BIO ~ Karen Gallagher
Karen is a licensed Master of Social Work and has been in practice for over 35 years.
Karen owns a group mental health private practice, called the Wellness Institute of Michigan with two locations, one in Okemos and one in Jackson. Her clinical group has 33 clinicians and a team of professional employees who operate the practice with her. Karen is also a member of the WLNS crew and represents the “Peace of Mind”.
Karen believes that stress and personal challenges affect everyone at some point in their lives. The mission of the Wellness Institute of Michigan is to reduce the stigma associated with mental health issues and improve education and advocacy for those that suffer with mental health concerns.
She believes that mental health is health.
Phone: (517) 347-4645
Email: karen@wellnessinstitutemi.com
Website: welltessinstitutemi.com
Organization: The Wellness Institute Of Michigan
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wellnessinstituteofmi/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-wellness-institute-of-michigan
BIO ~ Heather Vida, CFRE
Heather started her fundraising career as an undergrad at Northern Michigan University, working with annual giving programs in the development office. Upon leaving NMU, Heather joined the staff and students at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) where she held the position of director of the 45-station UCLA call center and then promoted to the Director of Chancellor Associates.
In 2008, Heather was nominated and awarded the Distinguished Young Alumni Award from her alma mater, Northern Michigan University. This award was in recognition for her services, accomplishments and expertise as a professional fundraiser and young alum. After UCLA, Heather joined the Ruffalo CODY team as Vice-President and Consultant for Religious and Educational Fundraising Services for 10 years of service. Since 2013, Heather has worked as the Director of Fund Development for Hospice of Lansing, Ionia Area Hospice & Stoneleigh Residence and has recently be name Interim Executive Director. She is a proud and active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP), serving as the current Board President. Heather is also an active member of Mid-Michigan Business Partners (MMBP) and has been recognized for her efforts in higher education.
Email: hvida@hospiceoflansing.org
Website: https://www.youtube.com/@hospiceoflansing
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hospice-of-lansing/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true
BIO ~ Darcy Santos
Darcy Santos is a Life Enrichment professional who has been serving the senior population for over a decade.
She joined American House Senior Living in 2019 and has had the honor of working with their tremendous residents and team members for over 4.5 years.
Prior to American House, Darcy was the Director of Entertainment and Lifestyle at the Boca Raton Waldorf Astoria in Florida and has had an extensive career in entertainment on cruise lines and stages across the U.S.
Darcy lives with her family in Tennessee and enjoys the outdoors, traveling the national parks, and spending time with her family and friends. She is honored to be on the American House team serving the most wonderful population of seniors and is excited about the future of senior living with such a remarkable company.
Website: https://www.americanhouse.com/
Organization: American House Senior Living
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darcyerinsantos/
Email: dsantos@americanhouse.com
Phone: (248) 228-6876
BIO ~ Kathy Mrozinski
Kathy is the marketing coordinator for Hospice of Lansing, Stoneleigh Residence and Ionia Area Hospice. Hospice is a passion of hers and found her home at this agency as they are a stand-alone non-profit hospice and has been providing care, comfort and support to the community for over 44 years where the focus is truly on the patient.
She resides in Lansing, Michigan after graduating from Central Michigan University with a Bachelor degree in Integrative Public Relations. Kathy is the co-chair of the Lansing Walk to End Alzheimer’s committee and co-chair for the Lansing Caregiver Retreat.
She was also named Volunteer of the Year for Michigan’s Alzheimer’s Association Chapter in 2019. Kathy specializes in end-of-life preparation education, community engagement, brand identity, event planning, and advertising.
Email: Kathy@hospiceoflansing.org
Website: https://www.youtube.com/@hospiceoflansing
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/hospice-of-lansing/mycompany/?viewAsMember=true
About the Host ~ Dr. Deborah Moerland
Your Compassionate Host: Dr. Deborah Moerland, the driving force behind Senior Care Insights, is a seasoned educator and a passionate advocate in the realm of senior care. With a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors, their families, and caregivers, Deborah brings a wealth of knowledge and a compassionate spirit to her role as the podcast host.
Deborah’s extensive background as an educator has been a cornerstone of her journey into the world of senior care. Her years spent in the field of education have nurtured her natural ability to communicate complex concepts in an accessible and engaging manner. This skill is instrumental in her mission to provide clarity and understanding to her audience as they navigate the intricacies of senior health.
Recognizing the profound challenges faced by seniors and their families, Deborah transitioned her career towards healthcare, where she witnessed firsthand the complexities and nuances of elder care. Drawing from her dual expertise in education and healthcare, Deborah endeavors to empower her listeners with the information they need to navigate the often intricate landscape of senior care.
Senior Care Insights is not just a podcast; it’s a platform where Deborah leverages her educational background to break down barriers, foster understanding, and ensure that seniors receive the care and attention they deserve.
Through expert interviews, practical advice, and inspirational stories, Deborah is dedicated to illuminating the path to exceptional senior care for all who tune in. Join Deborah on this enlightening journey, and together, let’s make a positive impact on the lives of our beloved seniors and their caregivers.
(517) 230-5117 dmoerland@firstlighthomecare.com
