A journey of hope through local, compassionate healthcare

A journey of hope through local, compassionate healthcare

Imagine waking up one day and not being able to stand or hear from one ear. This was Jonathan Waller's reality in January 2020. Thanks to the quick actions of his care team, Jonathan's story is one of hope, healing and the power of local healthcare.

Jonathan's journey began with a severe sinus infection that led to meningitis, causing balance issues and hearing loss in one ear. Christy Waller, MD, is a surgeon here at Emplify Health by Gundersen. She quickly realized something was wrong and rushed Jonathan to the something was wrong, and he was rushed immediately to the Emergency Department.

Jonathan's treatment room quickly filled with an entire team of specialists from several areas of the hospital, including Emergency Medicine, Hospitalists, Infectious Disease and Otolaryngology.

"From the moment we walked through the door, we were met with love and a team focused on providing exemplary care," says Christy. "I had the most profound trust in this team."

Thanks to Jonathan's expert care team and their attentive response, he was quickly on the road to recovery. Within a few days, Jonathan's balance was back under control and within a few months, he received a cochlear implant to bring sound back to his ear. Now, he can hear from both ears again.

Having compassionate care close to home made all the difference for the Wallers. Living only eight minutes away from the hospital meant that Christy could balance being with Jonathan and being home at night with their young children.

"I never thought I'd be able to live in a town as relatively small as La Crosse and have such a wonderful facility so close," says Jonathan.

The generosity of donors like you helps ensure quality healthcare is available right here in our community. You make the care like Jonathan received possible.

Today, Jonathan and Christy give in support of medical education and community healthcare through Gundersen Medical Foundation to ensure the care Jonathan received is a possibility for everyone in our community.

"It really comes full circle with us just taking care of each other," says Christy.

Will you join the Wallers and support local healthcare today? Your donations stay right here in the Gundersen Region to support medical education, research and community health programs that help families just like the Wallers.

Your generosity brings hope, healing and care to our neighbors. Your generosity truly changes lives. There is no better gift than that.

Give a gift today