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In this week’s issue: We Celebrate Caroline Abrahamson Caroline Abrahamson, a speech language pathologist with our Rehabilitation Services team, reminds us that healing isn’t clinical—it’s personal. Whether helping a patient regain communication after a stroke or supporting a patient with dementia, her actions speak louder than words. You Go, Koko! 🌻 First-Ever Sunflower Award Recipient…
Read MoreStormont Vail Health will host its annual Trauma and Critical Care Symposium on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025, at the Pozez Education Center Auditorium in Stormont Vail Hospital in Topeka, 1500 S.W. 10th Ave., and Zoom. Experts from Stormont Vail, Children’s Mercy, and Labette Health will explore each phase of trauma care, from field triage and…
Read MoreWe’re proud to recognize Brett Baker, registered nurse (RN) in our Emergency Department, for his DAISY Award! When a young patient on the autism spectrum arrived in the ER after a painful injury, Brett went above and beyond to create a safe and calming environment. He offered fidget toys to help soothe the child and…
Read MoreNearly 8,000 Stormont Vail Health team members (plus their friends and families) turned out to celebrate the season under the sun at Gary’s Farm. From pumpkin picking to corn mazes to photo ops, this year’s team event was packed with energy, laughter, and great company. Thank you to everyone who joined—we can’t wait for next…
Read MoreStormont Vail Health is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Laura Vanderheiden-Zahner to its Family Medicine team. She is now accepting patients at Cotton O’Neil North Clinic, 4505 N.W. Fielding Rd., Topeka, 66618. To schedule an appointment, call (785) 270-0080. Dr. Vanderheiden-Zahner provides comprehensive primary care for patients of all ages. Her compassionate, patient-centered…
Read MoreCaroline Abrahamson, a speech language pathologist with our Rehabilitation Services team, exemplifies the power of human connection in healthcare. Her clinical expertise is matched by her deep commitment to understanding each patient’s story. She reminds us that healing isn’t clinical, it’s personal—and that’s why we’re proud to recognize her as this month’s Person of the…
Read MoreWhen a nurse can turn fear into laughter and pain into comfort, that’s something worth celebrating. Ivan Lopez, an Acute Care RN with our Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), received a nomination from a mother who experienced his care firsthand—twice. First, as he comforted her daughter during her first hospital stay, and then again when…
Read MoreStormont Vail Health and the Topeka Scarecrows are proud to announce a new partnership focused on providing comprehensive medical care and wellness support for the team throughout the season. This collaboration ensures Scarecrows athletes receive top-tier care from Stormont Vail’s experienced sports medicine professionals, reinforcing both organizations shared commitment to health, performance, and community engagement.…
Read MoreStormont Vail Health is proud to recognize Maci Kasprzak, registered nurse (RN) in our Pediatric Care unit, as a DAISY Award honoree! After a complicated procedure and an unexpected overnight stay, one patient described Maci’s care as life-changing. Her ability to combine clinical excellence with genuine human connection made all the difference. Throughout the day,…
Read MoreStormont Vail Health is proud to recognize Koko Fuentes, Patient Care Technician (PCT) in the Stormont Vail Hospital Emergency Department (ED), as the first recipient of the Sunflower Award for Extraordinary Nursing Support Staff. Koko went above and beyond during our visit to the Emergency Department. My mother-in-law, who has dementia, was having a very…
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