Source - Spring 2016

VOLUME 5 | ISSUE ONE | SprINg 2016

These three well-respected Athens surgeons are stepping into a new role. pg 8

*Healthgrove

Source_Spring2016.indd 1 3/15/16 12:46 PM

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D I S C O V E R T H E D I F F E R E N C E I N Y O U R H O M E T O W N H O S P I T A L !


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D I S C O V E R T H E D I F F E R E N C E I N Y O U R H O M E T O W N H O S P I T A L ! A L H R a n k e d A m o n g t h e T o p 1 0 H o s p i t a l s i n A l a b a m a

Thank You for supporting Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation Events

The Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable organization governed by a volunteer board of directors from Athens and Limestone County who are motivated by a desire to further the healthcare services of Limestone County and the surrounding area.

The mission of the Foundation is to build relationships and broaden financial resources to sustain the healthcare programs, projects and services of Athens-Limestone Hospital.

New equipment and hospital updates are made possible by funds brought in through the Foundation’s annual fundraisers, as ALH is a non-profit hospital.

In 2015, the Gala brought in $37,338.55 for new hospital beds, the Golf Tournament brought in $19,396.04 which enabled the OR to purchase new scopes. The Pink Elephant Luncheon brought in $21,475.59 and the Sherri Adams run brought in $8,303.63, all of which went to purchase a new Ultrasound machine for the Radiology Department.

Our new state of the art GE ultrasound equipment furnished by our foundation has allowed our technologist to acquire clearer images, especially small parts. Our specialized small part probe allows the radiologist to better define small irregularities which has reduced the need for more invasive procedures for our patients. We are proud to offer this service to our community and appreciate our foundation for supporting us.

You can help save lives through the Pink Garbage Can Project by purchasing a 96 gallon or 64 gallon rolling garbage can from the Athens-Limestone Hospital Foundation. The garbage cans are sold for $75 each and the profit goes toward the Pink Elephant Fund. This fund allows men and women in Limestone County to receive mammograms and aids in technology and purchases of new mammography equipment for Athens-Limestone Hospital.

To purchase a pink can, call or visit: Athens Limestone Hospital Foundation 721 W Market Street, Suite C, Athens, AL 35611P: 256-233-9557 F: 256-233-9375 • [email protected]

For tHese 2016 AnnuAL FoundAtion events: APriL 30 – Puttin’ on the Glitz GalaAuGust 11 – Annual LuncheonsePtember 15 – Crystal Cup Golf TournamentoCtober 12 – Annual Pink Elephant Luncheonnovember 5 – Sherri Adams Pink Ribbon Run


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published by | TW Publishing, LLC PO Box 1241 Athens, AL 35612 [email protected]

publisher | Teresa Gibbs

contributing | Teresa Gibbs writers Tanjie Nash Brenda Parker Ashley Smith

photography | Danielle Collins Teresa Gibbs

advertising | Teresa Gibbs sales [email protected] 256-431-6112

graphic | Cindy Young design [email protected]

For advertising rates, contact Teresa Gibbs at [email protected] or 256-431-6112. For additional copies, call 256-431-6358. Source: a Publication of Athens-Limestone Hospital, 700 W Market St., Athens, Alabama, is published by TW Publishing, LLC, PO Box 1241, Athens, AL 35612. ©2016. All rights reserved. No material in this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. Source is intended as a reference periodical only, not as a medical manual. It is not intended to replace the care and advice of medical professionals. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and timeliness of this publication. No liability can be attached to or be accepted by TW Publishing or ALH for any errors, omissions, inaccuracies or other statements made by advertisers or writers within. Mention or advertising of specific companies or organizations does not imply endorsement by ALH or TW Publishing.

A Publication of Athens-Limestone Hospital

VOLUME 5 | ISSUE OnE | SprIng 2016

3 ALH Foundation

5 Saying Goodbye to Dr. Prabhakara B. Ravi

6 Beating the Odds with Quads

8 Surgical Services of Athens

10 Dr. Crystal Walker

13 ALH Welcomes Dr. Tari as Pulmonary Rehab Director

14 2015 ALH Awards Banquet

15 Capshaw Family Care

16 Dr. James R. Walker

17 Healthy Habits

18 Rogersville Family Care

20 Patient & Family Advisory Council (PFAC)

22 Dr. Bobby Storey

24 Recipes

29 Innovative Eyecare

30 Hospice

32 AllStar Plumbers

34 Reseda Nursery

35 Kendall Outdoors

36 Spring Car Shows

37 SERvPRO

IN T

HIS

IS

Su

E

On the cover:Left to right: Dr. Cassidy Koonce, Dr. Seth Rayburn and Dr. Paul Noel. These three well-respected physicians with Surgical Services of Athens, will be taking on an additional role as they offer their services to patients of Advanced Wound Care Center. Read their story on page 8

Photographer: Danielle CollinsElles Photography • 119 Hwy 72 East • Athens, AL [email protected] • ellesphoto.net256-777-6105

Save the date: April 30, 2016


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For 37 years Dr. Prabhakara B. Ravi has been a familiar face in and around Athens-Limestone Hospital.

Dr. Ravi first came to Athens in June of 1978 when he was recruited by D.E. Jackson Memorial Hospital in Lester, Alabama.

In 1979 Dr. Ravi applied for surgical staff membership at Athens-Limestone Hospital and began his surgical practice. “I was certified by the American Board of Surgery and by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh,” said Dr. Ravi. “I take great pride in my surgical credentials. I served ALH as an active member of the staff. I was a member of the executive committee and also served as Chief of Staff and Chief of Surgery.”

“In 1978 my wife, Lakshmi, and I moved to Athens with our two little girls, six-year-old Madhavi and five-year-old Malathi,” said Dr. Ravi. “It was a bit of a culture shock coming

from midtown Manhattan to such a small town. But what we experienced was true Southern hospitality. We were impressed by the friendly and helpful nature of everyone we met in Athens. They welcomed us with open arms. We settled in and never looked back. Our son, Sreekanth,

was born in 1980 at Athens-Limestone Hospital.”

“I had a very successful surgical practice and enjoyed interacting with my patients,” said Dr. Ravi. “I have followed many of them for so many years they consider me a family member.”

As for retirement, Dr. Ravi looks forward to spending time with his children and playing with his grandchildren. He enjoys reading, riding motorcycles, boating and Jet skiing. “I am just looking forward to enjoying my retirement,” Dr. Ravi said.

S AY I N G G O O D B Y E

There is no greater joy than seeing the positive response from my patients as I

say ‘goodbye.’ I cannot put a price on the

gratitude they have expressed.


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beAtinG tHe odds: Jude, GAbeL, dAxton, And KiPton

This past Christmas, Hannah and B.J. Michael received not one, not two, not three, but four precious gifts.

The chances of having quadruplets is about one in 800,000. The chances of having a set of identical quadruplets is one in 11 million to 15 million.

On November 3, 2015, Hannah, an Athens-Limestone Hospital nurse, beat the odds and gave birth to four identical baby boys. “Our doctor told us we had better

odds of winning the

lottery than having identical quads,” Hannah said.They were born at Huntsville Hospital at 30.4 weeks,

well ahead of Hannah’s original January 8, 2016 due date. “The babies were healthy when they were born, just small,” Hannah said.

The quads were able to go home during the week of Christmas. “We had to make sure that all their systems were working correctly and get them off the oxygen they had been placed on when they were first born. We also had to make sure they would all take bottles. One of the quad was still on oxygen when we left, but we were able to take him off oxygen soon after we got home.”

Now, almost five months old, Kipton Thomas, Daxton Ralph, Jude Lee and Gabel Ray all weigh more than seven pounds. “They are all doing really well and have started sleeping through some nights, Hannah happily

reported. “Their first names are names that B.J. and I liked, and their middle names are from the names of

their great-grandfathers,” Hannah said. “We have figured out certain ways to tell the boys apart – birthmarks, personalities, head shapes and personalized ankle bracelets.”

Big brother Finn will turn three in September. “We tried to explain to

b y B r e n d a P a r k e r


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A L H R a n k e d A m o n g t h e T o p 1 0 H o s p i t a l s i n A l a b a m a

Finn that mommy had four babies in her belly and that we would be bringing home four brothers.” Hannah said.” When we would ask him if he was ready for them to come home, he would answer, ‘They can just stay at the hospital.’ He really didn’t understand what was happening until we brought them all home.”

The babies require about 30 diaper changings per day. “B.J. helps with changings and feedings before he goes to work, then it’s pretty much the boys and me until he gets back home,” said Hannah.

“We are trying to do as much by ourselves as we can right now because we know we will need help as they get older,” Hannah said. “The ladies from our church bring us supper a couple of nights a week and that has been a tremendous help. Our families live within 10 minutes of our house.”

“We have rearranged things in our house to give us more room. Eventually we will finish out our basement and add some rooms, but that will be later on,” Hannah said. “A larger vehicle – one that would allow for five car seats – was an immediate must-have.”

“We are taking it one day at a time. There was really no way to prepare for this. It’s been trial and error. We just have to figure out what works best for our family and find our new normal.”

pho

to: B

LUEB

ERRY

BLI

SS


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R e a d S o u r c e o n l i n e a t a t h e n s l i m e s t o n e h o s p i t a l . c o mD I S C O V E R T H E D I F F E R E N C E I N Y O U R H O M E T O W N H O S P I T A L !

P h y s i c i a n P r o f i l e s

Dr. Seth rayburn grew up in fayette, alabama. The small-town feel of athens is one of the main reasons he chose to come to athens.

Dr. rayburn graduated cum laude from Birmingham-southern college. he received his Bachelor of science degree in chemistry, with a minor in music.

he received his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of south alabama college of Medicine in Mobile in 1999. he completed his general surgery residency at Usa college of Medicine, where he was chief resident. Dr. rayburn is board certified by the american Board of surgery and is a fellow of the american college of surgeons. he has been published in multiple national surgical journals. he joined Dr. Paul noel in 2004.

Dr. rayburn plays several musical instruments. currently, he plays the saxophone in the athens community Band. his hobbies include music, graphic arts and photography. he has attended conventions of the national association of Photoshop Professionals.

in his off time, Dr. rayburn enjoys spending time with his wife and two children, ages 9 and 11. he and his family attend athens first United Methodist church.

Dr. CaSSiDy KoonCe grew up in Greenhill, alabama, a small community just north of florence.

Dr. Koonce graduated cum laude from the University of alabama. he received a Bachelor of science degree in biological sciences and a Master’s degree in microbiology from the University of alabama.

From left to right: Dr. Seth Rayburn, Dr. Cassidy Koonce, Dr. Paul Noel

the surgeons of Surgical Services of athens have joined advanced Wound Care Center’s panel of physicians.*

*This new role for Dr. Rayburn, Dr. Noel and Dr. Koonce will not affect normal hours at Surgical Services of Athens located at 201 North Malone Street in Athens. For appointments with Surgical Services of Athens, call 256-216-6500.


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From left to right: Dr. Seth Rayburn, Dr. Cassidy Koonce, Dr. Paul Noel

Dr. Koonce received his Doctor of Medicine degree from USA College of Medicine in 2010. He completed his general surgery residency at USA College of Medicine, where he was appointed Chief Resident. During his Chief Resident appointment he received the Charles B. Rodning Resident of the Year Award which is the highest award bestowed to a University of South Alabama Department of Surgery resident. He has presented at multiple regional scientific meetings and has been published in The American Surgeon Journal. Dr. Koonce is Board Certified by the American Board of Surgery. He joined Drs. Noel and Rayburn in 2015.

He is an accomplished musician and performs semi-professionally. He plays the violin, fiddle and guitar and is proficient in several genres of music, including classical, jazz, blues, country, and bluegrass. He is a former winner of the Kentucky State Fiddle Championship and has performed throughout the United States with numerous accredited musicians.

Dr. Koonce also enjoys fishing, hunting, golf, and water activities. He and his fiancée, Cailey, are excited about their upcoming May wedding and life in Athens with their two dogs.

dr. PAuL noeL grew up in Huntsville, Alabama.Dr. Noel received his Bachelor of Science degree

in electrical engineering from University of Alabama Huntsville. He received his Doctor of Medicine degree

from USA College of Medicine in 1991. He completed his general surgery residency at University of South Alabama College of Medicine, serving as Chief Resident and clinical instructor.

While in Mobile, Dr. Noel also completed a two year NIH Research Fellowship in pulmonary physiology. He has published research in national surgical journals as well as presented his research at multiple national forums.

Dr. Noel began his general surgical practice in Athens in 1998 and will complete his 20,000th operative procedure this year. He has held multiple leadership positions at Athens Limestone Hospital and is currently Chief of Surgery. Dr. Noel is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Beginning in 2016, he will serve on the fellowship review committee of the American College of Surgeons.

Dr. Noel and his wife, Elizabeth, reside in Athens and have two sons.

15243 Greenfield drive, Athens256-216-3505


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It’s been just over a year since cardiologist Crystal Walker joined the roster at Athens-Limestone Hospital. She says being something of a “medical detective” is one of her favorite aspects of her work.

“I enjoy diagnosing new patients,” Dr. Walker said. “Sometimes I feel like I am following a mystery. All of a sudden a test result, an exam, or just listening to the patient will reveal the one key detail that leads to the right diagnosis and the right treatment.”

Coming to North Alabama after five years in private practice in the Baltimore area, Dr. Walker had previously completed a three-year cardiology fellowship at the University of Maryland and residency at the University of Virginia.

No detective work was necessary, though, on the decision to relocate to North Alabama. Dr. Walker’s

parents and siblings live here and she, along with husband Jonathan and daughter Zoe, who turns 3 this spring, knew just what to expect of the area.

“I grew up in Athens, so I love being back home, and being close to my family,” Dr. Walker said. “I love that Athens has expanded since I grew up here with new restaurants and more activities in the community. I also really enjoy being able to give back to the community by practicing here. I feel that we provide a much needed service to Athens and Limestone County, and provide quality cardiac care close to home.”

A West Limestone High School graduate, Dr. Walker completed her undergraduate work at the University of North Alabama in Florence before attending medical school at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. She is board-certified in internal medicine and cardiology.

“I love interacting with my patients, and making them feel better, and have a better quality of life,” she said. “There is nothing better than walking into a patient’s room and having someone say ‘thank you for helping me.’ My goal in this practice is to help patients live longer, live healthier, and live happier.”

It’s a swiftly attainable goal with the latest medical technologies available in this area.

b y T a n j i e N a s h

Crystal Walker, M.D., is currently accepting new patients.

Limestone Heart Center101 Fitness Way, Suite 2700

256.233.9273 • limestoneheartcenter.com

She’S not a detective, but SometimeS She feelS like one in real life.


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“The quality of care provided in Athens is phenomenal,” Dr. Walker said. “We strive every day to provide top quality care for patients close to home. We have a wide range of diagnostic capabilities and services here in Athens including nuclear stress tests, echocardiograms, rhythm monitoring, and cardiac CT. We also have an excellent cardiac and pulmonary rehab here at our office site, as well as a pacemaker clinic, a Coumadin clinic, and will soon be opening a heart failure clinic as well.”

Aside from her role as a “medical detective” Dr. Walker also enjoys the variety of tasks that make up her day.

“My job is very high energy, and I love being able to work both in the hospital and clinic daily,” she said. “I perform stress tests, read echoes, see patients, read rhythm monitors, perform invasive transesophageal echoes, and perform cardioversions – sometimes all on the same day. I am never bored in my job and I love that our field continues to expand.”

A spirit of teamwork in providing well-rounded care is a guiding principal that proves beneficial for local patients.

“I have a very good relationship with the cardiologists and cardiac surgeons at Huntsville Hospital, which allows us to diagnose patients locally, and send them to Huntsville for procedures if they are needed,” Dr. Walker said. “We are here when patients finish their procedures, and provide long term care for chronic cardiac disease, and long term secondary prevention for coronary disease, and heart failure.”

When not busy diagnosing and healing, Dr. Walker enjoys biking with her family, baking and crafting. She’s also an avid reader and says her most recent “binge-reading” ventures have included Game of Thrones, Maze Runner and Hunger Games. She also enjoys gardening and says she and Zoe grew tomatoes and green beans in the family’s backyard garden last year.


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AtHens’ onLY stone Fired ArtizAn PizzApizza • Calzones • pasta • Salads • Desserts • WE DELIVER

1260 Hwy 72 East, Athens (in the strip next to Starbucks) 256-434-8400 • JoesWorldFamouspizzeria.com

Beer and wine will Be availaBle soon! • we deliver!

call noW to schedule your Graduation Party or other special event using our mobile truck- coming soon!


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Dr. Ravali Tarigopula was recently named Director of Pulmonary Rehab at Athens-Limestone Hospital. “Dr. Tari,” as she is known by her patients and co-workers, started her job in July, 2015.

“Pulmonary rehabilitation enables people with significant lung problems to overcome their shortness of breath and weakness in performing their activities of daily living,” Dr. Tari said. “The goal is to make them strong enough so they can perform activities of daily living without depending on others. This improves their overall health and boosts their confidence.”

Dr. Tari began her medical journey in India. She received her Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degree (MBBS) from Mahadevappa Rampure Medical College in Gulbarga, India. “I became a doctor because I thought taking care of sick people was the noblest thing to do,” Dr. Tari said.

She completed her Internal Medicine residency at Monmouth Medical Center in Long Branch, New Jersey. After her residency, fellowships in pulmonary medicine, critical care medicine and sleep medicine followed. She is board certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties in internal medicine, pulmonary disease, critical care medicine and sleep medicine.

After the start in India, Dr. Tari’s medical career has taken her to Long Branch and Newark, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and now Athens. “The warmth and hospitality of the people led me down here. The hospital administration was very pleasant and supportive,” she said. “I wanted to move to a small town to raise my children.”

Dr. Tari’s husband is a software analyst and they have two children. They love to spend time together as a family, cooking and traveling.

Pulmonary Rehab: This program is designed for patients with chronic lung disease. Improvements will be made in their exercise capacity, endurance, and quality of life, thus making activities of daily living easier. They will exercise at their own pace with our guidance, learn and practice breathing techniques, and learn other educational topics on lung disease. The class is offered 3 days a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday and is tailored to the individual patient’s needs.

Cardiac Rehab: This program is designed to help patients recover from a cardiac episode such as a heart attack, recent bypass, stent, or valve repair/replacement, or help those that are affected by CHF (congestive heart failure). It is an exercise and education program that helps recondition the patient and teach them about heart health. This class is offered 3 days a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday and is tailored to the individual patient’s needs. business Hours: Monday – Thursday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

LoCAtion:101 Fitness Way, Suite 2600 Athens, AL 36511(In the new Medical Office Building)

ContACt inFo: (256) 262-6674 phone line((256) 216-1992 fax line

** These are physician referral programs and most insurances cover both programs.

Dr. Ravali Tarigopula

Athens-Limestone Hospital Welcomes dr. ravali tarigopula as Pulmonary rehab directorb y B r e n d a P a r k e r


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2 0 1 5 A L H A W A R D S B A N Q U E T Employees were recently recognized for their time of service.

reCeivinG 5 YeAr AWArds: (pictured left to right) Rhonda Hunt, Lance Pitts, Whitney Springer, Kristen Letson, (not pictured) Ruth Albro, Tammy Anderton, Virginia Green, Tiffany Hardy, Diana Hodge, Richard Johnson, Katie Kimbrell, Terah King, Melissa Looney, Crystal Mahaffey, Marci Martin, Laquetta McGraw, Kirby Millender, Blake Moore, Janey Motes, Kari Murphy, Tammy Nave, Jordan Oles, Tonia Smith, Nikki Tibbets, Carrie Trousdale, Nicole Urban, Lauri Webster, Donna Williams

reCeivinG 30 YeAr AWArds: (pictured left to right) Lisa Cooper, Al Farrar, Donna Abernathy, (not pictured) Regina Davis, Renee McGill, Donna Russell, Frances Christopher

reCeivinG A 35 YeAr AWArd: Venita Chaney

reCeivinG 10 YeAr AWArds: (pictured left to right) Kris Haraway, Penny Campbell, Amber Boyd McGuire, Kristy Cosby, Candace Rose, David Covington, Diane Magnuson, Danielle Parker, Jennifer Chambers, (not pictured) Nancy Alexander, Pamela Carpenter, Kim Childress, Elisha Easterly, Gina Jones, Jacqueline Posey, Charlotte Travis, Selisa Williams

reCeivinG 15 YeAr AWArds: (pictured left to right) Jennifer Flynn, Wilma Horton, Christina Keenum, Tori MacKenzie, Paula Norwood, Lawanda Ball, Amber Godwin, (not pictured) Candance Duncan Perry, Jennifer Smith, Tamatha Townsend, Janie Turner

reCeivinG 20 YeAr AWArds: (pictured left to right) Beverly Wilson, Pam Steele, Beth Lowe, Selinda Blackwood, (not pictured) Marilyn Jackson, James Pack, Melanie Sikes, Kim Willis

reCeivinG 25 YeAr AWArds: (pictured left to right) Pam Haney, Traci Collins, Brenda Phillips, Brenda Adams, (not pictured) Ronald Nordin


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Bridget Fox and Danie’l Mills of Capshaw Family Care are committed to caring for their patients like family. The clinic is located in the East Limestone area of Harvest and is very much a part of that close knit community. The health and well-being of that community is extremely important to them

Bridget and Danie’l are both Certified Registered Nurse Practitioners. “A nurse practitioner is a registered nurse with advanced training in diagnosing and treating illnesses,” Bridget said. “I absolutely love what I do. I feel like a part of my patients’ families. We live and work in the same area.”

Bridget Fox completed her Master of Science in Nursing Degree from The University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH). She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from Wright State University in Dayton, Ohio. For more than 10 years Fox has been a family practice nurse practitioner in the East Limestone area. She is married with three children and four grandchildren. Her experience in the medical field totals 25 years.

Danie’l Mills also received her Master of Science in Nursing Degree from UAH. She completed her Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree from UAH. She has a total of 19 years’ experience in the medical field. Mills is married with three children.

“I’ve lived in Athens all of my life,” Danie’l said. “It is wonderful to take care of friends that I grew up with and their families.”

On a daily basis, Bridget and Danie’l each diagnose and treat between 15 and 30 patients with acute and chronic problems, follow up on the lab and radiology tests that they order and prescribe, refill and track new prescriptions.

The staff at Capshaw Family Care believes in treating the whole person and works with patients to develop a healthy lifestyle, focusing on good nutrition with proper exercise and rest. “I leave work every day with the satisfaction of knowing that I have helped patients with their needs or issues and made their lives better,” Danie’l said.

Capshaw Family Care is a part of the Athens-Limestone Hospital (ALH) family and the staff is employed by ALH. Joining with ALH enables them to provide additional services for their patients and enjoy improved financial stability. They provide timely, high quality and cost effective health care in a pleasant and welcoming environment.

Capshaw Family Care Provides Health Care Close to Homeb y B r e n d a P a r k e r

ServiCeS Provided by CaPSHaw Family Care inClude:• Minor procedures, such

as sutures, cyst removals, incisions and drainage• Drug and HIV testing• Well adult care for men and

women• Certified to perform

department of transportation physicals• Chronic and acute illness

care• Care and treatment of minor

injuries• Immunizations and

vaccinations (not infant)• Preventative healthcare• Women’s gynecological

healthcare• Sports, school and camp

physicals

15024 east limestone roadSuite F, Harvest, al 35749

256-216-1996

Bridget Fox Danie’l Mills


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Dr. James R. Walker, of Limestone Internal Medicine Center, has been practicing medicine in North Alabama since 1986 and has been on staff at Athens-Limestone Hospital (ALH) for 25 years. He is Chief of ALH intensive care unit and is also Chief of ALH pharmacy committee.

Dr. Walker is originally from Cheverly, Maryland, a suburb of Washington, D.C. “My father always told me it was better to serve than to be served. I liked biology and the study of life sciences, so becoming a doctor seemed a good fit,” he said. ”I also enjoyed the television show, ‘Marcus Welby, MD’ as a child.”

Dr. Walker received his Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology from the University of Maryland in College Park. He received his Medical Doctorate from George Washington University of Health Sciences in Washington, D.C.

He was introduced to the South when he was assigned to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, for his internship and residency. Upon completion of his residency, Dr. Walker was assigned, in 1986, to Fox Army Community Hospital on Redstone Arsenal as Chief, Department of Medicine.

He completed his assignment with the U.S. Army, in 1991, and joined Athens Internal Medicine and Nephrology Associates as associate physician and partner.

In 1998, Dr. Walker formed a solo practice, Limestone Internal Medicine. Dr. Walker’s wife, Sharon, served as Chief Executive Officer of his solo practice until retiring in 2011. That same year Dr. Walker’s practice became a part of ALH and the name of the practice changed to Limestone Internal Medical Center.

“When he completed his assignment with the U.S. Army on Redstone Arsenal, we decided to stay in this area,” Sharon said. “We had put down roots and really liked it here and we had made many friends. At that time, Suzanne, our oldest daughter, was in high school and had friends. Our youngest daughter, Alexis, was ill.”

Suzanne holds a doctorate’s degree in biochemistry. She, her husband Jeff, and daughter Alexandria, live in Meridianville. Alexis passed away in 1991.

Dr. Walker is a car enthusiast and, in his spare time, loves to tinker with his vintage Ford Mustangs. “After family and patients, that’s my passion.”

Limestone Internal Medicine Center provides routine adult health care and is currently accepting new patients, consultations and referrals for patients ages 16 and older.

Dr. Walker treats diabetes, hypertension, sore throats, earaches, heart and kidney diseases, arthritis and gastrointestinal diseases. Additionally, he performs colonoscopies and endoscopies. No referral is necessary.

Serving Athens at Limestone Internal Medical Centerb y B r e n d a P a r k e r

Source_Spring2016.indd 16 3/16/16 10:50 AM

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Athens-Limestone Hospital (ALH) is excited to offer Healthy Habits, a new program to help guide employees to a better, happier and longer life. All ALH employees are eligible to participate in this program at no cost to them.

“This program benefits both ALH and the participating employees,” said Blake Lane, director of ALH Wellness Center.

Benefits for the participants include healthier lifestyle, improved quality of life, improved morale and reduced risk for developing disabling or life-threatening diseases.

Benefits for ALH include reduced employee absenteeism, fewer workers’ compensation claims and fewer disability-related costs. Higher productivity, reduction in injuries, improved loyalty and morale complete the list.

Open enrollment is going on now and will continue through April 30, 2016.

The first step to participation in Healthy Habits is a fasting blood lipid profile and glucose check in the lab. To get this lab work completed, employees must pick up a requisition from Admitting (or from ER if it is a Saturday).

After completion of the lab work, Step Two is to schedule an appointment with a health coach at the Wellness Center by calling 256-233-9355. This appointment should be at least 48 hours after the lab work.

Sabrina Weaver, Director of Human Resources at ALH, has seen both sides of the Healthy Habits program. She has seen it from the side of being a participant and as someone in management.

“It was important to me to have my assessment early. I considered myself to be healthy, with no real health problems,” Weaver said. “I found that my cholesterol and blood pressure were borderline high. It is very motivating when you see (your) numbers on paper. I did not know it would have such an impact on me. I want my numbers to go down so I won’t have to take medication.”

“Since then I’ve done things like cut out fast food, cut back on sugar and salt and exercise more. I’ve lost eight pounds,” Weaver said.

“As a member of the ALH Senior Leadership Team, we feel that as a healthcare provider, it is important that we promote good health habits among our employees,” Weaver said. “We feel strongly that the Healthy Habits program will encourage employees to take their health into their own hands to improve the quality of their life.”

Managers or supervisors will not see any test results. Test results are protected by the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPPA).

Employees who participate are rewarded with a $50 per month health insurance discount, a discounted membership to the Wellness Center, a free annual health screening and access to trained health coaches.

While joining the Wellness Center is not a requirement, those who choose to join will receive a special $10 monthly rate.

“The names of those who completed the steps by February 1 were placed into a drawing for a free twelve-month membership, those who completed the steps by February 19 were placed into a drawing for a free six-month membership, while those who met completion by March 1 had a chance to win a free three-month membership,” Lane said.

Congratulations to Nanette Ingle (ALH cafeteria) winner of the the twelve-month membership, Randy Pace (Ambulance Service) winner of the six-month membership, and Brooklynn Williams (Urology) winner of the three-month membership.

“Healthy Habits provides opportunities and a supportive environment to foster positive lifestyle changes, to motivate employees to voluntarily adopt healthier behaviors and to increase awareness of positive health behaviors,” Lane said.

Healthy Habits encourage Positive Health behaviorsb y B r e n d a P a r k e r

T H E I N S I D E S T O R Y


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Dr. Charles A. Gaputis has called Rogersville home since 1989. Dr. Gaputis is a family medicine physician and opened his practice when he moved to Rogersville.

Dr. Gaputis’ practice officially became Rogersville Family Care on March 1, 2016, and is now a part of the Athens-Limestone Hospital (ALH) family.

“The practice of medicine and managing a small office has become more difficult over the years with government regulations, insurance pressures and mounting paperwork,” Dr. Gaputis said. “Many physicians in small practices have joined with hospitals to provide support for them to be able to continue practicing medicine, while providing financial stability and providing increased services for patients.”

“My office will run exactly as it always has with the same staff, hours, location and services,” Dr. Gaputis said. “My staff and I are excited to be a part of the ALH family, and we are looking forward to continuing to serve Rogersville’s medical needs. Our office provides services of a typical family practice which include a little bit of everything from minor surgery, routine health care and acute injuries. All ages are welcome.

Dr. Gaputis received his Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from Bates College in Lewiston, Maine. He received his Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine degree from University of Health Sciences, College of Osteopathic Medicine in Kansas City, Missouri. “I was on a path to become a physician as I long as I can remember,” said Dr. Gaputis.

He was stationed at Randolph Air Force Base as a flight surgeon when a family medicine residency spot opened at Carswell Air Force Base in Ft. Worth, Texas. “I knew that was as good a place as any to complete my residency in Family Practice Medicine,” Dr. Gaputis said. His last assignment with the Air Force was in Michigan. He then spent two years in private practice there.

“Three words made me flee Michigan and come to Alabama,” quipped Dr. Gaputis. “Miserable. Michigan. Weather.”

“I was drawn to the South as it was closer to my family and my in-laws. Rogersville needed a doctor and I needed a job,” explained Dr. Gaputis. “Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever thought I would wind up in Alabama, but I have never looked back.”

Dr. Gaputis has been married for 36 years to Kelli who is very active in the community. “She volunteers for everything,” Dr. Gaputis joked.

They have two children and three grandchildren, all living in the Atlanta area. Son Drew is a management

consultant and is married to Kelly, a registered nurse at Emory Clinic. Drew and Kelly have one daughter, Ada Mae.

Daughter Sarah, a special education teacher, is married to Ben, a landscape architect. Sarah and Ben have a son, Garrett and a daughter, Charlie.

Dr. Gaputis is team physician for Lauderdale County High School and “has been walking the (football field) lines since 1989,” Office Manager Brandy Belew said.

Hope Snoddy Hagan is a Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner and joined Dr. Gaputis’ staff in 2014. Hagan received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from University of North Alabama and completed her Master of Science in Nursing degree from Tennessee State University. Hagan is board certified by the American Academy of Practical Nurse as a Family Nurse Practitioner. “She was born and raised in Rogersville and is a perfect fit in our office,” Dr. Gaputis said.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Jada Hall, LPN Lynsie Parker, Medical Assistant Janna Hamm, Office Manager Brandy Belew and Receptionist Melissa Parker complete the staff at Rogersville Family Care.

rogersville Family Care Continues to serve the medical needs of rogersvilleb y B r e n d a P a r k e r


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overview, vision & mission statements

The ALH Patient and Family Advisory Council (PFAC) will provide a formal communication vehicle for patients and families to take an active role in improving the patient experience at ALH. The council will focus on programs and practices that will represent the most successful patient and family experience within ALH and will help to replicate and share those best practices across the organization.

the PFAC vision and mission are guided by the ALH mission, vision and values.vision: To create a more positive and responsive health care experience at Athens-Limestone Hospital by partnering with patients, families, staff and community members. mission: The mission of the Patient and Family Advisory Council is to enhance the overall health care experience at Athens-Limestone Hospital by involving patients, families, staff and community members in the consideration and development of patient and family centered policies and services. The Council’s ongoing advisory role will provide user feedback on efforts to improve quality, safety and service at the hospital.

Council responsibilitiesThe overall goal is to create

a patient and family centered

environment which promotes the best possible outcomes for ALH patients and families. identiFY: Identify existing best practices in patient and family centered care including those within ALH and those from other sources. Explore ways to share and replicate these best practices across the organization.Advise: Work in an advisory role to enhance patient and family centered care initiatives at ALH by collaborating with existing patient, family and employee focus groups.suPPort: Support staff and ALH leadership in patient and family centered activities and initiatives. Act as a sounding board for implementation of new and existing programs.PArtiCiPAte: Provide patient/family member feedback and recommendations to the following committees and work groups including, but not limited to patient safety, quality improvement, service excellence, facility appearance, ethics, and patient education.rePresent: Represent the patient and family perspectives about the healthcare experience at ALH and make recommendations for improvement.eduCAte: Empower patients, family members and staff through continuous education. Collaborate with ALH staff to facilitate patient and family access to information regarding patient & family centered care.

Influence and participate in ALH staff orientation, patient/family education, discharge/transition planning.CommuniCAte: Enhance communication between patient, family members and ALH.evALuAte: Evaluate the role of PFAC in improving outcomes of the patient and their families’ healthcare experience while at ALH.

structure, membership Criteria & selection and terms of AppointmentstruCture

The PFAC will consist of up to sixteen (16) members of the communities served by Athens-Limestone Hospital. The membership will reflect the diversity of the community and the patients served by the hospital. One or more hospital liaisons will be assigned the responsibility of providing the link in communication between the hospital and the PFAC and offer support as needed. membersHiP CriteriA

Members are selected based on the following criteria:• Current or past experiences as a

patient or family member at ALH• Ability to represent patient care

experience• Willingness to work in an advisory

role• Good listening skills• Ability to interact well with differing

groups of people• Respect of others’ perspectives• Ability to participate in a consistent

Athens-Limestone Hospital Patient and Family Advisory Council

(PFAC) Guidelines


21


and agreed-upon schedule of meetings and potential subcommittee efforts

• Commitment to serve for an eighteen (18) month to twenty-four (24) month term with potential to renew or step down at the end of the term. Initial council members will rotate off at 18 and 24 months with subsequent council members serving the full one (1) year term.

• Cannot be a current Athens-Limestone Hospital employee

terms oF APPointment:The PFAC membership will consist

of the following:• Council members may request to be

reappointed• Resignation will be submitted in

writing or via e-mail to the ALH PFAC Liaison (Please provide a 30-day notice)

• Vacancies may be filled during the year as needed

roles and responsibilitiestHe roLe oF tHe PAtient And FAmiLY AdvisorY CounCiL is soLeLY ConsuLtAtive. members WiLL be exPeCted to:• Attend each PFAC meeting to serve

as “the voice of the customer – our patients and families.” Please notify a staff member in advance if unable to attend.

• Draw on the member’s own experience as a patient and/or family member and provide feedback to the hospital about ways it could be improved.

• Collaborate with the hospital to participate in a variety of information-gathering activities in an effort to understand others’ experiences, such as discussions with patients and family members, open forums, focus groups, and surveys.

• As requested by the hospital and based on the member’s availability and interest, members may also serve on other committees as appropriate across the hospital system with Senior Leadership Team guidance.

• Engage thoughtfully and constructively around the issues and ideas discussed during each meeting.

• Be respectful of the unique background and perspective of each PFAC member.

• Be realistic and mindful of good health care practice and the hospital’s budgetary, regulatory, and legal constraints.

Planning, reporting and evaluation• PFAC reports will be submitted to

ALH Leadership Team on a semi- annual basis and as needed to give updates and receive feedback and guidance.

• An annual PFAC progress report will be provided to the ALH Board.

• The PFAC may engage in educational forums.

orientation and trainingAll selected patient and family

applicants will receive orientation and training as to the mission and goals of the institution and the advisory council, as well as hospital regulatory and privacy issues.

PFAC meetings: Agenda, minutes, Attendance, and inclement Weather Plan

Meetings will be held every other month on a designated day and time. AGendA: Meeting agendas will be set by the designated staff/employee member and distributed to the membership prior to each session.meetinG minutes: The designated staff/employee will distribute the minutes in a timely manner to all active members for review. All PFAC correspondence and documents can be reviewed by members upon request. All PFAC minutes will be retained for a minimum of three (3) years.AttendAnCe: It is expected that the members of the council will make every attempt to attend every session during their term. Participation by every member will provide the most effective meeting and make the most impact on the patient experience at

ALH. However, if a member is not able to make one or more sessions, notification to a staff member as soon as possible is expected in order to make any needed adjustments prior to the group meeting.Attire: PFAC members may wear business, business casual or casual attire.inCLement WeAtHer: In the event of inclement weather council members will be notified of a cancelled meeting in a timely manner.

ConfidentialityPFAC members must not discuss

any personal or confidential information about patients, staff, or hospital business with anyone other than PFAC members and hospital personnel working with PFAC. Council members must adhere to all applicable HIPAA standards and guidelines. If an advisor violates these guidelines, a staff member will remind them of the guidelines. On-going violations may result in repeating HIPAA training or re-evaluation of membership status. HH PAtients/FAmiLY members: To maintain appropriate and confidential handling of personal information, no ALH patient and/or family member will be discussed by name during PFAC meetings.HiPAA & ConFidentiALLY Form: All PFAC members will sign a confidentially statement that pertains to any ALH data regarding patient and family members.terminAtion

The hospital reserves the right to change membership on the Council in certain circumstances, such as non-compliance with any ALH polices, including confidentiality, HIPAA and maintenance of a drug and tobacco free environment while on campus.

If a member has missed three consecutive meetings without notifying the PFAC Steering/Panning Committee, this will be considered a resignation from the PFAC.


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From the time he was a youngster, Bobby Storey knew he was going to grow up to be Dr. Bobby Storey.

Dr. Storey comes from a family of accountants. His brothers, his father, his grandfather and even one of his sons are all accountants. “It’s a family tradition,” said Dr. Storey. But Dr. Storey is anything but traditional.

Rather than looking at numbers all day, every day, he wanted to explore the world. He has been on several mission trips during his career. He considers it a joy to minister care to people and ease their suffering. “I’ve had mixed emotions on some trips. I knew, at times, I would be the only doctor some would ever see. I could rid them of parasites, but only for the time being. I knew soon after I left, they would be suffering again.”

The medical mission trips were two fold. Not only was he, along with others, there to treat the people’s medical problems, they were there to introduce them to Jesus. Although there was a language barrier, through skits they were able to share the love of Christ.

While attending high school and college, Dr. Storey worked at the local hospital, Citizens Baptist Medical Center, in his hometown of Talladega, Alabama. Then he

was off to other parts of the world – Grenada, West Indies. He spent two years at St. Georges Medical School and then transferred to the University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham where he received his medical degree.

After his residency in Huntsville, he remained in the area for 20 years as a General Practitioner. Family is important to Dr. Storey and when family sickness struck, he and his family decided it was time to go back home, to Talladega, to help care for their loved ones. It was his honor and privilege to go into family practice with his childhood doctor and role model, Dr. Warren Duke.

Everybody has chapters in their lives. The next chapter for Dr. Storey began when he learned Athens Family Practitioner, Dr. Hendrix needed a partner. After prayerful consideration, Dr. Storey is now practicing medicine in Athens, Alabama.

Every day is different and that’s what Dr. Storey enjoys. Dr. Storey treats a variety of problems and patients of all ages. “There are specialists for specific kinds of problems,” said Dr. Storey. “But everyone needs a family doctor to look after the whole body. I’m the advocate for

meet dr. bobby storeyb y T e r e s a G i b b s


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the patient. But we’re a team. The physician and the patient have to work together. That takes compliance. If I prescribe a medicine for a problem, the patient will need to take it to get better.”

Early in his career, Dr. Storey worked in the ER as well as delivering babies. I loved it,” said Dr. Storey. “But it put me working a lot of hours. After I had bypass heart surgery, my wife insisted that I slow down and work less hours. I gave up the ER at that time and a few years later, gave up delivering babies.

“I loved delivering babies,” said Dr. Storey. Then, with a twinkle in his eye, added, “I was the third most important person in the room.”

If you would like to place an ad in

the next issue of Source, have a

story idea or would like to share a

comment, call Teresa gibbs at

256-431-6112 or email

[email protected].

Dr. Storey may have slowed down, but he’s not planning on retiring anytime soon. “Why would I retire?” he asked. “I love what I do! Every day I wake up looking forward to going into work. I feel blessed to be able to work every day.”

Dr. Storey is married to Fran, his high school sweetheart, and they have four sons and a daughter. “And two perfect grandchildren,” Dr. Storey said as he smiled from ear to ear.

Oldest son B.J., and his wife Ashley, live in Pensacola and have two daughters, Lucy and Amelie. Andrew lives in Talladega. Brandon is getting married in May. Jon is following in his father’s footsteps and is in medical school in Grenada. And daughter Sarah Kate will soon transfer to UAH. Her plans are to teach the first grade.

Lucy and Amelie Storey (Dr. Storey’s two perfect grandchildren)


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R E C I P E S

bananaSIt’s Americans’ favorite fresh fruit and it packs a big nutritional punch. Bananas contain:• VITAMIN B6, which can reduce

swelling, protect against type-2 diabetes, aid in weight loss and strengthen the nervous system.

• TRYPTOPHAN, which the body converts to serotonin that can be helpful for depression, mood swings and sleeping well.

• POTASSIUM, a mineral electrolyte that keeps electricity flowing throughout your body which is necessary to keep your heart beating. It also helps regulate blood pressure.

banana Walnut bread (A favorite of Dr. Crystal Walker)

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Prepare bread pan with cooking spray.

COMbINE:1 cup whole wheat flour*2/3 cup all-purpose flour1 tsp baking soda1/4 tsp baking powder

COMbINE SEpArATELy:2-3 ripe bananas, mashed2/3 cup brown sugar3 egg whites1/3 cup apple sauce (no sugar added)1/3 cup waterCombine the dry and wet ingredients slowly; stir wellAdd 1/4 cup chopped walnuts

Bake 55-60 minutes until knife comes out clean

*Oat flour can be substituted for the whole wheat flour. Baking with oats instead of flour = fewer carbs, more fiber and more protein. Grind uncooked oats in your blender or food processor until it looks like flour. Use old-fashioned, steel-cut or quick oats (not instant). If you’re going gluten-free, make sure the oats you purchase say “certified gluten-free.”

Even if your recipe doesn’t have the word “oat” in the list of ingredients, you can use it as a flour substitute. Replace up to one-third of the all-purpose flour in your recipe with oat flour. If you’re substituting oat flour for wheat flour, you can use a 1-to-1 ratio. Oat flour works great in pancakes, waffles, muffins and quick breads, so you can replace more or all of the flour with oat flour.



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The curved yellow fruit offers many potential health benefits. Eat a banana:• Before an exam - the high levels of

potassium will keep you more alert.• To lower the body temperature

and cool you during a fever or on a hot day.

• Before a workout – to help sustain your blood sugar. Eat two bananas before a strenuous workout – to pack an energy punch.

• If you’re trying to quit smoking – because bananas contain high levels of B-vitamins as well as potassium and magnesium which can speed recovery from the effects of withdrawal.

• Between meals – to help stabilize blood sugar.

• If you’re pregnant – to reduce nausea from morning sickness.

• Before going to bed - to help alleviate night time leg cramps.

The USDA recommends that adults eat about two cups of fruit a day, or about two bananas. But eat in moderation; if you eat dozens of bananas every day, there may be a risk of excessively high vitamin and mineral levels.



26


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Chronic dry eye can be a constant source of hassle and discomfort.

The itching, burning, redness and gritty sensation that accompany this problem can render even the most mundane of activities virtually undoable.

Some 86-percent of the population deals with this problem at some point. Most resort to the most readily available and prolifically prescribed solution: Eyedrops. For many, drops, drops and more drops only serve as a temporary fix for such a wide-reaching problem.

Fortunately, though, a relatively new technology is readily available in North Alabama. Dr. Chris Teichmiller at Innovative Eyecare is currently the only optometrist north of Birmingham to offer Lipiflow, which is the only FDA-approved treatment for what is often the root-cause of dry eye, Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).

Office Manager Mary Thomson said Dr. Teichmiller added the latest technology last year as part of Innovative Eyecare’s ongoing mission to provide overall, individualized care for every patient.

“We believe fully in re-investing in the practice to provide the very best and very latest treatment methods,” she said. “Our tagline is ‘The personal side of leading-edge eyecare.’ We really do focus not only on routine eyecare but we are also very much involved in complete eye health. We want to establish personal relationships with our patients and not just treat problems at arm’s distance.”

When a patient suffers from dry eyes, the first step is to determine what’s causing the problem.

“Dry eyes can be caused by several different things,” Thomson said. For this reason, eye drops may not prove beneficial for every individual.

If a patient’s problem is being caused by the dysfunction of tiny glands located in the eyelids, drops are not likely to provide long-term relief.

“There are forty-to-sixty glands in the lids in each eye,” Thomson said. “These glands produce a thin oil that lubricates the eye. With every blink, what we call a complete blink, the pressure causes oil to secrete and cover the tear layer.”

Over time, these glands can become clogged when a patient’s blink doesn’t create enough pressure to secrete the oil. Soon, the oil degenerates into a thicker consistency causing clogged glands and, thus, dry eyes. This is called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction, or MGD. If it goes untreated, the consistency of the oils will continue to

thicken until the clogged glands begin to atrophy.Innovative Eyecare uses two testing procedures to

determine treatment options for those experiencing dry eyes.

Lipiview evaluates the tear layer, the oil layer and the blink, while the Meibographer takes images that show the condition of these oil-producing glands.

“About sixty-five percent of the population doesn’t have a complete blink and therefore the pressure isn’t adequate for producing the oil layer,” Thomson said. “There’s a simple exercise we teach that retrains the muscles for a more complete blink pattern. So, if we can get the lid to close for a complete blink, the oil will be produced. The oil is supposed to protect the tear layer, which is healthy for eyes.”

MGD is a progressive disease with no known cure. However, the Lipiflow treatment is proven to dramatically ease the symptoms associated with chronic MGD.

In Lipiflow, the patient’s eyelids are essentially heat-treated to clear the clogged oil while also gently massaging the lid. The 12-minute procedure is done in Dr. Teichmiller’s office and, in most cases, can provide relief to dry-eye sufferers.

Innovative Eyecare offers complete optometry services and is currently accepting new patients.

innovAtive eYeCAre Relief for Chronic Dry Eye b y T a n j i e N a s h


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An amazingly healing day, full of fun, friends and learning!This year Camp Hope will be held on Tuesday, June 14th at

Camp Helen in the East Limestone community.“The activities planned, the volunteers, buddies, Hospice

staff and supportive community all together make for a successful day for kids who have experienced loss,” said Camp Hope Coordinator Emily Sandlin. “We have activities such as making memory books, writing notes to loved ones and story time to help teach our campers that loss is something that none of us are alone in feeling. It shows the campers it’s okay to have fun and enjoy life even though you are grieving and missing someone.”

For more information, call the Hospice office at 256-232-5017 or visit athenslimestonehospice.org.

Compassionate, Home-based Care • 24/7 On Call • Bereavement Services • Pain/Symptom Control • In-Home Respite Care Specially Trained Teams Including Doctors, Nurses, Social Workers, Chaplains, Counselors, Nutritionists,

Pharmacists, Home Health Aides, Volunteers, and Respite Care • Serving Athen/Limestone County Since 1988 • Medicare and Medicaid Certified • BCBS Approved Provider

A COMMuNITy BASeD NON-PROfIT uNITeD WAy AgeNCy

The Grammy-nominated and Athens-based band, Alabama Shakes recently made a donation to the annual fundraiser Hospice of Limestone County Chili Challenge and Silent Auction.

This year, band members autographed their album “Sound and Color” for the silent auction. Lead singer and guitarist Brittany Howard and her father K.J. Howard brought the album by the Hospice office and presented it to Hospice Volunteer Coordinator Suzanne Paysinger.

Hospice of Limestone County is the only non-profit Hospice operating in the county. The Chili Challenge and Silent Auction provide funds for in-home respite workers, bereavement counseling and Camp Hope.

Howard’s grandmother, Helen West, has worked for Hospice since 2003. It was a promise she made when Hospice assisted her during the illness and death of her granddaughter Jamie Howard, Brittany’s sister. Jamie developed a brain tumor and lost her sight and died in 1998 as a teenager.

Get ready for CAMP HOPE!


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Getting back home was my goal. Senior Rehab & Recovery helped me reach it.

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- Respiratory / Pulmonary care- Diabetic care /education- Post-stroke rehabilitation- Pain management- State-of-the-art wound care - Joint repair/replacement rehab

1965 - 2015

Caring for You Caring for You


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At some point in life, chances are, you are going to need a plumber. Who are you going to call? Let me make your decision easy! AllStar Plumbers is a homegrown company. Chuck Robinson started AllStar Plumbers in 2007 with a handful of employees. Through the past nine years, he has held true to the company motto: “Professional people doing a professional job.”

Let’s take a look behind the scenes. When the company began growing, Robinson started praying for God to provide the help AllStar needed. Robinson shared, “God always provided the help we needed but when they got here I didn’t use them to their full potential.”

The workload increased and Robinson needed backup. Again, it came down to prayer. “I knew it was time to let go and let these men do what God sent them here to do,” said Robinson. Since then, AllStar has flourished, branching out in several divisions.

In 2013, Robinson appointed John Romine Jr. as operations manager;

and the corporate structure continued to expand.

Today, AllStar Plumbers includes a Commercial Division headed by Paul Mariani, a Service Division managed by Zack Cullison, a Remodel Division managed by Mike King, a Multi-living Division managed by Chris Newton, and Estimations managed by Mike Kelly. The Residential Division consists of three subdivisions: Slab, Sewer, and Water managed by Josh Howell, the Rough End Division managed by Frank Catlett, and the Final Division managed by Ben Romine.

Robinson has plans to further expand AllStar Plumbers in the near future by incorporating a Gas Division. This expansion will include new employees. And that’s not the end of the changes coming to AllStar. Robinson plans to create a new role in the customer service area, a Customer Care Manager. This person will have many responsibilities such as calling on customers and confirming that the AllStar Plumber’s “Quality

Standard” has been met with each job performed.

As the company continues to grow, Robinson does not want to lose sight of what is most important…the community. “Service to our community is our priority,“ states Robinson.

I asked Robinson about his vision for the future of AllStar Plumbers. Even though his company has grown exponentially, they are not done. Robinson went on to say “God willing, we will continue to grow and add members to the AllStar family. We will continue striving to make a positive impact within our community. And I hope to continue making a difference in the lives of the AllStar employees.”

I wanted to know what it was like working for Robinson, so I sat down and talked with Operations Manager John Romine Jr. “I started working for Chuck 14 years ago, before we even became AllStar,” Romine said. “I feel very blessed to have a friend and boss like Chuck. His morals and Godly character have had a great impact on

ALLSTAR PLUMBERSA Look Behind the Scenesb y A s h l e y S m i t h


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It’s amazing how 2 short years

can transform the rest of your life.Your Community. Your College. Your Future.

calhoun.edu

www.athens.edu my life, as well as many others that have had the privilege to work with Chuck.”

“Chuck takes giving back to the community very seriously,” continued Romine. “To date, AllStar has provided financial support or donated time and services to over 25 organizations. We sponsor several schools in Limestone County. Each year at Christmas, we sponsor a child from the Salvation Army Angel Tree. Some of the ministries we support are Homes for Troops, Operation Finally Home, and Habitat for Humanity. A few years ago, Chuck reached out to a member of the community who desperately needed help. He never intended to make what we did to help the lady public knowledge, but when WHNT showed up it was all over the news.” (You can watch WHNT’s story at: youtube.com/watch?v=znO92vgoPlk)

“Chuck’s leadership is second to none,” Romine added. “His concern for his employees is real. It’s the reason AllStar Plumbers has been so successful.“


34

Reseda Nursery and Stone Yard, owned by Joey Smith, was established in 1985. Since that time, Reseda has been assisting homeowners, builders, and gardeners in Huntsville, Madison, Athens and Decatur with all of their gardening, landscaping, and hardscaping needs.

Reseda is located on 10 acres in Limestone County and has more than 120,000 square feet of greenhouse production and sales area. “We grow all annuals, perennials, herbs, vegetables and hanging baskets on site in one of our production greenhouses,” Manager Kathy Long said. “This allows us to offer only the best quality plants to our customers.”

Reseda grows many different annual varieties including calibrachoa, Joseph’s Coat, lantana, and scaevola, in addition to traditional favorites like begonias, impatiens, marigolds, and vinca, as well as a large number of perennials including Delphinium, Echinacea (coneflower), Gaura, and Rudbeckia (similar to Black-Eyed Susan). They also carry a wide selection of vegetables and herbs for the spring and summer garden.

A variety of plants can be grown in containers in a smaller area. “Herb gardens and some vegetables can be grown in containers for those who do not have a large area for a garden,” explained Kathy. “We can create custom pots and baskets using containers purchased here or ones you bring from your home.” This allows the customer to enjoy colorful plants all season long with minimal effort required. Succulent gardens are one option that require very little water or care, making them easy for anyone to grow. We grow a wide range of succulents and sedums.”

Reseda carries a full line of shrubs and trees for any landscaping needs you could have. The staff is willing and able to help with landscape design and offers installation services as well. Some of the new varieties available this spring include Sunshine Ligustrum, Soft Caress Mahonia, Encore Azalea Fire, Fire Chief Arborvitae, and Mountain Snow Pieris. Reseda also carries bulk landscape materials, not just for beauty, but to help control moisture and weed control. These bulk materials can be loaded into a customer’s vehicle or delivered for a nominal charge.

For the homeowner interested in adding hardscapes to their home, Reseda carries a full line of natural stone that can be used to create pathways, walls, borders, and fireplaces, among other uses. They offer custom design and installation service for hardscapes as well. Reseda also stocks a variety of concrete and resin decorative pots, fountains, and statues.

In order to maintain a beautiful landscape and healthy garden, Reseda stocks a large selection of lawn and garden supplies. They sell fertilizers and chemicals, many of which are organic. The staff has the knowledge to help find the right product to solve any issue you may have with your lawn, garden, or landscape.

During the spring, business hours are Monday through Saturday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

For more information about Reseda, call 256-232-4887 or visit resedanursery.com. Like them on Facebook at Reseda Nursey and Stone Yard.

reseda nursery and stone Yard is located at 29877 u.s. 72 West, madison, 35756. they are eight miles east of Athens and eight miles west of Huntsville.

RESEDA NURSERY - Keeping North Alabama Beautiful


RESEDA NURSERY - Keeping North Alabama Beautiful

KENDALL OUTDOORS LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONALSWhere Every Deta i l Mat ters b y T a n j i e N a s h

As the winds of springtime herald the coming warm and sunny days of summer, the time also draws near for considering your home’s curb appeal.

If the thought of prettying up your outdoor space leaves you grasping at straws, there’s no need to worry. The landscaping professionals at Kendall Outdoors are ready to spring into action.

Jake Kendall, who grew up in Madison and holds a bachelor’s degree in landscaping and horticulture from Auburn University, launched Kendall Outdoors with the motto “Where Every Detail Matters” in mind. From start to finish that moto holds true for Kendall Outdoors clients.

“We strive to provide quality landscaping along with excellent customer service,” Jake said. “We are truly passionate in what we do and hold a high value in hard work and dedication.”

From single-family homes to large business properties, Jake is ready to put his expertise to work in building the ideal landscape, from plans on paper, to plants in the ground, to regular maintenance and upkeep.

“When someone calls wanting an estimate, we set up an appointment to discuss all of their landscape needs,” Jake said. “We usually have an estimate to them a few days after the appointment.”

From there the process progresses to a consultation between client and a landscape designer, to detailed budget planning, to a follow-up for the client’s final stamp of approval.

“We don’t build until you approve our design to the very last detail,” Jake explained. “And thanks to this patented three-step process, we’re confident you’ll love our designs.”

That process insures long-term client satisfaction. Kendall Outdoor professionals work with you to create a design that captures the essence of the project before the company’s architectural committee reviews the design. Finally the design is submitted for client approval before the installation begins.

That process, too, is planned precisely, for a smooth stress-free experience. Installation includes a pre-install walkthrough with the principal installer and lead landscape architect as well as a post-install walkthrough to insure every detail has been set in place as planned.

A 12-month maintenance contract can be customized depending on the client’s budget and other needs and all services are available for both residential and commercial clients.

“We are very detail-oriented,” explained Jake. “And we work hard to make sure we obtain the highest level of service and satisfaction in everything we do.”

From mowing, edging, weed eating, blowing, weed control, tree and shrub trimming, annual flower planting, mulching, power-washing, leaf removal, sod installation, landscape installation – landscaping maintained by Kendall Outdoors is landscaping Where every detail matters.Kendall outdoors LLC is now hosting a Youtube channel

in order to share knowledge and tips on creating and maintaining beautiful and functional outdoor spaces.

landscapingmadisonal.com • 256-476-5753


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Spring is in the air! Do you smell flowers and green grass or do you smell car wax and racing fuel? The way you answer that question

says a lot about what type of enthusiast you are. Car Show and Cruise-in season is here, but whether you’re a car enthusiast or

not, you’re sure to enjoy some of these awesome car shows.

s P r i n G 2 0 1 6 C A r s H o W s

APriL 9, 8 Am – 2 Pm Annual eckenrod Ford dealership (All Ford show)Cullman, AL • Free to Enter

APriL 23, 11 Am – 3 Pm 28th Annual st. Ann’s seafood Festival Big Fish Car Show • Live Music • Prizes 3910 Spring Avenue SW, Decatur, AL

APriL 23, 9:30 Am – 3 Pmorphan Car show Senior Center, 2200 Drake Ave, Huntsville, ALNorth Alabama Chapter of Studebaker Driver’s Club Benefits Meals on Wheels, $10 per vehicle INFO: 256-898-5691 or [email protected]

APriL 30, 8 Am – 4 Pm Car/truck/bike show Downtown Athens Square $20 Registration

mAY 7, 8 Am – 4 Pm 35th Annual ALL Ford & mustang showRocket City Mustang Clubs Madison Square Mall Huntsville, AL

See you down the road...Joseph Scott Limestone Co. Mustang Club [email protected]

mAY 14, 9:30 Am - 3 Pmeli’s big block Party, Car & truck extravaganza Lindsay Lane Baptist Church Athens, AL Vendors, • Kids activities • Live music • FoodNo entrance feeRegister at www.teamvictory4all.org

mAY 21, 8 Am - noon reGistrAtion Annual Antique & Classic Car/truck/motorcycle show and Flea market Boy Scouts of America • Goodloe Scout Center/Scout Shop 2211 Drake Ave SW, Huntsville, AL INFO: [email protected]; naraaca.org


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Dry C leaners

B i r thday Par t ies /Fami ly Fun

Men’s & Women’s C loth ing/Toys

Bank

Member FDIC | bibank.com | 256-386-5000

Running Late?We’re open ‘til 8.We’re open ‘til 8.

Auto Sa les

Massage Therapy

Gi f t Shop

Cer t i f ied Publ ic AccountantBu i ld ing Mater ia l

Bakery

Jewel ry

Grocer ies & Suppl ies


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Par t ies/Enter ta inment Rea l tor

Ref reshments

Pharmacy


Veter inary Care

YOUR AD HERE!CALL TERESA GIBBS

@ 256-431-6112



Athens-Limestone Hospitalp.O. box 999Athens, Alabama, 35612

PRST STDUS PoSTage

PAIDHUnTSville, al

PeRmiT 97A Publication of Athens-Limestone Hospital


Documents

Source - Spring 2016