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A letter from our President and CEO | LiveWell Autumn 2025

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Every beat matters

Each step we take at Genesis is guided by our commitment to you. Your well-being, your family and your future are the heart of everything we do.

We celebrated 25 years of open-heart surgery in October. This milestone was made possible because of your trust in Genesis. Thousands of friends, neighbors and loved ones have returned to healthier, fuller lives, one beat at a time.

Stories like Russ Fehrman’s remind us why expert heart care matters. A familiar face in Coshocton, Russ turned to Genesis for minimally invasive heart treatment and is now back to serving the community he loves. You can read more about his journey in this issue.

As we expand our services, high-quality care is coming closer to more families in our region.

In August, we opened the Genesis Coshocton Specialty Center, offering endocrinology, rheumatology, cancer care, pain management and more.

Thanks to the generosity of many donors, including the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation and the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity, we’ve also broken ground on a new hospice care facility that will provide comfort and compassionate support to patients and their families for decades to come.

Join me in welcoming new physicians to the Genesis family, including Grant Lewis, D.O., and Alexandra Davies, D.O.

This married couple recently returned to Dr. Davies’ hometown of Newark, bringing their specialties in general surgery and gastroenterology to Genesis HealthCare System. They are dedicated to providing exceptional care in our community.

As the crisp autumn season has arrived, may you enjoy its renewal. Know that Genesis remains by your side through every season, committed to your healing and well-being.

In good health,

Matthew Perry signature

Matthew J. Perry 

President & CEO 

Each step we take at Genesis is guided by our commitment to you. Your well-being, your family and your future are the heart of everything we do.

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One team. Neighbors helping neighbors.

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Local nonprofit organizations are the heart of our community. Whether mentoring youth, feeding families or fostering animals, these groups serve our community with heart and purpose.

When local nonprofits need a helping hand, our 4,400+ Genesis team members are ready to step in. Together, we can spread more smiles and talents to make an ever greater impact.

Meet three Genesis team members who partner with nonprofits to help strengthen our community.

Emily Bailey

Genesis employee volunteering at Christ's Table

For Emily Bailey, Genesis Patient Access Manager, the Salvation Army’s mission inspired a family tradition of service. “My grandmothers volunteered at the Salvation Army,” said Emily. “I grew up learning how important it is to serve others.” Emily also volunteers at Christ’s Table, often alongside her Genesis Patient Access team. ”There’s strength in numbers,” she said. “Together, we can make wonderful things happen in our community.”

Darla Doss

Genesis employee volunteering at United Way Tax Clinic

Genesis HealthCare Foundation Development Consultant Darla Doss registers community members during the annual United Way Tax Clinic. She also helps with the hospitality team at her church, making guests and members feel welcome. “Volunteering makes it easy to meet great people,” said Darla. “I’m grateful that I can give back.” Darla is also part of the American Heart Association’s Go Red for Women program, which raises awareness and promotes treatment for women with heart disease.

Andrew Luallen

Genesis employee volunteering at Scouting America Muskingum Valley Council

As a proud Eagle Scout, Genesis Education Services Consultant Andrew Luallen gives back to the program that shaped his youth. He volunteers with Scouting America Muskingum Valley Council, mentoring the next generation as a local Cubmaster and Assistant Scoutmaster in his daughters’ units. “Scouting is more than outdoor skills,” said Andrew. “Scouting empowers young men and women to develop into future leaders who will make a positive impact on the world around them.”

CONTACT US

Need a volunteer? 

Share local volunteering opportunities with our team. Eligible local nonprofit organizations that meet the guidelines can complete the online request form at genesishcs.org/request-volunteers.

• Opportunities that support Muskingum, Coshocton, Perry, Guernsey, Noble or Morgan counties.

• Church events that benefit the entire community.

• Submit requests at least 30 days before your event. Requests are reviewed weekly.

• Contact Genesis Community Relations at 740-454-5913, option 2, with questions.

 

Genesis employee volunteering at Christ's Table

Meet three Genesis team members who partner with nonprofits to help strengthen our community.

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25 years of more heartbeats

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Your courage, our first step

On Oct. 30, 2000, something incredible happened. You made history. One of your neighbors became the first patient to undergo open-heart surgery at Genesis HealthCare System. That patient’s courage represented the trust our community placed in us. Trust that led to that person and many others celebrating more holidays, more birthdays and even more ordinary Monday mornings filled with extraordinary meaning.

Because you, our community, believed in us, thousands of your friends, family members and neighbors have since turned to Genesis for advanced heart care. Your commitment to choosing local care has made it possible for countless people to live longer, healthier lives while receiving care where they live.

Growing because you deserve the best 

You asked for world-class heart care close to home, and we listened. With your support, Genesis has continued to expand and improve:

• Recruiting highly skilled and experienced physicians.

• Investing in innovative technologies like Cardiac CTA, robotic-assisted surgery platforms and SPECT/CT.

• Offering life-changing minimally invasive procedures such as transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR), MitraClip, the convergent procedure and many more.

These advancements mean smaller incisions, faster recovery, shorter hospital stays and more time for you to get back to the life you love.

You are at the heart of it all 

Genesis’ national recognition in heart care is not just our achievement. It’s yours. Every award, every innovation and every life saved started with your belief that great care could happen right here in our community.

Thank you for trusting us with your hearts for the past 25 years. We look forward to celebrating many more milestones, together.

Your heart matters. Visit genesishcs.org/heart for more information.

elderly man and woman laughing outside amongst fall leaves

Thank you for trusting us with your hearts for the past 25 years. We look forward to celebrating many more milestones, together.

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How to trick yourself into drinking more water

emily.griffin
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Water is essential for life, yet many of us struggle to drink enough. If you're among the 43% of Americans who don't meet the recommended daily water intake, fear not. With a few clever tricks, you can boost your hydration without even realizing it. Test your knowledge with this lighthearted quiz. 

 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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The future of Genesis Hospice Care is getting close

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We celebrated a special milestone in October with the groundbreaking of our new hospice care facility.

Scheduled to open in the fall of 2026, the new building will carry forward the mission of the Morrison House, which for 35 years has been a place of comfort and care for thousands of families during many of life’s most difficult moments. As the area’s only nonprofit, charitable hospice provider with a dedicated inpatient unit, it has played a vital role in our community.

While the Morrison House has served us well, time has shown the need for a new, modern facility to meet the growing needs of patients and families. In early 2025, we launched the Hospice Care Capital Campaign that will allow us to continue providing compassionate, high-quality care for generations to come.

Thanks to the generosity of our community, local businesses, physicians and the dedicated Genesis team, we’ve raised $7 million of the adjusted $7.4 million goal. We’re incredibly grateful to everyone who has donated or helped spread the word.

A special thank you goes to the J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation for its generous naming donation and to the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity for donating the land for the new facility.

We’re almost there.

With your continued support, we will reach our goal.

Thank you for helping us build the future of hospice care for our community.

Click to donate today.
lobby

Lobby

patient room

Patient room

patient patio

Patient patio

To learn more or to donate, visit genesishcs.org/foundation or call 740-454-5052.

Genesis Hospice Care new facility mock-up image

We celebrated a special milestone in October with the groundbreaking of our new hospice care facility.

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Groundbreaking Held for New Genesis Hospice Care Facility

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J.W. & M.H. Straker Foundation Hospice House to Open in 2026

Genesis HealthCare System held a groundbreaking ceremony today to kick off construction of its new Genesis Hospice Care inpatient facility, the J.W. & M.H. Straker Foundation Hospice House. The new building is expected to be completed in 2026.

“The J.W. & M.H. Straker Foundation Hospice House will benefit those in our community who need compassionate, end-of-life care,” said Matt Perry, President & CEO of Genesis HealthCare System. “The new facility will embody the history and legacy of the current inpatient facility, Morrison House, and it will enable our staff to continue providing high-quality care and support to hospice patients and their families for many years.”

The J.W. & M.H. Straker Foundation Hospice House is made possible through generous donations from community organizations and individuals during a capital campaign to raise $7.4 million. The J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation made a naming donation, and the Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity donated the land at 1251 Ashland Ave., Zanesville. The site is the former Genesis Good Samaritan Medical Center and is across the street from Morrison House.

Patient rooms in the J.W. & M.H. Straker Foundation Hospice House will offer access to semi-private gardens and include private bathrooms designed to better accommodate families. It will also bring together all hospice home care and inpatient teams under one roof, fostering collaboration and continuity of care. Features of Morrison House, such as stained glass, will be moving to the new facility.

Genesis Hospice Care is a charitable hospice program serving Muskingum, Morgan, Perry, Coshocton, Guernsey, Noble and Licking counties. It is the only non-profit hospice in the area with a dedicated inpatient facility.

Learn more at Genesis Hospice Capital Campaign | Genesis Healthcare System.

Groundbreaking Held for New Genesis Hospice Care Facility

Participating in the groundbreaking were (left to right): Kelly Ashby, Executive Director, Genesis HealthCare Foundation; Scott Wegner, M.D., Chief Medical Officer, Genesis HealthCare System; Sister Marlita Henseler, Community Director, Franciscan Sisters of Christian Charity; Matt Perry, President & CEO; Genesis HealthCare System; Susan Holdren, President & Executive Director, J.W. & M.H. Straker Charitable Foundation; Don Mason, Mayor, City of Zanesville; Erin Remster, D.O., Medical Director, Genesis Hospice Care & Palliative Medicine; and Pebbles Kieber, Director, Genesis Cancer, Palliative Medicine & Hospice Services.

Groundbreaking Held for New Genesis Hospice Care Facility

Genesis HealthCare System held a groundbreaking ceremony today to kick off construction of its new Genesis Hospice Care inpatient facility, the J.W. & M.H. Straker Foundation Hospice House. The new building is expected to be completed in 2026.

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The one ingredient you should avoid for healthier eating

emily.griffin
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When it comes to healthy eating, there’s a lot of advice floating around. Eat more greens, avoid processed foods and drink water like it’s your job. If there’s one sneaky ingredient that should be on your “do not invite to dinner” list, it’s added sugar. 

Now, don’t get us wrong. We all love a little sweetness in life (and in our cookies), but added sugars, which strategically slip into your food during processing, are like unwanted guests who overstay their welcome. They’re not doing you any favors, and frankly, they’re kind of a health hazard. 

 

Why added sugar is the frenemy of your diet 

  1. Empty calories. Added sugar is like a party with no food. Sure, you’re having fun (yay, calories), but where’s the substance? According to the National Library of Medicine, added sugars are sources of energy with no nutritional value. So, in other words, they contain no vitamins, minerals or fiber.  

 

  1. Increases your risk for chronic diseases. Sugar may make your morning coffee taste like happiness, but it’s also playing a long game. According to the Centers for Disease Control, added sugars can contribute to health problems such as weight gain and obesity, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.  

 

  1. It’s addictive. Ever wonder why it’s hard to eat just one cookie? Sugar lights up the brain’s reward center like fireworks, making you want more and more until you’re elbow-deep in candy corn. 

 

 

The sweet (and healthy) conclusion 

Added sugar is like that overly charming friend who gets you into trouble. A little here and there may not hurt, but too much, and you’ll find yourself in a sticky situation. By focusing on whole foods, making a few simple swaps and watching for sugar’s many disguises, you’ll be well on your way to living your healthiest life. 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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If there’s one sneaky ingredient that should be on your “do not invite to dinner” list, it’s added sugar. 

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The community's heart

Russ Fehrman loves his community. He has lived in Coshocton for 40 years and spent his life making it better. He has served on numerous local boards of directors, given over 20 gallons of blood to the American Red Cross, has dressed as Santa Claus for over 20 years, volunteered at the local board of elections and even installed a book library in his yard.

When asked why he does so much, he shrugged and said, “Sometimes you can’t write giant checks, so you give your time instead.”

A few years ago, Russ was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. This occurs when the heart’s upper right and left atria chambers contract out of rhythm. AFib increases your chance of blood clots, especially in the left atrial appendage (LAA) and makes you five times more likely to have a stroke.

As a result, Russ started taking blood thinners. Taking the medication meant he was more likely to bleed easily, which prevented him from giving blood and limited a few of his activities.

That meant Russ couldn’t do everything he wanted. He couldn’t do as much for his community. Being limited in how he could help his family, friends and neighbors wasn’t acceptable to Russ.

 

It starts with a desire

Russ started researching for ways to get off blood thinners. His efforts led him to learning about a procedure involving a tiny implant that prevents blood clots in the LAA by closing it. During a routine visit at the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center, Russ shared his desire to stop taking blood thinners. He also asked Jason Bryant, APRN-CNP, Nurse Practitioner in cardiology, about the procedure he discovered.

Before Russ returned home, he received a call from Genesis to undergo a screening for the procedure.

“Getting off blood thinners was important to me,” said Russ. “However, I was thrilled at how quickly Genesis reacted. They listened and took my desires seriously. It was great.”

Russ passed the procedure screening and had the minimally invasive procedure performed in April 2024 by Kinan Kassar, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board certified Interventional and Structural Cardiologist at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute.

“During the procedure, we inserted a narrow tube into a blood vessel in Russ’ upper leg and directed it to his LAA,” said Dr. Kassar. “We then maneuvered the implant through the tube until it reached the LAA and unfolded it like an umbrella. A thin layer of tissue grew over the implant’s surface in about 45 days, enabling Russ to stop taking blood thinners.”

“Genesis listened and explained things as much as I needed. I am so happy I had the procedure.”

 

Back to what he loves

Russ returned home within hours of the procedure, started to feel better right away and was happy he had one less pill to take each day. He was also able to start donating blood again and continue other volunteer activities with less concern about falling that could result in severe bleeding.

“I was overwhelmed by the level of warmth the whole Genesis system expressed to me,” said Russ. “They were engaging, listened and explained things as much as I needed. Their attention to detail gave me confidence in them. I am so happy I had the procedure.”

Russ as Santa

Russ, also known as St. Nick, has listened to children’s holiday wishes for more than 20 years.

Kinan Kassas, M.D.

Kinan Kassar, M.D., FACC
Fellowship-trained and Board-certified
Interventional and Structural Cardiologist
Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute

Russ Fehrman

Russ Fehrman loves his community. He has lived in Coshocton for 40 years and spent his life making it better. A few years ago, Russ was diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, also known as AFib. As a result, Russ started taking blood thinners.

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Think pink and beat breast cancer

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society. It is also the second leading cause of cancer death in women after lung cancer.

 

The numbers tell the story:

There is a 1 in 8 chance that a woman will develop breast cancer in her lifetime.

5-year survival rates for breast cancer:

99%

if detected early before it spreads.

86 to 90%

if it spreads to lymph nodes or nearby structures.

30%

if it spreads to distant parts of the body, like lungs, liver or bones.

Early detection matters

Do you know the best way to survive breast cancer? Early detection. And the most effective and accurate way to detect breast cancer is tohave a screening mammogram.

National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend all women age 40 and older at average risk of breast cancer should have an annual screening mammogram.

Women with higher-than-average risk of breast cancer should have a clinical breast examination by a physician every 6 to 12 months and should consider a high-risk screening of an annual breast MRI along with an annual mammogram.

 

Talk with your doctor

Discuss your risk for breast cancer and a plan for a screening mammogram with your Primary Care Physician or your OB/GYN.

To schedule your mammogram, call Genesis Central Scheduling at 740-454-4242.

It’s time to think pink and win the fight against breast cancer.

For more information on cancer screenings, visit genesishcs.org/screenings.

 

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Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Think pink and beat breast cancer

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers, according to the American Cancer Society.

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Ways to boost your immune system

emily.griffin
Submitted by emily.griffin on

Who’s ready for flu season? No one, right? Unfortunately, there is no stopping all those germs. No matter how many times hands are washed. Or how many bottles of hand sanitizer are bought. Hepatitis A and B are always lurking, trying to find their way into your system.  

Thankfully, there are many things people can do daily to boost their immune systems. One of them is choosing a healthy lifestyle. Harvard Health advises people to stay away from smoking, consume many fruits and vegetables, exercise and manage stress levels.  

On the downside, if people continue smoking, do not eat a balanced diet, do not exercise and manage their stress levels, then the immune system will continue to become weaker and weaker. Who wants that?  

As some people want to eat food to build their immune system, it is important that they know which foods to buy. Yes, that means no brownies. Medical News states foods such as carrots, beans, nuts, citrus fruits and more help boost the immune system. 

With carrots high in vitamin A, beans high in fiber, nuts a good source of protein and citrus fruits full of vitamin C, people can help their immune system by eating these foods. Yes, that still means no brownies.  

Lastly, people can become malnourished by eating too much processed food. Harvard Health likes to point out that “scientists have long recognized that people who are malnourished are more vulnerable to infectious diseases.” Yuck, who wants that?  

People are able to do what they enjoy when taking care of their immune system. They can go to their niece's soccer game, go to a friend's house for the evening or simply go on a walk. So please, stay away from brownies and consume foods like carrots, beans, nuts and citrus fruits that can help keep you healthy and create a better lifestyle.  

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Ways to boost your immune system

Thankfully, there are many things people can do daily to boost their immune systems. One of them is choosing a healthy lifestyle.

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