Kansas City, KS- The University of Kansas Health System’s Thanksgiving special featured discussions on the hospital's efforts to make the holiday special for patients and staff. Executive Chef Andre Allen detailed preparing 400 pounds of turkey and 140 pounds of mashed potatoes for 1,000 meals.

Dr. Dana Hawkinson and Dr. Elizabeth Silver discussed food safety tips, including cooking temperatures and handling leftovers.

Dr. Jessica Hamilton advised on maintaining positive family conversations. Dr. Sean Kumer shared a nurse's dedication to working on Thanksgiving.

The program concluded with staff expressing gratitude for their families, colleagues, and patients.

Dr. Jessica Hamilton, Psychologist, The University of Kansas Health System

• Dr. Jessica Hamilton provides tips for setting boundaries and focusing on positive topics during family gatherings.
• She emphasizes the importance of family values and the need to delegate responsibilities to reduce stress.

Dr. Elizabeth Silver, Director of Poison Control, The University of Kansas Health System

• She advises using a meat thermometer and reheating leftovers properly to prevent food poisoning.
• The Poison Control Center is available 24/7 for any poison prevention or exposure questions, and it is confidential and free.
• 24-hour Poison Help Line: 1-800-222-1222

Andrea Roth, Chaplain, The University of Kansas Health System

• Chaplain Andrea Roth discusses the challenges families face when hospitalized during the holidays.
• She emphasizes the importance of rituals and memories and how the chaplaincy team helps patients and families cope.
• They encourage patients and families to bring in items that remind them of home and create new traditions in the hospital.

Monday, December 1st is the next Morning Medical Update:

Beating rare cancer with family by his side: bone marrow transplant

A story of resilience, science, and the power of family. When he needed a lifesaving transplant, his brother stepped forward as his donor—offering not just stem cells, but a second chance at life. Today, he’s thriving and his progress is inspiring patients, families, and care teams across our health system.

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