ST. FRANCIS TELLS CHANGE, GIVES AWARDS

As the world moves closer to the 21st century, it is important to remember there is more to health care than just the science of diagnosis and treatment.

Quality service and a healing touch are vital to health care, and that's what patients will find at St. Francis Medical Center, said Harry Rediger, chairman of the center's board of directors, during an annual dinner held at the Show Me Center.

Employee, volunteer and patient awards were presented Thursday night at the dinner, which was attended by more than 800 people.

Understanding the mission of healing and knowing that patients are treated with the same spirit of quality care as was originally established 124 years ago is vital to the medical center, said President and chief executive officer Steven C. Bjelich.

"We are still learning to follow in the footsteps of St. Francis of Assisi," he said, referring to the hospital's patron saint.

The mission of healing and the values of the hospital have helped guide it through a year of change, Rediger said.

Merger discussions, a new president and additional physicians made for a lot of changes at St. Francis Medical Center.

But change also leads the way to success, Bjelich said. Without change, the hospital wouldn't be able to offer the newest in digital technology or neuroscience and brain surgeries that help control the tremors associated with Parkinson's disease or even community programs like West Park Walkers.

These advances in technology and new services to patients demonstrate St. Francis' commitment to bring quality health care to the region, Bjelich said.

But that commitment wouldn't be complete without the dedication and care of employees and volunteers who work at the hospital. Several people were recognized for their work in the past year.

Cathy Fehr, who works in the health information management department, was chosen as Employee of the Year by her peers. Rick Essner, an environmental engineer at St. Francis Medical Center, received the Leadership Award. He, too, was selected for the honor by employees.

Lucille Grojean was recognized as the Auxiliary Volunteer of the Year for her nearly 4,700 volunteer hours. She has been a volunteer at the hospital since 1993.

Jack Feurth, who was unable to attend the dinner, was selected for the Baumstark Award. It also recognizes volunteers; Feurth has been working with the hospital since 1973.

Larry Moon of Ste. Genevieve received the 1999 Courageous Patient Award. It is the hospital's top honor. Moon has been an inspiration to other patients during his recovery and rehabilitation at the hospital earlier this year.

He was injured on the job in March when a speeding car hit the back of a sanitation truck. He had more than 15 surgeries just to survive and is now a double amputee.

Moon did not have any prepared speech to give when he received the award. "But I'm really proud to get it," he said. He thanked the doctors, nurses and hospital staff who helped in his recovery "and getting back my health."

Patient care is the focus of all we do, Bjelich said, and sometimes we receive more than we give them. That's been true with Moon.

"He's been an inspiration to us all," Bjelich said. "His strong will did not let him give up."