Firelands Health

03/16/2026

Last Thursday, we gathered at Sawmill Creek to honor 324 of our incredible team members at the annual employee recognition banquet. Together, these individuals represent a combined 4,010 years of service to our community.

We celebrated milestones ranging from 5 to 45 years, with a special shout-out to:

40 years of service: Lisa Fryer, respiratory services; Glenda Gray, authorization and denial management; and Sheila Pfanner, home health.

45 years of service: Joseph Dellisanti, plant operations; Sandra Ebert, nursing; Julie Etherington, home health; Karen James, home health; and Mary Poggiali, nursing.

“It always amazes me how many of our employees have given decades of their lives in service to healthcare in our area,” stated President and CEO Jeremy Normington-Slay. “This is truly commendable and something that we don't take for granted. Our staff members are the greatest part of Firelands Health, and I appreciate you all.”

03/12/2026

Colon cancer can be prevented or detected with early screening. Talk to your doctor about your options and let the expert gastroenterology team at Firelands Health care for you.
firelands.com/gastro

03/10/2026

If you’re on the breast cancer journey, you’re not alone. Join one of our monthly meetings to find support from those who share your experience.

Register at firelands.com/breastcancersupport or call 419-557-5240

03/09/2026

What is SIDS and why does Safe Sleep matter?

Before 1992, between 8,000 and 10,000 babies died each year from sleep-related causes due to suffocation. After parents began placing babies on their backs to sleep, deaths dropped by nearly 50%.

Today, about 3,500 babies still die every year from unsafe sleep. But the good news is that safe sleep works. By following simple, proven steps, like placing your baby on their back in a crib with a firm mattress and no loose items, you can protect your baby from suffocation and reduce the risk of SIDS.

Learn more about SIDS and how safe sleep practices save lives at the Safe Sleep Academy: https://safesleepacademy.org/what-is-sids-infant-safe-sleep/

03/04/2026

The Breastfeeding Mom-Baby Group is a free group that is open to the public to assist breastfeeding mothers with answering breastfeeding questions or concerns and to offer breastfeeding support.

Certified lactation consultants will be available to address any breastfeeding challenges or questions that arise and to weigh infants.

Learn more at firelands.com/pregnancy-class

03/02/2026

Taught by registered lactation specialists, you'll discover the benefits of breastfeeding and gain the practical skills you need.

Learn more and register online at firelands.com/pregnancy-class

02/26/2026

While they all fight pain, they aren't created equal. Learn the difference.

Comparing common painkillers? Learn the key differences between Aspirin, Ibuprofen and Acetaminophen. Understand how each works, the safety risks, and the correct dosage.

02/25/2026

Are you ready for your baby's arrival? Join our Childbirth Education Series, led by an experienced obstetrical nurse, which prepares parents for childbirth and caring for their new baby.

It's best to attend during your last trimester.
Register at firelands.com/pregnancy-class/

02/24/2026

The need is constant. The gratification is instant. The American Red Cross hosts regular blood drives at Firelands Regional Medical Center South Campus.

Appointments are required. To schedule, visit redcrossblood.org, or call 1-800-RED-CROSS.

02/20/2026

Welcome to all our new hires from orientation. We're excited to have you join the .💜💚💜

02/19/2026

Firelands Physician Group Rheumatology has expanded hours, giving you more access to specialized care, right here in your community. Early intervention is key to preventing
long-term damage.

Our fellowship-trained physician provides personalized care and addresses a wide range of rheumatologic and autoimmune conditions. Call 419-557-7855 to schedule an appointment.

02/17/2026

Firelands Health is happy to recognize Robert Smith as the February Volunteer of the Month. Rob joined us in 2024 and has quickly become an important part of the infusion and cancer center team.

Rob was born in Youngstown, Ohio, and grew up in North Olmsted. He now lives in Huron, Ohio, with his wife, Nancy. They have four children and six grandchildren.

Rob has always focused on serving others. He spent 33 years as a Presbyterian pastor and eight years teaching religion and philosophy at Wright State University. Even after 21 years of retirement, Rob continues to give his time, compassion, and wisdom as a volunteer.

When he’s not volunteering, Rob enjoys photography, carpentry, sailing, and writing novels and poetry. Some of his creative work is in the Library of Congress, showing his lifelong love of storytelling.

Rob has volunteered with many organizations over the years. He served on the boards of the Huron Playhouse, where he also acted in summer theater, and the Huron Public Library.

Rob’s favorite part of volunteering is meeting interesting people. He likes that every day brings new conversations and meaningful connections. He has great respect for the Firelands Health staff and is thankful for the chance to support their important work.

Firelands Health is grateful for Rob’s generosity, kindness, and ongoing service, and is proud to honor him as February’s Volunteer of the Month.