Saint Joseph Medical Center Joliet

11/17/2025

At Saint Joseph Medical Center, exceptional care is defined not only by clinical skill but by the compassion and humanity our caregivers show when patients need it most. Today, we are proud to recognize two team members awarded for their commitment to care and the excellence they demonstrate every day.

🌼 Kelly Koehler, ICU RN
Kelly’s colleagues describe her as someone they rarely need to call for help — but when they do, they immediately see the empathy in her eyes and actions.

Recently, she stayed with a patient who was aphasic and feeling overwhelmed with emotion. Even though her shift had ended, Kelly sat with the patient, listened patiently, and provided comfort when they needed support the most. On another occasion, she noticed a patient had not eaten, and although it was not her responsibility, Kelly took the time to feed them to ensure their needs were met.

These quiet acts of compassion reflect her deep commitment to patient-centered care and her belief that every person deserves to feel supported.

Rula Gerta, Rehab Tech

Rula’s peers describe her as someone who “goes above and beyond” in every interaction. She consistently brings warmth, patience, and genuine care to her role.

When a patient was struggling emotionally, Rula stayed with them, offered comfort, and helped ease their fears. Her ability to connect with patients who may not be able to communicate verbally demonstrates her exceptional empathy.

She is known for stepping in wherever she is needed, supporting both patients and staff, and creating moments of reassurance that make a meaningful difference in someone’s day.

These stories are reminders of the heart behind the care at Saint Joseph Medical Center. Please join us in congratulating Kelly and Rula for their remarkable compassion and the lasting impact they make on our patients, families, and colleagues. 💙

11/11/2025

Today, Saint Joseph Medical Center proudly hosted a special Veterans Day Ceremony to honor not only our veteran associates but also the veterans within our community.

The Winter Garden was filled with gratitude and respect as members of the Joliet Fire Department, Joliet Police Department, hospital staff, and representatives from the Mayor’s Office gathered alongside veterans to pay tribute to their courage, sacrifice, and unwavering service—both to our nation and to our community.

We extend our deepest appreciation to all who have served and continue to serve. Your dedication and selflessness remind us daily of the true meaning of service!

11/03/2025

11/03/2025

10/30/2025

What an incredible turnout for this year’s BARNA Brain Breakfast — a morning filled with collaboration, learning, and multidisciplinary discussion.

Special thanks to our facilitators:
Dr. Kaiz Asif, Stroke Medical Director
Dr. Tamir Hersonskey, Neurosurgery Medical Director
and our expert panel of medical professionals from Emergency Medicine, Neurosurgery, Neuroendovascular, Intensivist, and Rehab Teams for leading insightful case discussions and sharing best practices.

👏 Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making the Third Annual BARNA Brain Breakfast such a success. Together, we continue to advance excellence in stroke and neuro care through shared knowledge and teamwork!

10/30/2025

A major milestone is complete — Epic is officially LIVE across Prime Healthcare’s Illinois hospitals. This systemwide transition represents months of collaboration, planning, and dedication from our clinical, IT, and operational teams.

By unifying our hospitals on one electronic medical record, we’re empowering clinicians with the tools they need to provide seamless, coordinated, and data-driven care. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this remarkable achievement.

10/29/2025

💗 On Wednesdays, we wear pink! Today, we show our support for everyone affected by breast cancer. Together, we raise awareness, inspire hope, and stand united in the fight for a future free of this disease.

10/29/2025

Gizmo the Therapy Dog: A Tail-Wagging Miracle of Healing

In the halls of our hospital, healing doesn’t always come from medicine alone. Sometimes, it arrives on four paws with a wagging tail and a heart full of love. Gizmo, one of Saint Joseph Medical Center's cherished therapy dogs, has a gift for bringing joy to everyone she meets—but now and then, her impact is truly extraordinary.

During a recent visit, Gizmo and her handler, Nicole M. entered the room of a patient who had been mostly nonverbal and difficult to engage. What happened next was nothing short of magical. The patient began to smile—and even started having conversations. The transformation was so moving, it brought the nurse to tears.

As Nicole and Gizmo left the room, the nurse handed them a heartfelt note that read:
"Thank you for bringing your baby and her spirit to that room. I can tell Gizmo gave him the strength that medicine can't."

Moments like these remind us why pet therapy is such a vital part of the healing journey. Gizmo didn’t just brighten a room—she opened a door to connection, comfort, and hope. It’s stories like this that fuel our passion and reaffirm the heart behind what we do every single day. ❤️

10/29/2025

We are proud to recognize Danielle Perry, RN as the July DAISY Award Winner at Saint Joseph Medical Center! 💛

The DAISY Award celebrates nurses who go above and beyond to provide compassionate, exceptional care to patients and their families.

Danielle shared:

“I always treat my patients how I would want my family treated. I am glad I got to help my patient be with his wife.”

Her kindness and dedication truly embody the spirit of nursing and the mission of the DAISY Foundation.

💐 Please join us in congratulating Danielle Perry, RN, on this well-deserved recognition!

10/28/2025

Thank you to all who all were able to attend the SJJ Trunk or Treat hosted by CLC. It was a great day spent with our community, staff and patients.

10/28/2025

We are proud to announce that DeAsia Jackson, RN has been honored with The DAISY Award for Extraordinary Nurses at St. Joseph Medical Center–Joliet! 💛

This award celebrates nurses who provide exceptional, compassionate care to patients and their families every day. Each month, one nurse is recognized during a surprise celebration, with nominations coming from patients, families, and colleagues.

DeAsia was nominated by a patient’s family member, who shared:

“DeAsia is hands down the best nurse I've had in any hospital that I've been in. She's kind, supportive, fast, and so nice besides being my nurse—she was more like a friend. The level of respect and care she provides can't be beat! She made the experience of being here more comfortable. She makes you feel like you matter, not just another patient. She deserves this award!!!”