Saint Joseph Health System

04/25/2026

Please join us in celebrating Sara DeCraene, social worker and Petal Award recipient, for her exceptional dedication, compassion and advocacy.

Sara brings professionalism and empathy to every interaction, skillfully navigating complex medical, housing and accessibility needs while always centering dignity and respect.

As shared in her nomination, “Sara’s ability to balance practical problem-solving with genuine human connection is rare and deeply impactful.”

Her commitment to excellence inspires her colleagues and strengthens the community we serve. This recognition honors the meaningful difference Sara makes every day through care delivered with both heart and purpose.

04/24/2026

This week, Chris Karam, President of Saint Joseph Health System, Daniel J. Roth, MD, Executive Vice President and Chief Clinical Officer of Trinity Health and Shawn Vincent, President and CEO of Trinity Health Illinois/Indiana Region, are in Washington, DC, advocating for patient access to affordable care.

We’re working to keep health care costs down through system efficiency, shared platforms, and innovative partnerships. Standing up for our patients, we’re telling Congress; no more cuts to health care funding.

04/23/2026

Behind the Badge: Meet Caitlyn Smith, RN, an Emergency Department nurse at Saint Joseph Health System. From fast-paced critical care to compassionate moments that matter most, Caitlyn shares what inspired her nursing journey and why Saint Joe's feels like home.

"I chose nursing because I have a deep desire to help people during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. Being able to provide not only clinical care but also comfort, reassurance and compassion is incredibly meaningful to me. I am especially drawn to the opportunity to support patients who may not have a strong support system, ensuring they feel seen, heard and cared for. Nursing allows me to combine my passion for helping others with the ability to make a genuine difference when it matters most.

Working in the Emergency Department is especially meaningful because it combines fast-paced, critical care with the opportunity to make an immediate impact on patients’ lives. Every shift brings new challenges that require quick thinking, adaptability and strong teamwork. It has also given me a family at work, to the point that I enjoy coming in to support them on my days off. They truly are a great group to work with.

I truly value working at SJHS because of the strong sense of community it fosters. Teamwork and support are evident every day, creating a positive and collaborative environment for professional growth. I’ve also built meaningful friendships both inside and outside of work, which speaks to the culture and strong connections among staff.

Outside of my professional life, I spend much of my time with my toddler, who is the center of my world. I enjoy creating lasting memories with him by going for walks and spending time at the park. When I’m not with him, I love reading a good book and relaxing on the couch with my puppy. During the summer, I enjoy visiting local fairs with my husband and exploring the different vendors and animals."

04/20/2026

This National Donate Life Month, a Saint Joseph Mishawaka Medical Center emergency room nurse is sharing an incredibly personal story of loss, love and lifesaving impact.

Pam Soni lost her 18-year-old son, Teddy, following a motorcycle crash in 2024. What she didn’t know at the time was that Teddy had registered as an organ donor at just 16 years old — a decision that went on to save five lives.

One of those lives belongs to Kevin Sommers, who received Teddy’s lungs. Today, Pam and Kevin share their intertwined journey of grief and gratitude, traveling across Indiana to raise awareness about the power of organ donation and the importance of making wishes known.

Her message is simple — and lifesaving: have the conversation before tragedy strikes.

Watch their powerful story and learn how one selfless decision continues to give hope.

For information on becoming an organ donor:
https://www.donatelifeindiana.org/show-your-support/sign-up/

04/18/2026

Please join us in celebrating Rachel Kalicki, medical assistant at Saint Joseph Behavioral Health!

Rachel is recognized for her dedication, compassion and unwavering commitment to patient care. She consistently goes above and beyond, anticipates patient needs and brings a positive, caring attitude to every interaction. Patients and colleagues alike describe Rachel as dependable, respectful and a true team player who makes everyone feel supported.

Thank you, Rachel, for the meaningful difference you make every day for our patients and our health care team. This recognition is well deserved!

04/16/2026

April is Occupational Therapy Month, and we’re celebrating our pediatric occupational therapy teams who help children build the skills they need for daily life.

From improving fine motor skills and sensory processing to supporting independence at home, school and play, our occupational therapists partner with children and families every step of the way. Their compassion, creativity and expertise help young patients gain confidence, reach milestones and thrive.

Thank you to our pediatric occupational therapists for the meaningful difference you make in the lives of children and their families every day.

04/15/2026

Join us on April 22nd for In-person Interviews for RNs, LPNs, and nursing support staff roles! Meet with nursing leadership from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and hear more about our day-one benefits, sign-on bonuses and new hourly rates. Register today at https://indeedhi.re/4t5lay0.

04/08/2026

Seasonal allergies can make even simple activities uncomfortable, but understanding your triggers and treatment options can help you feel better. Learn what causes seasonal allergies, common symptoms, and ways to find relief in our latest blog.

Seasonal allergies occur when your body overreacts to something in the environment, most often during the times of year when various plants pollinate. Here are some tips to limit and treat your seasonal allergies.

04/05/2026

Our NICU babies celebrated Easter dressed in festive outfits, bringing a little extra joy to the unit. Moments like these remind us that even during a hospital stay, there’s room for warmth, celebration and hope. We’re grateful to our NICU team and families for helping make these sweet moments possible.

04/03/2026

For many of the 32 million plus adults in the U.S. suffering from osteoarthritis pain, common treatments like pain medication and joint injections may not be enough. Low-dose radiation therapy targets inflammation in the joint to reduce pain and improve function without surgery.

Learn more about this transformative treatment and see how it could help you regain mobility and improve your quality of life.

https://bit.ly/4bO648O

04/02/2026

Welcome to our incoming family medicine residents! We’re thrilled to have you join our community as you begin this next chapter in your training. Your commitment to health care and your drive to make a difference already shine through. We look forward to supporting you as you learn, grow and shape the future of patient care.

04/01/2026

This April, the Saint Joseph Health System Mobile Medical Unit is bringing safe, convenient mammograms directly to neighborhoods across our community.

Our mobile unit removes barriers to care by offering mammography services at multiple locations throughout the month, making it easier for women to prioritize their breast health.

View the schedule to find a date and location near you, and please share this information with friends, family members and neighbors who may be due for a screening.

To schedule an appointment or learn more, call 574-335-4500 or 1-888-455-4450.

Early detection saves lives, and we’re proud to deliver care where it’s needed most.