INSPIRE “You notice the little changes every time,” she says. “Those little changes are amazing.” ‘The smiles are always there’ Barsness credits more than the dialysis treatments for the improvements she has experienced. She says the entire CMH team has made the difference. From financial counselors who helped her secure insurance coverage to a dietitian, a social worker and the dialysis staff, Barsness says everyone works together to support patients. “If they don’t have an answer, they will find one,” she says. “It’s like having your own team.” She also appreciates receiving care close to home and the support she receives each time she visits the center. “If something ever goes wrong, I know I can call my team,” she says. “Each time I come in to the center, it’s a warm welcome. It can be a bad day or good day—the smiles are always there.” Sharing a message of hope Looking back, Barsness is grateful for the care that gave her hope when she had almost lost it. “Don’t ever give up,” she says. “Come meet my team. See how great they are. They believe in you, and you will believe in yourself.” Today, she describes herself as living proof of the difference compassionate care can make. “I really think I owe my life to CMH Dialysis Center,” she says. “They saved my life.” —Continued from previous page 2026 CMH Foundation Soirée raises more than $100,000 The third annual Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation Soirée raised more than $100,000. This year’s event benefits the CMH Dialysis Center and CMH Nephrology Clinic. The Citizens Memorial Health Care Foundation is establishing a patient assistance fund to help patients receiving dialysis and nephrology care with needs associated with treatment, including transportation and nutritional supplements. The Soirée is the Foundation’s premier annual fundraising event, bringing the community together to support patient care and healthcare services at CMH. The 2027 CMH Foundation Soirée is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 25, at the estate of John and Maria Kallenbach. Making a difference for dialysis patients The CMH Dialysis Center and Nephrology Clinic Patient Assistance Fund helps support patients receiving care at the CMH Dialysis Center who may face financial challenges related to their treatment. “We do see a lot of patients who are very restricted with their income because they are no longer able to work,” says Meleah Howard, CMH social worker. “That not only puts a strain on our patients but also on their families. This fund helps by filling in those gaps so they can focus on their medical care.” Donations help provide assistance with essential needs such as transportation, meals and approved dietary supplements, allowing patients to focus on their health and continuing the care they need. Every gift makes a meaningful difference for local patients and their families. “It really truly is a joy to see the relief that can come off of the patients when I say we have a resource for that,” Howard says. Donate now Learn more about donating to the CMH Foundation at cmhbolivar.info/giving. You can designate gifts for the Dialysis Center. Or contact Jennifer Stegner at development@citizensmemorial.com or 417-328-6318. Find support close to home The CMH Dialysis Center is here to provide the care, resources and support you need. Call 417-328-7373 to learn more about our services.
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