Pat Summitt's Legacy: Insights and Reflections from Tyler Summitt

Tyler Summitt, son of basketball legend Pat Summitt, reflects on his mother's legacy and commitment to fighting Alzheimer's disease. A portrait capturing Tyler's dedication to continuing the Definite Dozen principles and supporting the Pat Summitt Foundation's mission.

Pat Summitt was a legendary figure in women's basketball, renowned for her exceptional coaching career at the University of Tennessee. Born on June 14, 1952, Summitt became the head coach of the Lady Volunteers in 1974 and went on to achieve remarkable success over the next four decades. With an unparalleled commitment to excellence, she guided her teams to eight NCAA championships and notched an impressive 1,098 career wins, making her the winningest coach in NCAA Division I basketball history at the time of her retirement in 2012.

Beyond her coaching prowess, Summitt was admired for her leadership, integrity, and dedication to fostering the personal and athletic development of her players. Her impact on women's sports and her enduring legacy continue to inspire athletes and coaches alike. Summitt's indomitable spirit and contributions to the game have left an enduring mark on the world of basketball. Recently MDM Healthcare VP of Clinical Excellence Linda Robinson, MSN, RN, CPXP, was able to speak with Summit's son Tyler about her legacy, battle with Alzheimer's and her compelling story of resilience and generosity on our podcast PX Space.

The Pat Summitt Foundation, established in 2011 by Pat and Tyler Summitt, stands as a beacon of hope in the fight against Alzheimer's disease. The Foundation's mission, fueled by the founders' deep personal commitment, is to eliminate the heart-wrenching moment when families learn of an Alzheimer's diagnosis. Operating with a multifaceted approach, the Foundation channels its efforts into funding research for treatment and a cure, offering crucial care and support to patients and caregivers, and educating the public about Alzheimer's disease. Through strategic grants, the Foundation addresses vital components such as research advancement, disease awareness, and support services. Contributions to the Pat Summitt Foundation are managed by the East Tennessee Foundation, which plays a pivotal role in facilitating grants to organizations aligned with this noble mission. 

 "When Mom received her diagnosis, she expressed two powerful desires: to kick Alzheimer's to the curb and to take her 'Definite Dozen' principles out into the world, extending beyond sports into the realms of business and beyond. In response, Mom and I co-founded the Pat Summitt Foundation, and I established the Pat Summitt Leadership Group, dedicated to embodying her 'Definite Dozen' principles. Our diverse community, ranging from scientists to construction workers, restaurant staff to stay-at-home parents, engages in our online programs, listens to inspiring speakers, creating a truly impactful and inclusive environment,” said Tyler.

Capturing the essence of a legend: Dive into the inspiring image of Pat Summitt on her foundation page. Uncover the resilience, leadership, and lasting impact of the iconic women's basketball coach. Join us in celebrating Pat Summitt's legacy and the ongoing mission of the Pat Summitt Foundation in the fight against Alzheimer's disease.

Pat Summitt's Definite Dozen

1. Respect Yourself and Others

2. Take Full Responsibility

3. Develop and Demonstrate Loyalty

4. Learn to Be a Great Communicator

5. Discipline Yourself So No One Else Has To

6. Make Hard Work Your Passion

7.Don't Just Work Hard, Work Smart

8. Put the Team Before Yourself

9. Make Winning an Attitude

10. Be a Competitor

11. Change Is a Must

12. Handle Success Like You Handle Failure

"In the videos and principles my mom shared, people continue to learn. Our Pat Summitt Leadership Group includes healthcare providers and a diverse mix of individuals in the online program, engaging with the Definite Dozen. Mom was passionate about this, and in a sense, it feels like we're carrying on her dream. We're actively working towards kicking Alzheimer's to the curb and assisting people in finding success, no matter their path in life. With the Pat Summitt Leadership Group, we're living out her vision,” said Tyler. 

He further reflected on his mother’s legacy. 

“It’s just so cool that people can still learn from her from her. They can still see videos, corporate speeches that she gave to large companies, we have those recorded and she's still teaching,” he said. 

Pat and her son Tyler’s story demonstrates that in the face of devastating health diagnoses, patients and their families often exhibit remarkable strength, resilience, and a shared commitment to facing adversity with positivity and grace. The journey through a challenging health condition can be emotionally taxing, yet many individuals find solace and support in coming together as a united front. Through shared experiences, these families form bonds that transcend the boundaries of illness, creating a network of understanding and encouragement. Their collective positivity becomes a powerful force, offering hope, inspiration, and a testament to the human spirit's capacity to find light even in the darkest moments. In the Summitt’s story, the emphasis on grace and optimism not only aids in coping with the immediate challenges but also fosters a sense of empowerment and unity that proves instrumental in navigating the intricate landscape of healthcare with courage and dignity.

MDM Healthcare demonstrates a deep commitment to the well-being of patients and their families by prioritizing compassionate care and fostering a supportive environment. At the forefront of this dedication is the patient engagement platform Journey PX, a testament to MDM Healthcare's innovative approach. Journey PX goes beyond traditional healthcare services, offering patients and their families a range of tools designed to enhance their experience. Notably, the platform features a cutting-edge video solution, Connect, which facilitates meaningful connections between patients and their loved ones within hospital rooms. This unique feature provides a valuable opportunity for individuals undergoing medical treatment to connect with one another, fostering a sense of community and emotional support during challenging times. MDM Healthcare's dedication to incorporating such thoughtful and inclusive features into their patient engagement platform underscores their commitment to not only medical care but also the holistic well-being of those they serve.

For more information on the Pat Summit Foundation, visit patsummit.org. Additionally, to gain deeper insights into Tyler's reflections on his mother's legacy and their shared mission, listen to the full PX Space interview below.

A group of seniors enthusiastically engages in exercise, showcasing the positive impact of patient engagement among the elderly. The image captures a moment of community and well-being as seniors participate in various exercises, promoting physical activity and social connection for a healthier and happier lifestyle

Unveiling the Holistic Impact of Cardio Drumming with Kirstie Pomaranski

Engaging in physical activity wields transformative power, positively impacting hearts, bodies, and minds. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), regular physical activity is profoundly influential in preventing and managing noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. Beyond its physical benefits, physical activity plays a crucial role in mitigating symptoms of depression and anxiety, while simultaneously enhancing cognitive functions such as thinking, learning, and judgment skills.

Exercise further emerges as a potent component of a holistic approach to patient care, a theme explored in a recent episode of our podcast, PX Space. Host Linda Robinson MSN, RN, CPXP spoke with Kirstie Pomaranski, a dedicated certified exercise trainer with a focus on inspiring and empowering individuals, particularly cancer patients and survivors. Pomaranski presently spearheads exercise programming for those affected by cancer at Life with Cancer, a non-profit organization based in Northern Virginia. This organization is committed to delivering no-cost education and psychosocial support to individuals impacted by cancer, offering evidence-based holistic care accessible to all, irrespective of their treatment location.

"Cardio drumming is more than just a physical exercise; it's an opportunity to enhance heart and lung health," she explains, underlining the class's inclusivity with plastic drumming sticks and an exercise ball.

The objective is to make exercise enjoyable and accessible to everyone.

"It's about moving your body, crossing the midline, and learning new rhythms while letting music transport you back to joyful moments in your life."

Challenging the conventional "no pain, no gain" fitness notion, Pomaranski advocates for enjoyable and invigorating exercise, emphasizing the importance of finding balance in life to prioritize health.

"Movement should be a part of our routine, just like taking a shower or brushing our teeth."

Pomaranski delves into the social and emotional benefits of cardio drumming, highlighting its role in connecting people, and fostering playfulness, joy, and laughter. She underscores the profound impact of human connection and touches on overall well-being and happiness.

An elderly patient joyfully participates in exercise, highlighting the positive impact of patient engagement in senior care. The image reflects the commitment to physical activity, promoting health and well-being in the older population while fostering a sense of community and camaraderie.

Discussing the broader impact of movement and music on mental and physical well-being, Pomaranski notes the positive effects on dementia patients.

"Drumming connects your whole brain, creating new neural connections," she explains.

The simplicity of using plastic drumming sticks and an exercise ball makes the class accessible and effective for everyone.

Pomaranski sheds light on the transformative power of cardio drumming as a holistic approach to well-being, connecting mind and body through movement, rhythm, and music. The class serves as a reminder that exercise can be not only beneficial but also a source of joy, laughter, and human connection.

The integration of music and movement, exemplified by the cardio drumming class, aligns with a holistic approach to patient care valued at MDM Healthcare. This concept is reinforced by innovative technology products such as Journey PX. Our Journey PX solution My Stay, offers patients calming videos and a library of educational content. Journey PX’s video calling solution Connect facilitates virtual connections with loved ones, while My Day Today provides real-time health information through a digital whiteboard integrated with the hospital’s EMR, offering patients peace of mind.

The holistic approach to patient care is a powerful paradigm that recognizes the intricate interplay between physical, mental, and emotional well-being. It goes beyond merely treating symptoms, aiming instead to address the root causes of illness while considering the individual as a whole. This comprehensive method acknowledges that a person's health is influenced by various factors, including lifestyle, environment, and personal circumstances.

By integrating medical, psychological, and social aspects of care, the holistic approach promotes a deeper understanding of patients and fosters a collaborative relationship between healthcare providers and individuals seeking care. This approach not only treats the ailment but also empowers patients to actively participate in their healing process, promoting long-term well-being and a higher quality of life. The recognition that health is a complex tapestry of interconnected elements highlights the potency of holistic patient care in promoting not just physical recovery, but also mental resilience and emotional harmony.

Kirstie Pomaranski, a dedicated certified exercise trainer with a focus on inspiring and empowering individuals, particularly cancer patients and survivors.

As Pomaranski notes in her interview, her cardio drumming class is not just about physical exercise but a holistic approach to well-being, connecting mind and body through movement, rhythm, and music. It serves as a reminder that exercise can be enjoyable, invigorating, and a source of joy, laughter, and human connection. For further insights into the healing power of cardio drumming, you can listen to the full PX Space podcast interview with Kirstie Pomaranski.

Written with contributing author Linda Robinson, MSN, CPXP, RN, Vice President of Clinical Excellence, MDM Healthcare

Recently, MDM Healthcare VP of Clinical Excellence, Linda Robinson, MSN, RN, CPXP, conducted an exclusive interview with renowned Medical Oncologist and Hematologist, Philip D. Leming, MD. With a remarkable career that includes co-founding the medical oncology department at The Christ Hospital and leading the Christ Hospital Cancer Research Program, Dr. Leming currently serves as the Medical Director of Cincinnati Cancer Advisors, an organization that provides comprehensive and compassionate care to individuals and families affected by cancer. In its quest to enhance cancer care and treatment in the region, Cincinnati Cancer Advisors extends a free second opinion cancer service to members of the Greater Cincinnati community. Additionally, CCA offers consultative oncology services and financial assistance through a partnership with the Patient Advocate Foundation.

In their conversation, Dr. Leming emphasized his philosophy of approaching cancer treatment with a curative mindset.

“Even the worst of all cancers are curable until proven otherwise,” he said.

He also stressed the significance of treating patients with dignity, highlighting the importance of compassionate care and actively listening to patients.

“Oftentimes it’s the simple things that make a difference in patient care such as practicing with compassion or just listening to patients,” he said.

Dr. Leming also shared his practice of getting to know patients beyond their illness, recognizing their individuality and reminding them of the importance of their lives.

“Something that transcends both human and neuroscience is that when someone comes in no matter how old, ill or debilitated, you want to connect with the patient as a human being and give them a reminder of the individual importance of their life,” he said. “It’s important to be able to communicate with patients and get to know them and by doing that you actually get more valuable information to help treat them.”

Drawing on his experience, Dr. Leming highlighted the art of bedside care, emphasizing the value of simplicity in communication and providing patients with a clear understanding of their condition.

“You learn who the person is by listening to them, gauging their anxiety, talking with their family, and trying to put the illness you are being asked to review in perspective,” he said. “The basic part is trying to make things simple for people, care providers should be able to explain most illnesses in an uncomplicated way.”

He advocated for a servant leadership mindset in healthcare, emphasizing the role of healthcare providers in reducing suffering and instilling hope.

“You are there to help, to serve, try to reduce suffering and provide hope. Ideally all the leadership in healthcare should have this mindset,” he said.

Additionally, Dr. Leming discussed the parallels he sees between medicine, music, and martial arts, emphasizing the importance of mastering the fundamentals and approaching each discipline with precision and accuracy.

“Medicine is like music and martial arts; you can never master it, and it has been around for centuries,” he said. “The master, or the sensei in martial arts, does the basics correctly every single time. It’s interesting we think the master must be extraordinarily complex, but a concert pianist will sit down and practice the scales and a martial artist will practice the Kata slowly. Anyone who has done either martial arts or music will tell you that it is much harder to do things slowly and accurately than it is to speed through things, and the same philosophy applies to the application of the art of medicine.”

To delve deeper into Dr. Leming's insights, you can listen to the full PX Space podcast interview on major podcast platforms or by clicking the icon included in this feature article.

Written with contributing author Linda Robinson, MSN, CPXP, RN, Vice President of Clinical Excellence, MDM Healthcare

Dr. David Fryburg is driven by a profound mission to champion kindness, viewing it as a force more potent than any pharmaceutical drug he has encountered in his extensive years in the healthcare industry. In a recent podcast episode of PX Space, host Linda Robinson, MSN, RN CPXP, engaged in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Fryburg, who serves as the co-founder of Envision Kindness. This non-profit organization is devoted to harnessing the influential power of kindness through the art of photography and storytelling.

With a wealth of experience as a physician and scientist, Dr. Fryburg's journey has been shaped by his tenure as a faculty member at the esteemed University of Virginia Medical School and his work in the biomedical industry with reputable organizations like Pfizer and the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health. Leading teams of scientists in groundbreaking studies on new medicines and improved diagnostic methods, Dr. Fryburg's invaluable contributions to the medical field have earned him numerous grants and awards.

Envision Kindness was born out of Dr. Fryburg's firm belief in the need to shift focus towards the positive aspects of life. Recognizing the unique ability of positive pictures and stories to inspire, connect, and heal, the organization strives to bring these uplifting moments directly to people's lives. Through their endeavors, they aim to create a world where kindness takes center stage, cultivating an environment of empathy, compassion, and joy.

“Our mission is to promote kindness, connection, and joy for people on a population scale, particularly in high-stress settings like healthcare, and we do it through media which works really well and really fast,” he said.
Dr. Fryburg explained his mindset when he decided to start Envision Kindness. “As an endocrinologist, while leading these teams of scientists, I found myself getting saddened, stressed, and anxious in proportion to how much news I was consuming. Research showed that consuming news this way can quickly make people feel sad and stressed, affecting their own lives. So, that made me think that’s really not fair… people deserve a higher quality of life,” he said.

To generate their healing images, Envision Kindness took a creative approach.
“We had to build our content from scratch. The way we ended up building it was through creating an international kindness photography contest. We’ve done four iterations of it, and we are actually about to launch the fifth. We get over 2,000 submissions from around the world each year,” he said.
Envision’s 2022 Our World is Kind contest received over 2,500 wonderful and inspiring images of kindness, compassion, joy, and love.

“Our kindness images have a main theme, which is the positive interaction between living beings. People are uplifted and inspired by these images, and that improves mood through media,” he said. Dr. Fryburg further explained some of the science behind kindness.
“Since I’m a scientist, I decided to do more than produce the images; I also studied their impact. We were very fortunate to have a team of psychologists help conduct our first study using still images of kindness. In that study, what blew everyone away was that kindness images had twice the effect of pretty images, such as nature images, on people’s mood when it came to producing feelings of gratitude, sympathy, compassion, and love,” he said.

The results were so powerful that the statistician who examined them had never seen data like this before.
“The results were so overwhelming that they screamed 'pay attention, there’s something important here,'” he said.
Dr. Fryburg's deep dive into the psychology and biology of altruism revealed that kindness is an innate quality observed across every species on Earth. Several scientists have studied how kindness affects our choices in life, well-being, and more in a positive way. In fact, Dr. Fryburg mentioned that in his many years in the pharmaceutical industry, he has yet to see a drug that has the effect of kindness.

Envision Kindness stands as a compelling example of the media's potential to enhance the healthcare experience. Pioneering a cutting-edge, cloud-based patient experience platform, Journey PX is dedicated to elevating human experiences in healthcare through innovative technology solutions. Journey PX patient engagement solutions span the continuum of care, delivering scalable and cost-effective technology solutions that are adaptable to facilities of all sizes, streamlining care team operations.
With a firm commitment to humanizing care, Journey PX, like Envision Kindness, understands that media can be leveraged artfully within hospitals. Our digital signage solution, Navigate, offers versatile applications, including alleviating patient stress. Embracing the latest technological advancements, healthcare organizations can now transform the hospital environment with digital display technology, providing patients, families, and care teams a modern and immersive experience.

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MDM Healthcare offers a diverse range of Pro AV solutions that elevate various areas both within and outside hospitals. Their offerings include curved indoor DVLED displays, UHD Multi-Touch digital displays, and outdoor DVLED displays, each designed to make a significant impact. These solutions find versatile applications, such as showcasing digital donor walls and informative screens in waiting rooms, facilitating communication in reception areas, and streamlining check-ins through medical kiosks.

Pro AV solutions provide hospitals with enhanced communication techniques, enabling them to share vital health and safety information, broadcast educational videos in treatment wings, and display captivating digital artwork. Embracing Pro AV technology, hospitals can harness interactive experiences, improve wayfinding throughout hospital facilities, enable real-time information absorption, introduce modern digital art, employ robot guides, and much more. For a deeper understanding of the capabilities that Pro AV solutions can bring to your hospital organization, don't hesitate to contact us.

In a world where headlines often highlight the darker aspects of humanity, it becomes easy to overlook the profound impact that kindness and compassion can have on individuals and communities. Nevertheless, amidst the chaos, organizations like Envision Kindness strive to remind us of the beauty of human connection and the transformative power of acts of goodwill. This blog article delves into the heartwarming mission of Envision Kindness, exploring their vision, initiatives, and the positive influence they are making on a global scale.

You can hear more from Dr. David Fryburg by listening to his PX Space podcast interview. Also, learn more about Envision Kindness on their website

Written with contributing author Linda Robinson, MSN, CPXP, RN, Vice President of Clinical Excellence, MDM Healthcare

As June unfolds, we acknowledge the significance of Alzheimer's and Brain Awareness Month—a time dedicated to raising awareness about Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia that impact millions of individuals across the United States.

In this article, we delve into the topic of dementia care, highlighting insights from our recent PX Space podcast interview with renowned Dementia Care Specialist, Teepa Snow, MS, OTR/L, FAOTA. With her unique positive approach to dementia care, Snow offers valuable insights and strategies that can transform the caregiving experience and enrich the lives of both caregivers and those living with dementia. Snow is also the Owner and Founder of Positive Approach to Care®, an organization dedicated to enhancing the life and relationships of those living with brain change by fostering an inclusive global community. Snow’s personal mission is to better the lives of people with dementia—as well as the lives of their caregivers—by sharing what she has learned. An occupational therapist by training, today Snow stands out as a prominent global champion and educator, advocating for individuals affected by dementia or other cognitive impairments.

Snow explained why she decided to devote herself to dementia care.

“I had family members who developed dementia and I had friends who were figuring out how to support people living with dementia. I was working in a variety of settings where people living with dementia and their families were not getting what I considered good support, care information, or preparation and that’s not OK. So that got me on the road to thinking there are better ways to do this and it’s not fair that people and families don’t know that,” she said.

Snow has become a guiding light for caregivers and healthcare professionals seeking innovative ways to provide compassionate and effective dementia care. Her Positive Approach to Care™ (PAC) philosophy emphasizes the significance of connection, empathy, and person-centered care in supporting individuals with dementia. Through this approach, Snow focuses on recognizing and embracing the remaining abilities of individuals with dementia, rather than focusing solely on their limitations.

Snow firmly believes that education is the key to empowering caregivers. The diagnosis not only affects patients, but families as well. Snow pointed out that four out of five families fall apart due to dealing with the effects of this condition long term.

“This condition is devastating for families,” Snow explained. “Families often walk into the situation really unprepared to deal with more than the memory loss. However, dementia is an umbrella, it’s always more than memory. It’s judgement, problem solving, and changes in initiation,” she said.

In the interview, she discusses the importance of gaining an accurate understanding of dementia, its impact on brain function, and how to effectively communicate and connect with individuals living with dementia. By equipping caregivers with knowledge and practical skills, Snow enables them to navigate the challenges of caregiving with confidence and empathy, fostering a positive caregiving environment.

A cornerstone of Snow's approach is the concept of person-centered care. She emphasizes the need to recognize each person's unique abilities, preferences, and life experiences, allowing for personalized care that respects their individuality. Snow explains that caregivers can create an environment that promotes dignity, independence, and a sense of purpose for those living with dementia.

Communication can be a significant challenge when caring for someone with dementia. Snow shares valuable insights and techniques to enhance communication and meaningful engagement. Snow explained that the ideal skillset needed to communicate with memory care patients is often not properly taught. She gave the example of a patient being unable to recall the word restaurant: the patient says “the place where we go out to eat,” and the caregiver responds, “the place where we go out to eat, do you mean a restaurant or something else?”

Snow explains, “Instead of just giving them the word, you give them options to choose and that’s actually keeping their brain active, and it’s keeping people connected instead of flustered and confused. It’s better for the patient, but it’s also better for the caregiver as it turns out,” she said.

By adopting effective communication techniques, caregivers can reduce frustration, enhance relationships, and foster a sense of well-being for both the caregiver and the person with dementia.

Snow also encourages caregivers to focus on creating positive moments and joyful interactions throughout their caregiving journey. These moments can arise from engaging in meaningful activities and giving patients positive affirmations. Snow explained how impactful positivity is for dementia patients.

“The affirmation of ability is huge. You have to count the little wins. Finding those places and spaces to lift someone up, it actually makes their brain work better,” she said.

Snow expressed the healing power of celebrating these moments and fostering a positive atmosphere, caregivers can create a more fulfilling and enriching experience for themselves and their loved ones.

By emphasizing education, person-centered care, effective communication, and the creation of positive moments, Snow empowers caregivers to make a profound difference in the lives of those they care for. Empowering patients in their care journey is a philosophy embraced by innovative, cloud-based patient engagement platform Journey PX. Journey PX solutions empower patients by keeping them informed of their daily plan of care, providing individualized education, and streamlining communications between patients, families, and care teams. Journey PX’s digital whiteboard, My Day, Today, provides vital information to hospital care teams, patients, and their families. My Stay provides patients with the education they need via access to an extensive education library. This allows patients to become more empowered through health literacy and enhances their readiness for discharge. It also helps support patients after discharge by providing education that can be texted to them, giving an added layer of assurance that they will not be readmitted. Journey PX’s virtual care solution, Connect, is another piece of technology that supports the overall health and well-being of the patient, by allowing patients access to family members and care experts virtually at the bedside.

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You can hear more from Teepa Snow by listening to the PX Space podcast interview. Also, learn more about her organization Positive Approach to Care® by visiting their website, contacting them at info@teepasnow.com, or calling 877-877-1671 for a consultation if you are a caregiver or family member of a memory care patient.

Pat Summitt's Legacy: Insights and Reflections from Tyler Summitt

Unveiling the Holistic Impact of Cardio Drumming with Kirstie Pomaranski

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