Health Briefs

New human resource officer at Mason Health

Mason Health has hired Carolyn McCain as its chief human resource officer, according to a September news release.

McCain has an MBA in human resource management from the Center for Graduate Studies at Baker College and has worked in Michigan, Colorado and Oregon.

“Supporting those who take care of our communities is my true passion. While I’m not a caregiver myself, I believe that HR plays a critical role in caring for our staff, who are, in turn, able to provide the best care for patients. At Mason Health, I’m excited to be part of a team where relationships and trust are at the heart of what we do,” McCain said in the release.

Black and White Ball fundraiser next month

Mason Health’s Black and White Ball fundraising event happens Nov. 16 at the Sa-Heh-Wa-Mish Room at Little Creek Casino Resort.

Mason Health calls the ball “a glamorous fundraiser for medical advancement.”

The theme is “Old Hollywood,” and the night includes classic film decorations, a silent and live auction and a photo booth by Cooper Studios.

“This formal evening ushers in the holiday season in black and white elegance, while raising crucial funds for state-of-the-art medical equipment at Mason Health,” according to a news release.

Tickets are $200 for an individual or $1,600 for a table of eight.

Proceeds from the event will help purchase an upgraded open-field MRI machine, according to Mason Health.

Award given to extraordinary nurse

Mason Health’s Daisy Award for extraordinary nurses went to Emergency Department registered nurse Rebecca Bingham.

The award was started by the national DAISY Foundation to “recognize the extraordinary, compassionate care that nurses provide patients and families every day,” according to a news release.

Patients, families and colleagues can nominate Daisy nurses and a Mason Health committee composed of staff, nurse supervisors and department leaders choose the winner, according to the release.

Bingham’s patient nominated her, praising Bingham’s compassion.

“In September 2023, I had my first miscarriage after having three very successful pregnancies and births. I was lost, confused and anxious, and my nurse made me feel important, loved and hopeful. She encouraged me to keep the faith and told me, ‘It’s not over until it’s over, honey.’ When I left that day, I hugged her like family even though I had just met her. Fast forward to February 2024, when I returned to the emergency room with another threatened miscarriage. While in triage I asked if I could request a nurse. She gave me a huge hug and said, ‘We are going to get through today, okay?’ She was there for me, she let me cling to her like a lost puppy, communicated my feelings with the other staff when I couldn’t, and by the time I left the ER I had to refrain from telling her ‘I love you.’ These may seem like simple instances, but this nurse is everything anyone could ever want or ask for in a nurse. This nurse deserves all the awards,” the patient wrote.