Mercyhealth Rockford Region

08/14/2026

Congratulations to Jessica on receiving a Shield of Excellence Award!

Jessica's dedication to patient advocacy and exceptional care made a life-changing difference for one patient.

After receiving a call from an assisted living facility about a mutual patient who had experienced several minutes of difficulty speaking and confusion, Jessica knew something wasn't right. Although the patient appeared to be doing better and there were no plans to send him to the emergency room, Jessica remained concerned.

Trusting her instincts and advocating for her patient, she contacted the patient's emergency contact and called 911 to ensure he received immediate medical attention. Once evaluated in the emergency room, it was determined that the patient had suffered a brain hemorrhage and required care in the ICU.

Jessica's persistence and commitment to doing what's right helped ensure this patient received the critical care he needed. Her actions are a powerful reminder of the impact compassionate, proactive healthcare professionals have every day.

Thank you, Jessica, for going above and beyond for your patients and embodying Mercyhealth's commitment to exceptional care. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! 💙

08/12/2026

Can't get in to see your child's pediatrician? When your child is sick or due for a checkup, you shouldn't have to wait weeks or even months for an appointment.

Mercyhealth pediatrician, Mary Augustian, MD., is welcoming patients at our Mercyhealth Cherry Valley clinic with appointments available for:
• Well-child visits
• School and sports physicals
• Sick visits
• Immunizations
• Ongoing pediatric care

Give your family the care, and the access, you deserve. Establish care with a pediatrician who's here when you need them most. Schedule an appointment today: https://bit.ly/4ooCXhr

08/07/2026

Now is the perfect time to schedule your annual wellness visit, stay on top of preventive care, and address any health concerns before school, sports, and busy fall schedules take over.

Rachana Patel, FNP-BC, is accepting primary care patients at Mercyhealth Cherry Valley, with faster access to appointments so you don't have to wait for the care you need.

Schedule your appointment today: https://bit.ly/4bv4Ekl

08/06/2026

As part of our cancer survivor seminar series, Mercyhealth is offering a session on Chair Yoga: Move, Breathe, Restore. This event is just around the corner, and we'd love for you to join us!

🗓 Wednesday, August 19
🕝 2:30–3:30 pm

Take an hour for yourself with gentle chair-based yoga, guided breathing and a relaxing meditation led by Rockford-area fitness and yoga instructor Beth Amy Watton. No experience is necessary, and no special equipment is required, just wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and come ready to move, breathe and restore. Whether patients are newly finished with cancer treatment or years into survivorship, this event is designed to provide support, education and guidance.

This event is free and open to the public. You do not need to be a Mercyhealth patient to attend. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call (815) 971-6188.

Register today and reserve your spot: https://bit.ly/4fpcZH9

08/03/2026

From tiny beginnings to incredible milestones, our annual NICU Reunion is a special opportunity to celebrate the journeys of NICU graduates and their families. 🎉💙

Join us for our 40th Annual NICU Reunion as we reconnect with NICU families, honor our graduates and celebrate the strength, resilience and milestones of our little miracles.

📅 Sunday, September 13
🕐 1–4 pm
📍 Javon Bea Hospital–Riverside, 8201 E. Riverside Blvd., Rockford, IL

Families and guests can look forward to:
🎁 Gifts for NICU graduates
🎮 Games, prizes and giveaways
🥤 Refreshments
☀️ Indoor and outdoor family activities

View the full event details here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1CmrC5gBwe/

We can't wait to welcome our NICU families back for this special milestone celebration and celebrate 40 years of miracles together! 💙

07/30/2026

Free immunizations, physicals & well-child exams are available through the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile in partnership with Mercyhealth. It will be at the RPS Administration Building at 501 7th Street on August 5-6. Call 815-971-5800 to schedule an appointment.

07/29/2026

Got an irregular heartbeat? Here are five symptoms of atrial fibrillation you should know!

Always talk to your doctor about any symptoms you are experiencing. Schedule your appointment at Mercyhealth by calling (888) 396-3729 or visit us at mercyhealthsystem.org.

See your doctor if you feel like this. (2 min. read)

07/27/2026

Cancer survivorship is about more than treatment—it's about supporting your overall well-being every step of the way.

Join Mercyhealth for a free educational series at the Mercyhealth Cancer Institute designed to help cancer survivors thrive.

Take an hour to relax, recharge and reconnect during Chair Yoga with Rockford-area fitness and yoga instructor Beth Amy Watton on Wednesday, August 19, from 2:30-3:30 pm.

Enjoy gentle chair-based yoga, guided breathing and a brief meditation to help reduce stress and improve mindful awareness. No yoga experience or special equipment is needed—just wear comfortable clothing and come ready to unwind.

This event is free and open to the public. You do not need to be a Mercyhealth patient to attend, and walk-ins are welcome.

To register, call (888) 396-3729. For more information, call (815) 971-6188.

07/27/2026

Stay safe and cool today!

07/24/2026

School starts soon! Are your child's checkups checked off the list? 📚✏️

Mercyhealth pediatrician, Mary Augustian, MD, has same-week appointments available for school physicals, sports physicals, and annual wellness visits.

Skip the last-minute rush and make sure your child is ready for a healthy, successful school year. From required physicals to routine wellness exams and immunizations, we're here to help.

Schedule your appointment today! https://bit.ly/4ooCXhr