IU Health Ball, Blackford & Jay

03/06/2026

When pain persisted, physician sought answers close to home

After a game of basketball, Yousuf Bahrami, DO, noticed something wasn’t right.

A few days after playing, he began experiencing increasing pain and swelling in his right midfoot, more intense than the usual soreness that follows a game and not improving with time. As a family medicine physician and associate director of IU Health Ball’s Family Medicine Residency, Dr. Bahrami recognized this was more than a routine muscle strain.

“There had been no dramatic pop or single moment of injury,” he says. “Just the pain gradually intensifying.”

That pattern raised concern for a stress reaction — an early stress injury in the bone.

When symptoms didn’t improve, he visited IU Health Orthopedics & Sports Medicine – Muncie’s walk-in clinic and was evaluated during a single visit. An athletic trainer completed his intake, X-rays were taken onsite and he met with a sports medicine physician the same day. After reviewing imaging, they agreed on a conservative treatment plan for his injury. He left in a protective post-op shoe with follow-up already arranged.

Two weeks later, he was nearly pain free.

“Everyone treated me well, and it was a very efficient use of both their time and mine,” Dr. Bahrami says. “That makes a real difference when you’re dealing with pain.”

The experience reinforced something he often tells his own patients: when symptoms linger, getting evaluated early can change the trajectory of recovery.

Now back to work and almost back on the court, Dr. Bahrami carries that perspective into his exam rooms. When patients present with musculoskeletal concerns, he understands firsthand the value of quick answers, coordinated care and a clear next step.

03/05/2026

Gratitude doesn’t always come in words — sometimes, it’s stitched by hand.

Recently, a patient on the Cardiac Medical Observation (CMO) unit at IU Health Ball found a heartfelt way to say thank you. During her stay, she crocheted handmade hats for the team who cared for her.

She told the team it was the only way she knew how to express what their kindness meant to her.

The CMO team will be wearing them proudly!

03/04/2026

Being hospitalized is challenging both physically and mentally, especially as a patient in the Progressive Care unit (PCU). When PCU nurse Julia Bladen discovered a patient’s birthday was that day, she took matters into her own hands to plan a birthday party for her patient.

A signed card and birthday cake were put together by Bladen and her teammates, and when presented to her patient, they sang happy birthday.

Because of her compassion and kindness, she received a DAISY Award, a special recognition for nurses who go above and beyond.

Please join us in congratulating Julia on her award!

03/03/2026

When a fellow team member was in need of a helping hand, social worker Linda Metzger offered two.

Metzger was able to help research, organize and facilitate the acceptance of a home health care (HHC) agency for a fellow team member after they were discharged from Ball Memorial Hospital.

Because of her commitment, persistence and compassion Metzger received a Values Recognition Award.

Please join us in congratulating Linda on her award!

02/27/2026

Inside IU Health Ball's first designated heart failure unit

Progressive and intensive care units are equip to meet the needs of critically ill patients, from skilled team members to the practices and measures in place to care for these individuals.

The Medical Telemetry unit (MTU) sees many of these patients. With nurses who are Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) certified, the unit also cares for patients experiencing heart-related issues. ACLS nurses are trained to manage cardiac emergencies, and with team members skilled in these situations, MTU has set out to create processes that support these patients, shorten hospital stays and reduce readmissions.

The MTU care team had observed a pattern among patients admitted both to their unit and throughout the hospital. Heart failure patients—some of the most medically fragile individuals—were scattered across different units. Their needs were complex and their readmission rates high.

Led by clinical operations manager, Kristin McCotter, the MTU team took on the challenge of improving care placement for these patients. Their efforts evolved into a major milestone: the creation of the hospital’s first designated Heart Failure Unit.

McCotter explains that heart failure is a chronic, progressive condition—one that does not simply resolve after a hospital stay. “They’re very ill, and they get readmitted often,” she says. The team recognized that consolidating these patients into one designated unit could make a significant difference.

By bringing together specialized expertise, strengthening skills and surrounding patients with caregivers who are knowledgeable about these conditions, the unit is positioned to provide more consistent care and ultimately reduce the likelihood of repeat hospital visits.

“It lets us optimize their health,” McCotter says. “We can improve outcomes simply by caring for them in the right space with the right people.”

Collaboration to improve outcomes

The team has built processes to ensure ongoing education through specialized nursing teams and patient rounding. Nurse educators can weigh in on emerging concerns and provide real-time support and guidance to staff.

“They’re following patients not only inpatient but outpatient,” McCotter says. “We’re building a stronger bridge, so care doesn’t stop at the hospital doors.”

Kari Choate, a nurse practitioner specializing in cardiology, has worked with the MTU team and nurse educators to deliver specialized training aimed at improving heart failure inpatient care. Choate also supports patients after discharge at the outpatient Heart Failure Clinic within the Heart and Lung Center.

“We work to ensure that patients are on optimized guideline-directed medical therapy for heart failure and manage diuretics to help alleviate symptoms,” she explains.

Looking ahead

Although cardiac units have long existed, this is the hospital’s first formally designated Heart Failure Unit.

“Having one unit where experts collaborate, round together, and focus specifically on heart failure. It’s going to serve patients so much better,” McCotter says.

Thanks to years of dedication and a highly engaged team, heart failure patients now have a place designed just for them: a home for healing, education and continued care.

02/26/2026

When Emergency department (ED) nurse Ashley Hughes noticed that many of her patients didn’t have warm winter clothing, she took matters into her own hands and decided to help.

“Hughes personally donated a supply of cold weather gear … and made them available to all ED staff to distribute discreetly and kindly to patients upon discharge. Taking it one step further, she told other staff about what she wanted to accomplish and took donations from them as well to purchase even more supplies that will be used by many all winter long,” says one of Hughes’ colleagues.

In recognition of her compassion, Hughes recently received a DAISY Award.

Please join us in congratulating Ashley her on her award!

02/25/2026

Jordan Catron was enrolled in an introductory exercise science course at Ball State University, just beginning her higher education journey. During the class, a representative from IU Health Ball presented information about the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation program.

After hearing the presentation, Catron immediately felt drawn to the field. She had always been interested in science and anatomy, as well as working with older adults—interests that cardiopulmonary rehabilitation brings together.

As part of her undergraduate requirements, she completed observation hours at Ball Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation. During her internship, she realized the team and environment were exactly where she wanted to build her career.

Catron officially joined the team in 2012 as a cardiopulmonary rehabilitation technician assistant. Over time, she wanted to advance her skills and become a clinical exercise physiologist.

Determined to better support the patients she cared for, she returned to Ball State University to pursue a master’s degree in clinical exercise physiology. While completing her degree, she also returned to Ball Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation as a graduate assistant.

After graduating, Catron accepted a full-time position as a clinical exercise physiologist at Ball, a role she continues to serve in.

Catron experienced a full circle moment, now working under Katrina Riggin, manager, cardiac ancillary services. Riggin was the representative who came and spoke to her introductory exercise science, sparking her interest in cardiopulmonary rehabilitation.

She works in both outpatient and inpatient cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Each morning, she meets with patients recovering from cardiac events or interventions—such as heart attacks or stent placements—or those experiencing heart failure exacerbations.

Catron provides diagnosis-based education and discusses outpatient cardiac rehabilitation options. She also leads an outpatient cardiac rehab class of up to 13 patients, three times per week. In these sessions, patients exercise while wearing telemetry monitors under clinical supervision.

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation is a unique specialty, one that allows team members to meet patients in the hospital during vulnerable moments and continue supporting them after discharge in outpatient programs. Catron has built strong, lasting relationships with many of her patients, some of whom continue in the Maintenance Exercise program for years.

Team members like Catron show what it means to have a big heart by helping patients strengthen theirs every day.

02/20/2026

In January, central and southern Indiana were hit with heavy snow, strong winds and frigid temperatures. Much of the region faced travel warnings that closed businesses and kept residents safely indoors.

But for hospital team members, the goal was clear: get to work and continue providing care for patients.

At IU Health Ball, teams began preparing before the first snow fell. Sarah Ullom, clinical operations manager for Cardiac Intensive Care, developed a staffing plan in advance of the storm, meeting with her team to anticipate potential absences and ensure coverage.

“We knew our patients would still need us,” Ullom says. “Planning ahead allowed us to focus on patient care instead of scrambling once the weather turned.”

Designated rest areas were set up for providers and team members who chose to stay at the hospital between shifts. Those on site worked together seamlessly to continue to provide patient care.

Laura DeWitt, clinical operations manager for Cardiac Medical Observation, stepped into roles outside her usual responsibilities. While she couldn’t provide critical care directly, she found ways to support the team.

“I was giving baths and walking heart patients—just helping wherever I could to make sure patients received the care they needed,” she said.

DeWitt, who owns a four‑wheel‑drive vehicle, also drove out to pick up team members who didn’t have reliable winter transportation, ensuring they could safely reach the hospital.

The spirit of teamwork extended across the hospital. Providers shared stories of colleagues offering rides, shoveling out vehicles and supporting one another however they could.

“I heard multiple times during my workday following the snowstorm that doctors and nurses received or gave rides to help co‑workers get to work safely,” says Landon McGlinchy, MD, Hospitalist department. “It’s pretty neat that they would share their large‑vehicle capabilities to help get everyone to and from work safely.”

When the storm hit hardest, Ball team members demonstrated that commitment, compassion and teamwork are what truly keep a hospital running.

02/20/2026

A familiar coach in the delivery room

Kelsee Eviston expected experienced care when she arrived at IU Health Ball to deliver her first baby. Instead of meeting her nurse for the first time, she was greeted by a familiar face — someone who had been part of her life long before labor and delivery.

Kaycee Sherfy, RN, works in maternal fetal medicine and continues to support patients in labor and delivery. Before working in healthcare, she coached Eviston in competitive volleyball. The two also participated in competitive cheer together, where Sherfy served as a mentor figure. Years later, that connection resurfaced when she was assigned to Eviston’s care team.

“It was just easier knowing her,” Eviston says. “I’ve known [Sherfy] forever and having someone there who already knew me made the whole experience feel more comfortable.”

She hoped to avoid an epidural and wanted to try multiple comfort measures first. Sherfy helped her move between options, including time in the birthing tub, music and repositioning, adjusting alongside her as labor progressed.

“[Sherfy] really tried everything she could to help me do what I wanted,” Eviston says. “She explained things and made sure I felt supported the whole time.”

Starting a shift with built-in trust can make a meaningful difference, Sherfy says, particularly during a first delivery when much of the anxiety stems from the unknown. Some patients want every step explained in detail. Others prefer quiet reassurance. Her role is to recognize those differences and respond accordingly.

In a close-knit community, those relationships often extend beyond a single hospital stay. Sherfy frequently sees former patients again, at the grocery store, at school events or around town, long after delivery day.

“When you run into someone later and they remember that day, it means a lot,” Sherfy says. “Being able to care for someone I’ve known for years makes those moments even more meaningful.”

For Eviston, the day stands out not only because she welcomed her daughter, but because a familiar presence helped steady the moment.

“I received incredible care,” she says. “Every birth is different but having someone you trust by your side makes all the difference.”

02/19/2026

Coming soon: A new playground where children in rehabilitation can grow and play

Children receiving care through System Health Solutions (SHS) Pediatric Rehabilitation at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital will soon have a new place to learn, grow and play. The team is preparing to open an adaptive playground designed to help children build confidence and develop important life skills in a safe outdoor environment.

The Pediatric Rehabilitation Outdoor Space gives therapists something they have never had before: an outdoor therapy area that lets children practice everyday movements and problem solving in a natural setting.

Many of the children served by Pediatric Rehabilitation cannot easily use traditional playgrounds, and caregivers may feel unsure about taking them to community spaces. Having this playground on site means children can practice climbing, swinging, navigating equipment, riding bikes and more with the support of their care team.

The project was made possible through a fundraising effort led by the IU Health Foundation. Brad Edmondson, lead regional development officer, and his team worked with private donors and secured grants to bring the idea to life. Their partnership shows how philanthropy can open doors for new tools and programs that benefit patients and communities across the system.

“Donors are critical to the patient experience at IU Health, and donations from our communities create the margin of excellence for our team members to provide world-class care," says Edmondson. "We are so grateful for all of our donors who make a significant difference in our patients’ lives every day. The Pediatric Rehabilitation Outdoor Space is only possible because of our generous donors.”

One gift carries a particularly meaningful story. Donor Jim Lovett contributed in memory of his late wife, Mary Jo Lovett, who served as the first supervisor of Pediatric Rehabilitation in the early 1990s. Mary Jo often shared her dream of creating an outdoor treatment space for children in Delaware County and the surrounding areas. Plans are underway for a memorial in the playground to honor her legacy and the lasting impact she had on families.

“While at the Tillotson Avenue office, Mary Jo would take some of her patients outside to a grassy area for play,” says Lovett. “She always wanted an outdoor therapy play area for her patients, and this project will bring that to fruition.”

When the playground opens this spring, it will give therapists another way to support families and help more children experience the joy of play.

The below rendering offers a first look at the Pediatric Rehabilitation Outdoor Space.Pediatric Rehabilitation at IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital will soon have a new place to learn, grow and play. The team is preparing to open an adaptive playground designed to help children build confidence and develop important life skills in a safe outdoor environment.

The Pediatric Rehabilitation Outdoor Space gives therapists something they have never had before: an outdoor therapy area that lets children practice everyday movements and problem solving in a natural setting.

Many of the children served by Pediatric Rehabilitation cannot easily use traditional playgrounds, and caregivers may feel unsure about taking them to community spaces. Having this playground on site means children can practice climbing, swinging, navigating equipment, riding bikes and more with the support of their care team.

The project was made possible through a fundraising effort led by the IU Health Foundation. Brad Edmondson, lead regional development officer, and his team worked with private donors and secured grants to bring the idea to life. Their partnership shows how philanthropy can open doors for new tools and programs that benefit patients and communities across the system.

“Donors are critical to the patient experience at IU Health, and donations from our communities create the margin of excellence for our team members to provide world-class care," says Edmondson. "We are so grateful for all of our donors who make a significant difference in our patients’ lives every day. The Pediatric Rehabilitation Outdoor Space is only possible because of our generous donors.”

One gift carries a particularly meaningful story. Donor Jim Lovett contributed in memory of his late wife, Mary Jo Lovett, who served as the first supervisor of Pediatric Rehabilitation in the early 1990s. Mary Jo often shared her dream of creating an outdoor treatment space for children in Delaware County and the surrounding areas. Plans are underway for a memorial in the playground to honor her legacy and the lasting impact she had on families.

“While at the Tillotson Avenue office, Mary Jo would take some of her patients outside to a grassy area for play,” says Lovett. “She always wanted an outdoor therapy play area for her patients, and this project will bring that to fruition.”

When the playground opens this spring, it will give therapists another way to support families and help more children experience the joy of play.

The below renderings offer a first look at the Pediatric Rehabilitation Outdoor Space.

02/18/2026

IU Health Ball Memorial COO Kreigh Cook outlines how mission, local roots, and partnerships are shaping the hospital’s workforce future.

02/17/2026

Healthcare doesn’t only happen inside hospital walls.

In a recent op-ed, Rev. Maria Wilson shares how partnership between Urban Light Community Church and IU Health Ball is helping expand access to care in south Muncie, from blood pressure screenings at church to the development of the Bishop Royce Mitchell Hub.

We’re proud to support community-led solutions that improve health outcomes where they’re needed most.

Read Rev. Maria Wilson's full story here:

People of color and those with lower socioeconomic status living in these neighborhoods didn’t trust the hospital, and they weren’t seeking the vital care they needed.