December 2025

Happy Holidays and Happy New Year to All!

Christopher White, MD, Deparment Chair, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

"What a ride it has been! It’s hard to believe we are already six months into this academic year, and even harder to grasp how quickly time has passed since stepping into the Chair role. It has been an absolute honor to serve this department and to advocate for MCW PM&R. As we approach our 75th year as a department-- more to come about ways we plan to commemorate and celebrate this milestone--we have so much to be proud of! 

As I reflect, I want to express my sincere gratitude to each of you. These months have given me a deeper appreciation for the dedication, professionalism, and genuine care that define our department. You have extended me tremendous grace as I’ve navigated this new role and continued to learn. It has been an honor to witness firsthand the strength of your commitment to our patients, trainees, and one another. I have also genuinely enjoyed the time we’ve spent together reacquainting with one another—especially during our inaugural kickoff boat cruise, as well as at our in-person faculty meetings. 

This has been a period of meaningful transition for us as well. We have celebrated well-earned retirements with Dr. Kosasih, and we have welcomed others into new leadership roles. Dr. Connelly has taken on the role of leading the General VA section with steady guidance and a collaborative spirit. I am grateful for his partnership. I’m reminded as the seasons change, the period of change and growth our department also finds itself. We have a lot to be thankful for, from our longtime faculty members who provide stability and strength to our newest additions who inject vigor and bring new ideas. As we continue to navigate the winds of change, we will do so steadily and with purpose because we are all committed to our collective successes. 

We also have much to celebrate! Dr. McGuire’s Distinguished Service Award from AAPM&R reflects an extraordinary legacy of service to the field, and we could not be prouder. Likewise, Dr. Braza’s receipt of MCW’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service Award, is an exceptional achievement and a testament to her enduring contributions to our institution, our specialty, and the department. These recognitions shine brightly on our department and exemplify the excellence present across our entire team.

Beyond our professional milestones, our PM&R family continues to grow in other ways! We have celebrated recent births and look forward to welcoming several new additions in the new year ahead. These moments of happiness and anticipation remind us of the vibrant, supportive community we share and the connections we have as a “work family.” 

Thanks to your collective efforts, we have launched the new academic year with success—marked by collaboration, renewed connections, and a shared sense of purpose. I am deeply grateful for the warmth, trust, and dedication you have shown during my first months in this role and throughout this new academic year. I promise to continue giving you my best, to advocate for PM&R in every setting, and—most importantly—to keep you and the patients we serve at the center of all I do. The people of this department make it truly special, and I will always strive to be your strongest advocate and biggest fan."

-Christopher L. White, MD  

United Way MCW Giving Campaign

This year’s MCW Community Giving Campaign to support United Way and UPAF was a success! Our department's generous participation has contributed to PM&R raising a total of $4,193.00! Thank you to those who donated! 

Also, a special congratulations to the following Price Drawing Winners! 

• Two Milwaukee Bucks Tickets– Dr. Mitch O'Neill
• Snack Basket – Morgan McIlwee
• Coffee Lovers Basket – Dr. Charlotte Ball
• Red Wine Box - Monika Szczerba

Congratulations to Mary Inloes on her Marriage!

Congratulations to Morgan McIlwee, Clinical Researcher Coordinator II, on her Engagement!

Congratulations to Mary Voegeli, APNP for Being Featured in the November Issue of Froedtert Today!

This year’s November issue of Froedtert Today featured the remarkable recovery of 21-year-old Mount Pleasant resident Jordan Tuinstra, who was struck by a truck in a car accident and sustained a traumatic brain injury, beginning a long road to healing. Our very own APNP, Mary Voegeli, not only played a vital role in Jordan’s rehabilitation but was also interviewed by the magazine, where she shared her expertise and explained the rehabilitation process. In the article Mary Voegeli shares details of the process of intensive therapy Mr. Tuinstra went through to reach recovery and restoration. 

The brain controls motor function," said Mary Voegeli, APNP, an advanced practice nurse practitioner and brain injury specialist who worked with Jordan in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) as part of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation brain injury consultation team. "It controls our cognition, thinking and psychological being. But there's also something called neuroplasticity. The brain adapts and reorganizes. It can restore itself after an injury." 

Jordan's work began in the ICU, as the team began aggressive occupational, physical and speech therapies. Voegeli said research shows that patients can benefit from these therapies even before they are fully conscious and aware of their surroundings. Jordan spent 21 days in the ICU and six days in a standard room before being released to Froedtert Bluemound Rehabilitation Hospital, an inpatient rehabilitation hospital. This was Jordan's home for the next 21 days. Jordan also was challenged to redevelop his fine motor skills, with activities.

Jordan began his recovery needing extensive assistance, struggling with coordination, balance, and weakness on his right side. Through intensive inpatient and outpatient therapy — relearning basic motor skills, building strength and refining movements — he steadily improved. With strong support from his family and care team, he progressed from a wheelchair to walking, jogging, and golfing again. Now working a landscaping job to continue building strength, he credits his faith and his medical team for his remarkable recovery. Way to go Mary Voegeli for being a huge part of his recovery! 

To read the entire article click here.

Dr. Judith Kosasih's Retirement Party 

Thank you to everyone who attended Dr. Judith Kosasih’s retirement party held on the scenic 9th floor of MCW on Monday, September 15^th. The event was a wonderful opportunity to honor Dr. Kosasih and recognize and celebrate her collective 41 years at MCW including training and beyond and her hard work and dedication to Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Dr. Kosasih will be greatly missed by all who have had the pleasure of working with her, and the celebration was a meaningful tribute to her remarkable career.

Dr. Diane Braza Featured on AAPM&R Website 

PM&R physicians, also known as physiatrists, treat a wide variety of medical conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, nerves, bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Physiatrists utilize cutting‐edge as well as time‐tested treatments to maximize function and quality of life. To be featured on the website is a huge honor! Way to go to our new star Dr. Braza! 

Junie the Pedatric Rehab Service Dog

Resident Ben Gastier, MD and medical students Fabriana and Daphne, on the Pediatric Rehab service, enjoy some time with Junie the therapy dog at Children’s Wisconsin. The therapy dogs bring joy and comfort—not only to patients, but to staff as well!

Welcome Leah Pape- Education Program Coordinator III

On October 13^th, 2025, Leah Pape officially started her role in our department as an Education Program Coordinator III. Leah earned her degree from Carroll University in Waukesha and brings over five years of experience in healthcare administration. Her background includes serving as a Residency Program Coordinator in Child Neurology at the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW), where she developed a strong foundation in program coordination and academic support. Most recently, Leah has collaborated with independent medical practices, focusing on training and quality improvement initiatives. Outside of work, Leah is an avid hiker, a passionate home renovation enthusiast, and someone who’s always up for a good conversation—especially over a cup of coffee. Be sure to welcome Leah to the team if you haven't already!

Dr. Carley Sauter Awarded the Teaching Pin this Year!

AAPM&R Annual Assembly Conference in Salt Lake City, Utah

This year's AAPM&R Annual Assembly took place in Salt Lake City, Utah. The annual AAPM&R event is physiatry’s premier educational and networking event. Below are some photos from our very own faculty, residents, staff, and medical students who shared their experience.

From left: residents Halfman, Diehl, Jabara, Gorman, Hua, and Meeuwsen explore the natural surroundings of Salt Lake City.

AAPM&R Annual Assembly Alumni Reception in Salt Lake City

Halloween Fun

Department Administrative Supervisor Monika Szczerba suits up as a “Women in Black” MIB agent for Halloween.

From left: Clinical Research Coordinator III Sarah Golus, Dr. Noelle Liska and Dr. Lauren Shuda,—dressed as the Sanderson sisters from Hocus Pocus—pose for a photo with Department Chair Dr. Christopher White at a local pub Draft and Vessel. 

Pictured above: Another photo of PM&R residents, researchers and providers at a Halloween get together at Draft and Vessel. 

"4 Scary Neuroscience Leaders". From left: Drs. Shekar Kurpad, Shelly Timmons, Chad Carlson and Christopher White.

Congratulations Dr. Ellie Farr! 

Congratulations to Dr. Farr and family on welcoming their baby girl, Isabel “Izzy” Farr Maksimoski, on Friday, October 17^th, 2025, at 6:37 a.m. Both Dr. Farr and baby Izzy are doing well and have been discharged home. 💕👶✨

Congratulations Kelly Clohesey! 

Please join us in congratulating Clinical Research Coordinator III, Kelly Clohesey, and her family on the arrival of their baby, Leighton Christine Clohesey, born on August 6, 2025, at 11:50 a.m.! 

PM&R Philanthropy Case 

Please contact Meg Bilicki, Senior Director of Development  mbilicki@mcw.edu for more information.

To support Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation click on this link!

Department Mascot's Outfit for this Quarter

In this quarter’s newsletter, our beloved department mascot, Randy the Rhino, shares a recent photo of himself ice fishing in Alaska.

The answer to the riddle below will be provided in our next newsletter. 

"What can fill a room without taking up any space?"

Answer to our last newsletter's riddle: "a keyboard"

9 Ways to Get Your Energy Back!

The saying goes that you’re only as old as you feel. However, many adults, particularly in midlife and beyond, experience persistent fatigue. The encouraging news: several evidence-based lifestyle approaches can effectively support energy levels and may even contribute to healthy aging. Below are strategies to help restore energy when it begins to decline.

1. Rule out health problems.

Fatigue is a common symptom of many illnesses, including diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, anemia, thyroid disease, and sleep apnea. Talk to your doctor if you feel unusually tired. Many medications can contribute to fatigue. These include some blood pressure medicines, antihistamines, diuretics, and other drugs. If you begin to experience fatigue after starting a new medication, tell your doctor.

2. Get moving.

The last thing you may feel like doing when you’re tired is exercising. But many studies show that physical activity boosts energy levels.

“Exercise has consistently been linked to improved vigor and overall quality of life,” says Kerry J. Stewart, professor of medicine and director of clinical and research exercise physiology at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. “People who become active have a greater sense of self-confidence. But exercise also improves the working efficiency of your heart, lungs, and muscles,” Stewart says. “That’s the equivalent of improving the fuel efficiency of a car. It gives you more energy for any kind of activity.”

3. Strike a pose.

Although almost any exercise is good, yoga may be especially effective for boosting energy. After six weeks of once-a-week yoga classes, volunteers in a British study reported improvements in clear-mindedness, energy, and confidence. It’s never too late to try, either. University of Oregon researchers offered yoga instruction to 135 men and women ages 65 to 85. At the end of six months, participants reported an increased sense of well-being and a boost in overall energy.

4. Drink plenty of water.

Dehydration zaps energy and impairs physical performance. “Our research shows that dehydration makes it harder for athletes to complete a weightlifting workout,” says Dan Judelson, PhD, assistant professor of kinesiology at California State University at Fullerton. "It’s reasonable to think that dehydration causes fatigue even for people who are just doing chores." Dehydration has also been shown to decrease alertness and concentration. How to know if you’re drinking enough water? “Urine should be pale yellow or straw colored,” Judelson says. “If it’s darker than that, you need to drink water.”

5. Get to bed early.

Lack of sleep increases the risk of accidents and is one of the leading causes of daytime fatigue. The solution: Get to bed early enough for a full night’s sleep. When people enrolled in a 2004 Stanford University study were allowed to sleep as long as they wanted, they reported more vigor and less fatigue. Good sleep habits may also have important health benefits. Centenarians report better than average sleep. If you do fall short on shut-eye, take a brief afternoon nap. Napping restores wakefulness and promotes performance and learning. A 10-minute nap is usually enough to boost energy. Don’t nap longer than 30 minutes, though, or you may have trouble sleeping that night. A nap followed by a cup of coffee may provide an even bigger energy boost, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.

6. Go fish.

Good for your heart, omega-3 oils may also boost alertness. According to a 2009 study by scientists at Italy’s University of Siena, volunteers who took a fish oil capsule for 21 days demonstrated faster mental reaction times. They also reported feeling more vigorous.

7. Keep time with your body clock.

Some people get a burst of energy first thing in the morning. They're often called morning larks. Night owls are people who are at their best at the end of the day. These individual differences in daily energy patterns are determined by brain structure and genetics, so they can be tough to change. Instead, become aware of your own circadian rhythms. Then schedule demanding activities when your energy levels are typically at their peak.

8. Shed extra weight.

Losing extra weight can provide a powerful energy boost, says Stewart, of Johns Hopkins University. Even small reductions in body fat improve mood, vigor, and quality of life. Most weight loss experts recommend cutting back on portion sizes, eating balanced meals, and increasing physical activity.

9. Eat more often.

Some people may benefit by eating smaller meals more frequently during the day. This may help to steady your blood sugar level. Favor whole grains and other complex carbohydrates. These take longer than refined carbohydrates to digest, preventing fluctuations of blood sugar. If you start eating more often, watch your portion sizes to avoid weight gain. 

For more information click here.

Featured Healthy Recipe - Shrimp Salad With Sesame-Ginger Dressing

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons toasted white sesame seeds
• 2 tablespoons finely chopped ginger (from about 3-inch piece)
• 1 tablespoon finely chopped shallot (from about 1 small shallot)
• 1 to 2 serrano or other similarly spicy chili (green or red), halved, seeded and finely chopped 
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice or white wine vinegar 
• 1¼ pounds cooked cleaned shrimp (thawed if necessary), patted dry
• 6 tablespoons olive oil, plus more for serving
• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
• 2 cups thinly sliced cucumber (from 2 to 3 Persian cucumbers)
• Salt and pepper
• 4 large handfuls arugula (4 to 5 ounces)
• Flaky sea salt, for serving

Directions:

1. In a large bowl, add the sesame seeds, ginger, shallot, chili(s) and lemon juice and mix together with a fork; let sit for 5 minutes.
2. Add the shrimp to the bowl along with the olive oil, sesame oil and cucumber and season with salt and pepper. Toss well to coat the shrimp and cucumber.
3. Serve the salad by placing a bed of arugula on each of 4 plates, then top with the dressed shrimp and cucumbers along with the extra pool of vinaigrette left in the bowl. Drizzle more olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with flake sea salt.

*If you would like to share a favorite healthy recipe in next quarter's newsletter please email Rhiannon Shewczyk at Rshewczyk@mcw.edu

December is Universal Human Rights Month

Universal Human Rights Month is an annual designation observed in December.This month and every month to follow, people all across the globe are encouraged to come together and stand up for equality, justice, and the dignity of all humans.

December Month-long Observations

• Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Awareness Month

Important December DE&I calendar dates:

• December 1- World AIDS Day
• December 2 - International Day for the Abolition of Slavery
• December 3 - International Day of Persons with Disabilities
• December 5 - International Volunteer Day
• December 8- Bodhi Day (Buddhist) and Pansexual Pride Day
• December 9 - International Genocide Prevention Day
• December 10 - International Human Rights Day
• December 14–22 -Hanukkah (Jewish)
• December 21 - Yule (Pagan/Wiccan)
• December 25 - Christmas Day (Christian)
• December 26–January 1 - Kwanzaa (African American holiday)

January is National Poverty in America Awareness Month

January is National Poverty in America Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about poverty and its effects while encouraging action. During this month, organizations and individuals focus on understanding the root causes of poverty, highlighting the disparities it creates, and supporting solutions through donations, volunteering, and policy advocacy. It is a time to educate the public about issues such as hunger, lack of healthcare, and housing instability, and to support charities and community efforts that help those in need. 

January Month-long Observations:

• National Mentoring Month
• Poverty in America Awareness Month
• Slavery and Human Trafficking Awareness Month

Important January DE&I Calendar Dates:

• January 1 – New Year's Day
• January 1 – Gantan-Sai (Shinto)
• January 3 – Mahayana New Year (Buddhist)
• January 4 – World Braille Day
• January 7 – Coptic Orthodox Christmas
• January 13 – Maghi (Sikh)
• January 14 – Makar Sankranti (Pongal) - Hindu
• January 18 – World Religion Day (Baha'i)
• January 19 – Martin Luther King, Jr. Day
• January 24 – International Day of Education
• January 26 – International Customs Day
• January 27 – International Holocaust Remembrance Day

February is Black History Month

Black History Month is an annual observance in February that celebrates the achievements of African Americans and recognizes their central role in U.S. history. It is a time to honor Black culture, reflect on the struggles and triumphs of the Black community, and learn about the contributions Black people have made to the nation and the world.

February Month-long Observations:

• American Heart Month
• Ethnic Equality Month

Important February DE&I Calendar Dates:

• February 1 – National Freedom Day
• February 2 – Imbolc - Wicca/Paganism
• February 4 – Rosa Parks Day
• February 7 – National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day
• February 8 – International Epilepsy Day
• February 10 – Safer Internet Day
• February 11 – International Day of Women & Girls in Science
• February 14 – Valentine's Day
• February 15 – Nirvana Day (Buddhist)
• February 15 – International Childhood Cancer Day
• February 15 – Maha Shivaratri (Hindu)
• February 16 – Family Day (Canada)
• February 17 – Chinese New Year (Lunar New Year) - Year of the Horse
• February 17 – Mardi Gras
• February 17 – Ramadan begins in the evening (Islam) - Expected to begin
• February 18 – Ash Wednesday
• February 20 – World Day of Social Justice

COVID-19 Guidelines 

MCW and our affiliate hospital partners are committed to containing the spread of COVID-19 and its variants. MCW includes COVID-19 vaccination in our Mandatory Vaccination Program requiring students and learners who participate in clinical care to be fully vaccinated or have an approved exemption accommodation to be considered compliant. The COVID-19 vaccine requirement has been discontinued for employees effective June 13, 2023, following recent guidance from the CDC and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). 

Learners who participate in clinical care will submit proof of COVID-19 vaccination prior to commencement of their educational program at MCW or MCWAH (residents). To be compliant, individuals must have received both doses of a two-dose vaccination.

To submit proof of vaccination, please send a picture or screenshot of one of the following documents to IOHCovid@froedtert.com:

• CDC vaccine card
• Epic record
• Wisconsin Immunization Registry record (or other state registry)

MCW continues to strongly recommend COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters to protect against COVID-19, but vaccination is not required as a condition of employment with MCW. While COVID-19 vaccination is no longer required for employees at this time, MCW reserves the right to modify requirements under this program at any time.

Learners who obtain boosters somewhere other than Froedtert IOH should submit their documentation to IOHCovid@froedtert.com with the subject line, “ COVID Vaccine Records.” Additionally, School of Medicine and School of Pharmacy students should upload documentation to CastleBranch, and Graduate School students should email it to Angela Backus.

You can learn more information here.

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