Setting Healthy Boundaries During the Holidays

Healthy boundaries and realistic expectations are essential for protecting mental health during the holiday season. Boundaries help safeguard your time, energy, emotional well-being, and personal space, while expectations influence how you feel the holidays “should” go. To support the community during this busy time, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is sharing tips to help individuals navigate these pressures and encourages anyone experiencing increased mental health concerns to seek professional support.

“The holidays are viewed as a joyful season, but the pressure to be happy can increase stress, especially for those already managing mental health conditions,” said MRHC Mental Health Counselor Hollie Schechinger, LISW. “This expectation can heighten feelings of depression or anxiety this time of year.”

When boundaries are unclear or expectations become unrealistic, individuals may experience guilt, heightened stress, and emotional fatigue. Clear boundaries and realistic expectations promote emotional stability and healthier holiday traditions. To support this, MRHC encourages individuals to intentionally establish boundaries, adjust expectations, and implement practical strategies that foster a more balanced and meaningful holiday season.

Types of Healthy Boundaries

  • Emotional Boundaries: Protecting emotional safety by taking breaks when needed.
    Example: “I need a few minutes to step away and take a break.”
  • Time and Energy Boundaries: Setting limits on availability or participation.
    Example: “I can come for a bit, but I’ll need to leave by 6:00.”
  • Role Boundaries: Adjust caregiving, hosting, or “doing it all” expectations.
    Example: “I can help set the table, but I can’t host this year.”
  • Conversation Boundaries: Redirect or decline topics that are stressful or triggering.
    Example: “Let’s focus on positive memories today instead of difficult topics.”
  • Physical/Sensory Boundaries: Honor comfort, mobility, and health needs.
    Example: “I need a chair with back support.”

Realistic Expectations to Hold

  • Expect Mixed Emotions: Gratitude and grief, joy and loneliness, connection and stress can all exist at once.
  • Expect Imperfection: Awkward silences, burnt food, last-minute changes, or tension are normal and do not mean failure.
  • Expect Energy Limits: Fatigue may occur more quickly, and taking breaks or leaving early may be appropriate.
  • Expect People to Be Themselves: Family members may continue their usual patterns, and individuals can focus on adjusting their own response regardless of others’ behavior.
  • Expect Your Needs to Matter: Participation itself is meaningful; contribution does not require perfectionism or taking on excessive tasks.

Practical Strategies for Navigating Boundaries & Expectations

  • Use “gentle but direct” phrases:
    “I’m going to pass on discussing that topic.”
    “Thank you for thinking of me, but that doesn’t work for me.”
    “I need a little space; I’ll rejoin in a bit.”
  • Practice “short & kind” responses when explanations aren’t needed:
    “No, thank you.”
    “Not this year.”
    “I’m taking care of myself today.”
  • Prepare a backup plan:
    A quiet room to step away to, a supportive person to sit with, have transportation available if an early exit is needed, or a list of “safe topics.”
  • Release the pressure to please everyone:
    Use the mantra: “I’m responsible for how I show up, not for how others feel.”
  • Normalize taking breaks:
    Join in the moments that feel good, sit near an exit if that helps, take slow breaths, or step out for a short walk when things feel heavy.
  • Focus on today, not the past:
    Stay present, let go of old roles or wounds, and create new traditions that fit your current reality.

Healthy boundaries and realistic expectations can make the holidays feel more manageable and emotionally safe. However, if feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress begin to interfere with daily routines, seeking professional support is important. For those who are struggling, MRHC offers a range of mental health services for individuals of all ages:

Counseling Services: Available in person or virtually for individuals 12 and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Play Therapy: Supports children five and older dealing with stressful or traumatic experiences. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

Senior Life Solutions: Group therapy for individuals 65+ struggling with anxiety, depression, or life transitions. Call (712) 655-8262 for support.

The Recovery Center: Residential and outpatient treatment for substance use concerns. Call the Recovery Center at (712) 655-2300 for help.

If you or someone you know is in immediate distress, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255 or text or call 988 for confidential, 24/7 support.

MRHC Expands Services with New Dermatology Care

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce that dermatology services will soon be available locally. Sierra Thompson, NP-C, will start seeing patients at MRHC beginning January 16th, and will be in Manning each month for scheduled appointments.

Dermatology services at MRHC will include preventive skin care, early identification of potential issues, treatment of medical dermatologic conditions, and access to cosmetic skin care options.

“I am excited to start outreach dermatology services as a part of Dr. Kuwahara’s dermatology team from CNOS at MRHC in the new year,” said Thompson. “I’ve always loved dermatology, and I’m passionate about helping patients improve their self-esteem, quality of life, and confidence in their own skin. I look forward to bringing specialized care closer to my small-town community!”

Thompson is a certified Family Nurse Practitioner accredited by the American Association of Nurse Practitioners and the American Nurses Credentialing Center. She earned her Associate and Bachelor of Science in Nursing degrees from St. Luke’s College of Nursing in Sioux City, Iowa, and her Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner – from Briar Cliff University. She specializes in dermatology and brings valuable experience in family medicine, surgery, medical-surgical care, and long-term care.

Patients can schedule an appointment through a referral with their primary care provider or by calling (605) 217-2667.

Save Your Lemons & Share the Love: MRHC Celebrates Women’s Health

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is proud to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October by offering opportunities to support, honor, and educate women in the community.

Honoring Survivors with Flower Deliveries

In partnership with Kristina’s Flowers, MRHC is offering a unique way to honor breast cancer survivors again this year. Throughout October, MRHC invites community members, businesses, or organizations to nominate local breast cancer survivors to receive a surprise floral arrangement. Bouquets will be delivered to cancer survivors within a 30-mile radius of Manning every Friday in October. To nominate someone or sponsor an arrangement for $40, please call Kristina at (712) 655-2004. Payments can be made at Kristina’s Flowers.

“Save Your Lemons” Women’s Health Event
In addition to honoring survivors, MRHC is also encouraging women to take an active role in their own health. Women of all ages are invited to attend MRHC’s “Save Your Lemons: Women’s Health Across the Ages,” a free event that focuses on empowering women to take charge of their health and wellness. The event will be held on Tuesday, October 28th, at Brickhaus Brews in Manning from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m., with the keynote presentation beginning at 5:30 p.m.

This is an opportunity for women to learn about important health topics, from hormones to healthy aging, and connect with other women and healthcare professionals. At 5:30 pm, there will be a keynote presentation – Women’s Health Across the Ages by Family Practice provider Courtney Rupiper, PA-C, and Radiology Director Abby Drees, RT. Wellness Sessions focused on nutrition, fitness, and stress management will follow. The event will feature health screenings, local vendors, raffle prizes, and take-home resources.

“We want to remind women how important it is to get an annual physical at all age levels because your body is constantly changing,” explained Rupiper. “It is important to be seen regularly so we can decide what screenings we need to do. We work with every patient to individualize their health care plan, determining what is best for them at their stage in life.”

Most insurance plans cover annual well-woman appointments. Patients are encouraged to check with their insurance provider in advance to understand what is covered under their wellness and prevention benefits. To schedule an appointment, call MRHC’s Family Practice Clinic at (712) 655-8100.

Dr. Douglas McLaws Named 2025 Iowa Hospital Association Hospital Hero

McLaws

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is proud to announce that Dr. Douglas McLaws, a longtime physician and beloved community leader, has been named a 2025 Hospital Hero by the Iowa Hospital Association (IHA).

The IHA Hospital Hero Award honors individuals who have acted courageously in a crisis or served selflessly throughout their careers. For more than two decades, Dr. McLaws has embodied both qualities, providing exceptional medical care while serving as a mentor, role model, and community advocate in Manning and beyond.

“This honor is one of the highest recognitions given in Iowa healthcare. Out of thousands of healthcare professionals across the state, only a select few are chosen each year, and Dr. McLaws is one of them,” said MRHC CEO Shannon Black. “This award is a reflection of Dr. McLaws’ dedication and compassion. We are honored to see him recognized for what our patients, staff, and community have known for years. He is truly one of a kind.”

A Physician, Mentor, and Friend

Since joining MRHC more than 20 years ago, Dr. McLaws has delivered generations of babies, cared for patients from infancy to old age, and forged deep, personal connections with families. He sees each patient not just as a chart but as an individual with a story, a family, and a future. Dr. McLaws is admired for his medical expertise and his humor, humility, and ability to lift spirits during difficult days.

His influence extends far beyond the exam room. Patients describe him as a confidant and a steady hand in times of crisis. One family recalls their baby being delivered safely in the hospital parking lot thanks to Dr. McLaws’ calm expertise:

“What could have been a terrifying experience turned into a moment of calm and care, all thanks to Dr. McLaws and the incredible team at MRHC. It’s not every day you find a doctor with the skill, heart, and quick thinking to handle something so unexpected with such grace.”

Another patient reflected on his lifelong care and compassion:

“He always takes time to talk to you about your concerns, providing insightful advice. I have also witnessed his service to the community as a mentor to youth and even on the sidelines of high school football games, ready to help in an instant. He is truly deserving of this award.”

Leading With Heart, On and Off the Clock

In addition to his medical service, Dr. McLaws is deeply invested in youth development and community growth. Together with his wife, Tiffany, he has spent countless hours mentoring young people through the Boy Scouts of America. His leadership has helped dozens of young men achieve an Eagle Scout rank, with many crediting him as the steady influence that guided them through challenges and self-doubt.

His colleague and former patient, now a nurse practitioner at MRHC, credits Dr. McLaws with shaping both her personal and professional journey:

“From a young age, I knew I was interested in healthcare, but it was Dr. McLaws who showed me what it truly meant to be a compassionate, humble, and community-focused provider. Working alongside him has been one of the greatest honors of my career.”

Dr. McLaws also supports arts, culture, and education in Manning, recognizing that community well-being includes not just physical health, but also emotional, social, and creative health. Whether it’s supporting school events, encouraging fine arts programs, or simply cheering from the stands, he is a visible and active presence in town.

For someone who never planned to stay in Manning, Dr. McLaws has become an irreplaceable part of the community’s story. His decades of care, mentorship, and service have left an impact on generations of patients and families.

“Dr. McLaws makes you want to be better, both as a professional and a person,” said one colleague. “He has brought comfort, laughter, and healing to hundreds, if not thousands, of lives, and he has done it all without ever asking for recognition.”

Dr. McLaws will be recognized for his decades of service and contributions at the MRHC Legacy Gala on Friday, November 14th at the Manning Hausbarn Konferenz Center. The community is invited to attend the Gala and can purchase tickets by visiting mrhcia.com/legacy-gala. He will also be honored during the Iowa Hospital Association’s Annual Meeting on Wednesday, October 8th, in Des Moines.

MRHC Invites Community to the 2025 Legacy Gala on Friday, November 14

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce its Legacy Gala on Friday, November 14, 2025. This is an event to honor outstanding healthcare professionals and raise funds for local health and wellness initiatives. The Gala will be held at the Konferenz Center in the Manning Hausbarn Heritage Park (130 Heritage Drive, Manning, IA).

A cocktail hour from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. will kick off the evening, followed by dinner catered by Lidderdale from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. The formal program, featuring awards and presentations, runs from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m., including a wreath silent auction. Entertainment will follow from 8:00 to 9:30 p.m. with “1 Piano, 2 Much Fun.”

“We invite members of the community, local businesses, healthcare supporters, and all who appreciate compassionate service to join us for this meaningful night,” said MRHC Chief Operating Officer, Jackie Blackwell, RN, BSN, MBA, CPHQ. “Together, we’ll celebrate those who make a difference, acknowledge those who lead with care, and support a healthier future for our region.”

Honorees

MRHC will present several awards recognizing exceptional employees:

Dr. Douglas McLaws: awarded the IHA Hospital Hero Award, one of Iowa’s highest recognitions in healthcare, for his compassion and lasting impact on patients, coworkers, and the wider community.

Steph Brink, registered nurse in the Med-Surg Department: recipient of the DAISY Award for her compassionate care and clinical excellence.

Shelli Barsby, acute care administrative assistant: Outstanding Employee Award recipient for her dedication, positive attitude, and support across departments.

Taylor Nelson, therapy director and physical therapist: first recipient of the MRHC Impact Award for his leadership, innovation, and positive influence on patient care and staff.

Mikasia Jacobsen: named a 2025 Great Iowa Nurse for her commitment to compassionate care and calm, dependable leadership, particularly in the ER.

Registration & Sponsorship

250 tickets are available for the Gala, and registration is now open. Tickets are $40 per person or $75 per couple. Tables are also available (eight tickets per table). Sponsorship opportunities include presenting sponsorships, event sponsors, and table sponsors. Proceeds will help finance essential facility upgrades, expand patient care programs, and introduce new service lines, ensuring MRHC remains a strong, independent, and innovative rural healthcare provider. For tickets, table reservations, sponsorship opportunities, or more information, visit mrhc.com/legacy-gala or call 712-655-8167.

Wreath Silent Auction

Starting October 1st, MRHC will supply 15 wreaths for community members or businesses to decorate. Completed wreaths are due back by October 31st. They will be auctioned during the Gala, with all proceeds benefiting MRHC health and wellness initiatives.

Legacy Fund

The Legacy Gala is one of three events supporting the Legacy Fund, a philanthropic initiative to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the hospital. With a mission to build a strong foundation for the hospital’s continued growth, innovation, and service expansion, the Legacy Fund empowers donors to leave a lasting impact on the community.

“The Legacy Fund is a commitment to preserving and strengthening our organization so we can fulfill our mission and vision of providing quality healthcare close to home for generations to come,” shared MRHC CEO Shannon Black. “It ensures the hospital can achieve its long-term goals and strategic priorities, leading to a healthier future for our community.”

To learn more about the MRHC Legacy Fund and register for the Legacy Gala, visit: https://www.mrhcia.com/legacy-fund. If you have any questions, please call Jackie Blackwell at (712) 655-8167.

Free Medicare Information Seminar at MRHC on September 30th

SHIIP services

New to Medicare or helping a loved one navigate it? Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is hosting a free “Welcome to Medicare” seminar on Tuesday, September 30th, from 7–9 p.m. Whether you’re approaching eligibility or want to understand how Medicare works, this session will provide valuable information. Call (712) 655-2072 by Monday, September 22nd, to register. Attendees should enter through the Emergency entrance and follow the posted signs.

These seminars, offered by MRHC and the State of Iowa’s Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP), a free and confidential service, will cover Medicare Parts A & B benefits, Prescription Drug Benefits (Part D), Medicare Advantage Plans, Medicare supplement insurance, and tips to identify Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse

Even if you’re not eligible for Medicare, MRHC’s volunteer SHIIP Counselor, Nancy Danner, encourages early education. “The best time to start getting information is before you actually need it, so I advise thinking about it at least 6–12 months before someone turns 65 years old,” she says.

If you are not able to attend on the 30th, an additional seminar will be held at MRHC on November 25th. Each session is held from 7–9 p.m. at MRHC and is open to anyone seeking a better understanding of Medicare.

Danner is also available every Wednesday at MRHC for one-on-one appointments. She offers guidance to help with Medicare decision-making and answers questions on benefits, plan options, and fraud protection. While she does not recommend specific plans or agents, she provides impartial, reliable information. Anyone interested in making an appointment with Danner can call 712-655-2072 or email shiip.counselor@mrhcia.com. If a client prefers a phone consultation, they may leave their number, and Danner will return their call.

MRHC Wound Care Clinic Receives Center of Excellence Award

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce that the Wound Care Clinic is a recipient of RestorixHealth’s highest achievement, the Wound Center of Excellence Award. Recipients of this prestigious award meet or exceed national clinical, operational, patient satisfaction, and wound care quality benchmarks over a set period.

“This award is proof of the outstanding care, patient experience, and dedication our wound care team delivers every day,” said MRHC CEO Shannon Black. “Thank you to our wound care team for making this achievement possible. Your commitment to excellence continues to make a difference for our patients and community.”

This is the second time the MRHC Wound Care Clinic has received this award, in addition to multiple awards for excellence in patient satisfaction and healing benchmarks.

The Wound Care Clinic is dedicated to optimizing outcomes and preventing lower limb loss in patients with non-healing wounds. Their approach to wound care is aggressive and comprehensive, coordinating traditional and advanced therapies and techniques that are proven to reduce healing time and improve healing rates. Since beginning wound care services in 2019, MRHC has successfully healed 121 patients with all goals met, including healing long-term, complex wounds.

Manning’s clinic is staffed by Courtney Rupiper, PA-C, and Kendra Tiefenthaler, RN, BSN, and supported by Elaine Macumber, RN; Courtney Grabill, RN; and Amanda Blum, RN. Integrating a team of wound care professionals optimizes patient care while offering the most advanced healing options for hard-to-heal wounds.

The MRHC Wound Care Clinic is held every Thursday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information about treatment plans or to schedule an appointment, please call 712-655-8100.

About RestorixHealth
Committed to excellence in wound care, RestorixHealth is a wound care solutions company that provides programs, services, products, and education across the care continuum. From developing and operating wound centers in partnership with hospitals, through delivering professional wound care in nursing facilities and in-home settings, to supporting patients through the coordination of wound supplies, RestorixHealth’s solutions increase access to care, reduce hospital admissions, and most importantly, improve patient outcomes and quality of life. For more information, visit www.RestorixHealth.com.

MRHC Kicks Off New Legacy Fund With a 5K on August 23rd

Legacy 5K

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce the official launch of the Legacy Fund, a new philanthropic initiative created to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the hospital. With a mission to build a strong foundation for the hospital’s continued growth, innovation, and service expansion, the Legacy Fund empowers donors to leave a lasting impact on the community.

“The Legacy Fund is more than just a donation stream; it’s a commitment to preserving and strengthening our organization so we can fulfill our mission and vision of providing quality healthcare close to home for generations to come,” shared MRHC CEO Shannon Black. “By creating an in-house fundraising initiative, the Legacy Fund ensures the hospital can achieve its long-term goals and strategic priorities, leading to a healthier future for our community.”

To kick off this new initiative, MRHC will host the Legacy 5K Walk & Run on Saturday, August 23rd at Manning City Park. The race will begin at 9 a.m., and awards will be given to the top finishers in the men’s, women’s, and youth categories (under 12 and ages 13-18). Registration is open here. For $35, participants will receive a T-shirt and water bottle. Registration fees will directly support the MRHC Legacy Fund.

“Whether you’re a runner, walker, or simply want to support local healthcare, the Legacy 5K is a fun and meaningful way to get involved,” said Black. “I encourage everyone to participate, not only to support MRHC, but to help shape the future of healthcare in our community. Every step you take helps us build a healthier tomorrow.”

In addition to the 5K, MRHC plans to hold an annual Legacy Gala on November 15th and a Legacy Golf Tournament on June 12, 2026, to continue building support for the fund. Contributions to the Legacy Fund will help finance essential facility upgrades, expand patient care programs, and introduce new service lines, ensuring MRHC remains a strong, independent, and innovative rural healthcare provider.

To learn more about the MRHC Legacy Fund and register for the Legacy 5K, visit: https://www.mrhcia.com/legacy-fund. If you have any questions about this new initiative, please call Chief Operating Officer Jackie Blackwell at (712) 655-8167.

MRHC Addresses National Report & Reaffirms Financial Strength

MRHC leadership & Rob Sand

In response to a recent politically driven report highlighting rural hospitals with a high percentage of Medicaid patients, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is offering reassurance to its staff, patients, and the communities it serves.

The report, circulated as part of a national policy debate around proposed Medicaid cuts, flagged MRHC based solely on its high Medicaid patient mix, placing the hospital in the top 10% of rural facilities in the country by this metric. While this designation may seem alarming, MRHC leadership emphasizes that it is not an accurate reflection of the hospital’s financial health or operational viability.

“We proudly serve all members of our community, including many who rely on Medicaid,” said MRHC CEO Shannon Black. “That metric alone doesn’t tell the full story. MRHC is financially strong, well-managed, and not in danger of closing. We’ve long been proactive in monitoring healthcare policy changes, and we’ll continue to advocate for decisions that protect the patients and communities we serve.”

Black stressed that the report was not based on recent performance or risk of closure but was instead used as a communication tool between lawmakers to support positions on national Medicaid policies.

“We understand that seeing our name on such a list may cause concern,” Black added. “But inclusion in the report was not a reflection of financial weakness; it’s proof that we’re fulfilling our mission to care for all, including the most vulnerable.”

MRHC leadership & Rob SandOver the holiday weekend, Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand made time to visit MRHC in person to better understand the hospital’s position and to discuss how the state can support rural healthcare providers navigating funding uncertainty. He toured the facility and met with leadership to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing rural health systems.

“We appreciated the opportunity to share how MRHC is working every day to meet local health needs while remaining financially responsible and future-focused,” said Black.

Key Takeaways for the Community:
  • MRHC is financially stable and operationally sound.
  • The hospital is not at risk of closure.
  • Leadership remains vigilant in monitoring state and federal policy developments.
  • MRHC remains committed to serving all patients, including those insured through Medicaid.
  • Open, honest communication remains a priority as MRHC continues to advocate for rural healthcare.

Susan Zeman: A Friendly Face with a Creative Spirit at MRHC

Susan

Susan ZemanFor many patients at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), the first person they see when they walk through the door is Susan Zeman. As a Patient Services Representative, Susan plays a key role in setting the tone for each patient’s visit. With a warm smile, a familiar face, and a genuine desire to help, she’s an important part of what makes MRHC feel welcoming.

Before joining MRHC, Susan spent over two decades working at the Manning Pharmacy as a pharmacy technician. That experience gave her a strong foundation in patient care and familiarity with the community she now serves at the hospital.

As a patient services representative, Susan is often the first point of contact for patients, answering questions, offering guidance, and helping ease any anxiety they may feel. “We try to be welcoming and informative,” she says. “Our role has a direct impact on the overall patient experience.” A responsibility she takes seriously. Susan at Admissions

Her supervisor, Michelle Starman, says Susan’s impact goes far beyond what patients see at the front desk. “Susan is always willing to lend an extra hand, whether it’s for a coworker or one of our patients needing assistance,” she shares. “She has a positive attitude that has brought our patients a sense of security over the phone or in person! We are lucky here at MRHC to have Susan in the admissions department.”

Susan credits Michelle with helping create a supportive and uplifting work environment. “Michelle is always positive and makes us feel appreciated,” Susan notes. “She’s very supportive of our needs, and that makes a big difference.”

The collaborative spirit at MRHC is another reason Susan enjoys coming to work each day. “Our department works really well together,” she says. “We have good communication, and we’re flexible when it comes to time off and personal needs. It’s a great team.”

But there’s more to Susan than her role at MRHC. Outside of work, she’s a talented and passionate artist with a deep appreciation for the beauty of the world around her. “I have many hobbies, probably too many!” she laughs. “I inherited my love of creating from my late mother, who was a true artist. Photography is one of my main interests, and my photos have been featured in magazines and even displayed at the Iowa State Fair.” She also enjoys painting, making bracelets and sun catchers, and finding inspiration in the natural world during long walks. “About 80% of the artwork in my home is my own,” she says proudly.

Susan’s creativity, kindness, and commitment to helping others make her a valuable member of the MRHC team and a bright presence for her coworkers and the patients she serves. Whether she’s welcoming someone at the front desk or capturing the perfect photo of a sunset, Susan brings heart and artistry to everything she does.

Here are just a few examples of Susan’s artwork and creative talents!