HEALTHCARE the Journey FALL-WINTER 2025 ‘They gave me my life back’ Steven Piekarczyk got expert heart care, close to home page 4 Expanding care Riverside has a new permanent PET/CT scanner page 8 Don’t forget your wellness visit See why it’s so important and what to expect page 13 HEALTH IMPACTS EVERY STEP
2 RiversideHealthcare.org What’s not to love about a good night’s rest? Your mind and body need it to recharge. But when you have trouble sleeping, your health and well-being can pay the price. “During sleep, our body and brain have functions that are responsible for healing and restoring our bodies,” says Kathleen Gallagher, Manager of the Riverside Sleep Center. “When we have quality sleep, we should wake up feeling refreshed and ready for a new day. However, a lack of sleep or a prolonged sleep deprivation will leave a person feeling tired and at risk for many health problems, which can lead to obesity, heart disease, blood pressure issues, diabetes and stroke.” Too little sleep can affect your quality of life in a variety of ways, including trouble focusing and reduced productivity. Over time, it even boosts your risk of long-term health problems. “When you’re not getting enough sleep, the brain doesn’t function like it should,” says Gallagher. “It impairs your ability to think clearly throughout the day. It can definitely cause people to become depressed over time. Your body is supposed to restore and heal when it’s sleeping. If you’re not able to do that, it’s going to take its toll on you over time.” Talk to your doctor If you often have trouble sleeping, talk to your primary care provider to see if you could benefit from a sleep study. Learn more about the Riverside Sleep Center by visiting RiversideHealthcare.org/sleep. Sources: American Heart Association; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute; Sleep Foundation Get better sleep Do you find it hard to fall asleep? If so, you can set the stage for sound slumber by making good sleep habits part of your routine: ● Stick to a sleep schedule. Go to bed and get up at the same time, even on weekends. This helps your mind feel sleepy at your regular bedtime. ● Dim the lights. As bedtime approaches, try turning off a few lights to help you gradually wind down and prepare for rest. ● Turn off your devices too. Blue light from computers, smartphones, TVs and other screens causes your body to produce less of the hormone melatonin, which promotes sleep. Give yourself at least an hour of screen-free time before bedtime. ● Get moving during the day. Exercising regularly can improve your sleep—as long as you don’t do it too late in the evening, which can keep you alert. ● Keep your bedroom cool and cozy. Bedrooms that are too hot or too cold can disrupt sleep. Many people can fall asleep more easily when the temperature is on the cooler side—between 65 and 68 degrees. ● Try a soothing activity before you turn in. Doing something soothing in the hour before bedtime might help you settle into sweet slumber. Maybe that’s listening to relaxing music, meditating, reading or taking a warm bath. ● Keep naps to a minimum. Naps that are too long or too late in the day can make it hard to sleep later at night. Restrict your naps to 20 minutes and take them earlier in the afternoon. Better sleep is all about routine
Fall-Winter 2025 3 THE JOURNEY is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of RIVERSIDE HEALTHCARE, 350 N. Wall St., Kankakee, IL 60901, telephone (815) 933-1671, RiversideHealthcare.org. HEALTHCARE Information in THE JOURNEY comes from a wide range of medical experts. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your healthcare provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2025 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Follow Us Elevating the patient experience Being the first in the area to bring a technology to patients is exciting. Having that technology make a difference in a patient’s life is everything. Earlier this year, Riverside Healthcare’s Medical Plaza in Bourbonnais upgraded its imaging technology while adding a PET/CT scanner— the first and only permanent scanner in the region. Additionally, in this space, Riverside is proud to introduce our new state-ofthe-art CT and MRI scanners. These leading-edge upgrades at our Bourbonnais Campus are already elevating the patient experience and equipping our staff with invaluable resources. These scanners offer a variety of diagnostic capabilities, including the ability to diagnose, stage and plan treatment for patients with various forms of cancer. They also help evaluate and diagnose brain abnormalities. Not long after these services went live, I received a call from the site supervisor who wanted to share a special interaction with a patient. The patient was nothing but complimentary of the new machine, saying it made such an improvement to his life compared to the previously used mobile imaging units. That patient, Henry Bittmann, shares his story in his own words on page 8. It’s because of our patients and community that we continue to invest in the latest and greatest technology, making the experience as efficient and effective as possible. This is true across all of our locations, which have consistently grown to better serve the region. None of this would be possible without the support of generous donors and community advocacy. Nor would it be possible without a dedicated and caring staff. I sincerely thank you all for your continued efforts. Thanks for reading, and be healthy. Phil Kambic President and CEO, Riverside Healthcare Making the most of myRiverside myRiverside MyChart is a secure online health connection for you to access all of your health information in one place. With myRiverside MyChart, you can access your electronic medical record and take it wherever you go. You can access your health information on your desktop or through the app on your phone or tablet. myRiverside MyChart allows you to take control of your health by scheduling appointments, checking test results, paying bills, messaging your doctor and more. You can also request access to your family’s health records so that you can manage care for your children, spouse or parents too. Take the hassle out of your healthcare Download the myRiverside app from the Apple App Store or Google Play today! Or sign up at riversidemychart.org.
4 RiversideHealthcare.org When Steven Piekarczyk began feeling short of breath in 2024, he thought he might be experiencing the onset of asthma. He certainly didn’t suspect a heart problem. Then his symptoms took a turn for the worse. “My chest just kind of clamped down, and I wasn’t sure what was going on,” says Piekarczyk, 62. “People say a heart attack is the worst pain you’ve ever had in your life. Well, it wasn’t like that. It was just a constant restricted feeling.” His brother took him to Riverside Healthcare’s emergency department, where doctors found the problem: Piekarczyk had several blocked coronary arteries. To restore blood flow to his heart, cardiothoracic surgeon Philip Alexander, MD, performed quadruple coronary artery bypass surgery. “When Dr. Alexander walks into A heart in good hands Expert care, right here at Riverside a room, he has a commanding presence. He’s 100% business, and you feel that he’s the best of the best,” Piekarczyk says. “I wasn’t nervous at all. I thought, if anyone could save me, it’s this guy.” The road back to health Piekarczyk’s surgery was successful. But a few days later, he went into cardiac arrest and had to be resuscitated. To reduce his future risk of cardiac arrest, his heart team implanted a combined pacemaker and ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator) under his skin. The device helps regulate his heartbeat and, if it senses a life-threatening abnormal heartbeat, it delivers a shock to correct the problem. Piekarczyk’s recovery from his heart attack and open-heart surgery included inpatient rehabilitation, followed by home-based rehab guided by his Riverside team. He then enrolled in outpatient cardiac rehabilitation, a tailored program of exercise and heart-health education. Lucas Kime is an exercise physiologist who worked with Piekarczyk at Riverside’s Bourbonnais Campus. “I would say 99% of cardiac rehab participants just want to get back to their normal,” Kime says. “That’s where we fit in.” Help at every step Cardiac rehab gives people the confidence and competence to safely resume a physically active lifestyle after a major heart event, Kime says. Participants exercise on a variety of equipment, such as treadmills and stationary bikes, to gradually rebuild strength and endurance. “Steven was weaker than he wanted to be when he came in,” Kime says.
Fall-Winter 2025 5 “But he gave it his all every single session. He was dripping in sweat and always wanting to do more.” Cardiac rehab participants also learn to make heart-healthy lifestyle changes to reduce their risk of future heart problems, like heart attacks. “Studies show that people who complete the program statistically have a significantly higher advantage of not having a repeat event,” says Tyler Boudreau, exercise physiologist and supervisor of cardiopulmonary rehab at Riverside. Cardiac rehab is typically offered three times a week for 36 sessions. Additional sessions are available through a private-pay option. The exercise training is medically supervised. “That took away any apprehension I had about really putting effort into it,” Piekarczyk says. “They monitor your heart rate, and if it gets too high or they think you’re working too hard, they’ll come by and say, ‘Hey, knock it down a little bit.’” “It’s a very guided program,” Boudreau adds. “Medical professionals are here to help you at every step.” A life unlimited Piekarczyk hoped cardiac rehab would improve his fitness enough to resume activities like cutting firewood, gardening and playing golf—and it has. In fact, he says, he’s in better shape than he was before his heart attack. He has also returned to his job as a railroad conductor. Piekarczyk is grateful for all the cardiac care he received close to home at Riverside Healthcare, from his open-heart surgery to cardiac rehab. “Their heart program and everything associated with it was top of the line,” he says. “I wanted my life back, and they gave me my life back.” Take charge of your heart health Specialty cardiac care and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation are available in Bourbonnais, Kankakee and Watseka. Find out how we can help you at myrhc.net/ heart.
6 RiversideHealthcare.org Risk factors There are a few things that can increase your risk of endometriosis, including: • A family history of the condition • Starting your period at an early age (before age 11) • Short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days) • Heavy or long periods (lasting more than 7 days) Treatment options While there is no cure for endometriosis, several treatments can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life, including: ● Medication. Doctors often recommend over-the-counter pain medicine or hormone therapy to slow endometrial growth. ● Surgery. A procedure to remove endometrial tissue may help with pain and improve fertility. In extreme cases, a hysterectomy may be considered. ● Lifestyle changes. Managing stress, exercising regularly and eating a balanced diet may help reduce symptoms. If you’ve dealt with painful, long or heavy periods, you could be living with endometriosis. Many women are—it affects about 1 in 10. “Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the lining of the uterus—called endometrial tissue— grows outside of the uterus,” says Leanne Bishop, MSN, APRN, CNM, Riverside Women’s Health provider. “This can cause pain, swelling and scar tissue, which may make your life pretty miserable.” In addition to causing significant pain, endometriosis can cause other issues. For instance, it’s strongly linked with infertility. Nearly 40% of women who have difficulty conceiving have endometriosis. The condition can also increase your risk of ovarian cancer. Endometriosis is a relatively common condition, but it still isn’t well understood. The cause isn’t yet known, and there’s no cure. Still, if you’re living with endometriosis, there are steps you can take to ease symptoms, reduce pain and improve your quality of life. Here’s what you need to know. Sources: American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; MedlinePlus; National Institutes of Health Help is available If you have questions about endometriosis, make an appointment with one of our providers by visiting myrhc.net/wmn schedule or calling (815) 214-9120. Understanding endometriosis Signs and symptoms Pelvic pain, especially before and during your period, is often a symptom of endometriosis. Some people also experience pain during or after sex, discomfort with bowel movements or urination, or heavy menstrual bleeding. What makes endometriosis especially tricky, however, is that the severity of symptoms doesn’t always match the extent of the condition. This means that some people with minor growths have extreme pain, while others with more severe endometriosis may feel only a little discomfort. And some people have no symptoms at all.
Fall-Winter 2025 7 Comprehensive cancer care Meet Riverside Cancer Institute’s multidisciplinary team Advancements in cancer treatment require dedicated healthcare professionals. At the Riverside Cancer Institute, a multidisciplinary team delivers comprehensive patient care every day. “We [continue to] evolve in our care for patients, adding more players to our multidisciplinary team as well as continually adding more and more treatment options to best care for our patients and ensure the best outcomes,” says Kirstin Carson, Riverside Healthcare’s Director of Oncology and Rheumatology Services. A wide range of experts In addition to doctors, nurse practitioners and nurses, the Cancer Institute team consists of radiation therapists, medical assistants, a navigator, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians, a laboratory technician, social workers, a dietitian, pastoral care, and authorization specialists. Operating across Bourbonnais, Coal City, Frankfort and Watseka campuses, the team works together and often travels between locations to ensure a cohesive patient experience. “Most of our referrals come through one team and our navigator,” Carson explains. “That team then reviews the patient’s records and information and works with the teams at the different sites to schedule the patient closest to their home for their convenience.” Convenient access Within Riverside’s cancer treatment sites is point-of-care testing for the lab, with a lab technician and equipment on-site. Blood can be drawn for patients before their provider visits or treatments, and, with the ability to obtain the results within the hour, it’s determined if the patient can receive treatment. Once it’s determined that treatment is safe, the on-site pharmacy staff can immediately mix the drugs for infusion. This helps to decrease wait times for the patients, and they can be treated on the same day. In many other healthcare systems, these steps happen across several visits. Often, there is no pharmacy on-site, so medications must be mixed at a separate site and brought to the site of care, causing long wait times for patients. “We are very proud to minimize this time and provide all of these services same-day,” Carson said. “Many treatments are lengthy and, at times, leave patients not feeling well or fatigued. Minimizing travel, appointments and wait times truly helps patients in their journeys, giving them more time to heal in the comfort of their homes.” Interested in our services? For more information on the Riverside Cancer Institute, visit myrhc.net/cancer or call (815) 214-9076.
8 RiversideHealthcare.org New PET/CT technology: Always here when you need it Scans are a critical tool in cancer diagnosis and treatment In 2016, Henry Bittmann found a bump on his right leg that he thought was a pimple. “And then I got out of the shower one day, and it was bleeding,” says Bittmann, now 74. “That’s when all this started.” He’s talking about his decadelong journey with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC), a rare and aggressive skin cancer. Following surgery and radiation, the retired facilities engineer began an immunotherapy regimen that’s helped to control his cancer. He has regular PET/CT scans to monitor his disease and how well his treatments are working. The experience of getting those scans has improved for Bittmann and other people with cancer—thanks to new imaging technology. Permanent PET/CT unit is a first Riverside Healthcare has expanded imaging technology at the Bourbonnais Campus by installing three brand-new medical imaging units within a newly constructed 5,000-square-foot imaging suite: a new CT scanner, a new MRI unit and a new PET/CT scanner, all of which offer patients quicker results with shorter wait times. The new PET/CT is the region’s first and only permanent unit. Prior to that, patients had their scans in a mobile unit that visited the area weekly or monthly. Having an inhouse PET/CT unit offers easier and more timely scheduling options when patients need a scan right away—for example, when doctors need to know whether a cancer has spread so they can determine the most effective treatments. “It was time to optimize our patient experience and deliver in-house Riverside Healthcare Imaging Services staff members celebrate the new permanent PET/CT scanner during an open house event.
Fall-Winter 2025 9 PET/CT services,” says Garrard Hendrix, Riverside Medical Center’s Nuclear Medicine Supervisor. “Now, we’ve always provided fixed MRI and CT solutions at our Bourbonnais clinic. However, it’s Riverside’s principal intent to provide our patients with the most cutting-edge technology as the premier healthcare provider in this county, as well as in surrounding communities.” A better experience Last April, Bittmann had his first scan on the new PET/CT unit. “This time, it seemed like it was very fast,” he says. “There’s less time that you’re lying in the machine. It’s a lot more efficient.” A quicker scan helped make the experience more comfortable for Bittmann, who also has a bad back that makes it hard for him to lie still for long periods. He also praised the high-quality images his doctors were able to obtain. “I think it was a good investment for Riverside, because it’s close to home,” Bittmann says. “I only need to go a couple of miles from my house, instead of having to go all the way up to Chicago and deal with all that traffic up there.” The addition of permanent PET/CT technology at Bourbonnais means that patients who need a scan, including those newly diagnosed with cancer, won’t have to wait for a mobile unit to arrive. “It’s good for the community to have that piece of equipment here locally,” Bittmann says. Need an appointment? Imaging services are available with a doctor’s order. New patients can call Radiology Services at (815) 214-9281. Existing Riverside patients can either call us or schedule a future or same-day appointment online through myRiverside MyChart. How PET/CT works A PET/CT scan is a nuclear imaging technique that combines a PET (positron emission tomography) scan with a CT (computed tomography) scan. Patients receive a small amount of an injected radioactive substance. The substance can be similar to glucose (sugar), which tumors absorb at a high rate. Because of the way cancer cells use glucose, they “light up” on a PET scan. PET/CT scans have a variety of uses. They can help doctors find cancer, determine if cancer has spread and monitor the effectiveness of treatments, for instance. Scans can also be used to help manage other conditions, like heart and brain disorders.
10 RiversideHealthcare.org Did you break a bone? Are you suffering from carpal tunnel? Has chronic pain taken over your life? Don’t let these issues keep you from doing what you love. An orthopedic specialist can help. These providers treat conditions involving bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, muscles and nerves. When to see an orthopedic specialist Visit the emergency room for serious injuries, acute trauma and intense pain. For ongoing, nonemergency symptoms, talk to your primary care provider about orthopedic treatment. Signs that you should visit an orthopedic specialist include: Get back to doing what you love To learn more about orthopedic treatment options, talk to your primary care provider or contact Riverside Orthopedic Specialists by calling (815) 214-9087 or visiting ChooseRiversideOrtho.com. What is an orthopedic specialist? ● Persistent pain that doesn’t improve with rest ● Limited range of motion in a joint ● Swelling or bruising after an injury ● Difficulty bearing weight on a limb ● Numbness or tingling in hands or fingers What happens next? Your provider will conduct an evaluation and develop a personalized care plan to address your needs. Nonsurgical approaches, like pain management or physical therapy, will likely be the first courses of action. If these don’t work, orthopedic specialists have the expertise to perform surgery to repair an injury or correct a condition. Orthopedic specialists are essential to helping patients maintain mobility and quality of life. Whether it’s recovering from an injury, managing a chronic condition or undergoing surgery, their expertise is invaluable in restoring health and function. If you’re dealing with musculoskeletal pain or limitations, consulting an orthopedic specialist could be the key to getting back on your feet. “Our goal is to help you feel better and get back to your daily routine as soon as possible, whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior or just dealing with some stubborn joint pain,” says Jessica Norman, FNP-BC, a nurse practitioner at Riverside Orthopedic Specialists. Sources: American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons; American Medical Society for Sports Medicine What orthopedic specialists treat Orthopedic specialists can help with a wide variety of conditions, including: ● Arthritis ● Carpal tunnel syndrome ● Chronic pain ● Fractures ● Infections ● Joint replacements ● Muscle tears ● Sports injuries ● Tennis or golf elbow
Fall-Winter 2025 11 Understanding ABA therapy Building skills and confidence in children with autism Applied behavior analysis, or ABA therapy, is a well-researched, highly effective approach to helping children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder develop essential life skills. At Riverside Healthcare, our ABA Therapy Clinic provides this proven intervention to children ages 3 to 8, offering families structured support and hope for meaningful progress. What is it? ABA therapy focuses on teaching and reinforcing positive behaviors, such as communication, social interaction and daily living skills. It also helps reduce behaviors that may interfere with learning and development. Each child’s plan is personalized and led by a board-certified behavior analyst (BCBA), who works one-on-one with the child and collaborates closely with parents and caregivers. “ABA therapy is about meeting each child where they are and giving them the tools they need to succeed,” says Rachel LaGesse, MSW, LCSW, Director of Riverside Outpatient Behavioral Health Services. “It’s not just about the therapy sessions themselves, but about empowering families and helping children gain confidence in everyday life.” How does it work? Therapy sessions take place in a safe and nurturing environment that promotes learning through play and routine. Whether a child is learning how to communicate their needs, take turns with a peer or follow multistep directions, ABA therapy helps break these goals into manageable steps while celebrating progress along the way. Parent involvement is a key part of the program. Families receive coaching and support so the skills learned in therapy can carry over to home and school. This creates consistency and reinforces success. With ABA therapy, children are not only learning. They are growing, connecting and building a stronger foundation for the future. If you think your child may benefit from ABA therapy, or if you have questions about whether this program is the right fit, talk to your child’s pediatrician. They can help guide you through the referral process and determine if ABA therapy is an appropriate next step. Riverside’s ABA Therapy Clinic is here to support families every step of the way, helping children build the skills they need to thrive.
12 RiversideHealthcare.org Riverside Medical Center partners with Trauma Survivors Network To provide comprehensive treatment and support for trauma patients, Riverside Medical Center has partnered with Trauma Survivors Network (TSN). This network aims to connect survivors, enhance skills and build a supportive community. Riverside Medical Center, a Level II Trauma hospital, is Illinois’ first and only hospital to offer this partnership. “I’m thrilled to partner with the Trauma Survivors Network to bring vital resources not only to our patients at Riverside, but to the entire community,” says Dana Arseneau, Riverside’s Trauma Program Coordinator. Why it matters Established by the American Trauma Society, TSN focuses on connecting, educating and empowering trauma survivors and their families, offering resources and advocacy for improved recovery. Through its partnership with Riverside Medical Center, TSN will serve as a resource to patients recovering from a traumatic medical event. Through this partnership, patients will receive information and resources Shining a light on trauma care about Riverside Healthcare and the communities it serves. In addition to community resources, the TSN website offers peer visitation, support groups and family classes— both in-person and virtually. Another virtual option is NextSteps, a program based on the principles of self-management. “We want to make sure our community knows that trauma care doesn’t just happen in the moment of emergency,” says Arseneau. “There’s an entire system behind the scenes ensuring that patients receive the best possible care from the second they arrive.” Arseneau noted the hospital’s designation as a Level II Trauma Center and emphasized the ongoing education, coordination and performance improvement efforts that allow Riverside Healthcare to deliver high-quality trauma care. Through collaboration with first responders and local agencies, trauma care is truly a team effort. Moving forward, the goal is to grow the partnership by having patient advocates available for on-site support groups at Riverside as well as a walk/run awareness event. Join us Find upcoming programs and events at traumasurvivorsnetwork.org/ trauma-centers-314. Riverside Healthcare’s Trauma Survivors Network team gathered at the Kankakee Farmers’ Market over the summer to share information on the program and encourage people to write a note to a trauma survivor.
Fall-Winter 2025 13 Going to the doctor isn’t just for when you feel sick. Visiting your doctor when you’re well is important too. It’s called preventive care, and it helps you stay healthy by catching problems early and reducing your risk of serious illness. “Wellness visits are regular checkups that focus on prevention rather than treatment,” says Payal Patel, MD, a primary care provider at Riverside Healthcare. “They give your provider the chance to identify potential health concerns before they become serious and help you manage any chronic conditions. They also provide an opportunity to discuss lifestyle choices, nutrition and other factors that affect long-term health.” Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American Academy of Pediatrics; American Medical Association; MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia Take charge of your health Preventive care helps you stay ahead of potential health problems. Don’t wait until you feel sick—schedule your wellness visit today. A simple checkup can make a big difference in your long-term health. If you have questions about wellness visits, make an appointment with one of our providers by visiting myrhc.net/acceptingnew. What to expect at a wellness visit A wellness visit may include: ● A full health review. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, lifestyle and any concerns you have. ● Physical exam. Height, weight, blood pressure and other health metrics are checked. ● Screenings and tests. Depending on your age and risk factors, screenings may include vision, hearing, cholesterol and others. ● Immunizations. Your doctor will check that you’re up-to-date on your vaccinations and administer new ones as needed. ● Health and wellness guidance. Your doctor may offer advice on diet, exercise, mental health and more. When to schedule your next wellness visit Adults should have regular wellness visits. Most health insurance plans recommend annual wellness visits, but you may need checkups more often depending on your recommended screenings or chronic conditions. Children need more frequent wellness visits, especially in the first few years of life. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends: ● Infants and toddlers: visits at 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15, 18 and 24 months ● Ages 3 years and up: yearly checkups Who needs wellness visits? No matter your age, wellness visits are important. Kids and adults both benefit from these visits, though their needs may be different. Wellness visits are for everyone
14 RiversideHealthcare.org G R L I V I N G G R L I V I N G G R L I V I N G For two decades, Riverside has been an area leader in brain and spine care, transforming patients’ lives throughout the community through advanced care and leading-edge technology. Now, in their 20th year, the award-winning neurosciences team at Riverside has a new name: Riverside Brain & Spine Institute. Providing comprehensive treatment An integrated, team-based approach to care means patients are supported through every step of their recovery. By combining the expertise of specialists in neurosurgery, neurology and rehabilitation, Riverside Healthcare and the Brain & Spine Institute can offer a comprehensive treatment plan that meets each patient’s needs. Riverside’s continuing commitment to providing the highest quality care has included investing in area-exclusive technology, such as the new neurointerventional suite at Riverside Medical Center with a Expert care, close to home To learn more about the Riverside Brain & Spine Institute, visit myrhc.net/brain-spine or call (815) 214-9294. state-of-the-art biplane angiography system. With this equipment, an endovascular neurosurgeon can better treat conditions such as strokes, aneurysms, arteriovenous malformations, arteriovenous fistulas and tumors. Elevating stroke care In stroke care, every second counts, and Riverside’s quick and effective response has made a significant impact on patient outcomes. The statistics are staggering: Over 15 million people suffer a stroke each year, with stroke being the fourth leading cause of death in the United States and a leading cause of disability. Riverside’s multidisciplinary stroke team is dedicated to providing immediate, specialized care to reduce the risk of long-term damage. New name, same great care Celebrating 20 years of leading-edge brain and spine care at Riverside Riverside’s success is more than just numbers—it’s about providing compassionate, quality care to those who need it most, right in the heart of the community. “Patients can trust us because we’re here, we’re local and we understand their unique needs,” says Juan Jimenez, MD, Riverside neurosurgeon. “Having a consistent, experienced team that you know and trust is vital, especially when dealing with complex neurological issues. It’s much easier for patients to receive quality care right here at home rather than having to travel.”
Fall-Winter 2025 15 K A N K A K E E I R O Q U O I S W I L L C O O K R U N D Y G S T O N F O R D Kankakee Bradley Momence Manteno Wilmington Coal City Pembroke Watseka Gilman Frankfort Ashkum St. Anne Herscher Bourbonnais 57 55 80 1 52 45 45 52 17 53 47 24 6 30 41 17 102 113 115 45 52 (815) 933-1671 350 North Wall Street | Kankakee, Illinois 60901 RiversideHealthcare.org Revised 7/2024 Learn more about the way we care. Main Campus Riverside Medical Center (including emergency room) Healthcare Campuses Bourbonnais Campus Coal City Campus* Frankfort Campus Watseka Campus* Immediate Care Bradley/Atrium Coal City Kankakee/Pavilion Watseka Ambulance Stations Ashkum Bradley Gilman Herscher Momence St. Anne Watseka Outpatient Centers Kankakee East Court Pembroke Manteno Wilmington Momence Senior Life Communities Kankakee Campus Bourbonnais Campus *Immediate Care services on-site RIVERSIDE SERVICE AREA K A N K A K E E I R O Q U O I S R U N D Y G S T O N F O R D Kankakee Bradley Momence Pembroke Watseka Gilman Ashkum St. Anne Herscher Bourbonnais 55 1 52 45 17 24 41 17 113 115 45 52 (815) 933-1671 350 North Wall Street | Kankakee, Illinois 60901 RiversideHealthcare.org Learn more about the way we care. Kankakee/Pavilion Watseka Ambulance Stations Ashkum Bradley Gilman Herscher Momence St. Anne Watseka Outpatient Centers Kankakee East Court Pembroke Manteno Wilmington Momence Senior Life Communities Kankakee Campus Bourbonnais Campus *Immediate Care services on-site K A N K A K E E I R O Q U O I S R U N D Y G S T O N F O R D Kankakee Bradley Momence Manteno Wilmington Coal City Pembroke Watseka Gilman Ashkum St. Anne Herscher Bourbonnais 55 1 52 45 52 17 47 24 41 17 102 113 115 45 52 (815) 933-1671 350 North Wall Street | Kankakee, Illinois 60901 RiversideHealthcare.org Learn more about the way we care. Coal City Campus* Frankfort Campus Watseka Campus* Immediate Care Bradley/Atrium Coal City Kankakee/Pavilion Watseka Ambulance Stations Ashkum Bradley Gilman Herscher Momence St. Anne Watseka Outpatient Centers Kankakee East Court Pembroke Manteno Wilmington Momence Senior Life Communities Kankakee Campus Bourbonnais Campus *Immediate Care services on-site Revised 2/2025
HEALTHCARE 350 N. Wall St. Kankakee, IL 60901 Standard U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Ways to listen “Well Within Reach” and “Conversations on Cancer” are available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to podcasts. Make sure to subscribe, share with friends and leave a review! A dose of wellness on the go! Riverside Healthcare puts the right dose of health in the wellness information you need. Listen to our podcast series, “Well Within Reach,” to get the latest health and wellness information from our team of experts, including doctors, medical staff and leaders in the healthcare field. The Riverside Cancer Institute is here to provide you with everything you need to know about cancer. On the “Conversations on Cancer” podcast, our team of experts discusses everything from treatment options and new technology to cancer myths versus facts. You’ll also hear stories of courage, strength and resilience. Join our award-winning team! Various roles available across all locations. Apply today.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy ODQ1MTY=