UW Health

19/07/2024

Dr. Awni Al-Subu was inspired to become a doctor while looking at the world through a child's eyes. "My awareness of the significance of pediatric care was initially sparked by my pediatrician at a young age, who not only provided care for me but also tended to my sick sibling," he recalls. This firsthand experience illuminated the profound impact that compassionate medical professionals can have on the lives of children and their families.

He chose to fulfill his childhood ambition at UW Health for its exceptional team, top-notch clinical and research facilities, and unwavering commitment to high-quality care—a commitment he shares and upholds. In 2024, Dr. Al-Subu's combination of clinical excellence and leadership skills was recognized by his peers with a Clinical Practice Physician Excellence Award.

Dr. Al-Subu has transformed the care of critically ill children as medical director of our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PCIU). When PICU bed shortages became an issue, he led a project to improve patient flow, ensuring more beds were available for those in need. Dr. Al-Subu’s unwavering dedication to healing children has shaped his career and defines his remarkable approach to care.

18/07/2024

There’s no doubt that lifeguards serve an important role making sure that pool facilities are safe for swimmers. The lifeguards at our two aquatic centers not only provide safety for lap swimmers and class participants, but they also offer an invaluable service for patients who use the pools for physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Physical therapist, Lori Thein Brody sums it up best, “The lifeguards and rehabilitation staff work together as a team. They know the clientele and can anticipate their needs, helping them with equipment. This improves safety by preventing clients with limited mobility from trying to reach for, bend or carry equipment that might put them at risk of a fall. They do this in a friendly, accepting and non-judgmental manner. The lifeguards make everyone feel comfortable in the center.”

17/07/2024

🎉 Let's celebrate Gary, the recipient of our 20,000th transplanted organ! Gary's health issues began more than 20 years ago with high blood pressure, leading to kidney failure and Type 2 diabetes. Before he could be listed for transplant, he needed a quintuple bypass surgery and dialysis. Despite his struggles, Gary never shed a tear, but when he learned he had received the milestone transplant, he wept for the first time. "My emotions just hit me all at once," he says. With a new kidney and pancreas, Gary is eager to return to work and cherish life with his loved ones. His story is a testament to hope, perseverance and the incredible impact of organ donation.

Read more about Gary's journey: https://uw.health/4bG5KH3

16/07/2024

As we age, we need more vitamin B12, calcium and vitamin D to maintain bone health. Some medicines can also reduce your ability to make or use these vitamins. If you are unable to eat more of these vitamins and minerals, contact your provider to discuss supplements. Learn more: https://uw.health/4bNDyT3

12/07/2024

During her 15+ years as a nurse, Kelli Linderman has emerged as an extraordinary leader who demonstrates remarkable clinical skills, expertise and a spirit of collaboration. A colleague of Kelli's had this to say:

“Kelli is a true leader who participates in quality improvement initiatives and often comes up with innovative ideas that exemplify remarkable care. This year, Kelli helped trial a patient receiving a same day infusion at urgent care to prevent a visit to the emergency room or hospitalization. Her care not only helped this patient, but also led to additional trials for more patients and a potential new process to help ensure patients get the right care, at the right place, at the right time.

Kelli focuses on providing an exceptional patient experience, while serving as a positive influence among her colleagues. Patients, families and teammates repeatedly share their appreciation of Kelli and her endless contributions.”

Kelli received a 2024 Nurse Excellence Award because of her exceptional contributions to patient- and family-centered care, and the support she provides to nurses and other care team members.

11/07/2024

Grab a loved one or friend and join us for a summer-themed date night cooking class.
Together we’ll prepare a delicious meal for two as well as discuss a heart healthy diet, practicing moderation and how to use seasonal produce.
Register: https://uw.health/463nM52

10/07/2024

The only fortunate thing about Emily being diagnosed with an extremely rare pain syndrome was that her younger sister, Sophia, had recently received the exact same diagnosis. As a result, Emily didn’t have to go through nearly as much uncertainty and frustration while she was trying to figure out what was wrong.

Of course, that’s all water under the bridge now, because the procedure worked for both sisters, and now they’re both looking forward to next steps.

The sisters, who live in Pennsylvania, travel to UW Health in Wisconsin to receive life changing and pain-easing surgery.

09/07/2024

Cancer clinical trials are typically grouped into three phases. Each phase is designed to gather information about a new drug or treatment. Patient safety is prioritized in each phase. UW Health l Carbone Cancer Center is unique in offering Phase I clinical trials; only certain centers can conduct these types of studies.

Learn more: https://uw.health/4aTOCgp

08/07/2024

Environmental health is connected to human health. Climate change impacts human health so we look for opportunities to reduce our footprint without impacting the great care we provide to our patients.

UW Health recently earned seven national awards from Practice Greenhealth, a nonprofit group focused on making the health care industry more sustainable.

05/07/2024

Dr. Inna Lobeck's journey to medicine started early. Her formative years in Moldova exposed her to the harsh realities of inadequate health care. As a refugee in the U.S., she nurtured a dream of making a difference. "I remember telling my pediatrician at the age of seven that I would one day purchase his practice," recalls Dr. Lobeck.

When Dr. Lobeck joined UW Health in September 2021, she was given a mission: to create a fetal surgery program. What was expected to take years, she accomplished in just six months. With a blend of passion and determination, Dr. Lobeck quickly formed a dedicated team and launched the UW Health Fetal Diagnosis and Treatment Center, offering new hope to babies diagnosed with congenital defects before birth. In 2024, nominations from peers earned her the Physician Excellence Rising Star Award.

For Dr. Lobeck, the most fulfilling aspect of her profession is the profound influence she can have on a family's journey. From the hopeful anticipation of a child's birth, through the intricate challenges of surgery, and into the joys and trials of childhood, she is there, making a difference. This sense of purpose and the power to positively transform a child's life is both humbling and deeply satisfying for her.

03/07/2024

Judith’s first experience with the importance of organ and tissue donation came at one of the worst times in her life—when her sister was hit by a drunk driver and had burns on more than 98% of her body.

While she was at University Hospital, her sister received skin grafts from deceased donors, and Judith learned just how few people chose to become organ and tissue donors. Ultimately, Judith’s sister passed away from her injuries.

Judith decided to research the idea of becoming a living organ donor. Years later, she came back to the hospital where her sister was treated and became a living kidney donor at the UW Health Transplant Center. She gave the gift of life in October 2021, and immediately started thinking about living liver donation, too.

It didn’t take long for a recipient to be found, and in November 2023, Judith gave her second gift of life through part of her liver.

“More people could do this. Two people are wandering around out there with healthy, working organs that they didn’t have before. If I can educate someone else, that’s another donation that saves another person,” says Judith.

Interested in being a living liver donor? Learn more: uwhealth.org/treatments/living-liver-donation

02/07/2024

As a behavioral health nurse care coordinator, Meggan Kohel connects, supports and advocates for patients who struggle with an opioid use disorder. Meggan works with parents to reunite them with their children, assists them in navigating complicated health care systems, and helps them secure employment, therapy and housing. A colleague of Meggan's had this to say:

“It can be challenging to get patients seen at specialty care clinics for addiction treatment. Meggan created a new process that allows RNs to identify and schedule new patients for a special program that helps connect them to the care they need. This solution has resulted in a more efficient process for team members and improved access for patients.

Meggan’s dedication and respect is evident in the connections she fosters with her patients and the level of trust she has with them. She has made an undeniable impact on patients and families, and patients often express what a difference she is making in their lives and recovery.”

Meggan received a 2024 Nurse Excellence Award because of her exceptional contributions to patient- and family-centered care, and the support she provides to nurses and other care team members.

01/07/2024

Tom has fought more than his share of health battles. He was diagnosed with kidney disease before turning 30, had both hips replaced and underwent neck fusion surgery to give him more stability in his spine. In early 2024, Tom embarked on yet another medical journey. His mobility had been declining and the pain in his back was getting worse. One Sunday morning, however, Tom woke up with no feeling whatsoever in his legs.

“It was totally gone,” he says.

After being transferred to Madison, Tom underwent an operation to relieve pressure on his spinal cord caused by a bulging disc between his shoulder blades. After a few days of recovery, he was transferred to the UW Health Rehabilitation Hospital.
Fueled by an unstoppable desire to get better, read how Tom outperformed expectations and left an everlasting impression on his care team: https://uw.health/4eqdqQ8

26/06/2024

We’re spreading our wings! UW Health Med Flight has relocated a helicopter and an ambulance, along with emergency and pediatric/neonatal crews to a new base in Janesville. This move cuts down on our response time by bringing us closer to the adults, kids and newborns who need us in southern Wisconsin and northern Illinois.

25/06/2024

🍉 Hot, humid days call for refreshing drinks that can also be light on sugar. Cool off with this recipe for infused spa water. 💦

24/06/2024

The Briarpatch Youth Services Teens Like Us Program (TLU) provides support and education for q***r youth ages 13-18. Founded more than 20 years ago, TLU serves youth across Wisconsin and provides a safe, brave place for q***r and questioning youth to meet with their peers.

The TLU support group is a “chill” space for youth to support one another, make new friends, socialize and engage in casually structured activities, and meet guest speakers from the community. Briarpatch also offers a Q***r 101 training to youth-serving agencies, schools and others looking to learn and grow.

“TLU has created an amazing open space for me to share and ask for help, and also to support my peers. It’s a wonderful space not only for support, but also for sharing joy,” says one teen.

UW Health is proud to support Briarpatch and LGBTQIA2+ youth and teens as an extension of our commitment to provide inclusive, affirming care as an LGBTQ+ Healthcare Equality Leader and to create a healthier community for all.

21/06/2024

Ed knows his way around cars, from vintage to exotics. So, it's not surprising when offered the opportunity to participate in a clinical trial to treat a recurring condition, he was drawn to the high-tech procedure.
Learn how clinical trials change lives for the better: https://uw.health/4cpDNUI

20/06/2024

Until the summer of 2023, Taylor couldn’t imagine living her life without back pain. When she was referred to the UW Health Renal Autotransplant Program, her first appointment was eye-opening.

“For the first time, I had doctors who were advocating for me. It was a totally different experience,” she says.

Read how our team treated Taylor’s severe nutcracker syndrome:

After reno autotransplant surgery at UW Health, Taylor can now finally live a pain free life.

19/06/2024

Today marks a special day of commemoration and celebration! We proudly raised the Juneteenth Flag, honoring the end of chattel slavery and the enduring symbol of freedom it represents. But today isn't just about reflecting on history; it's about celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Blackness and Black life.

Join us in recognizing the resilience, strength, and invaluable contributions of the Black and African American community. Their sacrifices and talents enrich our community in countless ways.

Let's stand together in unity and celebration, not just today, but every day. We're proud to stand with you.

17/06/2024

Losing muscle mass is a natural part of aging and eating the right amount of protein can lessen this loss. Eating enough protein can also help maintain strength as we age. For ideas to include protein at meals and snacks: https://uw.health/4bNDyT3

14/06/2024

Kayla Foster is a nurse in the Inpatient Operating Room at American Family Children’s Hospital whose team player attitude makes her a rising star among nurses at UW Health. One of her colleagues said this about Kayla:

“Within the surgical specialty team, Kayla manages emergency situations with ease. She is regularly praised for her willingness to help others and her commitment to quality patient care. Kayla collaborates with team members and fosters a culture of mutual support and shared success.

Kayla’s eagerness to learn is evident by taking on more challenging roles in the department; creating a handbook for newer staff to reference and volunteering to cross train in other areas to be as diverse and dynamic of a nurse as possible.”

Kayla received a 2024 Nurse Excellence Award because of her exceptional contributions to patient- and family-centered care, and the support she provides to nurses and other care team members.

13/06/2024

Here’s the story…of 4 women who navigated the challenges of diabetes complications, to pancreas transplant surgery and recovery. They all are incredibly grateful for the gift of life they received, and that they don’t have diabetes anymore.

Hum along as you read their story to learn how they became the Panc Pals! https://uw.health/45fTgEt

12/06/2024

University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse track/cross country assistant coach Nathan has been a runner all his life. After years of running 70 to 90 miles a week, his hip started to show its wear and tear. A sports medicine doctor in La Crosse diagnosed Nathan with a tear in his left labrum, which is the cartilage that lines the hip socket. Soon after, Nathan found his way to the UW Health Sports Medicine Clinic, where he met with Dr. Andrea Spiker, an orthopedic surgeon who specializes in hip preservation surgery.

For more than two decades, Nathan Petesch has put on a staggering amount of mileage -- not only on his cars but his body.

11/06/2024

Goodbye Ni****ne is a 6-week group medical visit where you will explore medical hypnosis, ni****ne replacement and behavior change strategies with the support of clinician, health coach, group members and a former smoker to help you successfully kick this habit.

More information: https://uw.health/3dfdoQt

06/06/2024

Many people consume more sugar than they realize. Drinks such as soda, energy drinks, juice, fruit drinks and flavored coffee often contain added sugars, which provide little nourishment but many calories. People who often drink sugary drinks are more likely to face health problems, such as weight gain, obesity, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, cavities and gout. One of the best ways to identify if a drink has sugar added to it is by looking at the nutrition facts label.

05/06/2024

In 2007, Mike was diagnosed with liver disease and needed a transplant to survive. His journey towards recovery was truly remarkable and was made possible by the selfless love of his family. His care team suggested he seek a living liver donor and his sister immediately offered to donate. Unfortunately, testing showed she was ineligible. But her partner DeeDee stepped forward, offering the ultimate gift: a chance at life. The transplant was successful, but Mike's kidneys started to fail meaning he would eventually need another transplant. Mike worked hard to protect his kidney function for 15 years, and when the need for a second transplant became critical, Mike's family once again stepped up to donate, but not in the way you might expect.

Continue reading Mike’s story: https://uw.health/3yPAAzl

03/06/2024

When Veronica started working as a receptionist at the UW Health Eye Care Clinic in 2008, she had already been diagnosed with strabismus, a condition in which the eyes do not look in the same direction due to weak or misaligned muscles.

"On my first day at work, I laughed when I saw the sign for the adult strabismus clinic and realized I should probably learn more about what was going on with my eyes. That's exactly what I did."

After undergoing multiple surgeries, Veronica had her last procedure nearly a decade later. During her many years of treatment, she was inspired by her surgeon, Dr. David Gamm, and his willingness to explain procedures with empathy and clarity. His positive influence and encouragement led Veronica to pursue further training to advance her career. She is now a certified ophthalmic surgical assistant working alongside Dr. Gamm in the same operating room where she was once a patient.

Veronica's personal experience and empathy make her a valuable support to current patients, showcasing the impact of the remarkable care at UW Health.

Read Veronica’s full story: https://www.uwhealth.org/patient-stories/former-ophthalmology-patient-now-works-with-doctor-who-treated-her

01/06/2024

Our workforce and the patients we serve include people from all backgrounds and identities. We embrace the opportunity to celebrate with our the LGBTQIA2S+ community of staff, faculty and patients!

31/05/2024

With a new baby comes a lot of changes - and not only diapers. A few months after her son was born, Katie started experiencing wrist pain and lifting her newborn from his bassinet or the floor became extremely painful. She ignored it for a while, thinking it was just a normal part of taking care of a baby. But when common tasks like opening jars became nearly impossible, she saw a doctor who diagnosed her with De Quervain tenosynovitis or "mommy's wrist."

After a steroid injection didn’t provide relief, she was referred to UW Health occupational therapist Sarah Wittak. Sarah offered guidance on better positions for nursing and lifting, exercises that can fit into a busy day caring for a newborn, and custom braces. Within a few weeks, Katie’s wrist pain was gone.

“Sarah was so wonderful and welcoming. I loved how the program was tailormade for new moms. Pain and discomfort shouldn't be just an accepted part of the postpartum experience, and I'm so glad the postpartum OT program exists as a resource for new moms in our area,” says Katie.

If you’re a new parent experiencing pain or discomfort when caring for your baby, talk to your provider about a referral for postpartum occupational therapy.

29/05/2024

🧬Even with a genetic predisposition to heart disease in his family, Matt refused to let it dictate his future. After losing his grandfather and great-grandmother to heart-related complications and supporting his father through his heart transplant, Matt knew he had to act. Following his medical provider's advice to be proactive, Matt began wearing a Holter monitor, a device that records the heart's rhythm and detects irregular heartbeats.

The results prompted doctors to install an implantable cardioverter-defibrillator. Thanks to his vigilance and support from his electrophysiologist in the UW Health Inherited Arrhythmias Clinic, Matt did well for many years but recognized when it was time to consult a heart failure specialist. Within three months, he was undergoing a heart transplant evaluation. The stakes were high, but Matt was determined to beat the odds. 🏥❤️

Read Matt’s story: https://uw.health/4dPaCf7