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.

Walk-in Flu Shot Clinic on October 23 at MRHC

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is hosting a walk-in flu shot clinic on Thursday, October 23rd, from 5-7 pm at MRHC in Manning.

The cost is $30 or can be billed to insurance, and no appointment is needed. Attendees are encouraged to complete the vaccine consent form ahead of time on the MRHC website by visiting the “Patients” tab and selecting the “Clinical Forms” page.

“Getting the flu vaccine is one of the best ways to protect yourself and others during flu season, so we encourage anyone six months and older to get their flu shot,” said MRHC Infection Prevention and Employee Health Nurse, Jill Arp, RN, BSN.

If you’d like to get your flu shot at a different time, you can schedule an appointment in the clinic by calling (712) 655-8100.

Local businesses interested in hosting a workplace flu shot clinic for their employees can contact Jill Arp at (712) 655-8170 or email jill.arp@mrhcia.com.

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.

MRHC Wound Care Clinic Receives Dual Awards

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is pleased to announce that the Wound Care Clinic has received two outstanding achievement awards from RestorixHealth. They are the recipients of the Clinical Distinction Award and Excellence in Patient Satisfaction Award.

These awards recognize wound centers that have demonstrated exceptional success by meeting or exceeding national healing benchmarks, including a 90% healing rate and 32 median days to heal, and a national patient satisfaction benchmark of 96%. The MRHC Wound Care Clinic has received these awards multiple times in addition to a Center of Excellence award in 2019.

“We are proud to be recognized for the quality of care our wound center provides our patients,” said RestorixHealth’s Area Program Director and MRHC Wound Care nurse, Kendra Tiefenthaler, RN, BSN. “This achievement reaffirms our commitment to patient experience and optimized outcomes, which can only be accomplished with the effort and dedication of our staff and providers and support from the hospital. We look forward to continuing restoring health and improving the quality of life – and access to care – for the patients we serve.”

The Wound Care Clinic is dedicated to optimizing outcomes and preventing lower limb loss in patients with non-healing wounds. The 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.

Manning’s clinic is staffed by Dr. Thang Luong, DO, and Kendra Tiefenthaler and supported by Elaine Macumber, RN, Courtney Grabill, RN, and Amanda Blum, RN. Courtney Rupiper, PA-C, covers wound care needs when Dr. Luong is out. 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. 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 the wound care solutions company providing programs, services, products, and education across the care continuum. From developing and operating wound centers in partnership with hospitals, through supporting long-term care facilities with education and supplies, to providing in-home care, RestorixHealth’s solutions increase access to care, reduce hospital admissions, lower or avoid direct care costs, and most importantly, improve patient outcomes and quality of life. For more information, visit www.RestorixHealth.com.

Pelvic Floor Therapy Available at MRHC

MRHC is pleased to announce the addition of pelvic floor therapy services, now available with occupational therapist Amy Osbahr, OTR/L.

This specialized therapy is designed to help individuals of all ages strengthen and improve the function of their pelvic floor muscles, addressing common concerns such as urinary incontinence, pelvic pain, postpartum recovery, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

“Pelvic floor dysfunction is a common condition that sometimes gets brushed off as being normal for many women,” said Osbahr. “Nearly 50% of women suffer from some sort of pelvic floor dysfunction and 1/3 of women postpartum. Although common for women, it is not normal. However, there are treatment options to improve these issues. Pelvic floor therapy can be up to 80% effective in improving the quality of life for these conditions.”

Pelvic floor therapy can be beneficial for men and women who struggle with pain, incontinence, or other pelvic health issues. Women often seek therapy for pregnancy-related changes, menopause symptoms, or recovery after surgery, while men may need treatment for bladder control issues or post-prostate surgery rehabilitation. Through guided exercises, relaxation techniques, and personalized care, patients can regain strength and control over their bladder, bowel, and core strength, improving daily function and reducing pain.pelvic floor

Osbahr is certified in many areas, from neurological rehabilitation (for conditions like strokes, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis) to orthopedics (managing joint replacements, wrist pain, sprains, fractures, arthritis, and more). She is also trained in pediatric therapy, ASTYM treatment, blood flow restriction Therapy (BFR), LSVT-BIG Parkinson’s management, lymphedema treatment, and vestibular rehabilitation. Osbahr can perform workstation and ergonomics assessments as well as custom wheelchair assessments.

To schedule an appointment with Osbahr, call (712) 655-8298. Most insurance companies do not require a referral for pelvic floor treatment, but it is recommended that patients check with their insurance provider to verify coverage.

 

Town Hall at MRHC on March 6th for Community Health Needs Assessment Discussion

family practice clinic

To gauge the community health needs of residents, Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) invites the public to participate in a Community Health Needs Assessment Town Hall roundtable on Thursday, March 6th, 2025, for dinner from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m., at the MRHC Administration Conference Room.

This event is being held to identify and prioritize the community health needs. Findings from this community discussion will also serve to fulfill both federal and state mandates.

To adequately prepare for this event, it is vital for everyone planning to attend to RSVP. Please click here to complete your RSVP.

If you have questions regarding the Community Health Needs Assessment activities, please call MRHC Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN at (712) 655-8220.

MRHC Seeks Community Input on Local Health Needs

CHNA

Manning Regional Healthcare Center (MRHC) is working with local community leaders to update the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA). MRHC is seeking input from community members regarding current healthcare delivery and unmet resident needs.

The CHNA uses data and community input from the survey that measures and identifies the health needs of the communities MRHC serves. This information is gathered, and the assets and/or needs are used to develop an implementation plan. The three-year implementation plan will then inspire collective actions from multiple community partners and ensure there is an effective allocation of resources from within the hospital and throughout the community.

The goal of this assessment update is to understand progress from past community health needs assessments conducted in 2022, 2019, and 2016, while collecting up-to-date community health perceptions and ideas. VVV Consultants LLC, an independent research firm from Olathe, KS, has been retained to conduct this countywide research.

A brief community survey has been developed if you would like to participate in providing this important feedback. The CHNA survey link can be accessed by clicking here.

All community residents and business leaders are encouraged to complete the survey by February 3, 2025. In addition, a CHNA Town Hall meeting to discuss the survey findings and identify unmet needs will be held on Thursday, March 6th, 2025, for dinner from 5 – 6:30 pm at the MRHC Administration Conference Room. More information will be shared soon.

If you have questions regarding CHNA activities, please call MRHC Chief Nursing Officer, Michelle Andersen, RN, BSN at (712) 655-8220.

Mammos for Misses Women’s Health Event on October 16th

mammos for misses

MRHC is proud to recognize Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October through its “Women Supporting Women” initiative, offering opportunities designed to support, honor, and educate women in the community.

Women of all ages are invited to attend MRHC’s “Mammos for Misses” event on Wednesday, October 16th from 4:30-6:30 pm at Brickhaus Brews in Manning. This is an opportunity for women to learn more about mammograms and important women’s health topics and connect with healthcare professionals. Attendees can socialize with friends, enjoy complimentary appetizers, and learn from expert speakers. The schedule for the evening will go as follows:

4:30 – 5:30 pm: Social hour and learn more about mammograms and self-exams.

Courtney Rupiper5:30 – 6:00 pm: Women’s Health Program by MRHC Clinic Provider, Courtney Rupiper, PA-C on mammograms, self-exams, and women’s health at different life stages.

6:00 – 6:30 pm: Q&A session and conversations with healthcare providers about scheduling screenings and annual visits.

“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.

Honoring Survivors with Special Flower Deliveries

MRHC is also offering a unique way to honor breast cancer survivors this month. In partnership with Kristina’s Flowers, 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. To nominate someone or sponsor an arrangement for $40, click here. Payments can be made online or at Kristina’s Flowers.

Get to Know MRHC CEO, Shannon Black

Shannon Black

Shannon BlackIn February, MRHC was pleased to welcome Shannon Black as the hospital’s new Chief Executive Officer. With her unique blend of experience and vision, MRHC looks forward to navigating the future of rural healthcare under her guidance and leadership, while remaining dedicated to continuing its mission of providing trusted, quality care close to home. Learn more about Black’s background, personal life, and what inspired her career in healthcare.

Q: What encouraged you to pursue a career in healthcare administration?

Shannon: Rural healthcare has always been my passion. I am a 5th generation rural Iowan and care deeply about the future of healthcare in our communities and being able to take care of the people we serve for years to come.

Q: What has your career path looked like that brought you to where you are now?

Shannon: I’ve been in the industry for about 20 years. Most recently I served as clinic administrator for Unity Point Clinics in the Des Moines market, serving family medicine clinics in Waukee where I worked to increase patient access, patient experience, and employee satisfaction. Prior to that, I was with Greene County Medical Center for about ten years where I held several different leadership positions and wore many hats learning the ropes of rural healthcare. I had some great mentors along the way who allowed me to learn, grow, and develop my career path. I have a bachelor’s degree in healthcare administration from Walden University and will have my master’s in healthcare administration in April from the University of Phoenix.

Q: What attracted you to MRHC and what are you most looking forward to about working here?

Shannon: I was drawn to MRHC because of its reputation of being a great place to work and providing outstanding patient care. The more I learned about MRHC, I was drawn to the cultural beliefs and mission as they align with my own core values and leadership style. My first week has been wonderful. I’ve felt welcomed and I am looking forward to building relationships with this team and working together to achieve our goals. I’m eager to dig in and get to work as well as meet members of the communities MRHC serves.

Q: What are your main goals as the CEO of MRHC?

Shannon: As the CEO of MHRC, my goals are to continue to advocate for our hospital and rural healthcare in general; to provide quality care; and to remain viable for generations to come. I also aim to look for ways to grow in the areas the community needs us the most.

Q: Family Composition:

Shannon: My husband, Chad, and I have four children, Gwen (23) who is a graduate of Iowa State and now lives in Nevada; Nate (20) a sophomore at Grand View University studying Kinesiology and on the track team; Nick (14) in 8th grade; and Grace (10) in 5th grade both at Greene County Middle School.

Q: Where are you from and where do you live currently?

Shannon: I am a Jefferson-Scranton graduate and currently reside outside of Jefferson, which also happens to be my hometown.

Q: What do you like to do in your free time?

Shannon: I have been the head cheerleading coach at Greene County for seven years, I enjoy reading, listening to podcasts, riding my bike with friends, attending concerts, and attending my children’s events with my husband.

Q: How are you involved in your community?

Shannon: I have been very involved in my community over the years, serving on several committees and boards including Jefferson’s Bell Tower Festival Steering Committee, and serving as a city councilwoman for eight years.

Are Gaming or Gambling Habits More than a Hobby?

Gambling, sports betting, and video games – we all know they can be fun in moderation. But when do they become more than just a hobby? The community is invited to learn more about addictive behaviors such as sports betting, gambling, and gaming disorder at the “Addiction to Gambling and Gaming” event on Tuesday, March 12th from 4-6 pm at the Timmerman Shelter House at City Park in Manning. This is a free, come-and-go event for adults and children hosted by the Recovery Center at Manning Regional Healthcare Center, the City of Manning, and New Opportunities.

“We know that we live in a tech-filled world, and this has made activities, such as gambling, easy to access and indulge in, to the point of affecting lives and relationships,” said Recovery Center Director, Taya Vonnahme, MSN, RN, ARNP, CADC. “The same goes for gaming; this is at anyone’s fingertips including children. We are hoping to educate the community on how these behaviors can lead to addiction and how to get help if needed.”

Attendees will learn how to identify symptoms of addiction and gambling-related lifestyle changes; understand the risks and consequences associated with gambling, sports betting, and gaming; discover how gambling can begin in adolescence; and learn when these common pastimes are considered a problem. The event will also address myths surrounding sports betting, similarities between video games and gambling, and how video game developers design games to be addictive.

For additional support regarding a gambling addiction, the Recovery Center offers problem gambling services on an outpatient basis that can be added to recovery services. Gambling services also include financial counseling with therapy. Call (712) 655-2300 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.