St. John’s Focuses on Employee Wellness
The third week of May is nationally recognized as Women’s Health Week, which reminds women to prioritize their health and wellness. St. John’s works diligently to promote this among all staff members.

“National Women’s Health Week is an important reminder for women to take time to consider their own health and well-being,” says New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.

St. John’s Employee Health and Wellness Coordinator Pam Rhoden works to promote health and wellness for all employees in the St. John’s organization.
Rhoden says it is important to encourage wellness checkups and healthy lifestyle changes for women because “women face unique health challenges, such as reproductive health issues, hormone fluctuation, and bone health.”
“Women are also at higher risk for certain diseases and conditions like heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, and mental health disorders. ”

“We have an on-site fitness center that is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week,” says Rhoden. “We have treadmills, bikes, elliptical machines, and weights for strength training.”
St. John’s Home Therapeutic Recreation Specialist Amy Gurssiln says, “It is perfect to have a space like the gym right here at the Home.”
“I am active every day with my job as a TR specialist, but it is nice to have something to myself like the gym or walking in the park,” says Gursslin.
St. John’s Home is in the center of Highland Park, the perfect location for visitors and residents to stroll, and for employees like Gursslin to get some movement and fresh air during their breaks.
Michael Trynoski, a St. John’s Mechanic, says, “Being in the park is a nice perk — get out of work and just walk.”
“The park is 150 acres and is a great place to walk through on lunch or a quick break,” says Rhoden. “You can walk around the park while smelling the fragrance of the lilacs or walk to the Lamberton Conservatory, which has a beautiful collection of plants from many different places.”
Rhoden says that National Women’s Health Week is often overlooked, but a necessary observation. “By focusing on women’s health, we can improve women’s quality of life and build a healthier society for all.”