MRHC Legacy Fund Hosts Valentine’s Day Basket Silent Auction

Those looking for a meaningful Valentine’s Day gift are invited to participate in the Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) Legacy Valentine’s Day Basket Silent Auction. The event offers community members a chance to bid on beautifully curated Valentine’s baskets while supporting the MRHC Legacy Fund.

“The Legacy Auction offers a simple way to find a thoughtful gift while making a powerful impact, supporting the hospital’s mission,” said MRHC Chief Operating Officer, Jackie Blackwell, RN, BSN, MBA, CPHQ.

Bidding on the Valentine’s baskets will begin Monday, January 26, at noon. Community members may place bids either in person in the MRHC lobby or online through the MRHC Legacy Valentine’s Day Basket Silent Auction Facebook event page.

Bidding will remain open through Thursday, February 5, at noon.

Winners will be announced on Thursday, February 5, at 3 p.m. Baskets may be picked up immediately following the announcement until 5 p.m. Additional pickup times will be available on Friday, February 6, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Proceeds from the silent auction will benefit the MRHC Legacy Fund, which provides financial support for facility upgrades, new service lines, patient care programs and healthcare education.

“The Legacy Fund is a philanthropic initiative dedicated to supporting the long-term growth and sustainability of MRHC,” said Blackwell. “More than a donation, it represents a lasting commitment to preserving and strengthening our organization so we can serve our community for generations.”

Community members are encouraged to participate, bid generously, and celebrate Valentine’s Day while giving back to a meaningful local cause.

The MRHC Legacy Fund extends its sincere thanks to the local businesses whose generous sponsorships helped make the Valentine’s Day baskets possible.

The Legacy Fund also encourages residents to mark June 12, 2026, on their calendars for the first Annual Legacy Golf Tournament at the Manning Manilla Golf and Country Club.

For more information, visit the MRHC Legacy Valentine’s Day Basket Silent Auction Facebook event page  or learn more about the Legacy Fund.

MRHC Recovery Center Awarded Opioid Settlement Funding

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) announced that the Recovery Center has been awarded more than $500,000 in Iowa opioid settlement funding through the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services’ Substance Misuse Prevention and Treatment program. The award will support a regional initiative to expand evidence-based opioid use disorder (OUD) services in Carroll, Crawford, Shelby, and Audubon counties.

“This investment allows us to reduce barriers that often prevent rural residents from getting timely, effective care,” said Shannon Black, CEO of MRHC. “It strengthens our ability to serve patients close to home while responding to a growing regional need.”

MRHC’s Recovery Center will use the funding to strengthen the region’s continuum of care, expanding access to intake and outpatient services, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and chronic pain management. The initiative will increase access for Crawford County residents through a partnership with Crawford County Public Health in Denison, including on-site intake assessments and transportation to Manning for outpatients and MAT services.

The initiative includes establishing an integrated MAT clinic at MRHC and strengthening its multimodal chronic pain management program to reduce opioid reliance and improve outcomes. The project also supports specialized staff training, program leadership, workforce recruitment, and retention efforts to ensure long-term sustainability.

“MAT is one of the most effective tools we have for treating opioid use disorder,” said CNO, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN. “This funding allows us to integrate treatment, education and care coordination so more people can access services and stay engaged in prevention and recovery.”

A key focus of the project is restoring local access for Crawford County residents following the closure of Denison’s former outpatient provider. MRHC will partner with Crawford County Public Health to offer onsite intake assessments in Denison and coordinated transportation to treatment services in Manning.

MRHC’s Recovery Center is uniquely positioned to serve medically-complex patients, including high-risk pregnant women, through access to 24/7 nursing, diagnostics, emergency services and coordinated obstetric care through a partnership with Myrtue Medical Center in Harlan, allowing patients to remain in treatment during medically-vulnerable stages of pregnancy.

“This support allows us to expand care while preserving the individualized, hospital-based approach that has defined the Recovery Center for more than four decades,” said Taya Vonnahme, Recovery Center Director. “By strengthening access, staffing and coordination, we can better meet patients where they are and support lasting recovery.”

MRHC will continue working with regional partners, including county leaders, hospitals, EMS, law enforcement, schools, and community organizations, to reduce stigma, strengthen referral pathways and improve access to care.

In addition to the opioid settlement funding, MRHC has applied for a Centers of Excellence designation through the state’s Healthy Hometown initiative under the Hometown Connections strategy. The designation would support rural health system partnerships and workforce recruitment and retention efforts, with award announcements expected in mid-January and contracts beginning in mid-February.

Free Medicare Information Seminars at MRHC in 2026

Looking for Medicare assistance? MRHC is hosting free “Welcome to Medicare” seminars throughout the year on January 27th, March 31st, May 26th, July 28th, September 29th, and November 24th from 7-9 pm for anyone interested in learning more about Medicare.

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 help individuals identify Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

Interested individuals should call (712) 655-2072 one week prior to the seminar to register. Attendees should enter through the Emergency entrance and follow the posted signs.

Nancy DannerEven if you do not yet qualify for Medicare, MRHC’s volunteer SHIIP Counselor, Nancy Danner, recommends that “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.”

Danner is also available every Wednesday at MRHC to meet with individuals by appointment. She can provide information to aid in Medicare decision-making and answer questions related to Medicare, benefits, plan options, claims, and how to guard against Medicare fraud. She will not provide recommendations for plans or agents but can answer questions and provide impartial information to help individuals make educated decisions.

Anyone interested in making an appointment with Danner can email shiip.counselor@mrhcia.com or call 712-655-2072. If a client is only wishing to talk on the phone, they may leave their phone number, and Danner will return their call.

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.