In Their Words

In honor of Donate Life Month, this episode of In Their Words features Rebecca Brown, Director of the Kidney Transplant Program at UPMC in Central Pa., offering an inside look at what transplant care truly involves.From evaluation to life after transplant, Rebecca walks through the full journey patients and families experience. She shares what it means when a patient gets “the call,” the realities behind the growing transplant waitlist, and the critical role of living donors in saving lives.Through both clinical insight and human connection, this conversation highlights the urgency, the hope, and the impact of organ donation.

Candice S. Coleman, Workplace Culture and Community Engagement Consultant at UPMC Central Pa., David Krissman, creator of The Great Social Experiment, and Riley Brubaker, Campaign Associate for The Great Social Experiment and a kidney transplant recipient, come together to share a powerful look at the impact of living kidney donation. Candice reflects on donating a kidney to save a family member’s life, while Riley offers her lived experience navigating kidney failure, dialysis, transplant, and recovery. Listen in to hear how lifesaving donations brought these three together and the remarkable stories that fuel The Great Social Experiment and its mission to change outcomes for patients in need.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Jennifer Rascoe, stroke coordinator at Harrisburg Hospital with UPMC, as she shares her innovative approach to community health outreach. After transitioning from luxury property management to nursing at age 30, Jennifer has dedicated her career to stroke prevention and care.In this episode, Jennifer discusses her groundbreaking barbershop outreach program, born from witnessing too many young men in their 30s and 40s arriving at the hospital with preventable strokes. Rather than waiting for people to come to traditional healthcare settings, Jennifer takes health education directly to the community—starting conversations about blood pressure, stroke prevention, and overcoming the fear of medical knowledge in the familiar, trusted environment of local barbershops.Discover how Jennifer's personal, conversational approach is breaking down barriers to healthcare access, addressing everything from stroke symptoms (using the BE-FAST acronym) to connecting people with primary care physicians and community resources. Learn why she believes "we can't be more afraid of knowledge than we are of death" and how her program is expanding to beauty salons with plans to include stroke survivors sharing their stories.This episode highlights the power of meeting people where they are and the impact one person can make in preventing devastating, yet often preventable, health outcomes in their community.

Katlyn Brummet is a Registered Nurse with experience in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. Their background reflects a strong focus on clinical practice and patient care within diverse healthcare settings., a lifelong Hanover resident and Labor and Delivery nurse at UPMC Hanover, joins us to share how scholarships from the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation have shaped her journey in healthcare. Inspired at a young age by the nurse who cared for her grandfather, Katlyn has spent more than a decade caring for women in her community and is now pursuing an advanced degree to expand the level of care she can provide. Through the Foundation’s scholarship support, she has been able to continue her education without placing additional financial strain on her family. Listen in to hear Katlyn ’s story, the impact of investing in local caregivers, and why supporting the next generation of clinical leaders strengthens care across our region.

What inspires someone to step into the mental health field—and how can a scholarship help make that possible?In this episode of In Their Words, brought to you by UPMC in Central Pa. and the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, we sit down with Sasha, a nurse and recent scholarship recipient who turned personal challenges into a mission to serve others. From navigating graduate school, to honoring the legacy of a colleague, to finding her path in psychiatric mental health care, Sasha’s story is one of resilience, compassion, and community.Through the Foundation’s commitment to workforce development, scholarships like Sasha’s are helping to build a stronger, more compassionate healthcare team right here in Central Pa. Listen now and hear how your support makes stories like Sasha’s possible.

In this episode, we’re joined by Emily Sullivan, VP of Operations at the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, to explore the inception of the Grateful Patient Program and the powerful role gratitude plays in our work. Emily shares how the program was built, why grateful patients are such an important part of philanthropy in healthcare, and how expressions of thanks help inspire meaningful connections, fuel generosity, and ultimately shape the care we provide across our communities.

After a major health issue changed the course of his life, longtime audio industry leader and community volunteer Ted Leamy discovered a new purpose in patient advocacy and gratitude. Drawing on decades of leadership experience, Ted now serves on the boards of UPMC Lititz and the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, volunteers with Cedars-Sinai’s Patient and Family Council, and speaks nationally to ostomy support groups. In this episode, he reflects on the medical journey that reshaped his outlook and the power of gratitude to transform both healing and service.

Jessie Myers serves as a People Experience Partner with Quandel, where she oversees the day-to-day operations of the HR department and manages employee benefits. As part of her role, she partners with UPMC Cares to coordinate biometric screenings for Quandel’s workforce.In this episode, Jessie shares how working alongside the UPMC Cares nursing team, including Maureen Zimmerman from Episode 1, has deepened her appreciation for their skill and compassion. She talks about how well the nurses know the employees they serve and how their expertise makes her own work easier and more meaningful, offering an inside look at the collaborative effort behind supporting employee wellness.

In this episode of In Their Words, we spotlight Maureen Zimmerman, Director of Corporate Wellness at UPMC, and the innovative CARES program—Corporate Ambassador Resource and Employer Solutions. Maureen shares how her team brings health screenings, biometric testing, CPR training, and personalized wellness education directly to workplaces and communities across Central PA. From uncovering undiagnosed high blood pressure to empowering employers to care for their staff in meaningful ways, CARES is changing lives, one on-site visit at a time.Listeners will hear how this small but mighty team helps people take that crucial first step toward better health—especially those who may never otherwise walk through a clinic door. With help from the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, CARES is bridging gaps, saving lives, and proving that sometimes, a 20-minute screening can lead to lifelong transformation.

At UPMC Lititz, even the smallest changes make a big difference for mothers and newborns.In the latest episode of In Their Words, brought to you by UPMC in Central Pa. and the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, postpartum nurses Brenda and Ann share their unique journeys into nursing—and how new bassinets, warmers, and the right resources are helping families during a record baby boom at Lititz.Listen now and discover how compassionate care, trusted community connections, and the right tools can transform those first moments of life.

In this episode of In Their Words, we sit down with Tammy, Kayla, and Jasmee—three NICU nurses from UPMC Lititz and UPMC Harrisburg—who brought the Sweet Pea Project to life at UPMC in Central Pa. What started as a simple idea has blossomed into a program that celebrates every milestone for the tiniest patients, from colorful ribbons marking progress to graduation caps at discharge.Through their compassion and creativity, these nurses have created moments of joy and encouragement for families during some of their most challenging days. Supported by the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, the Sweet Pea is proof that even the smallest gestures can make the biggest difference.Join us as we share the story of Sweet Pea—an inspiring example of how hope, love, and innovation thrive in the NICU.

In this powerful episode of In Their Words, we hear from Shannon Downey, Intake Services Director at Cumberland County Children and Youth Services. With a decade of experience in child welfare, Shannon offers an unflinching look at what it means to be one of the first responders in cases of suspected child abuse. She walks us through the high-stakes, emotionally demanding process her team undertakes—partnering with law enforcement, ensuring a child's immediate safety, and working alongside the Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) in Harrisburg.Listeners gain insight into the critical role CAC plays beyond forensic interviews—from providing trauma-informed care and mental health coordination to being a vital training and support hub for caseworkers. Shannon reflects on the personal drive that keeps her in this field, the misconceptions the public holds about child protective services, and why community awareness and donor support are essential to sustaining this life-saving work. With stories of heartbreak, hope, and healing, this episode underscores the ripple effect of showing up for a child in crisis—and how the smallest acts of support can change the trajectory of a life.

In this episode, we sit down with Jordan Luther, Mental Health Coordinator at the UPMC in Central Pa. Child Advocacy Center in Carlisle. Jordan shares the many ways that mental health coordinators—and the entire dedicated team at the Child Advocacy Center—make a profound difference in the lives of children impacted by neglect and abuse. He also discusses the vital role of the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation in ensuring that patients and their families never see a bill, making compassionate, high-quality care accessible during an incredibly difficult time.While the topic is a difficult one, it’s an important conversation about hope, healing, and the people working tirelessly to protect children in our communities.Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussion of abuse, which may be distressing for some listeners.

In Part 2 of Stories of Hope and Healing, we revisit the tiniest patients of UPMC in Central Pa.’s NICU—this time as thriving toddlers. Recorded at the 2025 NICU Reunion, parents of babies born in 2022 share, in their own words, what life was like during those first critical days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, and what it means to see their children grow, laugh, and play today. It’s a moving reminder of the skill, compassion, and dedication of NICU teams, and the profound impact of care made possible through UPMC in Central Pa. and the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with two inspiring leaders in pediatric healthcare—Abby Flanders, Executive Administrator at UPMC Central PA, and Dr. Becky Smith, Pediatric ICU physician at UPMC Children’s in Harrisburg. They reflect on their personal journeys into medicine, what drew them to pediatrics, and how early influences—like childhood dreams and family role models—shaped their careers. Abby shares how she transitioned from bedside nursing to leadership, and Dr. Smith opens up about the fast-paced, emotionally charged world of pediatric intensive care. Tune in for a warm and thoughtful conversation about purpose, leadership, and what it means to care deeply for children and families.

When lifelong philanthropists Bob and Donna Pullo made their planned gift to the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, they did more than support healthcare and education — they created a legacy that will uplift their community for generations.In this next part of our story, we hear from someone who sees the ripple effects of gifts like this every day: Jessica Ritchie, President of the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation. Jessica shares her personal “why” — the reason she’s passionate about philanthropy, and the deeper purpose that drives her work.She also explains how legacy giving isn’t just for the wealthy or the well-known. It’s a powerful way for anyone to align their values with impact, to make sure the causes they care about live on — long after they’re gone.From supporting patient care and medical innovation to ensuring future generations have access to life-saving resources, legacy gifts have the power to shape what’s possible.Listen in to learn how you can be part of something bigger — and build a legacy of your own.

When lifelong philanthropists Robert (Bob) and Donna Pullo thought about leaving a legacy, they knew that they wanted to blend their passion for education and healthcare and make a difference. Their planned gift to the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation will not only honor their goals but create an impact on their beloved community for generations to come.Originally from Massachusetts, Bob’s career started in 1958 when he left high school to work as a messenger for a local bank. Rising quickly through the ranks, he eventually became president of York Federal Savings and Loan, and eventually joined the board of Memorial Hospital in York, Pa. Now retired after a nearly 50-year career, Bob and Donna are able to enjoy life with their four grown children, five grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Making a difference not only for local non-profits and those in need, but serving as volunteers and visionaries in support of innovation, education, and humanitarian efforts in their community.

In this moving episode of In Their Words, we spotlight the unsung heroes behind UPMC Harrisburg's living kidney donor program: Living Donor Coordinator Jackie Stifler and Social Worker and Living Donor Advocate Amy Zook. Together, they guide donors through one of the most selfless acts imaginable—giving the gift of life. With decades of combined experience in nursing and social work, Jackie and Amy share what drew them to this work, the deep bonds they form with donors, and the emotional highs and lows of each transplant journey.They reflect on the inspiring story of Ray Chung and his father-in-law David, whose life was transformed by Ray’s kidney donation—even amidst the challenges of COVID-19. From rigorous testing to operating room moments and post-surgery scrapbooks, Jackie and Amy offer a rare, behind-the-scenes look at the human side of transplant care. Their compassion, commitment, and humor shine through as they explain what makes this work deeply rewarding—and why they never stop advocating for more people to consider becoming living donors.

David of Dillsburg, Pennsylvania, was exhausted all the time—sleeping 11 hours a night but still feeling tired. Kidney disease from high blood pressure was slowly stealing his life away.When doctors said he needed a transplant, David reached out everywhere for a living donor. The answer came from his own son-in-law, Ray, who stepped up without hesitation.Their 2021 transplant at UPMC made medical history as one of the first documented cases of someone of Malaysian-Chinese descent donating to a Caucasian recipient. But for this family, it was simply about love and ensuring future generations could learn from both their Irish and Malaysian-Chinese heritage.Today, David's energy has returned, and both men are grateful for a journey that proves family bonds transcend everything.

Meet Tammy Siler, a woman whose definition of strength will leave you speechless. After 37 years of battling cancer and surviving four different diagnoses, Tammy's latest challenge came in December 2022 with a stage 3 ovarian cancer diagnosis at UPMC Memorial. But this isn't a story about defeat – it's about triumph, gratitude, and the power of an unshakeable spirit.In this deeply moving episode, Tammy shares how she transformed her cancer journey into her greatest victory, literally taking it to the stage as her talent performance to win the Ms. Senior PA America Pageant. From countless chemotherapy sessions to crowning moments, Tammy proves that our greatest challenges can become our most powerful testimonies.You'll be inspired by Tammy's unwavering appreciation for her medical team, especially Dr. Willis at UPMC Memorial, and discover how she's turned daily positivity into an art form – sending uplifting text messages to friends, family, and even her care providers. Her story is a masterclass in resilience, showing us that gratitude isn't just an attitude, it's a superpower.

In this inspiring episode, we share highlights from the powerful doctor Q&A panel that concluded UPMC Memorial’s “Walk With Docs” event. After a beautiful evening of connection and community, women's cancer survivors gathered for an open, heartfelt conversation with medical professionals who walked beside them—literally and figuratively.Hear from Drs. Mudge, Cream, Martyr, and DeRobertis, along with Lydia Flinner, Senior CRNP, and Julie Justice, CRNP, as they answer thoughtful questions, share expert insights, and reflect on the strength and resilience of the women they serve. This episode captures the spirit of support and empowerment that defined the evening.

In this powerful episode of "In Their Words," we sit down with Anita Grove, a dedicated Social Worker at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center in York and a breast cancer survivor herself. After being diagnosed with Stage 3 breast cancer in 2009, Anita transformed her personal journey into a mission to support others facing similar challenges.Today, she shares her deeply personal experience with post-mastectomy nipple tattooing—a procedure that helped her feel whole again after reconstruction. Anita discusses how this often overlooked aspect of cancer recovery played a significant role in her healing process, both physically and emotionally.As the founder of a thriving breast cancer support group that has grown from just a few members to over thirty participants, Anita provides unique insight into the power of community healing and the importance of addressing all aspects of recovery, including body image and identity after breast cancer.Join us for this intimate conversation about restoration, resilience, and finding wholeness again after cancer.

Join us as we chat with Donna Harvat, a micro pigmentation artist who is giving cancer survivors back their sense of self, an uplifting finishing touch to recovery.

Embark on an inspiring journey with us in this special episode, where the heart and soul of UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing come to life through the stories of its students. Join a candid conversation with these aspiring healthcare professionals as they open up about the profound impact of their educational experience.Discover the challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments that have shaped the lives of these remarkable individuals. From the hands-on clinical experiences to the mentorship that goes beyond the classroom, these students share how UPMC Shadyside has become more than just a school—it's a transformative force.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Ta-Liah Jones, one of the first graduates from UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing at UPMC Harrisburg's innovative accelerated RN program. Selected by her peers to deliver a moving graduation address to her historic class of 42 graduates, Ta-Liah embodies the spirit of modern nursing education.Ta-Liah shares her remarkable journey from choosing nursing as a career to becoming part of the pioneering class at UPMC Harrisburg. She offers unique insights into the intensive 16-month accelerated program and discusses how the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation's support helped make her dreams possible. From personal challenges to professional triumphs, Ta-Liah's story showcases the evolving landscape of nursing education and the diverse paths that lead to this noble profession.

In this episode of In Their Words, Senior Respiratory Therapists Sandy Gates and Amy Borneo of UPMC Hanover Pulmonary Rehab share their perspective on Holly Brown's inspiring recovery journey. They discuss their approach to patient care, reflect on Holly's determination through rehabilitation, and provide insights into the vital work of helping patients reclaim their lives after respiratory illness like COVID 19. Through their conversation, Sandy and Amy demonstrate the transformative impact of specialized pulmonary rehabilitation and the deep connections formed between therapists and patients during the recovery process.

In this inspiring episode of In Their Words, grateful patient Holly Brown shares her journey of survival and recovery after a severe battle with COVID-19. Just weeks after her wedding in fall 2021, Holly was hospitalized with blood clots, pneumonia, and spent three weeks in the ICU.Through intensive care, rehabilitation, and UPMC’s pulmonary rehab program, Holly relearned to walk, rebuilt her strength, and reclaimed her life. Now off oxygen during the day, she reflects on the unwavering support of her care team.Join us to hear Holly’s inspiring story and her heartfelt encouragement to others facing similar challenges: "If it wasn’t for this service, I wouldn’t be where I am today."

In this compelling follow-up episode of In Their Words, we hear directly from Sabrina Torres, a certified doula with the Diversifying Doulas Initiative. Inspired by her own transformative birthing experience, Sabrina shares her journey into the world of doula care and her mission to support Black and Latinx birthing persons in Lancaster County.Building on the foundation laid in our conversation with Dr. Sharee Livingston, Sabrina offers an intimate, firsthand perspective on the impact of this groundbreaking initiative. She reflects on how her personal story drives her passion for providing culturally aligned, compassionate care, and how she is working to bridge the gap in maternal health disparities.Through her experiences, Sabrina highlights the profound role doulas play in empowering mothers, fostering trust, and creating a safe and supportive environment during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. Her story illustrates the real-world outcomes of the Diversifying Doulas Initiative and its mission to transform lives in our community.Join us for this heartfelt episode as we continue to explore the powerful impact of diversifying the doula workforce and supporting equitable maternity care in Lancaster County.

In this powerful episode of In Their Words, Dr. Sharee Livingston discusses the incredible work of the Diversifying Doulas Initiative, a program proudly supported by the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation in partnership with Patients R Waiting. This initiative combats health inequity by hiring and certifying women of color as doulas to support Black and Latinx birthing persons in Lancaster County.Dr. Livingston explores the stark racial inequities in healthcare and their devastating impact on maternal health outcomes. She shares how Diversifying Doulas is actively improving maternity care by recruiting and training individuals to become certified doulas, then matching them with pregnant women of color at no cost to provide compassionate, culturally aligned support before, during, and after childbirth.Join us to hear Dr. Livingston’s passionate discussion about how this initiative is empowering women, reducing disparities, and transforming maternal health in our community, while also showcasing UPMC’s commitment to fighting for better health outcomes and addressing systemic inequities in care.

In this heartfelt episode, we sit down with grateful patient Melissa Mann to hear her inspiring story about navigating life without health insurance. Melissa shares how the UPMC Healthy Woman Program has been a lifeline, providing her with free annual mammograms, breast exams, and pelvic exams. As a Personal Trainer and Nutritional Coach for women, Melissa highlights the critical importance of accessible healthcare services like this program.Melissa also opens up about the incredible support she's received from Linda Weibrecht, her nurse at the Healthy Woman Program, whose care and compassion have made a profound impact on her journey. Tune in to hear Melissa's empowering story and learn how this vital program is changing lives for women in our community.

In this powerful episode, we dive deep into the heart of women's healthcare with two extraordinary professionals on the frontlines of community health. Linda Weibrecht, Nurse Coordinator of the UPMC Healthy Woman Program, and Nancy Cupps, Director of Women's Services at Magee-Womens Hospital, share raw, emotional insights into a mission that goes far beyond medical screenings – it's about saving lives.Through intimate personal stories and professional experiences, Linda and Nancy unveil the critical challenges faced by uninsured and underinsured women in our community. They reveal the profound barriers women encounter when seeking essential healthcare, and how the UPMC Healthy Woman Program has become a lifeline for countless women who might otherwise slip through the healthcare system's cracks.

In this episode, we celebrate Chris Prince, a true hero and living kidney donor who uses his unique platform to spread awareness about the life-saving power of organ donation. Chris isn’t your typical Santa—he’s a Punk Rock Santa, rocking out and raising support for a cause close to his heart.When a close friend faced a life-threatening kidney condition, Chris didn’t hesitate to step up, get tested, and become the perfect match. Supported by the incredible transplant team at UPMC in Central Pa., Chris navigated the journey with determination and strength.But his story doesn’t stop there. After recovering, Chris channeled his passion into something creative and impactful—raising awareness for organ donation.As Chris says, “These donations are just as important as what doctors and nurses do. It’s a wonderful family and community supporting each other. It’s all about giving the gift of life, just like organ donors do.”Tune in for a story of hope, generosity, and the power of one person to make a world of difference.

This December, In Their Words embraces the spirit of the holiday season with an inspiring episode filled with hope, resilience, and gratitude.Listen to the remarkable healthcare journeys of Evamarie, Karenmay, Chad, and Pam—grateful patients from Central Pa. who share their powerful stories of overcoming challenges, finding strength, and receiving exceptional care from their UPMC providers. Through their heartfelt words, they express deep gratitude for the support that brought healing and renewed hope into their lives.

In this episode, we sit down with Clara I. Roberti, MSW, LSW, the Lead Forensic Interviewer at UPMC Child Advocacy Center of Central Pa. (CAC). As a bilingual professional and certified medical interpreter, Clara offers unique insights into the critical role of language in child advocacy.Following our previous episode on law enforcement's involvement with Child Advocacy Centers, we now explore the frontlines of child protection from a different angle. Clara shares her journey into this challenging field, explaining what drew her to work with the CAC and detailing the intricacies of her role as a forensic interviewer

Get ready for a gripping episode of "In Their Words" that takes you behind the scenes of child advocacy. This powerful installment features an all-star panel of unsung heroes fighting for our community's most vulnerable. Hear firsthand from the fearless Detectives Lee Tarasi and Jeff Corcoran as they unveil the intricate world of child abuse investigations. Feel the passion of Victims Advocate Kim Sourbeer as she reveals how she stands strong alongside young survivors. And don't miss Cumberland County's own District Attorney Sean McCormack, sharing his relentless pursuit of justice in the courtroom. Together, these dedicated professionals pull back the curtain on their vital work with the UPMC Child Advocacy Center of Central Pa.. Prepare to be moved, inspired, and enlightened by their stories of courage and commitment in the face of unthinkable challenges.  To contact the UPMC Child Advocacy of Central Pa. in Harrisburg, you can call (717) 782-6800 or toll-free at (877) 543-5018. You can also access health information 24/7 through the UPMC Central PA Portal app. If you suspect child abuse, you can also call Pennsylvania's ChildLine at (800) 932-0313 to make a confidential report.

In this follow-up to our previous episode, we dive deeper into the world of grant funding and its real-world impact. Join us as we sit down with Mindy Reighard, Manager of Grants & Contracts at the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, and discuss the Mobile WISH (Women's Health Services) unit, a groundbreaking initiative supporting women's gynecological needs. Mindy reveals the intricate process of securing funds and bringing this vital project to life. Learn how the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation transforms ideas into action, making healthcare more accessible for women in our community. This episode offers an inspiring look at how grant writing directly contributes to improving lives and advancing healthcare solutions.

In this compelling first installment, we're joined by two remarkable healthcare professionals at the forefront of women's health: Denise Turoczi, BSN, RN, OCN, Manager for Gyn Oncology Nurse Navigation at UPMC in Central Pa., and Dr. Joshua Kesterson, Gynecologic Oncologist and Medical Director of Gynecological Oncology with UPMC in Central Pa. Together, they unveil the groundbreaking Mobile WISH (Women's Health Services) unit, a pioneering initiative bringing vital gynecological care to those who need it most. Our guests share their firsthand experiences of the challenges and triumphs encountered in this innovative approach to healthcare delivery. Listeners will be moved by the personal stories and pivotal moments that reinforced their commitment to this crucial work. Denise and Dr. Kesterson offer unique insights into the daily operations of the Mobile WISH unit and its profound impact on patients' lives.

In this powerful episode, we meet Rose Colon, an Operations Specialist at UPMC in Central PA., and a determined mother whose life took an unexpected turn when her son suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI) in an accident. Rose shares her family's emotional journey through the initial shock, the challenges of recovery, and the realization that support for TBI survivors and their families was critically needed in their community.In a serendipitous twist, Rose worked alongside Dr. Matthew Wilson, a physician featured in a previous episode who had himself recovered from a TBI. Rose recounts how their shared experiences and complementary expertise led to a powerful collaboration.The episode explores how Rose and Dr. Wilson joined forces, utilizing The Brain Matters Fund, which is held by the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, to establish a comprehensive TBI support group. Rose discusses the challenges and triumphs of getting the group off the ground, and how The Brain Matters Fund's resources were crucial in making their vision a reality.

In this powerful episode, Leigh Ann Wilson shares the emotional and inspiring story of her husband, Dr. Matthew Wilson's, traumatic brain injury (TBI) following a near-fatal crash. She recounts the harrowing moments after the accident and the challenging road to recovery that followed.Dr. Wilson, defied the odds to not only recover but also return to his medical career at UPMC. Their experience with TBI transformed their lives and sparked a passion for helping others facing similar challenges. The episode explores how the Wilson family channeled their personal tragedy into a force for good. Listeners will learn about the creation of The Brain Matters Fund, the family's philanthropic initiative aimed at educating the public about traumatic brain injuries and supporting those affected by them.Leigh Ann also discusses the TBI support group they fund at UPMC in Central PA, highlighting the importance of community and shared experiences in the recovery process. Through their story, the episode sheds light on the often-overlooked impact of TBI and the power of resilience, love, and giving back.

Dr. Silver, a renowned psychiatrist and gynecologist, discusses how integrating mental and reproductive healthcare proved crucial in changin lives, as we revisit the story of Ashley Fox and how she achieves her dream of motherhood. Offering unique insight into the support provided by Women's Behavioral Health during this critical time. Join us for a heartfelt exploration of holistic women's healthcare, the power of dedicated medical professionals, and the resilience of the human spirit. This episode highlights how UPMC in Central PA, along with the support of the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, is revolutionizing women's wellness and offering real, life-changing help to those in need.

In this episode, Ashley Fox shares her transformative journey through pregnancy, detailing her experiences with Women's Behavioral Health teams at UPMC in central PA. Her powerful story illustrates how specialized mental health care not only supported her path to motherhood but also profoundly changed her life, offering hope and insights for other women facing similar challenges.

In this compelling episode, we sit down with Denise Haas, an Outpatient Pediatric Social Worker at UPMC Children's Specialty Services, to delve into the profound impact of their work. Join us as we explore the crucial role social workers play in the lives of pediatric patients and their families.

Join us for a heartfelt episode as we follow the remarkable journey of nine-year-old Caremy Darr, who faced a life-changing Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis after initially presenting flu-like symptoms. Discover the pivotal role played by the dedicated healthcare professionals at UPMC, who provided Caremy with unwavering support, personalized care, and the tools to manage her condition. Caremy expresses her profound gratitude for the compassionate team at UPMC, highlighting the moments of connection that made all the difference in her healing process.

In this insightful episode, we sit down with the esteemed Penny Lenig-Zerby, PhD, RN, CSN, Director of UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing. Join us as Penny takes us on a journey through the transformative impact of the Shadyside School of Nursing on aspiring healthcare professionals.Discover the unique philosophy, educational approach, and real-world experiences that shape the curriculum at UPMC Shadyside. Penny shares inspiring stories of students who have not only excelled academically but have also been empowered to make a meaningful difference in the world of healthcare.

In the latest episode of In Their Words podcast, we sit down with Gretchen Rupp, a healthcare professional embarking on an exciting new chapter in her career journey. Join us as we delve into Gretchen's decision to transition from the ambulatory world to the dynamic environment of UPMC Shadyside School of Nursing at West Shore Hospital's ICU. With insights into her motivations, aspirations, and the significance of lifelong learning, this episode offers a glimpse into Gretchen's inspiring journey of professional growth and personal resilience. From celebrating family milestones to overcoming cancer, Gretchen's story is a testament to the transformative power of embracing new challenges and stepping outside one's comfort zone. Tune in as we explore the intersection of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence in the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare.

In this episode of In Their Words, we explore the collaborative efforts of UPMC Veteran Care Services, the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, and Veterans Outreach of Pennsylvania (VOPA) in creating Veterans Grove, a sanctuary nestled along the serene Susquehanna River in south Harrisburg. Joined by guests Marc Migala, Tom Zimmerman, and Bill Habacivch, we uncover the vision and development of this transformative community. Together, they illuminate the therapeutic model of Veterans Grove, addressing the unique needs of each veteran and fostering camaraderie, personal responsibility, and healing. From constructing 15 tiny homes surrounding a community center to implementing supportive programs, Veterans Grove offers holistic support to veterans experiencing homelessness. We also spotlight the generous support of the UPMC Pinnacle Foundation, whose contribution has been instrumental in the project's progress. Tune in as we celebrate the resilience of veterans and the communities rallying to support them. 

In this compelling episode, we delve into the remarkable journey of Kelly Luster, a grateful patient of the Veteran Care Services program at UPMC in Central Pa. Kelly shares his deeply personal story, recounting his years of service in the military and the injuries he sustained during his deployment to Iraq, including herniating five discs in his back.Through candid and heartfelt narration, Kelly sheds light on the challenges he faced in seeking effective treatment for his injuries. However, amidst the struggles, he found hope and support through UPMC in Central Pa. Veteran Care Services. With their specialized care and unwavering dedication, Kelly's journey towards healing and recovery took a transformative turn.Join us as we explore Kelly's inspiring resilience, the invaluable role of UPMC in Central Pa. Veteran Care Services, and the profound impact of their commitment to serving those who have served our nation. Through Kelly's story, we gain insight into the vital importance of providing comprehensive and compassionate care to our veterans, ensuring they receive the support they need to thrive beyond their military service.

Step into the world of transplant surgery with Dr. Ladie. In this episode, she shares insights into her work, highlighting the touching story of Mary Oliveira—a living donor she worked closely with. Explore the intricacies of living donor transplants and the powerful connections that make these journeys so remarkable. Join us for an impactful glimpse into the compassionate realm of organ donation and transplantation.

In this captivating episode, we delve into the extraordinary story of Mary Oliveira, a living transplant donor whose selfless act of kindness has touched countless lives. Mary's story is one of courage, compassion, and resilience. Join us as we explore the profound impact of organ donation, the power of community, and the transformative nature of giving in this inspiring episode of In Their Words.

Welcome to another insightful episode of In Their Words! In this edition, we sit down with Susan Brackbill, a dedicated professional from UPMC Central PA's Nurse Family Partnership (NFP). Join us as we delve into the transformative journey offered by the NFP, a groundbreaking community health program designed to make a lasting impact on the lives of first-time pregnant women.