UPMC Western Maryland

04/28/2026

Please join us in congratulating Christie Dodrill, BSN, senior professional staff nurse, on being recognized with a DAISY Award for extraordinary nursing care.

Christie was nominated by families who shared how her compassion, knowledge, and presence made an incredibly difficult time more peaceful. As a hospice nurse, Christie went above and beyond to ensure her patient was treated with dignity and comfort—while also guiding, supporting, and educating family members every step of the way.

“Christie became part of our family in the short time we had with her. She made us feel at ease, answered every question, and showed such love and compassion. She never treated our loved one as ‘just’ a hospice patient, but as a whole person.”

Christie’s empathy, dedication, and commitment to patient- and family-centered care truly exemplify the spirit of the DAISY Award.

Thank you, Christie, for the extraordinary care you provide every day!

04/27/2026

Last year’s Healthy Happens Here Community Health Expo brought the community together, and we’re excited to take part again this year.

Join us and other community partners for an afternoon of hands-on activities, expert advice, and local connections at this year’s Community Health Expo.

📍 Cumberland YMCA
🗓️ Wednesday, May 6
⏰ 3–6 p.m.
✅ Open to all community members

What to expect:
• Cooking demonstration and tasting (back by popular demand, with recipes)
• Build-your-own healthy snack activity
• Health and wellness vendors
• Multiple opportunities to Ask the Expert
• Local vendors, including Everlasting Jules permanent jewelry

📸 Photos from last year’s event.

04/24/2026

April is National Volunteer Month, and we’re proud to celebrate the incredible volunteers who give their time, compassion, and energy to support patients, families, and our care teams at UPMC Western Maryland.

Our volunteers play a vital role in creating a welcoming, caring environment, and we’re so grateful for the difference they make every day.

Thank you for your dedication, kindness, and commitment to our community. 🌟

04/21/2026

In recognition of National Pet Therapy Month, we’re proud to celebrate the pet therapy teams who bring warmth and companionship to patients, families, and care teams at UPMC Western Maryland.

With wagging tails and friendly faces, therapy animals help bring smiles, lift spirits, and create positive moments during challenging times.

Thank you to our dedicated pet therapy teams for sharing the healing power of animals with our community! 🐾

04/21/2026

04/17/2026

Curious about what happens after stopping medication for weight loss, like GLP-1s? Some people notice changes like thinking about food more and feeling hungry sooner. Without the medication’s effects, it’s easier to regain weight, especially if healthy habits aren’t in place. Building supportive lifestyle habits can make a big difference!

Talk to your doctor before stopping, and continue to monitor your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol. https://go.upmc.com/2883m1ZFm

04/14/2026

This National Donate Life Month, we're raising awareness about the importance of registering to be an organ donor and we encourage you to do the same!

Some ways we can all raise awareness and educate others about the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation include:

- Share the link below with friends, family, and the community so they can register their decision to be an organ, eye, and tissue donor.
- Let people know that one donor registration has the potential to save eight lives and heal 75 more.
- Raise awareness about the importance of living donation. People have the opportunity to make a huge impact on someone's life by donating a kidney or a portion of their liver.

Visit https://go.upmc.com/2886hjikG for more info.

04/07/2026

This week UPMC Western Maryland staff members and leaders gathered with representatives of Infinite Legacy and local organ donors and recipients to raise the flag celebrating National Donate Life Month.

In 2025, the hospital facilitated 28 tissue donations and three organ donations, each representing a lasting contribution to patients and families across the region. The significance of donation is measured not only in lives saved, but in the enduring impact of each gift. Join us in spreading awareness and celebrating the gift of life. Register today: https://bit.ly/4c4CxI4

04/06/2026

This month, we’re celebrating our incredible Occupational Therapy providers, who help patients regain independence and confidence in everyday activities,

Thank you to our OT team for the compassion, skill, and dedication you bring to patient care every day. Your work truly makes a difference in helping our community live life to the fullest.

04/03/2026

Earlier this week, nearly 40 UPMC Western Maryland staff members volunteered at the Union Rescue Mission of Western Maryland as part of UPMC's MLK Day of Service program. Staff spent the day painting, helping with laundry, and preparing meals. In addition to giving their time, staff also learned about the many programs at the Mission and how community partnerships play a big role in the service they provide.

04/02/2026

Congratulations to Christina Martin, our March Values in Action Award winner!

Since joining UPMC Western Maryland in 2019, Christina has excelled as an Improvement Specialist, consistently going above and beyond to support key initiatives that enhance patient care. Known for her calm, solution-focused approach, she provides accurate insights, embraces new challenges, and steps in wherever she’s needed.

Thank you, Christina, for your innovation, commitment, and the positive impact you make every day!

03/31/2026

Colonoscopy is the most accurate way to screen for colorectal cancer, but it’s not the only option.

In recent years, at-home stool DNA tests like Cologuard® have become popular because they are simple to use. But are at-home tests as good as a colonoscopy?

“Colonoscopy is the gold standard test that has been proven to decrease colorectal cancer in our population,” Dr. Tariq says. “But the best colon cancer test is the one you’re willing to take.”

Here’s what you should know about colorectal cancer screening:

Colonoscopy is the most accurate way to screen for colorectal cancer, but it is not the only option. The at-home stool DNA tests may work for you.