To her delight, she soon discovered a familiar face right across the hall.

“It was a pleasure to see Jean again,” Carol said. “I moved into one of the apartments across the hall from her, so it’s just like we’re neighbors again after all the years.”

Reflecting on their many years together, Carol and Jean admit the secret to an enduring friendship is less about the time you spend together and more about the space you hold for each other.

“We never drifted apart,” Carol says. “When Jean moved in, it was like we were kids again. We played bridge together, our husbands were in the investment club together, and we had dinner together. It just felt like old times.”

Read more about Carol and Jean’s lifelong friendship: https://heyor.ca/fDw1jx

09/12/2025

Dana’s cancer journey began in August 2022 when persistent stomach issues brought him to Saint Luke’s Community Hospital in Roeland Park, Kansas. A CT scan revealed a cancerous mass nearly completely blocking his entire colon. He was transferred to Saint Luke's North Hospital where Dr. Ben Kulow, a colorectal surgeon, performed surgeries to address the blockage.

Unfortunately, Dana’s cancer had spread to his liver, where tumors had released high serotonin levels that damaged his heart valve. Dr. Marc Roth, a gastrointestinal oncologist, prescribed lanreotide injections to help control the tumors and lower serotonin—but this was only a temporary solution.

In November 2024, Dana received open-heart surgery to replace his tricuspid valve, which was around the same time Dr. Roth started discussing LUTATHERA®, a targeted radioactive therapy specifically for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) found in the gut or pancreas. This leading-edge treatment destroys the cancer cells causing serotonin spikes while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.

Through Dr. Sunpreet Rakhra, a radiation oncologist, Dana became Saint Luke’s first-ever LUTATHERA recipient. After two treatments, his serotonin levels dropped dramatically—from 2,200 nanograms per milliliter to a normal 170.

“It sounds scary to be the guinea pig,” Dana says, “But I actually felt honored that I had the privilege and opportunity. Hopefully this therapy can help somebody else along the way, too.”

Dana’s treatment journey has been guided by a collaborative team of diverse medical experts whose combined knowledge and specialized skills have ensured every aspect of his care is carefully managed. While there is no cure for NET, Dana has still been able to travel the world since LUTATHERA. He says it’s a blessing he’s still able to go on these adventures.

“Planning trips has been good therapy for me,” he says. “I like planning and figuring out where we’re going to go next.”

Check out Dana's full story: https://heyor.ca/CXHoHN

09/10/2025

We were delighted to welcome Elise Gagliardi Art to our gallery recently.

Elise is a fine art photographer who works with both digital and film cameras. She focuses on flowers, creating striking botanical still lifes. Her asymmetrical compositions evoke movement, and her use of shadows and natural light mirrors the styles of 16th- to 18th-century European painting.

We thank Elise for sharing her talent and bringing such beauty to our gallery. 🌸

09/10/2025

More than 250 Saint Luke’s team members came together to make a difference at this year’s Head For The Cure 5K in Kansas City! 🏃

The team raised more than $30,000 to support brain tumor research, raise awareness, and foster hope within our community. Funds raised will directly benefit Saint Luke’s patients through groundbreaking research and advancements in brain tumor care at Saint Luke's Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute.

This year, neuro-oncologist Dr. Samuel Goldlust presented three Saint Luke's patients with the Courage Award—recognizing them for their strength and resilience.

We are grateful to everyone who joined us to support this important cause. 💙

09/09/2025

Dr. Megan Mayer from Saint Luke's Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists recently kicked off yoga at Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts by speaking about how yoga can benefit people at every stage of life.

Yoga is more than just a workout—it promotes flexibility, stability, and mental wellness while helping build a strong core that supports balance and protects joints. Because it’s a low-impact activity, yoga can be an important tool in recovery from pain or injury, and even some of Dr. Mayer’s surgical patients use it as part of their healing process. For those with conditions like arthritis, yoga offers a way to stay active without the strain of high-impact exercise.

No matter your age or ability, the goal is simple: keep moving to support both your body and your mind for lifelong health.

09/09/2025

We are excited to welcome Sydney McBride as the new president of Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place!

With more than a decade of executive leadership in senior living, including 10 years with Ohio Living—a retirement community similar in scope and mission to Bishop Spencer Place—Sydney brings a strong track record of operational excellence and a deep commitment to enhancing the lives of residents.

“With a commitment to quality and compassionate care, we are confident that Sydney will expertly lead this vibrant and welcoming community that so many people choose to call home," said Jani Johnson, president of Saint Luke's Central Region.

As president, McBride will oversee the short- and long-term vision and overall direction of Bishop Spencer Place. She will be responsible for maintaining operations while meeting and exceeding the needs of residents and supporting the communities she serves. Her previous experience with memory care at Ohio Living will be especially beneficial as Bishop Spencer Place will open a dedicated memory care area this fall for residents with dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and other memory conditions.

Welcome to Bishop Spencer Place!

09/08/2025

As families recently posted their back-to-school photos and chalkboard signs, we wanted to get in on the action to celebrate the spirit of health care, where learning never stops.

Many of our team members have been in health care for years, even decades. From navigating new technology to figuring out life lessons, the learning that happens day in and day out helps shape who we are. Check out some of our longtime team members' colorful responses.

09/04/2025

When Saint Luke's Muriel I. Kauffman Women's Heart Center and Saint Luke's Cancer Institute join forces to educate our community on the importance of women's health, the result is a Gem of a Night!

The inaugural Saint Luke's Gem of a Night event brought a full house to the luxurious Meierotto Jewelers with bejeweled flowers, live music, and a picturesque balloon display provided by Up, Up & Away! Cardiologist Dr. Tracy Stevens and breast radiologist Dr. Ruby Meierotto gave eye-opening presentations about heart and breast health.

Together, we’re empowering women with knowledge, sparking conversations, and shining a brighter light on the future of women’s health.

09/03/2025

This calls for a celebration! Terry, a medical lab scientist at Saint Luke's South Hospital, recently reached her 50th work anniversary with Saint Luke's. She started at Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City in 1975 and transferred to South in 2011.

"I like my job. I feel like this is the best system to work for," said Terry. "It's the family atmosphere. We know about everybody we pass in the hallway, and we call them by their name. I like that. I'm not ready to retire yet. This is still my happy place."

Cheers to you, Terry! Thank you for your years—decades!—of service. 💙

09/02/2025

Dr. Elizabeth Grier’s interest in math and science led her to a career in medicine. In college, she loved learning about the heart in her physiology classes. Today, she is a Saint Luke’s interventional cardiologist.

“I specifically developed an interest in interventional cardiology because I really like working with my hands and appreciate the variety that comes with working in the cath lab,” said Dr. Grier. “I get to do a lot of different procedures, so no two days are completely alike.”

Dr. Grier treats a wide range of heart conditions, including valve repairs and replacements. She has a special interest in helping patients who were born with heart defects because she enjoys the challenge of working with their unique anatomy. Her role at Saint Luke's allows her to participate in important clinical research that is advancing the field.

“The field of structural interventions is rapidly evolving, which allows us to incorporate new technologies today that weren’t available even a year or two ago,” she said. “I feel it is important to take a patient-centered approach, incorporating the values and preferences of the patient and their family into their care decisions.”

At the end of the day when she takes off her lab coat, Dr. Grier is most likely reading a book or riding on her Peloton. She is also learning Spanish, a skill that will undoubtedly be useful with patients.

08/29/2025

Jaylen will play his first football game as a college athlete at MoWest tomorrow. Two years ago, he broke his collarbone during practice on his high school team, and playing in college seemed like it may never happen. He feared for the future of his football career—until he got a second opinion from Dr. Larry Frevert at Saint Luke's Rockhill Orthopaedic Specialists.

Watch the FOX4 News Kansas City story about this college freshman's big comeback: https://heyor.ca/bLtQfW

08/29/2025

Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place is grateful to Starfish Project Foundation of Olathe, KS, for donating 25 beautifully handmade crocheted lap blankets to our long-term care residents.

These thoughtful creations will bring warmth and comfort to our residents. Thank you for brightening our day, one stitch at a time! 💙

08/28/2025

Linda Martin, a friend of Bishop Spencer Place, recently presented a program titled, “Sights, Sounds, and Stories." Linda has extensive experience in teaching classroom music and private voice lessons, directing choirs of all ages, and presenting music and worship workshops. She even created and established Kansas City Ballet’s Community Education and Outreach programs.

"Sights, Sounds, and Stories" explored connections in basic elements and principles of music and visual arts. During her presentation, Linda demonstrated how these elements are utilized in creative expression.

Thank you, Linda, for sharing your passion for music and art with BSP! 🎶

08/27/2025

Ten years ago, doctors estimated Melissa had about three years to live.

In March 2015, Melissa was experiencing severe headaches. On March 25, the pain became overwhelming, and her husband Don called for help. An ambulance took Melissa to Wright Memorial Hospital, and an MRI revealed Melissa had glioblastoma—a serious form of cancer that originates in the brain with a five-year survival rate of about 5%.

Melissa was sent to Saint Luke's Hospital of Kansas City for emergency surgery, followed by chemo, radiation, and rehab. Ten years later, Melissa, 68, has recovered physically, emotionally, and spiritually—and now greets each day with excitement.

“I wake up smiling, and it carries with me,” Melissa says. “It's in everything you see, every song you hear. It's everywhere.”

In 2023, Melissa began seeing Dr. Samuel Goldlust, a neuro-oncologist, for continuing care.

"Dr. Goldlust is very impressive," Don said. "He took the time to understand our history before entering the room."

Though Melissa has physical limitations and had to relearn to speak, she embraces what her body can manage and cherishes time she once feared she’d lose. Melissa and Don recently saw their son graduate from Kansas State University summa cm laude—another one of those little moments that mean so much.

Melissa and Don saw firsthand how Saint Luke’s stands apart through our dedication to advanced cancer research and treatments. With support from generous donors, we deliver leading-edge care to thousands of patients. 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻 𝘂𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲, 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗺𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗵𝗼𝗽𝗲: https://heyor.ca/Ji6lOs

08/26/2025

Happy to our beloved Saint Luke's Rehabilitation Institute facility dog, Henli! You bring joy, hope, and comfort to patients every day and motivate them to work hard. Thank you for reminding us of the healing power of unconditional love. 💙 🐾

08/22/2025

Summer sunshine offers many joys—but it also comes with some risks. Skin cancer remains the most common type of cancer in the U.S., affecting 1 in 5 individuals.

Dr. Megan McNally, a surgical oncologist at Saint Luke's Cancer Institute, emphasizes sun protection strategies and the crucial role of early detection. Watch her conversation with KCTV5 News Kansas City to learn how to protect your skin: https://heyor.ca/SM8H5E

Megan McNally, MD, a surgical oncologist with Saint Luke's Cancer Institute, shares tips on sun protection and early skin cancer detection.

08/21/2025

Dr. B. Todd Moore recently completed his 2,000th robotic surgery at Saint Luke's South Hospital! He performed the first robotic procedure at Saint Luke's South in 2016 and has seen the technology evolve firsthand.

Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive technique where the surgeon controls robotic arms from a remote console. It uses smaller incisions, improves precision, and leads to faster recovery for the patient. The program at Saint Luke’s South has grown exponentially in volume, case offerings, and multispecialty usage over the past nine years.

“I think it’s amazing how far we’ve come in regards to robotic surgery,” said Dr. Moore. “It is a significantly advantageous technology used not just by me and Saint Luke's Surgical Specialists, but by nearly all specialties at Saint Luke’s to offer the best care to our patients.”

Saint Luke’s offers a one-year fellowship for graduating surgeons to learn and master robotic surgery. Thanks in part to Dr. Moore’s work, general surgeons are being trained in these advanced procedures.

“The common misconception is that the 'robot' is performing the surgery,” Dr. Moore said. “The robot is simply a highly sophisticated piece of technology that we use. The surgeon is hands-on for the entire procedure.”

Saint Luke’s South is on pace to reach 3,500 robotic surgeries later this year. With Dr. Moore’s milestone and the program’s continued growth, Saint Luke’s South proudly stands at the forefront of robotic surgery, transforming lives today and shaping the future of patient care.

08/11/2025

From birthday parties to college, weddings, and now sharing the same hall at Bishop Spencer Place, Carol and Jean's friendship has stood the test of time—nearly 95 years strong! 💙

In celebration of , Carol and Jean shared their story with KMBC 9. Watch their heartwarming story: https://heyor.ca/GXbYCd

08/07/2025

Last week, we hosted Jacque Blessington, director of Lakeside Nature Center of KC, who brought in a variety of animals to share insights on their habitats and ways of life.

Lakeside Nature Center is home to more than 60 animals, including bald eagles, reptiles, amphibians, and fish. It was an enlightening experience that helped deepen our appreciation for wildlife and conservation. Thank you, Jacque! 🦅

07/30/2025

Recently, Bishop Spencer Place hosted a special luncheon featuring Janette, BSP's chaplain and manager of spiritual wellness, who led a discussion on navigating the many emotions that can accompany moving. She shared that in any significant life change—whether good or bad—we may experience some level of grief.

"Leaving people, places, or things behind is often difficult because they were meaningful to us," Janette said. "We can't expect that grief to go away, but we can build a life of new things we love that wrap around that grief and help it feel smaller."

Janette's discussion offered comfort and encouragement that even though moving can be hard, it can also create space for growth and new beginnings.

07/03/2025

This June, during Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, Saint Luke’s Bishop Spencer Place hosted an informational luncheon to give guests an exclusive look at our upcoming memory care services.

Dr. Carlos A. Bagley, director of Saint Luke's Marion Bloch Neuroscience Institute, was our guest speaker. Dr. Bagley discussed the signs and symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, provided brain health tips, and shared the latest neuroscience research findings. The event provided valuable insights and a meaningful preview of the expert memory care that will be available soon at Bishop Spencer Place.

06/25/2025

Congratulations to Rich Liekweg, BJC Health System CEO, who announced his plans to retire on October 1, 2025, concluding an extraordinary career spanning almost 40 years in health care, the last 16 of which were devoted to BJC.

“It has been an honor to serve and lead our team members these past 16 years as they deliver exceptional care to our patients and communities,” said Rich. “Together, we successfully navigated through unprecedented times in the industry, never losing sight of our singular purpose to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve. I am deeply proud of our caregivers, the culture we have created, and the values we share that place the patient at the center of all we do.”

BJC is pleased to announce that Nick Barto, current BJC Health System President, will succeed Rich as President and CEO of BJC Health System.

“I am honored to be selected to succeed Rich Liekweg as BJC Health System’s President and CEO,” said Nick. “I look forward to working with our 47,000 team members to build on Rich’s vision that grew BJC into a super-regional health care leader, to continue to provide extraordinary care to the communities we serve, and to position BJC as a mission-oriented academic health care leader for all future generations.”

Read more here: https://heyor.ca/j1yUMR

05/12/2025

Residents had a wonderful time celebrating the 151st Kentucky Derby! 🐎👒

The celebration was complete with festive headwear, snacks and drinks, and great company. We’re already counting down to next year’s celebration!

05/08/2025

We were thrilled to welcome Jay Carter—one of the nation’s premier countertenors—for a performance alongside his accompanist, Bishop Spencer Place resident John. 🎶

In addition to their beautiful performance, Jay, who also serves as co-artistic director of Kansas City’s Musica Vocale, shared insights into the rich history of his craft during his visit. It was a memorable afternoon that left our community both inspired and uplifted!