2026 Issue 1 Memorial MEDICAL MILESTONES ‘I can hear music again’ How Ashley Frantz got her hearing back. Page 8
2 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 MEDICAL MILESTONES is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of Lake Charles Memorial Health System. Information in MEDICAL MILESTONES comes from a wide range of medical experts. It should not be considered or used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affect your health, please contact your healthcare provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. To recommend this subscription to a friend or family member, or to request to be removed from this mailing, email marketing@lcmh.com. 2026 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Not just shoulder pain Ward 3 Marshal Nathan Keller’s diagnosis turned out to be more serious—but Memorial’s care teams had him covered. Making primary care more accessible Finding time for your health can feel impossible, but Memorial makes it easy. See how. Page 6 Golden Stethoscope Award winners! These providers went above and beyond to care for their patients in 2025. Page 15 Why have robots in the operating room? First of all, they don’t replace the surgeon. Here’s how they enhance precision and hasten healing. Page 10 Lung cancer treatment: It’s all about the people For Doug Shearman, empathetic, human-centered care made all the difference. Page 16 4 2026 events Aug. 29: Fashion With Purpose Black and White Ball Benefiting the Cancer Fund. June 12: Margarita Mix Off Benefiting the Women and Children’s Fund. April 17: Tim Coffey Memorial Golf Tournament Benefiting the Heart Fund. Scan the QR code to learn more about the Foundation’s work or to give a donation. The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit entity and continues the tradition of philanthropy that Lake Charles Memorial Hospital was founded upon. Every dollar raised is used to assist the health system in funding programs and projects to advance our facilities and technology and directly affects the lives of our patients.
lcmh.com 3 From the CEO Lake Charles Memorial Health System 2026 Board of Trustees At Lake Charles Memorial Health System, our focus on innovation is rooted in a simple belief: Care should grow as our patients’ needs grow. With every decision we make, your healthcare needs serve as our guide. Whether we expand our footprint, invest in new technology or strengthen our services, our goal remains the same: to ensure that every person in southwest Louisiana has access to safe, high-quality care close to home. In this issue of Memorial Medical Milestones, you will find stories that reflect that commitment. Across the region, our teams continue improving access to care. From expanded primary care availability to advancements in cancer treatment and heart care, every investment we make is designed to support optimal outcomes for our patients. Our Foundation strengthens that mission by raising funds to provide tools, programs and resources that directly enhance patient care. In these pages, you will read about patients who placed their trust in Memorial during some of life’s hardest moments and about the employees who supported them with skill, empathy and dedication. They tell the story of care shaped by purpose, guided by service and centered on people. Thank you for trusting us with your health. Together, we are building a healthier future for southwest Louisiana. Sincerely, Devon Hyde, President and CEO As a community health system, belonging to the people of this community, LCMHS welcomes the direction and contributions of volunteer leaders from all walks of business, industry and public service to help meet the healthcare needs of all people in SWLA. Mr. Louis Todd Sr., Chairman Judge Gene Thibodeaux, Chairmanelect/Vice Chairman and Secretary Mrs. Denise Emerson Rau, Past Chairperson Mr. Devon Hyde, President/CEO and Assistant Secretary Ms. Dawn Johnson, Treasurer Benjamin Azevedo, MD, Medical Staff Past President Collin Bowe, MD, Medical Staff President-elect Alyson Jones, MD, Medical Staff President Dr. Neil Aspinwall, Trustee Dr. Mitch Adrian, Trustee William “Randy” Condos, MD, Trustee Daniel Hall, DPM, Trustee Clifford Courville, MD, Trustee Mr. Joe Miller Jr., Trustee
4 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 When longtime law enforcement officer Nathan Keller, of the Ward 3 Marshal’s Office, began experiencing shoulder pain in November 2024, he assumed it was just the toll of an active 36 years on the job or the stress of the past year, which had brought two family losses. “I wasn’t sick,” he says. “I just went to my primary doctor because my shoulder was hurting.” Unwelcome surprise His internal medicine doctor, Muhammad Atif Jadoon, MD, first thought it was arthritis, but as the pain got worse and began keeping Keller up at night, Dr. Jadoon decided to dig deeper and sent Keller to the Memorial Heart & Vascular Center. There, interventional cardiologist Ahmad Awan, MD, ran a heart catheterization that showed several blockages, including one artery that was 85% blocked. Keller was soon sitting across from J. Gregory Lugo, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital. “Dr. Lugo and his whole staff are just unbelievable,” Keller says. “He told me, ‘We really need to get this done.’ But I Nathan Keller’s story of gratitude and trust in Memorial’s care teams The heart behind the care
lcmh.com 5 told him, ‘I’ve got things to do; give me two weeks,’” Keller recalls. “And Dr. Lugo looked at my wife and said, ‘If he falls into the soup, he’s probably not going to make it.’ That got my attention.” Expertise and kindness On June 10, 2025, just two days before his birthday, Keller had triple bypass surgery. What could have been a scary experience turned into one filled with small acts of kindness. When he got back to his ICU room after a test, the nurses had hung a birthday sign on the wall and came in singing. It’s the kind of gesture, he says, that stays with you. That same care followed him into Memorial’s cardiac rehab program, where structured exercise and encouragement helped him rebuild his strength. “If I say I’m going to do it at home, it’s not going to happen,” he says. “Here, it’s disciplined, and it’s like a family. Everyone’s on their own journey, and we cheer each other on.” Teamwork and support Competitive by nature, Keller found new perspective among fellow patients and his care team. “One of the older guys told me, ‘Son, this is a marathon. Take your time,’” he recalls. “It’s not like a regular gym. Everybody’s running their own race, and everyone is encouraging you.” That sense of teamwork reminded Keller of the camaraderie he’d experienced throughout his years in law enforcement—a bond built on trust and shared purpose. Hometown healing For Keller, recovery was about more than healing his heart. It was an opportunity to experience firsthand the compassion and dedication of the care teams at Lake Charles Memorial, just a mile and a half from where he grew up. “I’ve seen this place grow,” he says. “I’ve always known it was part of our community, but now I know what it means to be cared for here.” Nearly eight months after his surgery, Keller is still moving forward, grateful for both his renewed health and the people who helped him reach it. “If it hadn’t been for the staff and how I was treated, I wouldn’t be here,” he says. “I chose this place because of the care I received. The people make it for sure. They really care—and that’s what saves lives.” Help your heart heal Find out if our cardiac rehab program could be just what you need. Visit lcmh.com/cardiacrehab. Members of Nathan Keller’s care team.
6 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 Finding time for your own health can feel impossible. Between work, family and the unending list of daily responsibilities, scheduling a doctor’s visit often falls to the bottom of the list. Lake Charles Memorial Health System understands that challenge and is offering more convenient ways for patients to get primary care without long waits. Prompt care. Lasting health. Making primary care more accessible for every stage of life LCMHS laboratory services You can find Memorial labs at these locations: Memorial Diagnostic Center–Moss Bluff 217 Sam Houston Parkway, Suite 102 Lake Charles, LA 70611 Memorial Lab– Memorial Hospital 2770 3rd Ave. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Memorial Lab– Moss Memorial Health Clinic 1000 Walters St., Building J Lake Charles, LA 70607 Memorial Lab– Nelson Road 4345 Nelson Road Lake Charles, LA 70605 Memorial Lab– Women’s Hospital 1890 W. Gauthier Road Lake Charles, LA 70605 Memorial Lab– Sulphur 619 S. Huntington St. Sulphur, LA 70663 Memorial Lab– Jennings 1902 Johnson St. Jennings, LA 70546 Memorial Lab– Welsh 708 E. Russell Ave. Welsh, LA 70591 We make it easy With same-week appointments now available, patients no longer have to wait weeks to see a primary care doctor or nurse practitioner. Whether you need a wellness check, a follow-up visit or help managing a chronic condition, Memorial makes it simple to get the care you deserve without long delays or added stress. This flexibility matters. For men who tend to put off routine checkups, it’s a chance to prioritize strength from the inside out. For women who often put themselves last, it’s a reminder that caring for others starts with caring for yourself. And for families juggling busy schedules, it’s reassuring to know that quality care is available close to home. We put you first Memorial’s network of primary care providers offers lifelong partnerships—professionals who get to know you, your health history and your unique needs. With convenient appointments, taking charge of your health has never been easier. Today’s the day Your health deserves attention, and your future self will thank you for taking the first step today. Scan the QR code or call 888-802-2138 to schedule your appointment.
The Heart & Vascular Clinic and Cardiac Rehabilitation teams, along with Nathan Keller and Tony Guillory, at the Cardiac Rehabilitation Gym reveal, marking the completion of its remodel. Recharging For patients recovering after a heart event, the journey back to strength is both physical and emotional. At Lake Charles Memorial Health System, that journey now begins in a newly renovated cardiac rehab gym— a space redesigned to support healing with comfort, confidence and compassion. The Cardiac Rehab Upgrade Project grew from a simple goal: to create a space that truly supports patients across southwest Louisiana as they rebuild their health. With more patients turning to Memorial for cardiac rehabilitation, the need for a refreshed and more functional gym became clear. Thanks to donor generosity and the vision of The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital, that goal is now a reality. New features, same great team The updated gym features modern equipment, a more efficient layout and expanded care areas that allow patients to move safely and steadily at their own pace. But the heart of the program has always been the people who fill the room each day. Memorial’s cardiac rehab team members are known for their encouragement, expertise and empathy, guiding patients through every step toward recovery. How a renewed cardiac rehabilitation gym is strengthening recovery and community Improvements to the gym will help patients increase exercise capacity, reduce future cardiac risk and improve long-term quality of life—all while receiving care close to home. Cardiac Rehab patients like Tony Guillory, District 4 Police Juror for Calcasieu Parish, and Nathan Keller, Ward 3 Marshal (see his story on page 4), often describe how the camaraderie among patients and staff turns hard work into hope. Join us for Hearti Gras This renewed focus on heart health extends beyond the gym. Each February, The Foundation at Lake Charles Memorial Hospital leads Hearti Gras, a community-wide campaign dedicated to heart health awareness, education and prevention. Through outreach events, hands-only CPR training, social media education and fundraising opportunities, Hearti Gras invites local businesses, organizations and families to take an active role in strengthening the heart health of southwest Louisiana. Support raised through Hearti Gras enhances programs like cardiac rehab, ensuring that spaces like this continue to grow for years to come. Help us save hearts! To find out how your gifts can impact lives, visit lcmh.com/giving. hearts
8 Memorial Medical Milestones When Lake Charles small business owner Ashley Frantz woke up one morning in June 2025 with an earache and muffled sound in her right ear, she wasn’t concerned. “I’ve had ear infections before, so my symptoms weren’t alarming to me at all,” Frantz says. As a busy mom and the owner of Lulu’s Specialty Snocones and More, she didn’t have time to slow down, so she went to urgent care, expecting a quick visit and some antibiotics. Instead, she was sent straight to an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist who feared the infection was already affecting her eardrum. A hearing test confirmed the worst. “The technician went through the test on my left ear, and I heard every sound it played,” Frantz recalls. “Then she told me we were starting with the right ear.” Frantz waited for the familiar tones—and heard only silence. “I thought we hadn’t started,” she says. “But I could tell by her face that we had. I broke down in the booth.” The exam revealed a middle ear infection that can cause permanent hearing loss if not treated quickly. Her ENT offered hope but said it would require an aggressive plan: steroid injections and hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT)— two-hour sessions, five days a week, for four weeks—to give her the best chance at restoring her hearing. Facing the first session While Frantz prepared for therapy and hoped for healing, the world kept moving around her. It was the middle of summer, the busiest time of the year for Lulu’s, and with that came its own set of new challenges. “My employees were very understanding, but the noise level of a snow cone shop isn’t helpful for a person with partial hearing loss, so I needed a solution,” Frantz says. Frantz walked into her first HBOT session hopeful but anxious. “I’m claustrophobic, so the moment I saw where I’d be for two hours, I was scared,” she says. Only the encouragement of her nurse, Moria, got her through it. “Even when I started to feel panicked inside the chamber, she talked me through those moments, and I made it,” Frantz explains. With continued support from the HBOT team and Donald Higgins, MD, family medicine physician and wound care specialist, Frantz pushed through treatment day after day. Slowly, her body began to respond. It’s music to her ears How hyperbaric oxygen therapy helped restore Ashley Frantz’s hearing
Have you heard? For more about Frantz’s story and other health conditions that can benefit from hyperbaric oxygen therapy, scan the QR code or visit lcmh.com/hyperbaric. lcmh.com 9 Faint music starts to play One night, after about eight treatments, Frantz noticed something different. Listening to music with her daughter, she suddenly realized she could hear the song through her right earphone. “I could hear it,” she says. “It was muffled, but there was sound.” Skeptical, she asked her daughter, “Play another one.” Again, she heard faint music. For the first time since the ear infection, silence wasn’t the only thing in that ear. Hearing what matters Seven months later, Frantz has regained 100% of her hearing. And with that healing came a new sense of gratitude for everyday moments she once overlooked. The first was conversation—especially with her teenage daughter in the car. Before treatment, hearing her from the passenger seat was nearly impossible. The second was simple but meaningful: the quiet morning sound of birds outside her window. After months of silence on one side, those small noises now feel like gifts. “Before this, I would have never thought something like this was available in Lake Charles,” Frantz says. “People probably think they’d have to drive to a larger city for this kind of therapy, but they don’t.” Reflecting on her journey, she says, “Everyone I encountered there was so kind, and I felt so safe. It was a major investment of time that I really didn’t have, but I made it work, and being able to hear again is worth every minute.” Ashley Frantz adds flavoring to a snow cone at her shop, Lulu’s Specialty Snocones and More. A Memorial Wound Care Clinic nurse prepares the HBOT chamber for the next patient.
10 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 With a growing family of robotic surgical technology, LCMHS is ensuring that patients can receive advanced surgical care close to the people and community they love. At Lake Charles Memorial Health System, innovation is more than an upgrade—it’s a reflection of commitment to the people of southwest Louisiana. Over the past several years, Memorial has expanded its family of roboticassisted surgical systems, reinforcing its mission to improve health through superior care, innovative service and compassion. A new era of surgery Robotic-assisted surgery may sound futuristic, but at its heart, it’s about enhancing a surgeon’s precision and strengthening patient outcomes. “This technology doesn’t replace the surgeon,” explains Richard Shimer, MD, general and trauma surgeon at Memorial. “It gives us the ability to perform procedures with greater accuracy and control, improving outcomes for our patients.” From gallbladder removal and hernia repairs to joint replacements; lung biopsies; and complex gynecological, urological, cranial and spinal procedures, Memorial’s advanced robotic systems help surgeons navigate even the most delicate procedures. For patients, that can mean shorter hospital stays, less pain and a faster return to everyday life. With a growing family of robotic surgical technology, LCMHS is ensuring that patients can receive advanced surgical care in SWLA. Advanced surgical care, just down the road Expanding access through innovation Bringing robotic-assisted systems to Memorial was more than a technological milestone—it was a promise to make advanced surgical care accessible to all people of southwest Louisiana. Every investment in equipment and advanced training reflects the Health System’s continued focus on quality, safety and service excellence. Memorial’s family of robots is transforming care across multiple specialties: • General surgery— smaller incisions and faster recovery for gallbladder, hernia and cancer surgeries • Gynecology— minimally invasive treatment for fibroids, endometriosis and hysterectomy procedures, allowing for gentler healing • Urology— greater precision and protection of healthy tissue during kidney, bladder and prostate surgeries • Orthopedics— robotic-guided joint replacement that supports more natural movement and longer-lasting mobility • Neurosurgery and spine— real-time imaging via the ExcelsiusGPS for delicate brain and spine procedures, improving safety and recovery • Pulmonology— earlier, more accurate detection of lung nodules and cancerous cells with the Ion robotic system
lcmh.com 11 Common robotic-assisted procedures • Gallbladder surgery • Hernia repairs • Surgical cancer treatment • Hysterectomy • Uterine fibroid removal • Endometriosis ablation • Pelvic floor repair • Kidney surgery • Bladder surgery • Prostate surgery • Total knee replacement • Deep brain simulation • Spinal fusion • Disc replacement • Spinal fracture surgery • Lung biopsy Looking ahead As Memorial continues to expand its capabilities, one thing remains constant: a steadfast commitment to provide the most advanced, personalized and compassionate care possible. Direct from the director To learn more about Memorial’s robotic systems from Sara Daulong, Director of Preoperative Services, scan the QR code or visit lcmh.com/robotics. Richard Shimer, MD, general and trauma surgeon at Lake Charles Memorial, demonstrates the da Vinci 5 robotic surgery system.
12 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 Jose Gonzales, MD Brian Stewart, MD Strengthening care across Familiar faces, expanded access and a growing regional vision Care rooted in community: Family medicine in Sulphur For more than two decades, families in Sulphur have turned to two physicians who feel like part of their own families. Since opening their practice together in 1997, Jose Gonzales, MD, and Brian Stewart, MD, have cared for generations of residents. Their partnership has always been grounded in friendship first. Their families have grown up together, vacationed together and supported one another through every season of life. That same bond shapes the way they care for their patients. Ask their patients what makes these physicians stand out, and the answers are consistent: They listen, they educate and they make decisions with their patients. They are approachable, trustworthy and committed to helping people understand their health in practical, empowering ways. What patients may not see, but certainly feel, is the way the two physicians work as a team. They do not compete. They collaborate, focused every day on the same goal of helping patients live healthier and more informed lives. Joining Lake Charles Memorial Health System was a natural next step for Dr. Gonzales and Dr. Stewart, driven by a shared goal to provide their patients an expanded network of providers and resources. While the clinic’s name is now Memorial Family Medicine–Sulphur, the care patients know and trust remains unchanged. What has changed is access— connecting patients to Memorial’s specialists, imaging and lab services—along with the added convenience of MyChart, a secure online patient portal by EPIC, to support their care. Sulphur is a unique community. Many families live there, but many also work there, often commuting from surrounding parishes to the area’s plants and industries. Convenient access to primary care matters, and being able to stay close to home or close to work makes healthcare one less thing to worry about. Memorial Family Medicine–Sulphur 2509 Maplewood Drive
lcmh.com 13 —Continued on page 14 southwest Louisiana Specialty care under one roof Nearby, another pillar of care is improving convenience for patients across the region. The Memorial Specialty Clinic at 619 S. Huntington St. brings three major specialties together in a single location: oncology and hematology, heart and vascular, and advanced urology. Memorial has provided specialty care in Sulphur for more than 20 years. Housing these services together strengthens access for patients who might otherwise travel longer distances for appointments. The specialists practicing in Sulphur also care for patients in Lake Charles, which means people see the same trusted faces no matter which Memorial location they visit. That consistency is especially helpful for patients navigating chronic conditions or complex diagnoses. Now seeing patients at Memorial Specialty Clinic– Sulphur: Cardiology Ahmad Awan, MD Karl Duncan, MD Kurt Duncan, MD Sarah Bardin, NP Oncology/Hematology Mohammad Khan, MD Urology Farjaad Siddiq, MD Emilie Adekanbi, NP Amanda Blount, NP Celeste Brown, NP To make an appointment, call the Specialty Clinic at 337-480-7474. Expanding access in Jeff Davis Parish As Memorial strengthens care in Sulphur, access is expanding in Jeff Davis Parish as well. In Jennings, two respected physicians joined the Memorial family in 2025, connecting their long-established practices to a broader network of services. Internal medicine physician Patrick Griffith, MD, and cardiologist Lam Nguyen, MD, continue to care for patients at their original clinics. They chose to join Memorial so their patients could benefit from expanded specialty access, diagnostic support and the streamlined communication of MyChart. Dr. Griffith’s clinic now offers lab services for patients in Jennings. This addition gives patients a convenient location to complete lab work, reducing the need to travel for routine testing. For patients managing long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease or hypertension, this integration creates fewer delays and a smoother care experience. MyChart brings records, results and messaging into one secure place. Jennings is a community with strong local pride. Memorial is committed to honoring that, beginning with partnerships like its sponsorship of Jennings High School football and plans for deeper involvement in the parish. Memorial Specialty Clinic–Sulphur 619 S. Huntington St. Memorial Internal Medicine–Jennings Patrick Griffith, MD 1902 Johnson St. Memorial Heart & Vascular–Jennings Lam Nguyen, MD 1322 Elton Road, Suite E
—Continued from page 13 Strengthening care across southwest Louisiana A regional mission: Healthcare where patients live and work The growth in Sulphur, Moss Bluff and Jennings speaks to the broader direction of Lake Charles Memorial Health System. The goal is simple: bring high-quality care closer to where people live and work across SWLA. In 2025 alone, Memorial welcomed 22 new physicians to the region. Some were longstanding independent providers who joined to strengthen access for their patients. Others were new to southwest Louisiana. All share the same commitment to care that is local, coordinated and centered on the patient. Southwest Louisiana is a region defined by movement. Many people live in one parish or city, work in another, and spend time every day traveling between communities. Memorial’s expanding network reflects that reality. Whether in Lake Charles, Sulphur, Moss Bluff, Cameron, Jennings, Welsh, Iowa, or DeRidder, families deserve consistent, accessible care from providers who know their communities well. This work is grounded in Memorial’s mission: to improve the health of all people in southwest Louisiana through superior care, innovative service, health education and disease prevention delivered in a personalized, caring and safe environment. With expanded access, trusted providers and a growing regional footprint, Memorial continues to strengthen the health of southwest Louisiana, one community at a time. 14 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 Growing care in Moss Bluff Memorial Family Medicine–Moss Bluff has long been a trusted source of primary care for families in the community. As Moss Bluff continues to grow, Memorial is expanding the clinic to better meet the needs of patients who already rely on it for everyday care. The expansion will nearly double the size of the clinic, increasing from nine exam rooms to 17 and creating additional capacity for appointments while preserving the familiar providers and personal relationships patients value. Construction on the expanded clinic is scheduled for completion this spring. This next phase builds on Memorial’s continued investment in Moss Bluff residents, following the addition of the Memorial Diagnostic Center and lab services in 2024. Together, these services create a more connected care experience, allowing patients to access primary care and diagnostic services closer to home. Through thoughtful growth and long-term presence, Memorial remains committed to supporting the health of Moss Bluff with care that is local, accessible and built around the community.
Congratulations, 2025 winners! First Quarter Bradley Loewer, MD Family medicine Dr. Loewer joined the medical staff at Lake Charles Memorial Health System in 2007 after completing his residency at the Memorial LSUHSC Family Medicine Residency Program. Early in his career, he identified two core callings: delivering compassionate care to underserved communities and mentoring resident physicians as they prepare for medical practice. Throughout his tenure, Dr. Loewer has served on medical committees and as an Assistant Clinical Professor at LSUHSC, helping shape the next generation of physicians. Highly regarded by colleagues and beloved by patients, Dr. Loewer is recognized for his thoughtful approach in challenging medical situations. His combination of medical expertise, guidance and consistent follow-up reflects the integrity and heart that define his character. 2025 Golden Stethoscope Awards: Lake Charles Memorial Health System recognizes outstanding healthcare service providers who demonstrate excellence in patient care, customer service, communication and teamwork. These providers have gone above and beyond to care for their patients and positively impact their workplaces. Third Quarter Ronald Lewis Jr., MD Internal medicine Affectionately known as “The Ponytail Doc,” Dr. Lewis is beloved by patients and colleagues alike for his dedication and deeply personal approach to care. From dawn to dusk, he can often be found seeing patients, frequently taking on the most complex cases. His patients are often surprised when he shares his personal phone number, unaware that he offers the same access to all those he treats. Dr. Lewis is known for escorting patients to exam rooms and even taking vital signs himself, prompting many to say, “They just don’t make doctors like him anymore.” In times of crisis, he has gone above and beyond by personally covering the cost of medications and medical equipment for patients in need. Dr. Lewis has served on numerous medical committees and is a strong advocate for nurse practitioner–led care. Second Quarter James Maze, MD Radiation oncology Known for the lasting impact he has on the lives of his patients, Dr. Maze consistently demonstrates empathy and understanding, especially in high-pressure situations. His professionalism, clinical expertise, steady judgment and calm presence provide reassurance to both patients and their families. Dr. Maze has served on Memorial’s Cancer Committee and managed a high-need radiation oncology clinic with remarkable efficiency. He balances the demands of complex cases while ensuring each patient feels heard, supported and prioritized. Dr. Maze’s empathy extends beyond his patients to their families, reminding us that supporting caregivers is just as vital as supporting those receiving treatment. Fourth Quarter Erich Wolf, MD Neurosurgery Approachable, dedicated and meticulous in his patient care, Dr. Wolf is widely respected by both patients and colleagues. Team members often say it is “an honor” to work with him, while patients recognize his generous investment of time, clear communication and steady reassurance, even when questions arise late at night. No matter the hour, “Dr. Wolf is present” is a sentiment echoed across his care teams and by the patients who rely on him. A board-certified neurosurgeon, Dr. Wolf has served southwest Louisiana since 2000. Over the years, he has treated countless patients across the region, combining compassionate care with innovative surgical techniques. His clinical expertise, calm presence and unwavering commitment to each patient have established him as a trusted provider and respected leader in neurosurgical medicine. lcmh.com 15
16 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1 When Doug Shearman looks back on his lung cancer journey, he doesn’t start with the diagnosis. He begins with the people who listened, reassured, explained and stayed beside him through every step. For him, that level of care wasn’t just clinical. It was personal. His relationship with his primary care provider, Brian Clements, MD, began decades ago. “He’s been more than a doctor,” Shearman says. “He’s been a really good friend, someone you can talk to.” That long-standing trust became the first link in a team that formed quickly once Shearman’s symptoms began in December 2023. A sudden, sharp pain under his left arm sent him to the Memorial emergency room at 3:30 a.m. Nurses moved quickly, working to provide relief and answers. “They were really nice,” he says. “They knew something was wrong but kept saying, ‘That pain is temporary. We’re going to get rid of it.’ And they did.” A few days later, Cliff Courville, MD, pulmonologist, delivered the diagnosis: stage III lung cancer. Soon after, medical oncologist Michael Broussard, MD, and radiation oncologist James Maze, MD, joined Shearman’s treatment team. But what Shearman talks about most isn’t the diagnosis or the medicine—it’s the way he was cared for. ‘A beautiful dance’ He affectionately calls Memorial’s infusion clinic “Room 215,” and the nurses there became central to his story. He describes the way they worked together as “a beautiful dance,” moving around one another with precision and instinct, never missing a detail. ‘It’s personal’ How individualized, empathetic care helped one patient through lung cancer treatment Members of the outpatient infusion clinic team with Doug Shearman.
lcmh.com 17 When he had questions he hadn’t had a chance to ask his doctors, a nurse would pull up a chair beside him. “They aren’t just doing a job,” he says. “They sit next to you. They explain everything. They know when you’re scared. There’s no dollar figure you can put on that type of work.” He also noticed how much they gave of themselves day after day. Watching them move through long shifts without real breaks, Shearman decided to do something in return. On his treatment Thursdays, he started sending in sandwich trays for the staff. “They can’t always leave,” he says. “Might as well have something good to eat.” It was his way of thanking the team members who understood what their patients were going through and supported them at every turn. The golden rule in practice Throughout treatment, he returned often to the golden rule: treating others the way you would want to be treated. For him, Memorial embodied that value. “You see it everywhere,” he says. “In the way they talk to you, in the way they look out for you, in the way they look out for each other. It all comes back around.” Compassionate care close to home Shearman didn’t have to leave his community or the routines that brought him comfort. Between treatments, he walked his marina, mowed his yard and spent time outside because, as he puts it, fresh air and sunshine were their own kind of therapy. After six rounds of chemotherapy and 25 radiation sessions, he is grateful for both the outcome and the journey. “You can do everything you need right here,” he says. “And you’re 10 or 15 minutes from home when it’s over. But it’s more than convenience—it’s the people. Those nurses in Room 215? They’re stars. The whole thing is an art.” Shearman’s treatment plan proved to be incredibly successful, impressing even his doctors. But he wasn’t surprised by the outcome, and he doesn’t call it luck. He calls it faith. He calls it community. And when he talks about Lake Charles Memorial Health System, he highlights the people who made the difference. “Compassion. Empathy. People who really care about you,” he says. “That’s what I found at Memorial.” Why supportive, humancentered care matters Cancer patients who report high levels of clinician empathy have better symptom management, improved emotional wellbeing and greater treatment adherence. Source: American Journal of Managed Care Strong care-team relationships can reduce patient anxiety by up to 60%, which may improve overall health outcomes. Source: National Institutes of Health Are you at risk for lung cancer? Ask your doctor about getting a low-dose lung CT scan. Learn more about it at lcmh.com/lunghealth.
Home means different things to different people. For some, home is a person or a place. Others find it in a feeling. For Linda Cooley, home is southwest Louisiana—and that’s exactly where she wants to be, even during cancer treatment. Choosing to stay local Midway through 2025, Cooley received a cancer diagnosis, news that changes everything in an instant. Her oncologist, Michael Broussard, MD, with the Cancer Center at Lake Charles Memorial, was ready to support her in seeking a second opinion out of town, as many patients do. But Cooley already knew her path. She trusted her local care team, and she wanted to stay at home, surrounded by her family and the community that had always supported her. The art of Cooley has known Lake Charles as home for many years. She was raised here, met her husband here and it’s where they raised two children. For decades, she built a career that could only be described as colorful. Affectionately known as “the glass lady,” Cooley owned and operated A Touch of Glass on Lake Street for 31 years, creating vibrant stained-glass art. Through her work, she brought to life images that caught the light and turned ordinary windows into stories of their own. Though her shop has since closed, her art and her passion live on through her daughter, who learned the craft at her side. When Cooley chose to stay in Lake Charles for treatment, she didn’t know she would healing How Linda Cooley found advanced cancer care and comfort in southwest Louisiana 18 Memorial Medical Milestones • 2026 Issue 1
lcmh.com 19 also become a permanent part of Memorial’s history. She was the first patient to undergo radiation therapy using the hospital’s new Varian Edge Linear Accelerator, the only system of its kind in Louisiana. Getting the best possible care Varian Edge Linear Accelerator is a radio surgical system designed to deliver precisely targeted radiation beams that destroy cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue and surrounding organs. For patients, that can mean shorter treatments, fewer side effects and better quality of life. For Cooley, it meant advanced cancer care was available just around the corner from her home. Radiation therapy is demanding. It takes time, energy and consistency. For many patients who must travel back and forth to other cities, treatment becomes even more exhausting. The drive, the unfamiliar beds and the hotel stays all add stress at a time when rest and routine matter most. Staying in Lake Charles allowed Cooley to focus on healing while sleeping in her own bed each night and staying connected with her family and friends on a regular basis. Like stained glass, Cooley’s treatment required precision, patience and the skill to bring many pieces together into one picture of hope. Her care team—oncologists, radiation therapists, nurses and technicians—have worked seamlessly, each playing their part in the design of a plan for recovery. Trusting the process The Varian Edge began operating the same day Cooley began her radiation therapy. While she was nervous to start, she took comfort in knowing that she was in trusted hands and wouldn’t have to leave home to receive advanced care. Cooley hopes that by sharing her story, she can encourage other women—especially older women—to stay current with routine gynecological exams, including Pap smears. She admits it’s easy to put those appointments off, particularly when life feels busy or symptoms aren’t obvious. But she believes preventive care matters at every age and encourages women to keep those conversations going with their doctors. Today, Cooley continues her chemotherapy and radiation treatments and is looking ahead with gratitude and optimism. The colors of her life may have shifted, but like her art, the light still shines through. The Varian Edge Linear Accelerator is designed to deliver precisely targeted radiation beams.
Be in the know! You can get Lake Charles Memorial Health System news and more right in your inbox! Scan the QR code above to sign up for our email newsletter, or go to lcmh.com/newsletter. Nonprofit Org. U.S. Postage PAID Walla Walla, WA Permit No. 44 Lake Charles Memorial Hospital 1701 Oak Park Blvd. Lake Charles, LA 70601 Lake Charles Memorial Health System Community Health Needs Assessment 1 Behavioral health (mental health and substance use) Focus areas: Emergency room navigation Integration of collaboration of community behavioral health services Postpartum depression Suicide prevention 2 Health behaviors Focus areas: Health education Motor vehicle accident prevention Sexually transmitted diseases Tobacco use 3 Managing population health and preventing chronic diseases Focus areas: Cancer Diabetes Heart disease High blood pressure Obesity Stroke 4 Access to care Focus areas: Care coordination Health system navigation Workforce development Every three years, Lake Charles Memorial Health System conducts a Community Health Needs Assessment (CHNA), which helps us understand the most pressing health challenges in southwest Louisiana. By listening to residents, studying local data and collaborating with community organizations, Memorial identifies priority needs and sets a road map for improving health and access to care over the next three years. These four priorities have been highlighted for 2026–2029: To view the CHNA Executive Summary or the full report or to access a community research directory, visit lcmh.com/CHNA.
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