Cathy Dammann Receives 2026 MRHC Impact Award for Compassionate Patient Care

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is proud to announce that Cathy Dammann, Senior Life Solutions office and patient coordinator, is the 2026 recipient of the MRHC Impact Award. This honor recognizes outstanding non-nursing employees whose care and dedication have left a meaningful and lasting impression on patients. Nominations come directly from patients who felt personally impacted by the care they received.

Cathy was selected for the extraordinary compassion she shows the patients she serves through the Senior Life Solutions program. Her ability to make patients feel seen and supported sets her apart, and the impact of her work is reflected in the words of those who nominated her.

One patient shared, “I have never met a person like Cathy before. She really and truly cares about people, and it all comes from her heart. This hospital is so lucky to have her, and so am I. This lady has a heart bigger than she is. Without Cathy’s help, I don’t know where I would be. She is an absolute angel.”

Another patient wrote, “Cathy is an angel in disguise. I would not be able to attend this program without her. She is a positive influence in my life. She is always in a good mood and puts forth an attitude that I wish I could exhibit in my life and decision-making. She treats me like a friend and not a job. She is a plus to the program that I never knew I was going to need in my lifetime.”

These testimonials capture the difference Cathy makes in her patients’ lives. She embodies what the Impact Award was created to honor – a patient-first mindset, grounded in genuine compassion.

Cathy will be formally recognized for this achievement at the MRHC Legacy Gala on November 6th, where the community is invited to celebrate her and others whose dedication continues to strengthen the mission of Manning Regional Healthcare Center.

MRHC congratulates Cathy Dammann on this well-deserved recognition and thanks her for the extraordinary care she brings to her work.

Neeka Jacobsen Receives Outstanding Employee Award at Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is proud to announce Neeka Jacobsen, IADC, intake coordinator and counselor at the Recovery Center, as the recipient of the 2026 Outstanding Employee Award.

The Outstanding Employee Award honors an MRHC employee who consistently performs high-quality work and extra duties beyond those normally assigned, works well with others, assists whenever needed, has a positive attitude, displays exceptional dependability, and creates a supportive workplace culture.

“Neeka goes far above and beyond what this hospital requires of her and is constantly trying to better herself so she can serve the community in a different capacity, if necessary,” a nomination letter shared. “She works to help various departments of the hospital and is willing to jump in wherever needed, whether the job is relevant to her position or not.

Another co-worker shared, “Neeka is continually thinking of ways to incorporate prevention into the community and represent the hospital in all aspects. She is always willing to jump in and help other departments with whatever is needed.”

Jacobsen was also recognized for her work with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper, an educational initiative designed to provide prevention resources and support for families affected by addiction.

“Neeka’s work with the Hidden in Plain Sight camper is amazing and is providing much-needed information for prevention, as well as helping families who may have loved ones who are addicted,” a nominator noted.

The Outstanding Employee Award was created to honor essential contributions of MRHC’s non-medical staff and their impact on patient experiences, organizational culture, and community outreach. Jacobsen’s recognition reflects her commitment to service, collaboration, and improving the lives of those she serves every day. Neeka will also be recognized during the 2026 Legacy Fund Gala on November 6, alongside the recipients of the DAISY Award, Impact Award, and scholarship awards, all of whom have been announced this month.

Robin Heaton Receives DAISY Award at Manning Regional Healthcare Center

Robin Heaton, RN, BSN, a dedicated surgical nurse at Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC), was recently honored with the 2026 DAISY Award for her outstanding compassion, clinical skill, and patient-centered care.

The DAISY Award recognizes nurses who go above and beyond in providing extraordinary care to patients and their families. Robin was nominated by a patient who shared a heartfelt account of the compassionate care they received during and after a surgical procedure.

“I went in for a procedure on my birthday. Robin wished me a happy birthday and was very compassionate when it came to hooking in the IV, even going to great lengths to find a good vein in my hand,” the patient shared. “After surgery, she got me coffee and even brought me extra sugar and creamer. The next day, after having some issues, she was very attentive about what they could do to help. She constantly checked on me and made the situation a positive spin on having a surgical procedure done.”

Robin has been a valued member of MRHC since 2014, consistently demonstrating compassionate care. Her calm demeanor, kindness, and willingness to go the extra mile help create a positive experience for patients during what can often be a stressful time.

“What an honor for someone so deserving,” said Director of Surgical Services Joy Blom, RN. “Robin’s attention to detail and care for our patients is like no other. I am so happy to have her on our surgical team.”

About the DAISY Award

The DAISY (Diseases Attacking the Immune System) Award is an international recognition program established by the family of J. Patrick Barnes to honor nurses who demonstrate extraordinary clinical skill and compassionate care. More than 2,500 healthcare facilities worldwide participate in the DAISY Award program. At MRHC, any nurse who exemplifies the organization’s mission and values is eligible to be nominated by patients, families, coworkers, or community members.

MRHC is proud to recognize Robin Heaton as the 2026 DAISY Award honoree for the remarkable and compassionate care she provides every day. Her dedication to healing and kindness toward others make her the perfect example of nursing excellence. Robin will also be recognized during the 2026 Legacy Fund Gala on November 6, alongside the recipients of the Outstanding Employee Award, Impact Award, and scholarship awards, all of whom will be announced later this month.

 

MRHC Welcomes New ENT Specialist

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) announced that Gary Huang, M.D., will begin providing ear, nose, and throat (ENT) services at the hospital starting April 1. He will see patients on the first and third Wednesday of every month.

Huang offers a full range of ENT services, including care for chronic sinusitis, nasal obstruction, neck masses, hearing loss, and complex sleep apnea.

“I’m committed to being thorough without rushing, said Dr. Huang, “I also want to be compassionate without being impersonal. I know seeing an ENT can feel overwhelming, with procedures being performed in a sensitive area, so my goal is to make the experience as comfortable and empowering as possible. I do my best to explain everything in plain language, answer every question, and treat you like I’d want my own family treated.”

Dr. Huang earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois College of Medicine. He completed his residency in Otolaryngology at Case Western Reserve University’s Cleveland Medical Center and is board certified in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery.

“I chose ENT because of the variety – we can take care of newborns all the way to the geriatric population,” Huang said. “In one day, I can be helping someone sleep better, hear better, breathe better, and treat their head and neck cancer. It’s a very fulfilling specialty.”

Dr. Huang will begin services at MRHC on April 1. Patients can schedule an appointment by calling (712) 655-8100.

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.

Coping with the Winter Blues during the Holiday Season

The winter season can bring emotional challenges for many people, with some experiencing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) while others face the stress and emotional toll of the holiday season. Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) aims to help individuals recognize and cope with both SAD and depression during the holidays.

Recognizing Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)
SAD is a form of depression triggered by reduced sunlight. According to the American Psychiatric Association, its symptoms closely mirror those of depression, including:

  • Low mood and energy
  • Fatigue
  • Oversleeping or difficulty sleeping
  • Loss of interest in activities
  • Cravings for carbohydrates and subsequent weight gain

“Many of us have days that we don’t feel like ourselves, and sometimes the winter months can enhance those feelings,” said Janet Brus, RN, program director for Senior Life Solutions at MRHC. “Be aware of how you are feeling. If you normally get up and perform your daily activities and instead find yourself staying in bed longer, not getting dressed, or avoiding activities, you may be experiencing seasonal affective disorder.”

Brus recommends staying active, reading, maintaining a healthy diet, and seeking professional support if symptoms persist.

Understanding Holiday-Related Depression
While the holiday season is often filled with celebrations, emotional distress during this time is frequently linked to increased stress and elevated expectations. Some individuals may face grief, financial strain, loneliness, or pressure to “make the holidays perfect.”

“The holidays can be both joyful and emotionally challenging,” said MRHC Mental Health Therapist Tiffany Johnson, T-LMHC. “It’s important to use coping skills and lean on support to address difficult feelings before they get worse. The holidays are meant to bring us together and remind us of who we can trust.”

Practical Tips to Manage Holiday Stress and Depression
  • Set Realistic Expectations: Avoid pressure to create a perfect holiday. Focus on meaningful moments rather than perfection.
  • Maintain Routines: Stick to regular sleep, meals, and exercise routines, especially for children.
  • Establish Boundaries: Say no when needed to avoid burnout from over-commitment.
  • Engage in Self-Care: Dedicate time for relaxation and activities you enjoy.
  • Connect with Others: Combat loneliness by reaching out to friends, family, or support groups.
  • Manage Finances: Stick to a holiday budget and consider thoughtful, low-cost gifts.

While adults may typically feel the weight of the holiday stress, children can be affected too. Parents can support their child’s emotional well-being by keeping consistent routines, limiting screen time, and encouraging meaningful conversations.

“This is a great time to connect with your children and build a close relationship,” said MRHC Mental Health Therapist Hollie Schechinger, LISW. “Talk with your kids about their day during a fun activity where they can open up and not feel like they are being questioned. Most importantly, have fun with your kids!”

When to Seek Help
If feelings of sadness, anxiety, or stress persist and interfere with your daily routine, it is important to seek professional help. If you or your child is struggling with depression or anxiety, contact your primary care provider for an evaluation. MRHC also provides mental health services to support individuals of all ages:

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

Play Therapy to support children five and older. Call (712) 655-2072 to schedule an appointment.

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

The Recovery Center provides residential and outpatient treatment. Call (712) 655-2300 for help.

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

Obstetrics Care Expands Through Myrtue Partnership

Earlier this year, MRHC pursued a strategic partnership that now offers expectant mothers the convenience of receiving prenatal and postnatal care in Manning, while delivering in Harlan. Myrtue Medical Center now provides a full obstetrics program for prenatal care and deliveries for MRHC patients.

Dr. Kelly Anderson, DO, a board-certified OB-GYN began seeing patients at MRHC in Manning in June. She visits the Manning clinic on the fourth Thursday of each month, providing access to specialty care without requiring patients to travel long distances. Her services complement those of board-certified and ACOG fellow, Dr. Michael Woods, MD, who has provided OB-GYN care in the Manning area for over 30 years. Although Woods does not offer prenatal and delivery services in Manning, he does offer female pelvic medicine and reconstructive surgery, urogynecology, and obesity medicine.

Together, Drs. Anderson and Woods ensure patients receive comprehensive and compassionate care at every stage of life – from annual exams to pregnancy and beyond.

Since the program’s inception earlier this year, Dr. Anderson’s clinic has been full. This partnership exemplifies how two community-focused hospitals can work together to strengthen access to specialized care, improve patient outcomes, and provide exceptional services close to home.

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.