Valleywise Health Foundation and Valleywise Health in the News
Jay Leno Will Appear At Virtual ‘Courage Rising’ Premiere
DEADLINE | SEPT 4, 2024
The Emmy Award winner will appear at the Sept. 7 KINO digital premiere of Courage Rising, a documentary about eight burn survivors climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, with all proceeds from the event benefitting Valleywise Health Foundation.
A Look Inside Phoenix’s New Taxpayer-Funded Hospital
Arizona’s Family | APR 3, 2024
Maricopa County now has a new, more modern hospital. The new medical center located in downtown Phoenix is operated by Valleywise and will replace their other older location is right next door.
Valleywise Health gets $500,000 donation for new pediatric intensive care unit
Phoenix Business Journal | MAR 13, 2024
Valleywise Health Foundation will put $500,000 donation toward the pediatric intensive care unit at the $603 million Valleywise Health Medical Center that is currently under construction.
‘A Night in the Valley’ Rocked Valleywise Supporters with Gin Blossoms, Tyler Dial
Frontdoors | NOV. 3, 2022
During the program, guests cheered on Team Courage Rising, the 47-member group that summited Mt. Kilimanjaro with Valleywise Health Foundation and K2 Adventure Travel in June 2022 to raise funds and awareness for the new Arizona Burn Center opening in October 2023 as part of the new 10-story Valleywise Health Medical Center.
Creighton faculty and burn survivors take on Kilimanjaro
Creighton News | NOV. 3, 2022
When Kevin Foster, MD, a Creighton faculty member, was approached with an opportunity to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, he jumped at the chance. Taking on “Kili” was appealing for this recreational hiker, but the thrill of the challenge wasn’t the main incentive.
Courage Rising: How These Burn Survivors Beat the Odds and Climbed Africa’s Highest Mountain
America’s Essential Hospitals | SEPT. 2 2022
Isabella McCune has had many mountains to climb in her 12 years, but this year, she took on her highest peak yet — the tallest freestanding mountain in the world.
A Phoenix doctor helped burn victims recover. Then he helped them summit Mount Kilimanjaro
Arizona Republic| AUG. 4 2022
“On the first day of his long ascent to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro, Dr. Kevin Foster was surrounded by a tangle of green.
He had swapped his scrubs for hiking gear and exchanged a busy hospital ward for the lush tropical rain forest blanketing the base of Africa’s highest peak.”
Eight former Arizona Burn Center patients summit Mount Kilimanjaro
ABC15 Arizona | JULY 20, 2022
“Eight burn survivors, some from the Valley, celebrated a long journey of recovery culminating with a climb of Mount Kilimanjaro!
Describing the climb on Mt. Kilimanjaro, for Jason Nelson, is hard, “It’s painful. It’s exhilarating. It’s maddening at times, you know, with step after step.”
Arizona burn survivors summit Mount Kilimanjaro to raise money for Valleywise burn center
KJZZ | JULY 19, 2022
“Recovering from burn injuries is one of the most painful experiences a person can endure.
Patients undergo surgery after surgery, grafting skin onto areas that were burned. To guard from infection, their open wounds are regularly scrubbed, and the whole process can take years to get back to a new normal.”
Flesh-eating bacteria survivor hikes Mount Kilimanjaro
Peoria Times | JULY 16, 2022
“Christin Lipinski, a special education teacher at Oakwood Elementary School, has dealt with her fair share of adversity in her life. Back in 2018, she spent two and a half months in the hospital dealing with necrotizing fasciitis, or flesh-eating bacteria.”
Sun Devils x Courage Rising: The Susie Fawcett Story
Arizona State University Sun Devil Club
“She has supported the Arizona Burn Center since her time there, volunteering her time and helping support those going through experiences like hers. Now, she’s taking a massive leap forward with her efforts and is set to join Courage Rising, a group of burn survivors, medical staff and supporters of the Arizona Burn Center, on an expedition to climb the highest free-standing mountain in the world, Mt. Kilimanjaro.”
3 Mesa burn survivors take on a mountain today
Mesa Tribune | JUNE 12, 2022
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But I’m also really nervous,” says 12-year-old Isabella McCune from Phoenix. She joins 11-year-old Isla Cook from Peoria, Arizona. The two are gearing up for one of life’s biggest adventures: Climbing the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.”
Valley burn survivors to climb Mount Kilimanjaro
ABC15 Arizona | JUNE 13, 2022
“It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. But I’m also really nervous,” says 12-year-old Isabella McCune from Phoenix. She joins 11-year-old Isla Cook from Peoria, Arizona. The two are gearing up for one of life’s biggest adventures: Climbing the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.”
8 Arizona burn survivors are climbing Mount Kilimanjaro this month
AZ Big Media | JUNE 9, 2022
“They have suffered life-threatening injuries, undergone countless surgeries and endured painful physical rehabilitation. Now eight burn survivors, including 11- and 12-year-old girls, are coming together to face one more challenge: Climbing the highest peak in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro.”
Arizona burn survivors preparing to hike up Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa for a great Arizona cause
FOX 10 Phoenix l | MAY 22, 2022
“Burn survivors from the Phoenix area are getting ready to hike Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa, but before that, they trained by hiking something a bit closer: Piestewa Peak. The hike in Africa is all part of a campaign called Courage Rising, which aims to raise money for the new Arizona Burn Center.”
Phoenix Business Journal’s Most Admired Leaders 2022: Nate Lowrie
Phoenix Business Journal | MAY 19, 2022
“I’ve served as CEO of the foundation for seven years and was a volunteer board member for six years, so I’ve been involved for 13 years. I’m a native Phoenician, ASU grad and have spent my entire career in the Valley. My first job as a kid was helping my dad who worked in construction. I earned a nickel a nail and dollar a day.”
Health Care Heroes 2021 Philanthropic Champion winner- Anaik Sachdev
Phoenix Business Journal | AUGUST 26, 2021
“I started Loving Library last year around my birthday because I wanted to help people who went through what we did. Reading helped me while I was lonely during Covid so I thought it would help hospitalized Covid patients as well.”
Annual ‘Bridge to Hope’ Luncheon Benefits Refugee Family Health Services at Valleywise Health
Frontdoors Media | JUNE 24, 2021
“Emcee Karie Dozer and Dr. Crista Johnson-Agbakwu led a discussion on the New York Times best-selling book, The Moment of Lift by Melinda Gates, and shared impactful stores of courage and hope from the Refugee Women’s Health Clinic at Valleywise Health. “
Doctors warn of pavement burns as record heat wave scorches several states
AZ Family | JUNE 16, 2021
“The Arizona Burn Center – Valleywise Health in Phoenix warns that these surfaces can reach temperatures of 180 degrees Fahrenheit in the state’s brutal heat. Arizona and Nevada could break all-time state record highs..”
Here are the healthcare building trends that emerged from pandemic
AZ Big Media | JUNE 4, 2021
“In 2014, Maricopa County voters approved a $935 million bond in part to replace Valleywise Health Medical Center, its Level 1 trauma center and the Arizona Burn Center. The original hospital was designed during the 1960s under…”
Valleywise Health will host 12 Valley-wide vaccination events
AZ Big Media | MAY 24, 2021
“Valleywise Health announced today that it will be launching a series of COVID-19 vaccination events open to the general public with the first happening Friday, May 28 at Valleywise Comprehensive Health Center – Peoria at Grand Ave. and Cotton Crossing from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.”
Valleywise nurses host food box giveaway in Maryvale
AZ Family | MAY 24, 2021
“Valleywise nurses spent their Saturday morning doing what they do best – caring for people. The volunteers used their day off to host a drive-thru food box giveaway to help Maryvale families experiencing food insecurity.”
Valleywise Health, Maricopa County’s healthcare system, undergoes major overhaul
AZ Big Media | APRIL 21, 2021
“Valleywise Health, Maricopa County’s healthcare system for low-income, underserved and ethnically diverse populations, is undergoing a major transformation, including a major upgrade and a new 10-story tower for its public teaching hospital in central Phoenix. In addition, it has been adding new healthcare centers across the region and expanding its array of services to better serve those in need.”
Phoenix-based LiteraSeed launches partnership with Valleywise Health for underserved populations
Phoenix Business Journal | APRIL 14, 2021
“The fragments of her idea were floating around in Aziza Ismail’s head for many years before she created her company LiteraSeed. It took time, insight and tragedy for the pieces to come together. Ismail’s parents immigrated from Afghanistan and growing up she saw them struggle to navigate language barriers. Afghanistan has a low literacy rate (just above 40% according to the United Nations) and Ismail’s mother cannot read or write…”
We are ICU nurses. We’re tired. And we need your help again to get through this
AZ Republic | MARCH 29, 2021
“We are intensive care unit (ICU) nurses at Valleywise Health Medical Center in Phoenix, and, like everyone else, we want our lives to get back to normal. Quite honestly, we’re all tired. The last year in our COVID-19 units has been a nightmare that we never want to relive. We have been shattered by watching so much death and grief…”
102 new doctors join Arizona healthcare workforce when they’re needed most
AZ Big Media | MARCH 21, 2021
“They are entering Arizona’s healthcare workforce at a time when we need them more than ever,” said Dr. Michael White, Chief Clinical Officer for Valleywise Health and a member of the Creighton Alliance. “These soon-to-be physicians will play a large role in the delivery of medical care in Arizona as we continue to battle COVID-19.”
Yuma 3-year-old Westyn Tudor heads home after 4 months in burn unit
Arizona Republic | MARCH 5 , 2021
“Westyn Tudor, 3, walks with his occupational therapist, Renee Warthman, while leaving the burn unit at Valleywise Health Medical Center in Phoenix on March 5, 2021. Westyn spent fourth months at the burn unit after getting third-degree burns on 35% of his body after falling into a campfire at his Yuma home…”
On the move at FirstBank, Kidder Mathews, On the Money, Valleywise Health
AZ Big Media | MARCH 2 , 2021
“Lia Christiansen has been named Chief Administrative Officer (CAO) of Valleywise Health, Arizona’s public teaching hospital and safety net system of care. Christiansen most recently served as the Chief Operating Officer for Acute Care for Minnesota Health Fairview in Minneapolis…”
Valleywise Health marks construction milestone on new $596M Phoenix hospital
Phoenix Business Journal | MARCH 1 , 2021
“Valleywise Health is one step closer to opening its $596 million replacement hospital in Phoenix. After breaking ground for the 673,000-square-foot, 10-story medical center, general contractor Kitchell raised the final beam…”
Death, Through a Nurse’s Eyes
New York Times | FEBRUARY 24, 2021
The short film above allows you to experience the brutality of the pandemic from the perspective of nurses inside a Covid-19 intensive care unit. Opinion Video producer Alexander Stockton spent several days reporting at the Valleywise Medical Center in Phoenix. Two I.C.U. nurses wore cameras to show what it’s like to care for the sickest Covid patients a year into the pandemic…
Swim for the Light raises nearly $6,000 for mental health
Arcadia News | FEBRUARY 1, 2021
Even with all of the chaos surrounding the world today, people are still finding ways to keep positive and shine a light on causes that mean a lot to them and to others. Such is the case with Xavier senior Kelly Scott, who created Swim for the Light, a mental health awareness campaign where participants swam for the cause…
COVID-19 Weekly Update
Fox10 Phoenix | JANUARY 8, 2021
“We’re very concerned about where the numbers are headed right now.” Dr. Ross Goldberg, President of the Arizona Medical Association and District Medical Group Vice Chair of Surgery at Valleywise Health, gives a weekly COVID-19 update on FOX10 Phoenix…
Impact Diversity Solutions Donates Surgical Masks to Senior Home Care Orgs
IN Business Magazine | JANUARY 7, 2021
Following its motto to ‘Do well by doing good,’ Impact Diversity Solutions Corporation recently donated 30,000 surgical masks to Valleywise Health partners Home Assist Health and Bandera Healthcare to ensure their skilled, home care nurses have the PPE they need to keep themselves and their patients as safe as possible…
BUSINESS(PEOPLE) OF THE YEAR
Phoenix Business Journal | JANUARY 1, 2020
That’s how Valleywise Health CEO Steve Purves describes the frontline workers — the nurses, clinicians, physicians, first responders and others — who have selflessly cared for patients, and their families, amid the Covid-19 pandemic that has ravaged Arizona and the rest of the country in 2020…
Phoenix high school senior creates virtual swim event to raise money for mental health
AZ Family | DECEMBER 6, 2020
An Xavier College Prep senior is asking you to record yourself swimming 100 yards and upload it to social media to raise money and awareness for mental health. Kelly Scott said she thought of the idea after a friend reached out to her to talk about how hard it’s been dealing with COVID-19 changes…
Here are the finalists for the Az Business Angels Awards
AZ Big Media | DECEMBER 1, 2020
Az Business Angels magazine has cast a spotlight on the nonprofits, individuals, business leaders, and organizations that are making the biggest impact on our communities with its second annual Az Business Angels Awards. “We want to engage the nonprofit leaders of Arizona in order to learn more about their missions, the causes they support and the people who work tirelessly to serve them,” says AZ Big Media Editor in Chief Michael Gossie. “Equally important, we want to pay tribute to the leaders of Arizona’s for-profit community who sit on boards, donate time, support company community initiatives and give back through various means to the nonprofit community.”
Coronavirus cases are skyrocketing again in cities
Washington Post | NOVEMBER 26, 2020
In Maricopa County, which includes Phoenix, Valleywise Health “had a little breather” after the summer’s surge in Sun Belt states, said Michael White, the health system’s chief clinical officer. But the seven-day average of new cases, which hovered around 500 a day in late October, exceeded 2,000 on Monday.
Voters support expanding county health care system
Arizona Capitol Times | NOVEMBER 20, 2020
Maricopa County voters unified around Valleywise Health and our unique mission by approving Proposition 449 – 63% to 37% – and extending a secondary property tax that supports our operations. We are extremely grateful and honored by this show of support…
Valleywise launches food pharmacy to battle diabetes
AZ Big Media | NOVEMBER 14, 2020
Valleywise Health Foundation has received two grants totaling $150,000 from the Arizona Women’s Board to implement the food pharmacy pilot program, which allows 160 patients diagnosed with uncontrolled diabetes, access to healthy food staples like fresh produce, proteins and whole wheat grains. The patients can visit the two participating locations twice a month for six months to choose the food they would like…
Arizona 8-year-old starts ‘Loving Library’ for lonely COVID-19 patients
az family | AUGUST 21, 2020
Anaik Sachdev has seen first-hand how hard it is to battle COVID-19. When his family had to isolate, they turned to books to pass the time. The idea for the Loving Library came when Anaik said he wanted to do something to help other coronavirus patients. His library was an instant hit. Now you can help him reach more COVID-19 patients.
Arizona 8-year-old starts ‘Loving Library’ for lonely COVID-19 patients
az family | AUGUST 21, 2020
Anaik Sachdev has seen first-hand how hard it is to battle COVID-19. When his family had to isolate, they turned to books to pass the time. The idea for the Loving Library came when Anaik said he wanted to do something to help other coronavirus patients. His library was an instant hit. Now you can help him reach more COVID-19 patients.
Valleywise Health awarded $3M grant for simulated medical training
KTAR | AUGUST 12, 2020
PHOENIX — Valleywise Health has been awarded a $3 million grant from the Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority to assist in developing a comprehensive medical simulation training program.The health care provider will use the funds to facilitate hands-on learning experiences for hundreds of medical residents and students with…
“loving library” for covid patients
KJZZ | AUGUST 11, 2020
Beth found this heart warming story about a young boy ( he’s 8 ..not 6!) named Anaik who had several members fo his family get sick with the corona virus. Anaik thought they would be lonely while hospitalized and so he decided to put together the “loving library.” His Library now has over 150 books and he is hoping it can add more to help more an more corona virus patients.
Marvel-ous hospital gowns bring out the superhero in young patients
az central | AUGUST 4, 2020
Anaiah Morales was standing close to the stove when a pot of chicken soup spilled, splattering her with scalding broth. Anaiah, who’s 7, tried to be brave, but her grandmother, Consuela Garcia, of Glendale, cried.“It’s OK, Nana,” Anaiah told her. “Don’t cry.” Anaiah was admitted to the Arizona Burn Center, part…
Valleywise Health is helping unemployed people with health insurance questions
az family | JULY 25, 2020
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) – Many people have lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic which has led to lapse in health insurance coverage. And with everything going on, it’s more important than ever to have access to health care coverage.
When in this situation, many are overwhelmed and have a lot of questions. Valleywise Health wants to be able to take away from of the stress and answer your questions.
University of Arizona expands free antibody test program for essential workers, plans study COVID-19 immunity
az central | JULY 23, 2020
Preliminary data shows hardly anyone has immunity against COVID-19, but the University of Arizona is hoping to expand both testing and research on the subject. UA is expanding its free statewide COVID-19 antibody tests for high risk essential workers and will use $7.7 million in federal money to study antibody testing results, officials announced Wednesday at Valleywise Health Medical Center, which is one of the antibody testing sites.
Valleywise Health is providing free gear for back to school
az family | JULY 18, 2020
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS5) — Back to school for 2020-2021 is starting off a little different than normal with majority of classes starting with online instruction in Arizona in hopes to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Either way, students are going to need school supplies to help with their studying and coursework. The start time for schools has been pushed back, but some school districts will be starting sooner with online classes.
U.S. News & World Report | JULY 18, 2020
SATURDAY, July 18, 2020 (HealthDay News) — Grilling. Campfires. Fireworks. All are part of summer’s pleasures — but they also pose burn risks. A new survey of 1,000 U.S. adults found that 53% mistakenly think their burn risk is lower than it actually is. Only 11% knew that injuries from the flames of a fire pit or grill are the most common burn injuries, according to the Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health/Ipsos survey.
Valleywise Health gives away backpacks filled with school supplies to Maricopa County families
Fox 10 | JULY 17, 2020
PHOENIX – This school year may look different from years past, and in order for families to prepare, they’ll need school supplies — whether students are learning online from home or heading back into the classroom. “Backpacks are much more than a material item. They’re important because they get you into the routine of starting a new year,” said Ana Contreras of the Valleywise Family Learning Center.
Valleywise Health survey: Americans lack summer burn safety knowledge
AZ Big Media | JULY 12, 2020
Summertime means Americans are spending more time around grills, firepits, and fireworks, increasing their risk for fire-related burn injuries. While 53% of Americans say they know some or a lot about burn injuries and treatment, many mistakenly underestimate their risks with these activities, according to a new Arizona Burn Center at Valleywise Health/Ipsos survey…
Don’t Forget About The Risk Of Burn Injury This Holiday Weekend
Scary Mommy | JULY 2, 2020
In early June, my small town announced it was canceling the annual Fourth of July carnival and fireworks show to help stop the spread of COVID-19. A town-wide event that attracted hundreds of people was irresponsible, and the decision was rational and necessary, but, frankly, also sad. The cancellation was a sign that the summer of 2020 would look very different than any summer that had come before. Different, but not down and out for the count…
Maintaining a consistent fundraising stream: lessons learned from COVID-19
Philanthropy News Digest | Kevin Neal | JULY 1, 2020
Over the last few months, the staff at Valleywise Health Foundation has witnessed astounding levels of empathy and generosity directed toward healthcare workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Maricopa County. Many nonprofits and public charities are hurting right now, so it’s especially uplifting to see how charitable people can be in the face of hardship and uncertainty…
Valleywise doctor: Number of COVID-19 patients ‘ramped up pretty quickly’
azfamily | JUNE 26, 2020
Valleywise Health says it activated its surge plan about a week ago to make sure it has enough resources to care for a spike in COVID-19 patients. However, it didn’t expect to see so many sick people. “We are seeing more patients. More patients are being transferred in,” says Emergency Physician Dan Quan. He says patients are coming in from the Valley as well as remote areas across the Arizona…
Kids and face coverings: Valley doctors weigh in on how to protect your family
azfamily | JUNE 25, 2020
As Arizona cities and school districts make rules when it comes to face coverings, how should you talk to your kids about safety?Arizona’s Family spoke with two Valley doctors about their recommendations when it comes to those tough, but necessary conversations. “As far as older kids are concerned, I think that’s an opportunity for parents to talk to their kids about personal responsibility, about taking responsibility…
Protests in Arizona likely not responsible for COVID-19 spike, yet
azfamily | JUNE 12, 2020
The wave of protests that have swept across the country and the Phoenix area are not likely to be responsible for the recent spike in COVID-19 cases — not yet, at least. That is according to public health experts who spoke to CBS 5 Investigates…
Coronavirus precautions might have eased Arizona’s flu season
azfamily | JUNE 11, 2020
Some doctors say precautions taken to slow the spread of the coronavirus might have also eased Arizona’s flu season. “The lockdown and the principles of the lockdown, as well as the guidelines for physical distancing, apply to any viral infection,” said Dr. Shad Marvasti, director of Public Health, Prevention and Health Promotion at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix. As Arizona closed down schools…
Valleywise Hospital officials speak out amid fears of hospital overwhelming due to surge in COVID-19 cases
Fox 10 | JUNE 11, 2020
Arizona Governor Doug Ducey spent a lot of time talking about hospital capacity, with numbers from the Arizona Department of Health Services showing statewide hospital capacity was, on Wednesday, at 83%. On Thursday, numbers show Arizona’s hospitals are at 78% capacity. On the same day, officials with one Valley hospital sought to reassure Arizona residents, even after the recent surge in COVID-19 cases.
She’s a nurse with DACA protections. The coronavirus pandemic was a call to duty
Los Angeles Times | JUNE 05, 2020
When the coronavirus pandemic arrived in Phoenix, it felt like a call to duty for nurse Karen Garcia. She works 12-hour shifts at Valleywise Health Medical Center tending to the gravely ill, dozens of whom she has watched die, all the while knowing that her mask, gown, gloves and face shield are no guarantee that she won’t become infected and take the virus home to her family.But her biggest fear hasn’t been the virus…
Valleywise medical director calls for vigilance as Arizona COVID-19 cases rise
az family | JUNE 05, 2020
As Arizona surpasses the grim milestone of 1,000 COVID-19 deaths, some health experts are calling for increased vigilance and a return to basic health precautions. “We want to make sure we are doing everything that we can as a community to decrease the spread and decrease the risk of COVID-19 disease,” said Dr. Michael White, Chief Medical Officer for Valleywise Health…
Valleywise Health se solidariza con la igualdad
Prensa Arizona | JUNE 05, 2020
Enfermeros, médicos y personal del Hosptial ValleyWise Health de Phoenix se unió a la causa de los manifestantes de BLM por la muerte de George Floyd ciudadano estadounidense muerto a causa de brutalidad policiaca hace unos días en la ciudad de Minneapolis, Minnesota. A través de sus redes sociales publicaron fotos de su personal poniendo una rodilla en el suelo, símbolo del movimiento…
‘Virtual care is here to stay’: Valleywise Health execs talk telemedicine transformation and what’s in store post pandemic
Becker’s Hospital Review | JUNE 02, 2020
In response to the pandemic, Phoenix-based Valleywise Health built a telemedicine program from the ground up, facilitating more than 20,000 virtual visits and spurring benefits that will pave the way for future expansion. Kelly Summers, CIO, and Anthony Dunnigan, MD, chief medical information officer, helped lead Valleywise Health’s telemedicine transformation in March…
Just Breathe: David Archuleta releases a song for the times
Entertainment Magazine | JUNE 04, 2020
David Archuleta understands that many people are heartbroken, anxious and depressed during this pandemic. To help ease those feelings, he released the song “Just Breathe.” The accompanying video highlights front-line health care workers from Valleywise Health, formerly known as Maricopa Integrated Health System. The video features clips from Valleywise Health’s first discharge of a COVID-19 patient on April 10…
Biggest Hurdle for Young Burn Survivors Is Acceptance
U.S. News | JUNE 01, 2020
The way they’re treated by other people can cause young burn survivors more distress than their physical challenges, two surveys find. In one, researchers asked 64 burn survivors between 17 and 25 years of age what they found hardest to deal with. The seven most common responses: people staring; being bullied; memories of being burned; needing more surgeries; self-consciousness about scars; unwanted questions; pain and itching…
Maintaining a Consistent Fundraising Stream: Lessons Learned from COVID-19
Philanthropy News Digest | Contributing writer Kevin Neal | JUNE 01, 2020
Over the last few months, the staff at Valleywise Health Foundation has witnessed astounding levels of empathy and generosity directed toward healthcare workers on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic in Maricopa County. Many nonprofits and public charities are hurting right now, so it’s especially uplifting to see how charitable people can be in the face of hardship and uncertainty. Like many organizations…
Health care workers: Isolation, uncertainty and a risk for burnout during COVID-19 crisis
azcentral | MAY 28, 2020
Valleywise Health nurse managers Chanté Neal and Regina Villa say there’s no clear answer to how long their staff will be caring for COVID-19 patients. Right now, Valleywise Medical Center in Phoenix typically has between 20 and 30 COVID-19 patients and half of them are in the ICU, and extremely ill. “Nobody knows how long this will last,” Neal said. “There’s always that uncertainty in the air. There’s still a lot of uncertainty and fear around this for everyone, so that alone is a big stressor.”..
Valley health expert warns virus fears may harm cardiovascular health
KTAR NEWS | MAY 26, 2020
As Arizona residents take steps to shelter themselves from the spread of coronavirus, they could be incurring risks to their cardiovascular health as a result. Avoiding signs of a heart attack due to fears of contracting COVID-19 in a medical facility can lead to detrimental health consequences, according to Michael White, Valleywise Health chief medical officer.“By not coming to an emergency department, we aren’t able to…
Valley Nonprofits Take Fundraising Virtual
frontdoors media | MAY 21, 2020
It’s the topic every Valley nonprofit leader is talking about: virtual fundraising events. I have “attended” five virtual events since mid-April — each as unique as it would have been in person. There are some amazing local companies and new technologies being used to maximize the opportunity to raise funds, and in some cases, more funds than planned. Here are four examples…
DMG Pediatrician Dr. Salil Pradhan spoke with AZ Family about a mysterious illness in children that may be connected to COVID-19.
AZ Family | MAY 11, 2020
“Pediatric Multi-System Inflammatory Syndrome” has been reported in several states and can cause similar symptoms to COVID-19, along with more serious inflammatory responses…
My View: Why this year’s celebration of Nurses Week has special meaning
Phoenix Business Journal | Opinion contributor Sherry Stotler | MAY 6, 2020
Compassion, empathy, dedication and perseverance – all words to describe those called to a life in nursing. Nurses are the lifeblood of all health care systems, and at Valleywise Health, this is no exception…
‘It’s good for our souls;’ Military flyover honors health care workers as they fight COVID-19
azcentral | MAY 01, 2020
About 100 health care workers braved the Friday afternoon heat as 15 military jets flew side-by-side over Valleywise Health Medical Center in central Phoenix. Hospital worker Audrey DeAlva said it was emotional to watch the F-35A and F-16 fighter jets and the KC-135 air refueler fly overhead. DeAlva called it “a huge honor” that the U.S. Air Force…
Valleywise Health nurse talks about the highs and lows while battling COVID-19
Fox 10 Phoenix | APRIL 28, 2020
We’re hearing stories from the frontlines of the COVID-19 fight in Maricopa County. An intensive care unit (ICU) nurse at Valleywise Health tells FOX 10 what it’s been like battling the virus, from the highest highs to the lowest lows, and what she’s most afraid of moving forward…
Produced in 10 languages for Arizona refugees, COVID-19 safety videos reach 70,000
az central | APRIL 26, 2020
The official language of the African nation Burundi is named Kirundi. Julie Ngiriye speaks it and other languages, which is why the social worker and care coordinator helped make an informational video about the coronavirus for Burundian refugees living in Arizona and beyond. “I know the struggles they go through for having going through the same struggles myself,” she said. In the video, Ngiriye explained how to wash your hands. She also talked about social distancing…
Telehealth visits on the rise
azfamily | APRIL 15, 2020
With nearly 8-thousand telehealth visits at Valleywise Health in less than three weeks, working with a provider over video or by phone is becoming a preferred method of health care for many Arizonans during the COVID-19 outbreak. Dr. Anthony Dunnigan explains how simple it is in this video, courtesy of AZ Family. Make an appointment by calling 1-833-VLLYWSE (855-9973)…
As coronavirus takes hold, we all get to feel a little bit more alone, together
azcentral | MARCH 12, 2020
I stopped at the grocery store after work when it’s usually busy to find that I was one of a few people wandering the aisles. (There was plenty of toilet paper, too, by the way.) There was no wait at our favorite Mexican restaurant, even with a party of seven…
Do you have new coronavirus symptoms? Here’s what to do
azcentral | MARCH 6, 2020
Are you worried you have the new coronavirus? Here are some suggestions on what to do. Consider these alternatives to the emergency room. Having a fever, cough and shortness of breath is concerning, but health officials advise not to rush…
Arizona gears up as it prepares for an outbreak of the coronavirus
abc 15 | FEBRUARY 28, 2020
PHOENIX — In a letter to lawmakers, Arizona Department of Health Services Director Cara Christ said the state is making plans to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) rather than contain it. Dr. Christ warned…
Health Fair For Refugees In Arizona Seeks To Earn Trust, Improve Health Outcomes
KJZZ | FEBRUARY 24, 2020
Since 1975, Arizona has been home to more than 85,000 refugees. The state consistently ranks in the top 10 for refugee populations, and in 2016, Arizona took in 5% of all refugees who resettled in the United States. Refugees have access to public health services…
Creighton University and ASU to partner on health programs
az central | FEBRUARY 21, 2020
Creighton University, on track to open a Phoenix campus in 2021, will give admissions preference to Arizona State University students who want to attend certain Creighton graduate health programs. The admissions advantage for applicants from ASU is part of an education, teaching and research partnership between…
Phoenix hospital and shelter partner to give homeless patients a safe place to recover
az central | FEBRUARY 21, 2020
Three days after Christopher Blanchard fell convulsing to the sidewalk outside a restaurant, he said, he woke up in a Phoenix hospital bruised and with nowhere to go. The 52-year-old pipe fitter had recently lost his home in a break-up…
Why Valleywise Health Is Putting A Courtroom Inside A Hospital
KJZZ | FEBRUARY 17, 2020
When someone is a danger to themselves or others but refuses treatment, someone — usually a family member or close friend — can ask a judge to force them to get treatment. It’s meant to be a last resort to prevent those with serious…
Former Maryvale Hospital reopening as mental health treatment center
az central | FEBRUARY 15, 2020
Blankets are tucked tightly on the beds. The bathroom sinks wait for faucets to be turned on. And the floors gleam in rooms, ready for patients to show up in a new mental health treatment center in west Phoenix. The center is in the former…
Arizona is facing a huge mental health crisis. Here is how we’re improving care
az central | FEBRUARY 8, 2020
For years, Arizona has experienced a statewide shortage of mental health treatment beds, forcing patients with serious mental illness to languish in emergency rooms and urgent psychiatric centers for days or even weeks. This, of course, is an ongoing national health problem. The urgency of addressing…
New mental health court opens at behavioral health center in Maryvale
az family | FEBRUARY 6, 2020
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) — A new Maricopa County Mental Health Court was dedicated Thursday morning at the Valleywise Health Behavioral Health Center in Maryvale, expanding mental health services to the West Valley and beyond. The civil court, part of the Maricopa County Superior Court system…
Can Valley hospitals handle potential coronavirus cases
abc 15 | JANUARY 30, 2020
PHOENIX — With one case of the potentially deadly coronavirus already confirmed in Maricopa County, hospitals across the area are bracing for the possibility of more cases. Since coronavirus is airborne, it’s important to take measures to limit potential…
How Valley hospitals are preparing for coronavirus
Fox 10 | JANUARY 27, 2020
PHOENIX – Health experts say corona disease originated from China and anyone traveling from China to the United States could be at risk. With one case of coronavirus being confirmed in Tempe, hospitals throughout the Valley, like Valleywise Health Medical Center, are preparing for any more possible threats. “We are screening individuals that are coming in…
ENTERCOM RAISES $116,138 FOR VALLEYWISE HEALTH FOUNDATION DURING THE FIRST-EVER “LIVE 101.5 GIVE-A-THON
News Break | JANUARY 9, 2020
Entercom, a leading media and entertainment company and one of the two largest radio broadcasters in the U.S., raised $116,138 for Valleywise Health Foundation during LIVE 101.5’s (KALV-FM) inaugural “LIVE 101.5 GIVE-A-THON,” presented by Rafi Law Group, in Phoenix.
As coronavirus takes hold, we all get to feel a little bit more alone, together
azcentral | MARCH 12, 2020
I stopped at the grocery store after work when it’s usually busy to find that I was one of a few people wandering the aisles. (There was plenty of toilet paper, too, by the way.) There was no wait at our favorite Mexican restaurant, even with a party of seven…
Do you have new coronavirus symptoms? Here’s what to do
azcentral | MARCH 6, 2020
Are you worried you have the new coronavirus? Here are some suggestions on what to do. Consider these alternatives to the emergency room. Having a fever, cough and shortness of breath is concerning, but health officials advise not to rush…
Arizona gears up as it prepares for an outbreak of the coronavirus
abc 15 | FEBRUARY 28, 2020
PHOENIX — In a letter to lawmakers, Arizona Department of Health Services Director Cara Christ said the state is making plans to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) rather than contain it. Dr. Christ warned…
Health Fair For Refugees In Arizona Seeks To Earn Trust, Improve Health Outcomes
KJZZ | FEBRUARY 24, 2020
Since 1975, Arizona has been home to more than 85,000 refugees. The state consistently ranks in the top 10 for refugee populations, and in 2016, Arizona took in 5% of all refugees who resettled in the United States. Refugees have access to public health services…
Creighton University and ASU to partner on health programs
az central | FEBRUARY 21, 2020
Creighton University, on track to open a Phoenix campus in 2021, will give admissions preference to Arizona State University students who want to attend certain Creighton graduate health programs. The admissions advantage for applicants from ASU is part of an education, teaching and research partnership between…
Phoenix hospital and shelter partner to give homeless patients a safe place to recover
az central | FEBRUARY 21, 2020
Three days after Christopher Blanchard fell convulsing to the sidewalk outside a restaurant, he said, he woke up in a Phoenix hospital bruised and with nowhere to go. The 52-year-old pipe fitter had recently lost his home in a break-up…
Why Valleywise Health Is Putting A Courtroom Inside A Hospital
KJZZ | FEBRUARY 17, 2020
When someone is a danger to themselves or others but refuses treatment, someone — usually a family member or close friend — can ask a judge to force them to get treatment. It’s meant to be a last resort to prevent those with serious…
Former Maryvale Hospital reopening as mental health treatment center
az central | FEBRUARY 15, 2020
Blankets are tucked tightly on the beds. The bathroom sinks wait for faucets to be turned on. And the floors gleam in rooms, ready for patients to show up in a new mental health treatment center in west Phoenix. The center is in the former…
Arizona is facing a huge mental health crisis. Here is how we’re improving care
az central | FEBRUARY 8, 2020
For years, Arizona has experienced a statewide shortage of mental health treatment beds, forcing patients with serious mental illness to languish in emergency rooms and urgent psychiatric centers for days or even weeks. This, of course, is an ongoing national health problem. The urgency of addressing…
New mental health court opens at behavioral health center in Maryvale
az family | FEBRUARY 6, 2020
PHOENIX (3TV/CBS 5) — A new Maricopa County Mental Health Court was dedicated Thursday morning at the Valleywise Health Behavioral Health Center in Maryvale, expanding mental health services to the West Valley and beyond. The civil court, part of the Maricopa County Superior Court system…
Can Valley hospitals handle potential coronavirus cases
abc 15 | JANUARY 30, 2020
PHOENIX — With one case of the potentially deadly coronavirus already confirmed in Maricopa County, hospitals across the area are bracing for the possibility of more cases. Since coronavirus is airborne, it’s important to take measures to limit potential…
How Valley hospitals are preparing for coronavirus
Fox 10 | JANUARY 27, 2020
PHOENIX – Health experts say corona disease originated from China and anyone traveling from China to the United States could be at risk. With one case of coronavirus being confirmed in Tempe, hospitals throughout the Valley, like Valleywise Health Medical Center, are preparing for any more possible threats. “We are screening individuals that are coming in…
ENTERCOM RAISES $116,138 FOR VALLEYWISE HEALTH FOUNDATION DURING THE FIRST-EVER “LIVE 101.5 GIVE-A-THON
News Break | JANUARY 9, 2020
Entercom, a leading media and entertainment company and one of the two largest radio broadcasters in the U.S., raised $116,138 for Valleywise Health Foundation during LIVE 101.5’s (KALV-FM) inaugural “LIVE 101.5 GIVE-A-THON,” presented by Rafi Law Group, in Phoenix.