IU Health Ball, Blackford & Jay

01/13/2026

Indiana University Health has named Art Vasquez president of its newly aligned North Region, which includes IU Health Ball, along with hospitals and outpatient facilities across Delaware, Blackford, Jay, Allen, Tippecanoe, White, Clinton and Tipton counties.

Vasquez will oversee regional strategy while local leaders in Muncie — including Dr. Ryan Johnston (chief medical officer), Melissa Hicks, DNP, RN-BC, NE-BC (chief nursing officer), and Kreigh Cook (chief operating officer) — continue guiding day-to-day care and community engagement.

“As IU Health continues to strengthen care across its northern communities, this alignment supports greater collaboration and consistency across the region,” says Brian Shockney, senior vice president, system regional operations. “Art is a values-based leader who empowers teams through clarity, development and accountability. His approach will be a tremendous benefit to Muncie and the surrounding areas.”

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By Courtney Schmoll— MUNCIE, IN— Indiana University Health has named Art Vasquez president of its newly aligned North Region, which includes IU Health Ball, along with hospitals and outpatient facilities across Delaware, Blackford, Jay, Allen, Tippecanoe, White, Clinton and Tipton counties. Vasq...

01/12/2026

Due to an increase in flu and other respiratory illnesses, IU Health is implementing visitor restrictions at several facilities—including IU Health Ball, Blackford and Jay—to help prevent the spread of infection and protect patients and team members.

The following restrictions will remain in effect until viral illness rates decline:

• Visitors younger than 18 years will not be permitted on patient units.
•Visitors who have flu-like or COVID-19 symptoms, such as fever, cough, chills or muscle aches, will not be allowed to visit patients.
•Visitors, vendors, volunteers and team members must be vigilant about hand washing and covering coughs.

Read more: https://iuhealth.org/for-media/press-releases/visitor-restrictions-to-begin-at-iu-health-locations-2

01/10/2026

This week, Dr. Jeff Bird retired as president of IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital, the same hospital he was born in.

Bird has served the Muncie community for more than 40 years as both a medical professional and a mentor to other doctors.

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Dr. Jeff Bird has served the Muncie community for more than 40 years as both a medical professional and a mentor to other doctors.

01/09/2026

When you’re not feeling well, it’s natural to wonder whether you need care from a doctor or if you can manage your symptoms yourself.

Many common illnesses can be treated with rest and simple remedies, but some symptoms signal something more serious. Knowing the difference can help you recover faster and avoid complications.

Read more:

Committed to providing the best care for Indiana families, Indiana University Health is the most comprehensive healthcare system with a personalized approach.

01/09/2026

Patient experience leads nurse to her dream role

When nurse Jenna Hedden began her career, she expected to build her skills in progressive care. What she didn’t anticipate was how her own patient experience, during the birth of her daughter at IU Health Ball, would ultimately lead her to labor and delivery.

Hedden didn’t initially picture herself in women’s and children’s services. In nursing school, she assumed she would take a different path and even recalls thinking obstetrics wasn’t for her. Instead, she launched her career on a progressive care unit during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, where she developed the adaptability and clinical discipline that come with caring for high volumes of acutely ill patients.

A later move to a cardiopulmonary progressive care unit introduced new complexity. There, Hedden cared for trach- and ventilator-dependent patients, sharpening her ability to recognize subtle changes, respond quickly, and remain steady in high-pressure situations.

Everything shifted after the birth of her daughter, Skylar, at IU Health Ball. The level of support she experienced from her care team stayed with her.

“When I was discharged, I looked at Skylar’s dad and cried and said, ‘I have to work here,’” she says.

Six months later, she shadowed the labor and delivery and mother-baby units. The collaborative environment, rapid pace, and need for strong clinical judgment immediately resonated. Hedden says that the role can demand quick transitions between specialties in a single shift: “You can act as an emergency department nurse, a critical care nurse, a post-anesthesia care nurse, and a postpartum nurse.”

Her path is one many new graduates share—aspiring to specialty areas but starting in progressive or acute care while building the foundation those units require. Hedden now encourages others to see that early experience as a stepping stone, not a setback.

“The experience I gained on progressive care floors prepared me for this job and set me up for success,” she says.

Today, surrounded by a supportive labor and delivery team, Hedden says the most meaningful moments come from the patients who trust her with life-changing experiences. She thinks of those who have looked at her with tears in their eyes and said, “I couldn’t have done this without you,” or “I will never forget you.”

She carries the joyful and difficult moments with her: rainbow babies, unexpected complications, and the families she later sees out in the community. A grateful hug during those reunions, she says, is a reminder of how meaningful this work can be.

Those moments also bring her back to the path that prepared her for this role and the experiences that shaped her along the way.

“If you work hard, stay open, and build connections throughout your journey, you eventually arrive where you're supposed to be,” she says.

01/08/2026

DAISY winner turns one patient’s worry into meaningful action

Shannon O’Brien, RN, cares for patients in the Cardiovascular Intensive Care (CIC) unit at IU Health Ball. Her recent DAISY nomination highlights the compassion and initiative she showed when a patient expressed an unexpected concern during recovery.

O'Brien was admitting a patient who had been transferred from the Emergency Department for a higher level of care. Because the patient required immediate intervention, her clothing had been removed during emergency treatment. Once awake and stable, the patient asked about her clothes and became emotional as she shared that replacing them would be difficult for her financially.

O’Brien recognized the importance of easing that worry. When she learned there were no items in the patient’s size at the hospital, she took it upon herself to help, purchasing clothing after her shift so the patient would have what she needed.

Her nominator recalls running into O’Brien at the store gathering items, noting that the same thoughtfulness she shows at the bedside carried into this act of kindness.

She also saw an opportunity to support others who may face similar challenges. Within hours, she created materials for a clothing drive and brought the idea to the unit-based council, with plans to elevate it through professional governance. Her initiative helped one patient in a vulnerable moment and strengthened a resource that will benefit future patients.

The DAISY Award honors nurses whose clinical skill and compassion make a meaningful difference for patients and families. Learn more at daisyfoundation.org.

12/31/2025

Team members, community partners, family and friends gathered this month to recognize Dr. Jeff Bird ahead of his retirement and to take part in his “Re-Tie-erment Party,” a nod to the trademark ties he has worn throughout his 40 years of service.

The open-house event brought together team members from across the region to thank Dr. Bird, share a few moments with him, and select one of the many ties that have become a familiar sight around the hospital. The display featured a range of styles he has worn during meetings, rounding, and community engagements.

Throughout the afternoon, Dr. Bird made his way through the room, stopping to chat and revisit memories from his decades of service. Many posed for photos and chose a tie as a keepsake from the celebration.

Dr. Bird will retire on January 5, 2026. Please join us in wishing him well as he heads into retirement by leaving a comment below!

12/24/2025

Guests and team members at IU Health Ball are greeted by smiling faces and festive holiday imagery as they enter the hospital.

Guest Services team member Jessica Snow had the idea to share a little beauty within the hospital walls.

“My hope is to make a contribution that brings beauty and helps people heal,” she says.

Snow created a winter scene along the windows of the hospital’s main hall. The display features snow-covered houses, the phrase “Walking in a Muncie wonderland,” and a quote about unity and love. She also designed a second display near administration to celebrate President Jeff Bird, MD, and his upcoming retirement.

Sharing art and positive messages is nothing new for Snow. During COVID-19, she drew inspiration from the University of Chicago’s art museum, which features a floor-to-ceiling-stained glass display that greets visitors at the entrance. Snow created her own display—a Ball jar filled with flowers—to combine local history with beauty.

Snow’s compassion and creativity have touched many. One patient’s family shared that her artwork meant so much to them as they navigated a difficult time.

Her work is a reminder that beauty and kindness can make a meaningful difference in the hospital experience.

12/24/2025

Santa stopped by IU Health Ball last week to spread extra holiday cheer to our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and pediatrics patients! 🎅 It’s no surprise that every one of them made the nice list this year.

With a twinkle in his eye and a bag full of toys, Santa brought smiles to kids and their families alike. From our tiniest patients in the NICU to the big grins in pediatrics, joy filled every corner of the units.

Moments like these remind us just how magical this season can be. Thank you, Santa, for making the holidays a little brighter for our patients and their families!

12/23/2025

Holiday traditions build connections between people, whether it’s a cozy night baking cookies at home or visiting Santa at the mall.

The team at IU Health Pediatric Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – Muncie understands how meaningful these traditions are and has created an event that is inclusive for all patients and their families.

Pediatric Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – Muncie provides occupational, physical, speech, and feeding therapy for children from birth to age 13. Their therapy programs focus on improving independence and increasing participation in everyday life.

Each year, the team hosts a Christmas party designed to accommodate patients’ unique needs. The event offers sensory-friendly experiences such as photos with Santa, family crafts, take-home books, games, and, of course, Christmas cookies and drinks.

For four-year-old Maia Ward, this party was her first chance to meet Santa.

“Every opportunity we've had to meet Santa, it just hasn't been catered to kids like her,” says her mother, Emily Ward. “Even though she was grumpy at first, she eventually liked Santa and all the music and seeing other kiddos run around.”

The tradition began in 1991, and while games and activities have evolved, the goal remains the same: creating an inclusive space for the entire family.

“We've always tried to keep our patients and their family’s needs front and center when planning this,” says Kelli Smith, supervisor for Pediatric Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation – Muncie.

Recently, the team introduced giant gingerbread houses where children can take a break if they feel overwhelmed.

“The houses are a nice addition for some kids who need to regroup before rejoining the party,” says Holly Zent, physical therapist assistant.

Santa himself is the husband of a retired occupational therapist from the team, giving him a unique perspective on the children and their families. He grows his beard each year to make the experience authentic, and his wife now joins in as Mrs. Claus.

The impact of this event extends beyond the patients; it’s also deeply meaningful for parents.

“Being a mom to a special needs child, inclusivity is so huge for me, and unfortunately, it's hard to find,” says Ward. “This party meant a lot, and it gave Maia something that is considered normal for the holidays.”

Even after patients graduate from therapy, they are encouraged to return for the celebration.

“Some of the children have been with us for years, so seeing them come back and share their progress is amazing,” says Smith.

The annual Christmas party is more than a festive gathering. It’s a tradition that fosters joy, inclusion and connection. By creating a space where every child and family feels welcome, the team ensures that holiday memories are accessible to all.

12/19/2025

IU Health is committed to providing exceptional care to patients from all walks of life. A key part of that care is ensuring every patient can communicate their needs and concerns clearly.

Language Services helps bridge communication gaps by ensuring every patient receives safe, clear and compassionate communication at every point of care. Services are available across all hospitals, ambulatory offices and other care settings within the East Region.

To support team members in determining the most appropriate interpretation service, Amber Wendt, Language Services liaison for the East Region, is available to assist. She helps connect team members with the right translation or interpretation resources to support patient care.

“The availability of these resources is there to help team members feel more confident when communicating with patients and strengthen trust, understanding and overall patient experience,” says Wendt.

There are three primary modes of interpretation available:

- Phone interpretation is ideal for quick or basic communication needs, such as introductions or providing directions.

- Video interpretation, which is accessible through devices located in all East Region hospitals and ambulatory offices. This is recommended for medical appointments and clinical conversations, as it allows patients and providers to see the interpreter and communicate more effectively.

- On‑site interpretation is arranged with Wendt’s support. This option is typically used for higher‑acuity situations where in‑person presence is essential.

By continuing to expand and promote these interpretation resources, IU Health reinforces its commitment to equitable, patient‑centered care.

12/17/2025

Life-saving discovery during routine scan

During what seemed like a routine CT scan, Samone Marshall, Computed Tomography Technologist at IU Health Ball spotted something extraordinary—an aortic dissection in a patient with no symptoms and no related concerns. Acting immediately, she alerted the physician, and the team sprang into action. The patient was flown out for emergency care before the official report was even finalized.

Thanks to Marshall’s sharp eye, quick thinking, and unwavering dedication, a life was saved.

For her incredible work she was recognized with a BEE Award. A companion to the DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses, the BEE Award is given to any extraordinary team member nominated by patients, family members and/or colleagues.