Reunion June 05 - Shodair Children's Hospital

JUNE 2005
Todd’s
Story
Shodair
Patient is
National
Ambassador

Shodair Children’s Hospital
Welcome
From the Administrator
Its spring time in Montana, and a ritual that takes place
every other year has just concluded. The Montana
Legislature has adjourned and the biennial visitors to
the capital city have departed. For Shodair, this
year’s session was significant because it included
consideration of two bills that were extremely important
to the hospital: Senate Bill 120 and Senate Bill 275.
As you probably know, Shodair’s two main service
areas are child and adolescent psychiatry and medical
genetics. In our inpatient psychiatry program, we
provide more Medicaid patient days than any other
hospital in the state; however, Medicaid reimbursement
doesn’t begin to cover the total cost of patient care.
Senate Bill 120 provides funding to hospitals to help
cover costs that exceed what Medicaid pays for.
This legislation is important to all hospitals in Montana.
The program it supports will provide about $42.5
million to hospitals each year of the biennium—and
none of the funds come from Montana’s general fund.
Instead, the money will come from a federal match
within the Medicaid program. Without this funding,
Shodair would face an annual deficit close to $1.2
million. Other hospitals across the state would have
to shift their un-reimbursed costs to patients with
insurance or to private-pay patients. When you see
your legislators, be sure to thank them for passing
this bill.
The second piece of legislation, Senate Bill 275,
provides funding for the Montana Statewide Medical
Genetics Program. Shodair contracts with the
Department of Public Health and Human Services to
provide these services. Prior to this legislation, a fee of
70 cents was assessed each year on health insurance or
disability policies issued in Montana to help support the
program. With passage of Senate Bill 275, that fee will
Jack Casey
Shodair Children’s Hospital
Executive Director
be raised to $1.00 per policy, per year. The increase
will allow us to continue providing much-needed
services to Montana families. How will it affect you?
For example, if an insured family of three paid $2.10
per year under the old law; they will pay $3.00 per
year under this new law—less than one penny
per day.
On behalf of the hospital board of trustees,
administration, staff, and especially the children and
families we serve, I’d like to thank all 150 legislators
for the important work accomplished during their
stay here in Helena. I’d also like to thank Governor
Schweitzer for his support of healthcare across
Montana. The efforts of our state leaders make us all
proud to be Montanans.
John P. Casey
Administrator

Reunion July 2005 Contents
Inside Cover
From the Administrator
2 From the Foundation Director
3 Shodair Expands to Meet
Need for Acute Care
4 Cancer Genetics: New Services Provide Knowledge
and Insight for Families
6 Feature Story: Todd Daniels,
Montana’s Champion
8 – 12 Thank You to Our Donors
12 JCAHO Accreditation—Shodair
Achieves the Gold Seal
12 Psychiatrist’s Perspective:
Are Antidepressants Safe for
Depressed Children?
On the COVER:
Todd Daniels reads
his “story” to Shodair
staff with foster
mother Becky Barrus
looking on.
Mark Your
Calendars
13 School Accreditation Confirms
Quality Education for Patients
Back Cover
Spotlight on Shodair
Special thanks to Kevin Hudson, Helena Photography, for photographs in this issue.
Published by: Marketing and Community Relations Department, Shodair Children’s Hospital
Editor: Renee Hofeldt, Director, Marketing and Community Relations
Design: Art & Image Creative Resources, Missoula Photography: Helena Photography, Helena
Printed by: Advanced Litho Printing June 2005
For further information: Marketing and Community Relations Department - Phone: 406/444-7548 Fax: 406/444-1005 e-mail: lreed@shodair.org
1

SHODAIR FOUNDATION
From the Foundation Director
Since 1896 Shodair has cared for
Montana’s children, adolescents
and their families. Over the years,
the need for Shodair’s care has
grown enormously. That’s why we
are embarking on an expansion of
our acute unit. Acute psychiatric
hospitalization is reserved for those
children and adolescents who are
in crisis, and the new unit will
help us provide those children and
families with critical mental
health care services.
Shodair depends on the generous
and faithful gifts of our friends.
Without you, we would cease to
be—and at-risk children would
not receive the help they
desperately need.
Regular Gifts
We appreciate all gifts, no matter
how small. Each year we receive
gifts from hundreds of individuals
and couples who support our
ongoing work. These cash gifts
comprise the backbone of our
development program, and we
depend on them to meet our
daily obligations.
Special Gifts
As a growing and vital
organization, Shodair is seeking
to raise additional funds for our
building expansion. We challenge
our donors to make a larger gift,
something beyond their regular
gift amount. Such gifts represent
a significant commitment and
will be extremely important to
enable Shodair to serve
Montana’s children.
Ultimate Gifts
These gifts are generally called
“planned gifts.” They are
sometimes made during life
through life-income arrangements,
such as a charitable gift annuity;
and sometimes at death, as a
bequest. They typically involve
non-cash assets, such as real
estate, business holdings or other
estate assets. A planned gift calls
for careful planning and usually
requires the assistance of
professional advisors. Gifts in the
ultimate category represent a
small, highly committed group of
donors. Our Foundation exists to
help these friends complete their
“dream gifts.”
We value and appreciate every
single one of our donors, no matter
what category of gift you give.
Linda Coulston
Shodair Children’s Hospital
Foundation Director
If you would like to learn more
about ways to help Shodair help
children, you can request our
complimentary brochure on
planned giving and, if you wish,
invite me to contact you for a visit.
There is no cost or obligation of
any kind. Please call our toll-free
number, 800-447-6614 and ask to
speak with me. I would be
delighted to help you make
your “dream gift,” to help the
children in Shodair’s care.
Best wishes,
Linda Coulston
Foundation Director
* This information is for illustrative
purposes and is not intended to be tax
or financial advice. You should always
consult your own attorney or financial
advisors when considering a planned
gift. Please remember Shodair in your
will or other estate plans.
2 Reunion

Shodair Grows to Meet Demand
Construction on 20,000 square foot addition begins this summer
Shodair Children’s Hospital has announced plans to add
a 20,000 square foot addition to the existing facility. The
expansion will include a new 20-bed acute care unit, a
swimming pool, additional office space, and storage.
Shodair currently operates a 12 bed acute care unit.
The hospital’s residential treatment units include 42
beds for adolescents and 14 for children. In recent
months, the hospital has been forced to turn away
youth in need of the critical services it provides in
its acute care facility, because there were no beds
available for additional patients.
The expansion of acute care services comes in response
to increased demand for those services. Currently,
options for Montana children and adolescents in need of
these critical, specialized services are limited. “When
we’re full like we have been, the next closest place for
kids in need of help is Billings or Missoula—and
Missoula doesn’t have facilities for young children,”
said Shodair administrator, Jack Casey. “The need for
specialized psychiatric care for children in the state
is growing while availability of those services
remains limited.”
Casey said the hospital had been considering possible
ways to meet the need for services, and ultimately
decided to move ahead with expanding its facilities
east of Helena. “We’ve been looking for ways to
accommodate the increasing need for our services, and
the expansion will help us address this statewide need.”
In the interim before construction is completed, the
hospital’s existing facilities will be remodeled to
add an additional 4 acute care beds.
The expansion will also allow the genetics
department to grow as well, accommodating
additional staff and equipment to meet the
June 2005
increasing demand for screening, counseling, and risk
assessments for diseases such as cancer. Shodair is
known nationwide for its clinical and laboratory
genetics services, and the hospital’s laboratory and
genetic counselors provide services to patients of
all ages throughout the state.
In addition to the new acute care facilities, offices,
and storage space, the expansion will include an
indoor pool for patient use. Approximately 3000
square feet of the new facility will go to housing the
pool and associated mechanical and dressing areas.
Shodair currently has a full-sized indoor gymnasium
and outdoor play area; however a swimming pool
has been discussed for several years. With the new
pool, patients will have yet another opportunity for
therapeutic recreation.
The expansion is estimated to cost $2.6 million
dollars and will translate into additional hiring to
meet increased staffing needs. Nurses, another
psychiatrist, a mental health therapist, teacher and
teacher’s aide, recreation aide, and support staff will
be added, along with personnel for the medical
records and admissions offices. Shodair will also
welcome another psychiatrist, bringing the numbers
of full-time board certified child psychiatrists on
staff to five.
Casey hopes ground will be broken in June, and is
looking forward to a move-in date sometime next
winter. The project is being designed by Schlenker &
McKittrick Architects (SMA) of Helena. Schlenker &
McKittrick was also responsible for Shodair’s current
facilities, located on Colonial Drive.
3

Cancer Genetics: New Services
Provide Knowledge, Insight, for Families
The last four months have been busy ones for Shodair.
In addition to announcing plans for expansion, the
hospital followed the Montana legislature as it
considered and ultimately passed a bill to expand
financial support for Shodair’s genetics program.
Shodair provides the only comprehensive genetic
services in Montana, including over seventy clinics
annually. Through the clinics, the hospital brings
valuable services to people in every area of the state—
services they might otherwise have to travel long
distances to find.
Funding provided by the state for these services had
remained at the same level since 1992. At the same
time, demand for clinical genetic services in the state
increased over 24 percent, with demand for some
laboratory services increasing 175 percent. Passage of
Senate Bill 275 provided funds for genetic services
through a fee assessed on insurance premiums.
The additional funds will help Shodair expand its
medical genetics services, especially in the fast-growing
area of cancer genetics. These services help physicians
and families to assess risk of inherited cancers, make
decisions regarding other diagnostic procedures, and
determine the most effective treatment protocols.
Cancer Genetics: A new frontier in Montana
Shodair’s Department of Medical Genetics has served
children and families in the state for almost 30 years.
Recently, the kinds of genetic services available to
families have grown and now, in addition to services
for children, there are new tests and services that focus
on parents and grandparents.
The new focus has developed for several reasons,
including statistics indicating one in three Americans will
develop cancer in their lifetime. The increased odds for
developing the disease are leading more people to assess
their potential risk for it.
Individuals who inherit a cancer predisposition have a
higher risk of developing specific cancers. About ten
percent of cancers are thought to be related to a specific
gene, and medical genetic services can help identify
important risk factors. Services specific to cancer
genetics can help increase patients’ awareness, decrease
anxiety, and offer families valuable information to help
them make informed treatment decisions.
The genetics staff at Shodair works closely with
individuals and families to identify familial risk of a
variety of cancers, including breast and colorectal
cancer. The hospital’s laboratory also provides testing
that oncologists use when making treatment decisions
for breast cancer, leukemias, and lymphomas.
In a state the size of Montana, where many people live
in rural or isolated areas, Shodair staff plays a critical role
by making cancer genetic services available throughout
the state. They do this by taking the services to the
people who need them. Counselors and physicians from
the medical genetics department travel the state,
providing over 70 clinics each year in locations that
include Missoula, Great Falls, Miles City, Sidney, Billings,
Kalispell, Butte, Bozeman, and Helena. Telemedicine
technology enables them to see and talk to even more
patients, at times and places most convenient to them.
The services provided by Shodair’s medical genetics
program have helped many Montanans address serious
challenges to their health—no matter where they live.
Following are stories from two patients who wanted to
share their recent experience with the Shodair cancer
genetics program.
4

Gene Testing for Cancer Risk: Two Stories
January 24, 2005
My name is Brandi. I live in Kalispell.
Laura’s Story
Brandi’s Story
My family has a history of colon cancer. My aunt was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 47. My mother does not
have colon cancer, but she had colon polyps at a young age. I was referred to Shodair’s genetics program by my
oncologist, Dr. Goodman, in Kalispell, because of the strong family history, and because a magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) scan showed an unusual spot on my brain.
The medical geneticist and genetic counselor first saw me at a clinic in Kalispell in May of 2004. They explained
hereditary risk for cancer and suggested that we start the process of identifying our family’s risk with my aunt. My
aunt tested positive for a mutation in the gene responsible for the inherited cancer syndrome Hereditary
Nonpolyposis Colon Cancer (HNPCC). The information was critical. In addition to colon cancer, she has 60% risk
of uterine cancer and a 12% risk of ovarian cancer. She is now considering surgical options to prevent
additional cancer.
Next we tested my mom. She does not have cancer now, but tested positive for the gene. With this
information, she can now make health care decisions that will allow her to live a longer,
healthier life.
The staff at Shodair has been available to me for both counseling
and testing. Their services have changed the lives of
my family members.
Sincerely,
Brandi
Laura B.
first consulted with a
genetic counselor and medical
geneticist at Shodair six years ago.
She had a history of endometrial cancer at age
40, and a family history of breast and colon cancer.
In her initial discussions, she learned about possible colon and breast
cancer predisposition genes that might be in her family. She learned she could have
a test done to determine whether she carried cancer predisposition genes, but chose not to
do so at the time. Laura was already overwhelmed with caring for a parent with cancer and, like
many patients, was concerned about the cost of testing, as well as possible discrimination by insurance
carriers. She elected to wait.
Since that time, colon cancer was identified in her family, and a distant relative tested positive for a breast cancer
predisposition gene. The additional incidence of cancer prompted Laura to come back for another consultation.
Because a significant number of people in her family—both male and female—had developed breast cancer, Laura
chose testing to determine whether she carried the breast cancer predisposition gene known to run in her family.
Having already had cancer (endometrial), she was interested in her risk for breast and other associated cancers, and
wanted to identify possible risk reduction measures she might take if she was found to carry the gene.
Laura’s blood was drawn and sent to the laboratory for testing. At her next session with staff at Shodair, Laura was
pleased to learn she hadn’t inherited the predisposition gene that appeared to run in her family.
Laura says her test results have helped ease her mind. While the cause of her endometrial cancer remains
uncertain, she can put some of her familial cancer concerns aside. She is an empathetic source of support for other
family members who’ve tested positive for the breast cancer gene, but lives daily with the relief provided by her
own normal test result. Describing her feelings, she says: “A dark cloud has been removed from my consciousness
since I got my normal test result. I really have felt a lot more optimistic and cheerful in general since then.
Thank you for making that possible.”
To learn more about cancer risk assessments and other services available
through Shodair’s Medical Genetics Department, call 1-800-447-6614.
5

MONTANA’S
CHAMPION
Former Patient Represents State, Children’s
Mental Health Issues in National Program
PHOTO: Children’s Miracle Network
Foresters Champions Across America medal ceremony in Orlando
Todd
Daniels
The word champion
most often evokes images of a
victory on a playing field. However,
for some amazing children, it takes
on a whole new meaning. They’ve
competed against often amazing
odds, and emerged victorious in
the game of life.
Meet Todd Daniels, a special young
man who is one these outstanding
examples of determination and
courage. Todd overcame challenges
that would make most adults cringe,
and is this year being honored as a
champion representing Montana
and the mental health needs of
children everywhere.
Todd with Carroll College
coach Mike Van Diest

Governor Brian
Schweitzer congratulates
Todd at the state capitol
Todd’s Story
A former patient at Shodair,Todd is one of 50 children from other states
participating in the Children’s Miracle Network program called Foresters
Champions across America. As ambassador for the state of Montana, the
eleven-year-old represents 17 million hospitalized children around the
nation. In March he joined 49 other young ambassadors and Grammy
winner LeAnn Rimes for a visit to Washington, D.C.
Before departing the nation’s capitol, he was greeted by the governor and
recognized by the Montana State Legislature in proclamations before both
the House and Senate. In the nation’s capitol, he visited with U.S. senators
and the First Lady before journeying to Orlando, Florida and Walt Disney
World, where he and other champions were honored with special activities
and a celebration that included friends and family members from
around the nation and Canada.
Todd’s experience at Shodair began with his initial admission to the
residential treatment unit in 2002. Prior to coming to Shodair, he had
experienced more than 20 psychiatric hospitalizations since the age of four.
His difficulties, resulting at least in part from birth trauma, include attention
deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bi-polar disorder. Once at Shodair,
he was treated by a dedicated interdisciplinary team that
included psychiatrists, therapists, nurses, teachers, and mental
health technicians—all working to manage his medication
schedule and offer a range of therapies, and provide the care
and support he needed.
Todd and
members of
his health care
team at Shodair
Today, in spite of his complex diagnosis and medication
schedule, Todd functions independently and continues to make
progress in all areas of his life. He now lives with his foster
family in Trout Creek and attends public school in Thompson Falls.
Each year, hundreds of Montana children like Todd receive the care they need from
Shodair’s child and adolescent psychiatric units and medical genetics
department. And every day there are remarkable champions
at Shodair—both patients and staff—building better lives.
Their stories are inspiring and we hope to continue
playing an important role in their achievements. With the
help of generous, caring people like you, more deserving
children will find healthy, productive lives, and amazing
stories like these will continue to be told. To learn how you can help, call
the foundation office at 406-444-7548, or 1-800-447-6614.
June 2005
7

Thanks to
Our Supporters
Please Note! We make every effort to make sure the donor lists are accurate.
Should something be wrong with your listing, please let us know so that we
can list the corrections in the next issue of Reunion. Thank you.
Bequests, Estates
and Trust Gifts
Charles L. Brown Bequest
Wilbur Erickson Bequest
Martha Hawkins Trust
In Honor Gifts
Carrie M. Cummins
- Janet Kalus Cummins
Joseph
- Paul Larson
In Kind Gifts
Katherine Berry
Big Brothers & Big Sisters Helena
Big Timber Women’s Club
Ms. Braun
Capital High School
Mrs. Lorraine Cervenka
Brenda Conroy
Ruth Dewey
First Christian Church
First Congregational Church
Dr. Keith Foster
Art Fowler
Beate Galda
Lacey George
W. R. Gilleland
Girl Scout Troop 428
Goodwill
Mary Graveley
Auldeen Hall
Lisa Harker
Wendy Irwin
Deborah A.C. Jones
Brian Kalgaard
Megan Kerzmen
Patsy Kinser
Lee Knachel
Harold Kober
Lewis & Clark Library
Andy Long
Lucky Lil’s
Vicky Maclean
Marlo Manicke-Domier
Melville Lutheran Church Women
Robert J. Moes
Montana City Bank
Jill Myhre
Maggie Petaja
Steven & Debbie Powley
Ian Reed
Terry Reid
Rosemary Rowe
Safeway Store of Helena
Starbucks
Louise Theisen
Toys For Tots
Sandy Van Campen
Spencee Willett
Memorial Gifts
Harold Adams
- Maureen Sheldon
Hazel Adsit-Henry
- Tim & Carrie L. Boe
William A. Algers
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Joyce Andersen
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Bob Ashland
- Mr. & Mrs. Tom J. Christensen
Claude “Babe” Avens
- Luella Avens
Shirley Baker
- Willard E. Baker
Pearl Thoreson Bangeman
- Alvin & Bobbe Mellem
- Mr. & Mrs. Glen Stratton
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
William D. Barnes
- Mr. & Mrs. Ben Miller
Lorraine Bates
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Georgia Beatty
- Mr. & Mrs. John W. Wilson
Douglas Beauchamp
- Jessie Treweek
John Bennett
- Lillian DeBerti
- Dale & Heidi Hjelt
- Phyllis Petritz
- Mr. & Mrs. Ken Schelin
Lowell V. Berglind
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Shirley Blakney
- Rex J. & Lois Flansburg
Metha Ellen Blenkarn
- Betty Anderson
- Leone & John Cloepfil
- Qulan & Helen Johnson
Mellem Bobbe
- Click & Arloene Christianson
Jean L. Bodle
- Mrs. Don Marx
- James E. Pratt
Pauline Bogatz
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
Jim Boggio
- Mr. & Mrs. Arthur E. Hanni
Clara Briggs
- Lane & Linda Coulston
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
- Mr. & Mrs. Tim Babcock
Henry “Hank” Brotzman
- Deloris M. Crossley
- Thomas & Sally Daer
- Kathy & Zetta Robinson Griffing
Clarence Brown
- Evelyn Cousineau
Jack Browning
- Mr. & Mrs. William E. Campbell
Emily Bucholz
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
Isabel “Izzie” Bugni
- Rose Marie Phyfield
- Mr. & Mrs. Vyron C. Wells
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Alvin Bunkowske
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
Millie Buor
- Kay Ebert
Art Button
- Alice Woods
Judith Calnan
- Shirley A. Calnan
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- JR & Jolene Rohan
Patricia Grant Calvert
- Tim & Carrie L. Boe
Faye Candee
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Leslie Candee
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Florene Carpenter
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Ottis “Bobbie” Carter
- Mrs. Jessie Treweek
Zoe Casagrande
- Mr. & Mrs. John J. Panich
Del Casebolt
- Hanson Trucking, Inc.
Enis Casilla
- Aurora Z. Keenan
Bunny Cerkovink
- Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Mendel
Carl Chambers
- Luella Avens
Mary “Pat” Chatriand
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Catherine Cheek
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
Emilio Chelini
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Arvid “Chris” Christianson
- Click & Arloene Christianson
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
Mary H. Clemo
- Mr. and Mrs. Martin F. Mertz
Thomas L. “Tom” Cockrell
- R. E. Hillman
- Rosemary Cook
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert E. Fry
- Mrs. T. Sewell Hines
- Lester & Carolyn Jones
- Bob & Edie McColly
Mike Conn
- Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Muchmore
Mildred Cook
- Charles Van Gorden
Helen L. Cox
- Mrs. Don Marx
John M. Jack Crawford
- Charles Van Gorden
Dr. Robert Crossley
- Mrs. Henry Brotzman
Jo Ann Crowley
- Albert Squires
Wilbur “Buck” Curtis
- Dr. & Mrs. Lindon &
Betty C. Durham
- Mr. & Mrs. Stan Milesnick
Wayne Dafoe
- Clifford Lybeck
Mildred E. Dahlstrom-Dawson
- Tim & Carrie L. Boe
Math Dasinger
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
May Davenport
- Lillian DeBerti
Reylene Davis
- Helen Davis
Louise Dawson-Parenteau
- Tim & Carrie L. Boe
Nellie Dean
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
Joanna Dixon
- Karyl Hills Gasser
Ray Dowling
- Bruce & Edith Farnum
- Jeanne Gendrow
George “Chop” Dringle
- Mr. & Mrs. Stan Milesnick
Martin Dunn
- Tillie M. Phillip
Marlene Durham
- Dr. & Mrs. Lindon
& Betty C. Durham
Elveda Duus
- Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Peterson
Dr. Louis Mertz Dyll, Jr.
- Mr. and Mrs. Martin F. Mertz
Dana Reed Eastman
- Arthur R. & Eileen Tucker
Hazel Eddy
- James A. Eddy
Jane Eddy
- James A. Eddy
Donna Edmisten
- Betty S. Rice, Jr.
Richard K. Ellingson
- Luella Avens
Robert A. “Bob” Ellis
- Mr. & Mrs. Howard Ellis
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
- Helen Fabich
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
- Click & Arloene Christianson
Christopher Carl Fahlgren
- Roger & Terry Gullickson
- Larry & Cheryl Madsen
- Jean McDaniel
James Farrell
- Click & Arloene Christianson
Aileen Ferguson
- Woodrow C. Casey
Tony Fiest
- Ruth A. Fiest
Kenneth Fisher
- Mr. & Mrs. Stan Milesnick
Rhoda Fisher
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Nicole Fitzgerald
- Shirley Fitzgerald
Margaret Fleming
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- Dale & Heidi Hjelt
Mary Foote
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
Thomas “Tom” Patrick Foy
- Robert & Smithe Docktor
- Friends of Thomas Patrick Foy
- Harold & Marjorie Keilman
8 Reunion

- Carrie & Jeffrey Key
- Veronica Kralicek
- Richard Kuhl
- Dan & Janet Lieberg
- Donald & Patricia Mehring
- Kathie Roos Blossom
- Donna Jensen
- Joe & Dorothy Joyce
- Margaret & Robert Peoples
- Margie Richardson
- Naomi Sage
- Pam & Greg Sheridan
- Betty Sigurdson
- Mike Sinnott
- Joseph & Vicki Steiner
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
- The Cadmus Group
- W. D. & Clarey Bermingham
Duane Frank
- Mr. & Mrs. Roy L. Mikkelsen
Larue Freund
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Barbara Lee Fuller
- Terry R. & Sharon Johnson
Judy Fuller
- Delores J. Hill
Agatha Funston
- Mel & Pat Brownlee
- Wes & Marie Funston
- Mr. & Mrs. Bob Julius
- Mr. & Mrs. Gary McMorris
- Maxine L. Van Denburg
Char Gardiner
- Irvin J. Blessinger
Amelia Gerdts
- Mrs. John R. Stenbeck
Rena J. Giacoma
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Adam W. Giesick
- Clara P. Giesick
Catherine “Beth” Glovan
- Ed & Marilyn Bartlett
- Gary R. Browning
- Dan & Andrea Daniels
- Mr. & Mrs. James F. Holland
- Mr. & Mrs. James Johnston
- Jean D. Mills
- Frank & Marilyn St. Pierre
- MSE Inc. Employees
- Tom Estill
- Gregory & Nancy Skakles
- Chuck & Wini Stokke
- James & Cathy Walsh
- Mr. and Mrs. Orin D. Beattie
- Carol Kopp
Georgia Goldenstein
- Mr. & Mrs. Stan Milesnick
Jack Gordon
- Helen Davis
John J. Graham
- Donald W. & Marlene Kude
Alma Groskurth
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Bruce Gunter
- Mr. & Mrs. Frank Manfredi
Thomas Hafer
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Agnes H. Hall
- Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth A. Flink
June 2005
Catherine Hall
- Catherine A. Alger
Mary Lou Hall
- Theresa Chicoski
- Arlene & Terri Kougioulis
Gail E. Hammond
- Virginia E. Hammond
Freida Handley
- Rex J. & Lois Flansburg
Jack & Sylvia Hanson
- John & Marjorie Hanson
Glen & Betty Hargrove
- D & G Lumber, LLC
Alma Harmon
- Mr. & Mrs. John J. Panich
Joshua Harris
- Beverly Gibson
Robert A. Haugland
- Mrs. Don Marx
Jean L. Helvic
- Edward E. & Edna Barnhart
Tom Hensley
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Mary Beth Hess
- Mr. & Mrs. Roy P. Furthmyre
- Terry R. & Sharon Johnson
Helen Hogan
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
- Shirley Prophet
Jean Holland
- Betty Ostoj
Stella Holland
- Annabelle T. Larsen
Mary Ann Holmes
- Mr. Arnold J. Odegaard
Della Hopple
- Luella Avens
Tana Hossack
- Babe & Ken Young
Weston Howard Family
- Shirley E. Voyta
E.K. “Red” Hudson
- Mr. & Mrs. Gary Rebal
Joann Huffsmith
- Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Muchmore
Bill Huston
- Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Murray
George Huston
- Mr. & Mrs. Patrick Murray
Frances Hysell
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
Robert Inman
- Ruth Denton
Ignacio Jasmine
- Red Car, Inc.
Alice Jemmings
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Bud Jensen
- Mr. & Mrs. Tom J. Christensen
Marlyn “Huz” Jensen
- Mr. & Mrs. Neil H. Eliason
Marie Job
- George Job, Jr.
A.H. Johnson
- Alvina C. Welliver
Doreen Renee Johnson
- Mr. & Mrs. Richard E. Schaefer
Harold H. Johnson
- Mr. & Mrs. Ben Miller
Robert Johnson
- Dorothy J. Slapnik
Howard “Casey” Johnston
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Barbara L. Jones
- Sharon & Bob Jones
- Advanced Dermatology
- Paul D. & Lenette Caruso, Jr.
- Mariel & Mike Gribben
- John & Diane J. Maloney
- Harry & Angela Palin
- Jim & Ann Van Blaricom
Ward Junkermier
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
Jean Kaul
- Maureen Sheldon
William A. Keenan
- Aurora Z. Keenan
Bette Kinsella
- Thelma M. Papillo-Neely
Donald & Nora Koefod
- Mr. and Mrs. Greg Woods
John & Loretta Kolesar
- Robert & Marlene Forster
- Barry Kolesar
Peter Kolokotrones
- Richard C. &
Margaret B. Bossard
Laverne Koprivica
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- Prigge & Otten, P.C.
Gregory Kovach
- Jessie Treweek
Wilma A. Krueger
- Dolores Aadsen
Julie Kuchtyn
- Rose Marie Phyfield
Daniel R. Laber
- Carrol V. Laber
Alexander Laber, Jr.
- Carrol V. Laber
Mary Lambert
- Rose Marie Phyfield
Willard Larsen
- Donna M. Mulcahy
Paul Lawrence
- Click & Arloene Christianson
Joyce Lawson
- Janette Ebright
- Irma Fritts
Ann Lemmon
- Phyllis Petritz
Miriam Lewis
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
William “Lloyd” Linden
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
- Mr. and Mrs. Martin F. Mertz
Judy Lorenz
- Mr. & Mrs. Larry Funston
- Geret J. Guiberson
- Lisa G. May
Del Lundby
- Mr. & Mrs. Kelly Stephenson
Dixie Lusin
- Mr. and Mrs. Lester Lippert
Grace Dwyer Lyons
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- Mr. & Mrs. Ross Lyle
Francis MacDonald
- Mr. & Mrs. Ray L. Lutz
Vernon Maki
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Margarette Dempsey Malee
- Mr. and Mrs. Red Menahan
Joseph Maller, Jr.
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Emma L. Marlowe
- Kathryn B. Bestwick
Lois Martin
- Mr. & Mrs. William E. Campbell
Larry Marx
- Kenneth & Joanne LaPalm
Doris Matthews
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
Frieda Mauck
- Lois J. Fahlgren
Howard Mayo
- Betty S. Rice, Jr.
Betty Rae McArthur
- Mr. & Mrs. Jack Donisthorpe
Rose McGowan
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Robert McKecknie
- Gloria A. Wilson
Charles McKenna
- Jessie Treweek
Alta & Walter McKerrow
- Elma C. Crockett
Mark McKinnon
- Buzz & Darlene Brodie
- Eva A. Fortune
Kim McLure
- Mr. & Mrs. Marshall Muchmore
Linda McNeil
- Mr. and Mrs. Red Menahan
Pete McPhail
- Mr. and Mrs. Red Menahan
Pete McQueary
- Martin & Claudia Dippold
Andy Medvec
- Mr. & Mrs. Frank Manfredi
Bobbe Mellem
- Pearl T. Bangeman
Charles Mercord
- Shirley B. Bertelsen
Margie Mero
- Mr. & Mrs. Val Gutcheck
- Mr. & Mrs. Gayle Applegate
- Tillie M. Phillip
- Albena E. Preskar
- Sunday Breakfast Group
Joseph John Merrick
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Marion Merritt
- Jean D. Johnson
Edward T. Messick
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Christine Marie Thompson Miles
- Marjorie K. McNellis
John L. “Jack” Miller
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Dee Dee Mills
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
James T. Mills
- Jean D. Mills
Mary Lou Moore
- Mr. & Mrs. Ray L. Lutz
Thursa Morris
- Mr. & Mrs. Ralph T. Anderson
Harry Muinen
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
9

Thank You to Our Generous Supporters
Continued from Previous Page
Allen Muirhead
- Winona A. Peterson
Margaret Annette Munson
- Mr. & Mrs. George Hutchens
Jim Nelson
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Robert Nelson
- Voncile Robertson
Tom E. Nopper
- Mr. & Mrs. Stan Milesnick
Tom “Obie” O’Brien
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Veronica O’Brien
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Vi O’Connor
- Louisa Rothfus
- John R. Stenbeck
Dorothy M. Olson
- John L. & Marilyn Olson
Justin Opheim
- Mr. & Mrs. Tom Gannon
Rev. Nathan C. Packard
- Betty A. Elston
Jayne Pardis
- Mike & Kathy Phillips
Carol Parker
- Lucille Bosanach
Timothy Dean Patacini
- Leora Brinig
- Mr. & Mrs. John J. Panich
George Patterson
- Dennis & Donna Uken
- Marie Barker
- Lansford & Linda Levitt
- Betty & John Nadenicek
Edwin R. Patzer
- Mr. & Mrs. Bernie A. Swift
Armella B. Pelz
- Edward L. Pelz
Rich Penn
- Mr. & Mrs. Jack Donisthorpe
Alma Periman
- Empire Airlines
- Elmer Johnson
- Violet Vihinen
- Jeanette J. Waltari
- Alton Williams
Jack Perkins
- Mr. & Mrs. Robert J. Helstrom
Raymond Pesanti
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Richard Peterson
- Georgiana Andersen
Ted Peterson
- Michael & Nancy O’Dell
Archie Petritz
- Phyllis Petritz
Pat Petritz
- Phyllis Petritz
Rose Masanovich Pierce
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
May Montana Preskar
- Marilyn Anderson
- Mr. & Mrs. Gayle Applegate
- William & Irene Arvish
- Ethel M. Barclay
- Frank & Donna Bizjak
- Evelyn Blaskovich
- Doris & Thomas Blaz
- Florence Blazina
- Anne Bowman
- Georgene & Sal Cachola
- Lee & Elaine Collins
- Gene & Joyce Colucci
- Dick & Diane Cromer
- Ron & Judith Curtiss
- Walter & Miriam Derzay
- Viola Duffy
- Thomas B. Durkin
- Ron & Dixie Dye
- Ben & Charmaine Everett
- Ella Froehlich
- Eleanor Ivankovich
- Rosemary & Ray Johnson
- Wayne Lucier
- Marilyn Marks
- John & Charlene Meshnik
- Jean D. Mills
- Ray Peterson
- Joseph & Merrijean Pinard
- Albena E. Preskar
- Josie Sepulveda
- Richard & Rosemarie Silzly
- Violet Smith
- Margaret Snow
- Con & Nancy Sullivan
- Sunday Breakfast Group
- The VPS Companies
- Jack & Ann Torney
- Mark & Betty Torney
- Lottie Jo & Jerry Touchton
- Arthur & Remo Walker
- Lucey E. Wasvig
Deen Pryor
- Mr. & Mrs. John J. Panich
Marion & Margaret Pyeatt
- Mr. & Mrs. Dennis E. Dupuis
Clark Pyfer
- Mr. & Mrs. Stan Milesnick
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Rose Rajacich
- Dale & Heidi Hjelt
Doug Randall
- Rolf C. & Marjorie Johnson
Lois Rauch
- Betty Ostoj
Shirley Rause
- Albena E. Preskar
Victoria “Vicky” Renz
- Phyllis Petritz
Verna Rice
- Betty S. Rice, Jr.
Wanda Rice
- Betty S. Rice, Jr.
John Rice, Jr.
- Betty S. Rice, Jr.
John Rice, Sr.
- Betty S. Rice, Jr.
Bernadette Rickert
- Arthur R. & Eileen Tucker
Darrell Ridder
- Leora Brinig
Florence Roberts
- Mr. & Mrs. William R. Wellborn
Nelson Daniel “Bob” Robinson
- Mrs. Henry Brotzman
Mary Roo
- J. Logan & Carol Hurst
Allan P. Routzahn
- Mr. & Mrs. Ben Miller
- William & Beth Miller
John Ruffatto
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Carol Schledewitz
- Clay Schledewitz
Arthur & Lillian Sears
- Valdean Jones
Si Seifert
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Frank “Monk” Semansky
- Mrs. Phyllis Petritz
- Donald R. & Beverly Martin
Marvin Sheets
- Mr. & Mrs. Edgar Fisher
Robert H. Shennum
- Hazel Ladner
- Elly G. Jones
Evogene Shonkwiler
- Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Peterson
John Shore
- Chello Herbert
Andrew Sievertsen
- Mary Ann Liddell
Samuel Douglas Sipes
- Steven L. Layton
Junior Sjostrom
- Willard & Dolores Mortenson
Mary “Bea” Skender
- Norma S. Dwyer
Catie, Vickie, Eleanor, R. Sneddon
- Bruce A. & Diana Sneddon
Matt Solich
- Mr. & Mrs. George D. Pouliot
- Mr. & Mrs. Peter W. Sullivan
Carrie Sommer
- Catherine A. Alger
- Mr. & Mrs. Ross Lyle
Christian Sorensen
- Kootenai Transfer & Storage
Katherine Spear
- Phyllis Petritz
- Rose Marie Phyfield
Don Spolar
- Kathi Faroni
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- JR & Jolene Rohan
William E. Spring
- Gerda Roberts
Mary V. St. John
- Myron St. John
George Staley
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Angeline Marie Stang
- Mr. & Mrs. Jack L. Simons
Lee Stayer
- Mr. & Mrs. Daniel B. Guidi
- Phyllis Petritz
- Joyce Styler Siems
Florence & Ernest Stead
- Ruth A. Fiest
Bonnie Steber
- Marguerite R. McIntosh
John R. “Bob” Stenbeck
- Dick & Gladyne Douglas
- Tom & Doris Zoeller
- Click & Arloene Christianson
- Ann Downey
- Donna & Louis Elmore
- Sheila Franey
- Dick & Regina Gerdts
- William & Cheryl Gerdts
- Charlotte A. Godtland
- Vernon & Barbara Griffiths
- Harrington Surgical
Rentals & Sale
- Marie & George Kadillak
- Prigge & Otten, P.C.
- Boyd Taylor
Mabel S. Stilwell
- Mr. & Mrs. Allen Miller
Rudy “Skip” Stoll
- Mr. & Mrs. John J. Panich
Ida May Stone
- Gloria A. Wilson
Francis “Tiny” Sullivan
- Mr. and Mrs. Red Menahan
Clarence Swanson
- Mr. and Mrs. Marvin R. Schutt
Henrietta Swant
- Willard & Dolores Mortenson
Rosemary Takenaka
- Mr. & Mrs. Patrick J. Gallegos
Steve Tausan
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Annie J. Taylor
- Betty A. Elston
Douglas Taylor
- Betty A. Elston
- Mr. & Mrs. James L. Swallow
Fred Taylor
- Mr. & Mrs. Val Gutcheck
Steve Taylor
- Willard & Dolores Mortenson
Eleanor Teigen
- Mr. & Mrs. Tom J. Christensen
Nancy Tennant
- Mr. & Mrs. William E. Campbell
Earl Thomas
- Paul Kleffner
Freda Toner
- Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth J. Watson
William Ulrich
- Click & Arloene Christianson
Jeannette Underdal
- Evelin M. LaBuda
Edna Urick
- Susan Sager
Frank Ursich
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
Wayne Van Voost
- Mr. and Mrs. Martin F. Mertz
10 Reunion

Orlynn Veis
- Mr. & Mrs. Tom J. Christensen
James Violette
- Mr. & Mrs. William E. Campbell
Matthew Vucurovich
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
- Shirley Prophet
Leslie L. Walton
- Mr. & Mrs. Bud Hubbard
Ray Wasley
- Kenneth & Joanne LaPalm
Carole Waterton
- John & Joyce Lawson
Ralph Watson
- Joyce Styler Siems
Geraldine Wattula
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Patt Westland
- Mr. & Mrs. John W. McDonald, Jr.
Henry Whitford
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
Martha Williams
- Mr. & Mrs. Kelly Stephenson
Terry Lee Willis
- American Society for Healthcare
- Dan Bucks
- Mr. & Mrs. John P. Casey
- Nadene Chambers
- Lane & Linda Coulston
- Jim & Alice Flowers
- Stephen C. & Jan K. Kalgaard
- Mr. & Mrs. Joe T. King
- Ellen & Tom Livers
- Mary Dalton-McKittrick
- Marjorie K. McNellis
- Montana Society for Healthcare
- Georgiana U. Morgan
- Robert J.& Edie Witham Redpath
- Robert & Mariana Robinson
- Edmund & Donna Sheehy
- Shirley Spears
- Sunshine Fund
- Elwood & Edoenna Turner
- Shelly VanBuren
- Ernest E. Willis
Leon H. Willson
- Marion C. Willson
Catherine “Cassie” Winters
- Mr. & Mrs. Harry Faroni
John T. Wood
- Doris W. Wood
Margaret Zink
- Lois J. Fahlgren
Special Projects &
Foundation Grants
Browning-Kimball Foundation
Children’s Playground
Delta Kappa Gamma
Children’s Library
Dutton Masonic Foundation
Teammates for Kids Foundation
Dr. Robert Jose & “Smiles for Kids”
Oro-y-Plata Foundation
CMN Gifts
8 & 40 Salon #606
A & D Construction
Mr. R.T. Adkins
Mr. & Mrs. Bob Adkison
June 2005
Albertsons, Inc.
Allen Peters Logging
American Legion of Anaconda #21
Mr. & Mrs. Brent Anderson
Mary & David L. Anderson
Ashley Logging
Mr. & Mrs. Martin Barcus
Barkell Trucking
Barry Smith Logging, Inc.
Lisa Barton
James E. Bell, CPA
Elmer Bender, PC
BKBH Shareholders
Kathie Roos Blossom
Broadway Splicing & Supply
Barb Buentemeier
Bybee Logging, Inc.
Lonnie Byler
Bob & Ida Chenowith
City Service Valcon
Betty Clark
Cliff Reed, Inc.
Billie Jo Cooper
Cooper Logging
Costco Wholesale Corporation
Janet Kalus Cummins
D & G Lumber, LLC
Decker Logging Co., Inc.
Pete DeWit
Dupuis Logging, Inc.
Douglas D. Enghusen
Erickson Trucking
Tom Fisk Logging, Inc.
Dorothy M. Fraker
Jerry & Cheryl Frank
J. Robert Frazer
Karyl Hills Gasser
Glacier Line Logging, Inc.
Peter Golightly
Jay Goodwin
Andreas C. Grande, Jr.
GW Logging, Inc.
Charles Hackman
Hanson Trucking, Inc.
Bob Hart
Patricia Hennessey
Hunt’s Timbers Inc.
J & P Logging
DeAnna & Leroy Jones
Stephen C. & Jan K. Kalgaard
Kanduch Logging, Inc.
Kearney Logging & Sawmill, Inc.
Marie Keim
Joe & Sheila Keller
Kelly Logging, Inc.
Marian Kelly
Kootenai Logging, Inc.
Kootenai Transfer & Storage
Ashley Lancaster
Paul Larson
Larson Forest Management
Sandy & Larry Lett
Mr. & Mrs. Thornton Liechty
Mr. & Mrs. Wayne E. Linnell
LT Logging
Hank Lucido
George A. & Dorothy Mahrt
Marks Ranch & Lumber
Marks-Miller Post & Pole, Inc.
Martin Logging, Inc.
Marjorie Matchett
Bob & Lola McComb
Dan McGuire
Neil & Dixie Meyer
Montana Logging Association
Montana Timberline Firewood Co.
Mr. & Mrs. John F. Munson
Jill Myhre
Newton Logging
Osler Logging, Inc.
Leonard & Kristie Park
Dave Parsley
Parsons Tractor
Mr. & Mrs. Eugene E. Pietala
Mr. & Mrs. Jay Preston
Quiram Logging, Inc.
Dr. & Mrs. Marvin L. Rallison
Rayson Logging Co., Inc.
Richard George Logging, Inc.
Bonnie Robinson
Ron Brandt Logging
Rosenbaum Timber Company
Doug & Diann Russell
Salmon River Wood
Schellinger Construction
Mr. & Mrs. Gilbert Schmit
Seely Lake Trucking, Inc.
Dave Sheets, Jr.
Silver City Lumber, Inc.
Doty & Bernice Smith
St. Onge Logging
Jack & Mary Stein, Jr.
John Stoken
Shawnie Stoker
Calvin R. Stubbs
Sun Mountain Lumber, Inc.
Rex Svoboda
Mr. & Mrs. Bernie A. Swift
Talbot-Glacier Insurance, Inc.
Rich Tatarka
Taylor Services, Inc.
T. G. “Gerry” Thompson
Three Rivers Bank
Timberline Auto Center, Inc.
Mr. & Mrs. Loren Toldness
Tammie Triplett
Diane Van Gorden
Fred & Bernice Verlanic
Mr. & Mrs. Arthur L. Weaver
Fred L. Weldy
Don Whitmarsh
Wild West Company, Inc.
Julie Witham
WK Smith & Sons
Marty Wood
Wood’s Powr-Grip Co., Inc.
Mr. & Mrs. Jack Yardley
Unrestricted Gifts
American Legion Mining Dist. 6
Mary & David L. Anderson
Natale Anderson
Mr. & Mrs. Robert A. Bakke
Philip H. & Janet Beagles
Big Sky Open
Mr. & Mrs. James Bishop
Ruth Brownawell
Billy & Beatrice Carver
Combined Federal Campaign
of Kalispell
Cut Bank Gas Company
Lloyd V. Davison
Mr. and Mrs. George L. Day
Justin Derr
Alfred L. Finch
Friends of Shodair
BJ Gerhart
Col. Joseph & Mrs. Leila Goldes
Berniece Goodwin
Kathryn A. Grimes
Keith Hansen
Edna Amour Hanson
Alex Herbert
Rosalie Hill
Arthur R. Hunthausen
Vivian L. Johnson
Donna Jones
Dr. Ellyn P. Jones
Dr. Robert J. Jose
Mr. & Mrs. John Kamp
Kill Kare Klub
Ted R. Kline
Ben & Charity Kohler
Mr. & Mrs. R.C. “Don” Kuntz
Carrol V. Laber
Mr. & Mrs. Raymond Leeds
Lithia Chrysler Dodge
John E. & Marilyn Logan
Doris Lundin
Dr. & Mrs. Joseph G. McKinley
Mergenthaler Transfer & Storage
Sam Minow
Morgenroth Music Centers, Inc.
Mount Helena #4040 FOE Aux.
MT Federation of
Republican Women
John Myhre
Leslie & Bonnie Nelson
New Life Lutheran Church
Mr. & Mrs. Dean Nyhus
OES Esther Chapter #3
Pine Creek Methodist Women
Richard George Logging, Inc.
Margaret A. Rogers
Mr. & Mrs. Emile L. Ruffier
Mr. & Mrs. Lui Salina
Merle Sandstrom
Aaron Shewman
Lyle Smith
Betty Sterling
Larry Stevens
Georgia Strauss
Marlene Struck
Mrs. Sil Strung
Mr. & Mrs. Kenneth Thomasma
Vern L. & Roxana Thompson
United Methodist Church
Valley Bank of Helena
Diane Van Gorden
Leona Wade
Women of the Moose #703
Mr. & Mrs. Aaron L. Zimmerman
Endowment Gifts
Steven Mlynarek
- Jade Lynn Mlynarek Endowment
Robert Peccia & Associates
- Permanent Endowment
11

Are Antidepressants Safe
for Depressed Children? —Celeste Sinton, MD
Often, it takes a lot of thoughtful effort for a parent to
admit that a child is not doing well at school, at home,
socially, spiritually, or that “they just haven’t been
themselves” in a number of ways. Most parents want the
best for their children and don’t like to see them hurting,
failing, or floundering.
Sometimes severe depression (Major Depression) in
children is recognized only after it has begun to do
serious damage to their well-being. The disorder is often
associated with breaking the law or use of illegal drugs
and alcohol. Depression is also linked with suicide.
Depression tends to be an episodic, recurrent illness. Its
effect on children and adolescents can be disastrous:
80% of depressed youth think about suicide, and over
half of depressed youth eventually attempt suicide. In
Montana, suicide is the number one cause of death for
children in the 10-14 age group, and the second-leading
cause of death in 15-24 year-olds. Depressed teens who
are most likely to kill themselves may have had a recent
breakup with a boyfriend or girlfriend, a humiliating
experience, or feel they have no one who listens to
or loves them.
Beginning in the 1950’s, the rate of suicide among
adolescents in the United States increased nearly 300-
fold. However, in the 1980’s, health care professionals
began to notice a decline in the suicide rate among
youth—this was the decade when the new Selective
Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants
were introduced.
Then, in the 1990’s, there were reports alleging that use
of some SSRI antidepressants could lead to suicidal
behaviors in children. The U.S. Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) reviewed a 2003 British study that
revealed children taking one SSRI showed twice as many
suicidal thoughts and potentially suicidal behaviors as
children receiving no medication. That study involved
4,400 youths and nine different antidepressants. Four
percent of the participants in those studies reported
suicidal thoughts or behaviors, compared to 2% of
those taking a placebo.
No suicides occurred in any of the studies. However,
parents in this country whose depressed children had
taken antidepressants and committed suicide spoke out
against antidepressant medications. As a result, the FDA
issued a “black box” warning about the risk of suicidality
for all antidepressants used to treat depression in children
and adolescents.
When antidepressants are effective, children find their
thinking is clearer. However, three or four of every 100
youths treated with antidepressants may experience
(especially at the beginning of treatment or with dose
changes) an increase in suicidal thinking. Sometimes this
occurs when the child finds that, even though life looks
interesting and full of promise again, their problems
aren’t solved or gone. In some children, antidepressants
can also lead to increased hostility or mania if they are
susceptible to bipolar (manic/depressive) illness.
It is important that families monitor their depressed
child for changes in thinking and behaviors. Asking a
depressed child if he or she is thinking about suicide
won’t plant ideas that aren’t already there. Free
information is available through national and local
mental health support groups, at libraries, and on the
Web. Talk with a mental health professional or your
child’s physician. Ask questions; know your options!
Antidepressants can’t solve life’s challenges or allow
children to ignore the problems they face growing up.
For that, they need trusted adults who can help them stay
safe and make safe choices in a world of inevitable risks,
disappointments, and unpredictable joys. Antidepressants
are powerful medicines and carry small but real risks.
There are other treatments for depression too, and each
has its downside as well as potential benefit. If we give
up the choice to use antidepressants, then we return to
an era of fewer treatment options and higher rates of
suicide among youth. Are antidepressants safe for
depressed children? What is the risk of doing nothing?
Celeste Sinton is a board-certified child and adolescent psychiatrist
at Shodair Children’s Hospital. To read more about depression in
children and the FDA’s warning, visit the following Web sites:
www.fda.gov/cder/drug/antidepressants/SSRIPHA200410.htm,
www.ParentsMedGuide.com, and
www.nimh.nih.gov/healthinformation/antidepressant_child.cfm
12 Reunion

Shodair Quality
Shines in
Accreditation Reviews
Shodair School Gets
Accreditation Nod
Confirming its commitment to quality and student
success, Shodair’s school has again earned accreditation
from the Northwest Association of Accredited Schools
(NAAS). Accreditation status of member schools is
determined by several factors, and includes a review
of plans and practices by representatives of the
association’s state advisory committee.
Shodair’s school is staffed by credentialed teachers who
work year-round to help ensure that patients at Shodair
continue their education and are ready to return to
classrooms around the state when they are discharged.
When they are admitted, patients are carefully
evaluated to determine placement in classes where they
receive concentrated, individualized attention from
teachers at the hospital. A staff of six full-time teachers
(five of whom have special education credentials), three
full-time teacher assistants, and a library assistant work
with patients in classroom settings that encourage
student success. In fact, a number of patients earn their
general education diplomas (GED’s) while at Shodair.
Among other things, the association commended
Shodair for well-documented goals and progress within
its school improvement plan. In a letter to the hospital,
association representatives said, “The educational
community of Montana appreciates Shodair’s efforts
toward meeting the mission of the Northwest
Association of Accredited Schools to ensure excellence
in education by holding schools accountable to rigorous
standards and a process of continuous improvement.
We applaud your efforts to be one of Montana’s schools
committed to excellence.”
Hospital Earns Gold Seal Again
Earlier this year, while cold temperatures and gray skies
gripped most of the state, Shodair once again earned
warm praises and the gold seal of approval for quality
health care—literally. In February, the hospital passed
an exhaustive inspection and was awarded
accreditation by the Joint Commission on Accreditation
of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) following a
comprehensive three-day survey of the hospital’s
facilities, care, and services.
Joint Commission accreditation confirms that the
hospital has demonstrated a high-level of quality in
care and services offered to patients. Accreditation is
awarded for a three-year period, and is indicated by
a gold seal specifying national quality approval. The
survey included critical, in-depth reviews of both
records and policies related to care, as well as
interviews of patients and staff members.
“We’re happy to have once again demonstrated
our commitment to quality care,” said Shodair
administrator, Jack Casey. “Achieving JCAHO
accreditation for hospital and behavioral health care
is an important part of confirming the expectations of
patients and their families for safety and quality care.”
The Joint Commission evaluates nearly 17,000 health
care organizations and programs in the United States.
Founded in 1951, it is an independent, not-for-profit
organization, and the nation’s oldest and largest
standards-setting and accrediting body in health care.
School program director Margie McNellis said, “We’re
proud of our school, our teachers, and all the ways we
help children and youth here prepare for better lives in
their communities. Accreditation confirms the quality
work we do and sets a standard that patients and their
families can be assured of.”
June 2005
13

J u n e 2 0 0 5
Spotlight on Shodair
Shodair Soccer Classic July 16
Tournament spotlights state’s top student athletes
A summertime favorite, the Shodair Soccer Classic, is coming
up July 16. In its sixth season, the highly-competitive tournament
will begin with kick-off for the women’s game at 5:00 p.m.,
followed by the men’s game at 7:00 p.m. at Nelson Stadium on
the Carroll College campus in Helena.
The Classic features top student athletes from high schools all across
the state. Through a rigorous screening process, 60 outstanding young
men and women are selected to play in the annual tournament. In
addition to having been selected as All-State and All-Conference high
school players in Class AA or A, they must demonstrate academic
achievement, leadership, and citizenship.
The Shodair Soccer Classic Committee also gathers a talented
coaching staff from around the state to guide the teams. Many have
winning records in state tournaments, and their skills help assure
top-level competition.
The recently-graduated high school players will host aspiring soccer
all-stars in a clinic for children ages 5 to 12, on Friday before the
tournament. The clinic was especially popular last year, with over
100 area youth participating.
The soccer classic is a benefit for
Shodair Children’s Hospital and
the important work it does for
Montana’s youth. Shodair provides
specialized psychiatric services for
seriously emotionally disturbed
children and adolescents. These are
critical services in short supply around
the state, and Shodair is a vital resource
for their recovery. Last year, the hospital
provided more than $1.5 million dollars
in un-reimbursed charity care for at-risk
children and youth from around the
state. Support generated from events
like the Soccer Classic and the
Children’s Miracle Network Telethon
help to assure that these services
remain available for those in need.
Players and coaches will arrive at
Carroll College on July 13th to begin
practices and a variety of other
activities leading up to the games. A
banquet for players, coaches, parents,
and friends will be held on July 15th
at 6:00 pm. at the dining center on
campus. Reservations for the banquet
will be taken until July 10; contact
Linda Reed at 406/444-7548.
2755 Colonial Drive
P.O. Box 5539
Helena, MT 59604