"That's the biggest thing," said Lori Aratari, senior development officer for UMMC. "We're getting kids involved in philanthropy at a young age and showing them the importance of giving back and especially supporting health care in our community."

For anyone in the vicinity of Centennial Park Thursday, you may have spotted a bunch of lemonade stands, correlating yellow decor and people enjoying the warm weather with a cool cup of lemonade. 

What you may not have noticed so readily was the fundraising taking place with each cup of beverage sold. The event, hosted by Rochester Regional Health and United Memorial Medical Center, was to raise money for baby swaddles. A goal was set to purchase 500 of the infant wraps to give to local moms. 

So why baby swaddles? What are they and why are they important enough to warrant a specific fundraiser? Over at the Healthy Living stand, registered nurse and maternal health educator Jay Balduf put it succinctly with a  two-digit number: 93.

“Ninety-three babies die annually in New York State alone, either by being rolled on by another person or loose bedding,” she said. “So that's why we promote the Safe Sleep initiative on the unit. Sacks play a role in teaching new parents, and any parent, really, about the importance of safe sleep. And it just helps us also to give back a little to the community, because most of these kids were probably delivered at UMMC.”

Baby swaddles and sacks are promoted for infants as a safe way to be in a crib and for sleep time. Other embellishments — pillows, blankets, clothing — can become a hazard if the baby gets entangled or covered with such material, said Linda Stoiber, an RN and lactation consultant.

“The hospital is a Baby-Friendly Hospital and a safe sleep designated hospital where babies are placed on their back. They are swaddled with these new swaddlers,” Stoiber said. “There should never be another blanket or a pillow, or anything around the crib, nothing else that would affect the baby then cover their face and cause them to suffocate.”

Megan Boring learned early on — with two Neonatal Intensive Care Unit babies of her own — the importance of making them feel safe, helping them to grow and be warm. A coordinator of Healthy Living’s MOMS (Medicaid Obstetrics Maternal Services)  program, she supports the belief that babies don’t belong on their bellies, she said, but more safely on their backs. Swaddling them keeps their arms tucked nicely inside, and it mimics a cocoon “as if they're sleeping still inside … the mom's womb,” she said.

“So the Safe Sleep initiative is really to help keep them on their back while they're sleeping,” she said. “I think there are moms that don't understand the importance of the swaddles. They can be expensive to some moms too. They are upwards of $25 to $30 and not all moms have. So I think that this fundraiser is important because it's going to help moms get at least one to have so that they can also be educated on safe sleep for their babies. (See related story, Lemonade stands bring out supporters, creativity and lots of yellow.)

For more information about Healthy Living programs, call (585) 344-5331 or go here.

Top photo: Healthy Living's Baby Cafe staff Linda Stoiber, left, and MOMS program coordinator Megan Boring, hand out lemonade with information for anyone interested in baby swaddling, breastfeeding and other maternal-related issues Thursday during the Lemonade Stand fundraiser at Centennial Park. Above, Jay Balduf, Megan Boring and Linda Stoiber greet a visitor at the Healthy Living stand. Photos by Howard Owens.

Press release:

United Memorial Medical Center (UMMC) has been gifted the largest donation in its history of more than 100 years. Marian Ransom, who lived in LeRoy, left her entire estate of more than $1.2 million to the hospital upon passing away last year. In honor of Marian Ransom and her generous contribution, the second-floor medical wing at UMMC has been renamed the “Marian Ransom Medical Unit.”

“Its contributions like Marian’s that make such a profound impact on the community,” said Dan Ireland, president of United Memorial Medical Center. “We are beyond grateful for Marian’s contributions and what it will mean for the hospital, our patients, and the community. With the support of her donation, we’ll be renovating the intensive care unit (ICU), which will also have a significant impact on the newly named Marian Ransom Medical Unit.”

The ICU project is still in the early stages of development, but when complete will improve patient, visitor access, and flow to both the ICU and the Marian Ransom Medical Unit. The ICU will get a new waiting area and greeting area and also, clinical support spaces for both units. 

“Marian desired to make a difference at the end of her life and so bequeathed her entire estate of more than $1.2 million to United Memorial Medical Center," said Michael T. Welsh, Marian’s attorney. “This humble and philosophical woman has left a legacy which will benefit so many of our citizens for years to come.”

Submitted photos and press release:

Throughout the course of the coronavirus pandemic, the community has found unique ways to thank the healthcare heroes at United Memorial Medical Center (UMMC) through food deliveries, donations and letters.

An ongoing fundraiser spearheaded by the St. Jerome Guild’s Hometown Hero's Star Program honors the staff at UMMC and it also recently led to the donation of a freezer to store the COVID-19 vaccine. 

“Even during the pandemic, the Guild has worked to support our hospital and employees,” said Dan Ireland, president of UMMC. “We’re grateful they were able to pull the community together to remind our healthcare heroes that they’re appreciated.”

COVID-19 vaccines are now stored in the freezer as supplies arrive at UMMC. In addition, the fundraiser provides certificates of recognition to honor health care heroes. To date, nearly 1,000 certificates have been distributed to UMMC employees thanking them for their tireless efforts over the past year.

“We wanted the community to participate,” said Annette LaBarbera, president of the St. Jerome Guild. “Our goal was and continues to be raising enough money to support our healthcare workers and the exceptional care they deliver, as well as, our community.”

To celebrate an UMMC healthcare worker of your choosing by participating in the fundraiser, please email smile4a@gmail.com.

Visit the UMMC Auxiliaries website for more information.

Top photo, from left: UMMC staff members in front of the newly donated freezer -- Michael Harasimowicz, Lindsay Starkweather, Korey Brauen and Meagan Stringham.

Below left, Annette LaBarbera, president of the St. Jerome Guild, stands with Kathleen Storch holding her Certificate of Recognition from the St. Jerome Guild’s Hometown Hero’s Star Program​.

Below, a ceremonial check for $7,500 for the UMMC Foundation held by UMMC President Dan Ireland and Annette LaBarbera, president of the St. Jerome Guild.

Monday’s check presentation took place at Stafford Country Club. From right are: Dan Ireland, UMMC president, Dr. Nicholas Loffredo and his wife Annie Loffredo and their two little daughters.

Submitted photo and press release:

The United Memorial Medical Center Foundation Annual Golf, Tennis and Bocce Tournament raised funds for the hospital for more than 20 years. When it was eliminated in 2018, one of UMMC’s own immediately stepped up to fill the void, forming a not-for-profit called North Pole Charity to take its place and resume the event.

“Giving back has always been important to me and my family,” said Nicholas Loffredo, DO, United Memorial Medical Center orthopedic surgeon. “I’m thrilled to carry on this longstanding tradition that will support United Memorial Medical Center and its healthcare workers, helping to ensure local access to great care in this community for decades to come.”

This year’s event raised $4,000 for the hospital and a total of $8,000 since its revival last year.

“As COVID-19 became more prevalent in the community, we were concerned the tournament would be canceled,” Dr. Loffredo said. “It was even more important to carry on with the golf tournament this year to help support the healthcare workers fighting COVID-19 on the frontline.”

North Pole Charity plans to build on this tournament to raise additional funds for the hospital for years to come.

The 32^nd annual Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County will be presented to Paul and Bridget Ohlson on Friday, Nov. 4, at an awards luncheon at Terry Hills Restaurant. They are the founders of Care-A-Van Ministries, which is now supported by 23 local churches, and partners with a variety of agencies including The Salvation Army, Cornell Extension, GCASA, among others.

The award presented by The Jerome Foundation and United Memorial Medical Center Foundation recognizes volunteer men and women of Genesee County who have helped promote emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of the area’s residents. Nominations reflected “ordinary people who reach far beyond themselves to the lives of those in need, bringing hope, care, and friendship, and helping build a stronger, healthier community.”

In naming the Ohlsons for this year’s award, the Foundations will recognize 16 years Paul and Bridget, along with other devoted volunteers, have ministered to the needy in Batavia. Their outreach program focuses on “seeking out and serving the lost, the less fortunate, and the hurting.”

It all began in May of 2000 when the Ohlsons recognized neighborhoods in Batavia where families had a great need for groceries. Using their van, they would park at various street corners and distribute food. They would rotate to different neighborhoods in the City of Batavia every Saturday morning. The Ohlsons used their vans and bus “to bring food, clothing, compassion, love, hope and prayer to many areas of the city." They have not missed a single Saturday morning in reaching out to those in need.

The Health and Humanitarian Award luncheon is open to the public. Reservations can be made by contacting United Memorial Medical Center Foundation at 344-5300. Seating will be limited so early reservations are encouraged.

The Jerome Foundation and United Memorial Medical Center Foundation are jointly seeking nominations for the 32^nd annual Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County. Nominations should be submitted on or before Sept. 6.

The award recognizes outstanding men and women whose volunteer efforts have improved the physical, emotional or spiritual well-being of the greater Genesee County area.

“We are fortunate to have many caring and committed volunteers devoted to the sick or to those in need, and helping to build a stronger, healthier community for all of us,” said Justin Calarco-Smith, president of The Jerome Foundation.

He noted the accomplishments of John Dwyer, the 2015 Health and Humanitarian Award winner. For more than 60 years Mr. Dwyer has given his support and leadership to numerous organizations involved in health care, job creation, education and charitable causes.

Nomination forms are available from UMMC Foundation Office at 127 North St., or by calling 585-344-5301, or online at www.ummc.org.

Organizations or individuals may nominate candidates. Consideration will be given to actual accomplishments achieved through volunteer service and subsequent improvements to quality of life. 

The 2016 award winner will be honored at a luncheon on Friday, Nov. 4, at Terry Hills Restaurant.

John C. Dwyer, center, receives the 2015 Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County from David Ciurzynski, vice president of the United Memorial Medical Center Foundation, left, and Justin Calarco-Smith, president of The Jerome Foundation. The two groups sponsor the annual award, which was presented to Dwyer during a luncheon Friday at Terry Hills Restaurant in Batavia.

The afternoon began with an “Irish Blessing” and ended with a rousing performance of the University of Notre Dame’s fight song.

Appropriate choices, given the honoree.

John C. Dwyer received the 2015 Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County during a luncheon Friday at Terry Hills Restaurant.

Dwyer is the 31st recipient of the award, which is presented each year by The Jerome Foundation and the United Memorial Medical Center Foundation.

In choosing Dwyer, the foundations recognized his 60 years of volunteer efforts on behalf of more than 30 community organizations involved in nearly every aspect of life in Genesee County.

Mary Pat Hancock, former chair of the county Legislature, spoke in tribute to Dwyer. The Health and Humanitarian Award, she said, is a “perfect recognition” of his contributions.

“He has worked joyfully throughout his long and productive life, to enhance the health and human condition of our county,” she said.

Dwyer accepted the award with humility and humor.

“To be honest, I almost didn’t show up here today,” Dwyer said.

For that, credit Saint Matthew.

“I was at Mass some time ago,” Dwyer explained, “and the Gospel reading stated: Take care not to perform righteous acts in order that people may see them, or otherwise you will have no recompense from your Heavenly Father.”

Dwyer said that sounded like a warning.

“Here I am, in public, being recognized for my acts,” he joked. “And at my age, this is no time to be testing the patience of the Lord!”

The Health and Humanitarian Award recognizes volunteers who have helped promote the emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of Genesee County residents.

Dwyer has given time and talent to several organizations, including the Genesee County Water Resources Agency, Children’s Home Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, Batavia Lions Club and the Chamber of Commerce. He has served in leadership roles at St. Joseph School, Notre Dame High School and Genesee Community College.

A native of Batavia, Dwyer went west as a young man — to the University of Notre Dame in Indiana, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Commerce and met his future wife, Jacquie.

Dwyer served two years in the Army before returning to Batavia and his family’s business. He was president of Thomas & Dwyer Shoes until retiring in 1997.

He later served as director of the Genesee County Industrial Development Agency.

Dwyer said he found community service deeply intriguing, although he was at a loss to explain why.

“I don’t really know the draw,” Dwyer said. “But I was fascinated by the process, by the committees, the boards — how people worked, how people got things done.

“I loved the process,” he continued. “I loved the personalities involved, and I truly loved the results.”

The nature of public service has changed, he said, and tends to be steered more by government than volunteers. In closing, he said one thing has not changed — volunteer service is still valuable and necessary.

Reflecting Dwyer’s devotion to Notre Dame — both high school and university — the “Fighting Irish” was a theme for the day. That ranged from the chocolate shamrocks at every place setting, to the musical entertainment.

“The Irish Blessing” and University of Notre Dame’s “Victory March” were sung by a quartet from Notre Dame High School. Anthony Gugino, Matthew Stevens, Jessica Cmor and Keara Zerillo were accompanied by Theresa Kehl, school musical director.

Norman Argulski delivered the invocation, which thanked Dwyer for “his many talents, his appropriate words, his years of service and his dedication to our community.”

The 31st annual Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County will be presented to John C. Dwyer on Friday, Dec. 4, at an awards luncheon at Terry Hills Restaurant.

The award presented by The Jerome Foundation and United Memorial Medical Center Foundation recognizes volunteer men and women of Genesee County who have helped promote emotional, physical and spiritual well-being of the area’s residents. Nominations reflected “ordinary people who reach far beyond themselves to the lives of those in need, bringing hope, care, and friendship, and helping build a stronger, healthier community.”

In naming John Dwyer for this year’s award, the Foundations will recognize 60 years of his volunteer efforts and leadership to more than 30 community organizations involved with health care, job creation, education, and humanitarian needs of Genesee County.

Mr. Dwyer has given his time and talent to Genesee County Water Resources Agency, Genesee County Industrial Development Agency, Children’s Home Foundation, Boy Scouts of America, Batavia Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, and other civic organizations.

Improvement of educational resources in the Genesee County area has been of special interest to Mr. Dwyer. He has served in leadership roles at Genesee Community College, Notre Dame High School, and St. Joseph School.

Health care has also been a priority. Mr. Dwyer served as president of the former St. Jerome Hospital Foundation, and chaired various fundraising campaigns with the goal of improving healthcare in Genesee County.

In one of several letters nominating Mr. Dwyer, Mary Pat Hancock, the former chair of the Genesee County Legislature, said “John’s documented activities and his continued involvement in our community speak for themselves, but it is love for Genesee County, his pride in Western New York, and his positive vision for the future that have given strength and focus to his efforts, and helped insure a positive outcome.”

Marie Call, a friend and colleague, also remarked on Mr. Dwyer’s achievements, saying “John has demonstrated his passion for, and commitment to, a wide variety of community organizations that have had an impact on thousands of people from school children to senior citizens.”

The Health and Humanitarian Award luncheon is open to the public. Reservations can be made by contacting United Memorial Medical Center Foundation at 344-5300. Seating will be limited so early reservations are encouraged.

The Jerome Foundation and United Memorial Medical Center Foundation are seeking nominations for the Health and Humanitarian Award of Genesee County.

This will be the 31st year the award has been presented. The first award was presented to Dr. Sydney McLouth in 1982. Award winners for the past four decades have included health care workers, builders, teachers, and many community volunteers.

The award recognizes outstanding men and women whose volunteer efforts have improved the physical, emotional or spiritual well-being of the greater Genesee County area.

“We are fortunate to have many caring and committed volunteers devoted to the sick or to those in need, and helping build a stronger, healthier community for all of us,” says a written statement from Justin Calarco-Smith, president of The Jerome Foundation, and Susie Boyce, president of UMMC Foundation.

They noted Robert Boyce, the 2014 Health and Humanitarian Award recipient, who has devoted considerable time and talent to improving the quality of volunteer ambulance service in LeRoy, in addition to volunteer service on many community boards and organizations.

Nomination forms are available from UMMC Foundation Office at 127 North St., calling 585-344-5300, or online at www.ummc.org.

Organizations or individuals may nominate candidates. Consideration will be given to actual accomplishments achieved through volunteer service and subsequent improvements to quality of life. Nominations should be submitted on or before Sept. 30.

The 2015 award winner will be honored at a luncheon on Friday, Dec. 4, at Terry Hills Restaurant.