Gary B. Rajah, MD
Cerebrovascular Neurosurgeon; Surgical Director, Munson Healthcare Comprehensive Stroke Program

"I’m a Michigan native committed to making a difference in the lives of you and your loved ones. Following my Neurosurgery fellowship, I chose to return home to Michigan to join Munson Healthcare because I wanted to start an interventional stroke program that would truly make a difference and save lives. We are now eliminating the need for stroke patients to travel downstate during a time when every minute matters.

Building a leading-edge stroke program in a place that needs it is every neurosurgeon’s dream. I’m proud to be a part of this team that will continue to care for the Northern Michigan community for years to come."

Prasanthi Yelavarthy, MD 
Interventional Cardiologist

“I’ve been committed to people – and their hearts – since the day my grandfather had a heart attack. I want to be able to help other patients and their families the same way that my grandfather’s medical team had helped mine. 

Commitment means taking the best possible care of our patients and making sure that they get the quality care they deserve. I am proud to serve at the heart of such a collaborative team that is so deeply committed to providing excellent care for the people of Northern Michigan. It's an honor to work with smart, thoughtful, and caring people every day who are dedicated to making our patients the priority."

Michael VanWagner, DO
Orthopedic Surgeon

“My father was an Orthopedic Surgeon in Traverse City for many years, and I saw the positive influence he had on his patients, the community, and the hospital. During my hockey career, I had several orthopedic injuries and surgeries that further contributed to my desire to follow in his footsteps and help others.  

As an adult hip and knee replacement specialist, I have the unique privilege of helping patients with chronic, painful joints regain function and mobility, and improve their quality of life. Our aging population is more active than generations in the past, and I enjoy providing patients with various treatment options to help them remain active and healthy. 

To me, commitment means creating a culture of excellence at our hospitals. We are so fortunate to have an independent healthcare system that has been a part of our communities for so long. At Munson, I am able to help build something truly excellent for our community, centered around our patients, that also improves the health of our hospitals.”

Jessica D. Arden, MD, PhD
Radiation Oncologist

“What I love most about being a radiation oncologist is the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of cancer patients.

After earning my PhD in cancer biology, I chose this path so I could apply my knowledge to directly serve my local community. Guiding my patients through treatment, providing support, and witnessing their resilience is incredibly rewarding.

Commitment to me means dedicating my skills and passion to a healthcare system with a reputation for exceptional care. I’m fortunate to work alongside such an incredible team focused on expertise, cutting-edge technology, and compassionate support to address the unique needs of our patients. Joining Munson was a natural choice for me, and I am proud to serve my local community.”

Dino Recchia, MD, FACC
Cardiologist; Medical Director, Heart & Vascular Services

“I believe the highest calling one can have is to serve. And after visiting Munson during my search for a place to practice, I knew instinctively that because of the people, the place, and the mission, this was where I belonged.  

In my eyes, commitment is about the process, not the outcome. It’s about bringing our best to every situation, every time. I am fortunate to be part of a very special team committed to delivering cardiovascular care of the highest quality. Together we serve our patients, each other, and our mission to improve lives with a deep sense of purpose and compassion. The best part of my work is the connection I feel with my patients and coworkers. The science of medicine is fascinating, but it's these special connections that give my work its unique texture and color.” 

Mary M., RN
Coordinator, Women’s & Children’s Services

“Commitment means putting our patients first in all decision-making processes.  

I’m proud to say the families I work with are always my “why.” I’m committed to ensuring each person I am graced to work with has care and support beyond what is obvious. Our commitment to our patients then has a ripple effect on supporting a healthy community at large. 

Working in healthcare, specifically as a maternal-child nurse, chose me. From a young age, ‘nursing’ others came naturally. It was such an obvious part of who I was that I didn’t recognize it as a career path. I am grateful to my husband for helping me see the light. Almost three decades later, I can honestly say I love my chosen career even more than when I started."

Aaron G., RN
Maternity Nurse

"Nursing is such a diverse field where you can do and learn so many different things. I knew I wanted a job where I could have an energizing, teamwork-based environment while helping people in a profound way. That’s why I decided to become a labor and delivery nurse. I think it's so cool that I get to help people deliver their babies – especially in the same hospital where I was born!

For me, commitment means dedication to the well-being of my patients and supporting my peers. I love connecting with all the families I take care of while educating and empowering them every step of the way to help relieve the anxiety and fears of becoming a parent. These are moments that they will never forget, and I get to help them make that moment so special."

Marta W., MSN, RN
Manager Nursing Services, NICU/Pediatrics

"My commitment to my patients comes from being a mom in the community. Our kids are our hearts and future, and I want the best for them.

I moved to Northern Michigan from Illinois after my now husband and I got engaged. He has lived here his whole life, and now we are raising our family here. My children were born at Munson, and I’m proud to be part of the team that cared for us – a team of people who care so deeply about our patients and communities."

David T.
Ambulatory Informatics Manager

"When I was 18, I joined the United States Army, driven by a noncombatant spirit. I served as a combat medic for 10 years before transitioning to civilian healthcare, where I chose to make a difference behind the scenes through my passion for advanced technology.

Much like the army, Munson has a mission: to improve lives. Commitment, to me, is a steadfast dedication to seeing this mission through to its conclusion. As a clinical informaticist, I play a crucial role in leveraging information technology to enhance the efficiency, quality, and safety of care we deliver to our patients. Our work ultimately contributes to better patient outcomes and fosters advancements in healthcare. "

Crystal B., BA, CCLS, CPST 
Coordinator of Child Life Services

"I have always wanted to work with children who had unique learning or medical challenges. As a Certified Child Life Specialist, my role is to help lower anxiety and stress for pediatric patients and their families, while enhancing their coping skills through education, support, and play!

For me, commitment means dedication to providing the best care for my patients. Each of them has unique needs, and I love tailoring what I do for each patient and family's experience. While working in pediatrics, you don't just care for the child – you care for the whole family. Recently, a young patient described me as the 'Chief Happiness Officer' which is now proudly displayed in my office in a plaque. I’m incredibly blessed to have such a rewarding role, where I get to 'be the calm' on what could be a family’s worst day."

Abbey C., BSN, RN, RNC-OB
Maternity Nurse

"Growing up, I watched many family members provide exceptional nursing care here at Munson, including my father, who served as a registered nurse for 38 years. Witnessing his dedication to his patients and community set a high standard for me. Working at Munson means a commitment to continuing a legacy.

I am committed most to being a supportive advocate for my maternity patients, so they feel safe and well cared for. There is not one staff member here in Labor & Delivery who doesn't love what they do, and that makes me very proud of our team. The people that I work with are amazing humans – they are a large part of what makes Munson such a special place. I can’t imagine being anywhere else."

Clare P., BSN, RN
Coordinator of Patient Care, Cardiology

"For me, commitment means showing up when people are in need. When I show up to work, my team and patients know I am fully committed to caring for them. I’ve always had a passion for helping others and want our communities to know that they can count on us to care for them and their loved ones. Our priority is you and always will be!  

What I love most about my role at Munson are the relationships that I have built. There is no greater feeling than working with a group of people who have similar goals and passions in life, and I get to experience that every day – it makes me love my job even more!"

Sophia S., BSN, RN
Cardiac Nurse

"When I was 8 years old, my youngest brother was born with Down's Syndrome. He spent almost a month in the NICU after he was born. Since then, he has been in and out of the hospital many times. I chose to be a nurse to pay forward all the amazing care and support my family has received and continues to receive for my brother. 

I joined Munson as a nurse in 2020. I was born and raised in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, so I knew after graduating I wanted to move somewhere new. Munson offers a fantastic learning opportunity through their nurse residency program, so I made the trek downstate. I continue to choose Munson as my place of employment because of their strong commitment to helping their employees grow.

To me, commitment means being dedicated to the task at hand. It means always giving my coworkers and patients the best version of myself. I LOVE talking with my patients and hearing their stories. I feel very honored to be caring for them during such a vulnerable time."

Caitlyn M. Monks, DO
Obstetrician and Gynecologist

"I always loved and excelled in science and desired a profession where I could directly impact the lives of those around me. After attending an all-women’s college, Saint Mary’s of Notre Dame, I was drawn to women’s health. I wanted to educate and empower women through their healthcare. In addition, I loved the draw of obstetrics and gynecology, where a lifelong connection is made with women through some of the greatest moments of their lives.

As a Boyne City native, I wanted to return to the community that helped raise me – and to give back to a community that gave me so much. I felt I aligned with Munson’s values to give back to Northern Michigan and to provide quality care to our close-knit community. The dedication of every staff member at Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital is nothing short of inspiring. When you are cared for at Charlevoix, we see you as family. 

The best part of my role is educating, supporting, and empowering women to take control of their healthcare. As OBGYNs, we are involved in some of the most remarkable and difficult moments in a patient’s life. I enjoy forming a strong, lifelong bond with each patient."

Christi Nowak, MPH, MBA
System Director of Community Health and Engagement 

“I originally wanted to be a doctor, but after realizing I was a fainter, I decided to study health behavior and health education. I loved that I could be part of preventing disease and helping to steer people down healthier paths early on before health concerns arose. 

I was born at Munson and knew after living downstate and on the West Coast that I wanted to give back to the community I grew up in, so after gaining great experience in other communities, I moved home to make an impact here. 

What I love most about my role is representing Munson Healthcare out in our communities. A lot of the big work we do in community health is done over time and involves impacting many factors. We can’t do it alone, so leveraging the diverse talent in our region in other sectors improves our success. Our Community Health team loves to collaborate with other organizations to make the most impact. 

Working at Munson means that every day I show up and work alongside many talented people who are friends or who I’ve known since elementary school. Everyone I’ve met is truly committed to the work they do day in and day out. Not all of us are on the front lines saving lives daily, but we all contribute to the system that best enables our talented team to do that most important work. Many give back to our local community by sharing their talents, and it just warms my heart to know that our Munson team not only gives it their all while at work, but also shows that same level of commitment to making our community a thriving place to raise our kids.”

Jean McDonough, FNP-BC 
Clinical Nurse Practitioner 

“I always knew that I wanted to pursue a helping profession but was really called to nursing during the wonderful care I received after delivering my children at Charlevoix Hospital. I was able to see the impact that nurses could have on my community, and it motivated me to get my degree.

Growing up and raising my family in Charlevoix helped me to appreciate the benefits of a small town.  Munson has the balance of primary care and expert specialty care, filling the needs of the entire family. There is a small town feel with the care of an academic medical center allowing the best possible care for my patients.  

My greatest accomplishment has been the variety of people that I’ve been able to touch over my career. I’ve been able to provide care to my entire community in one way or another, impacting patients in their homes, schools, at the bedside in the ED, and through primary care.    

I am most committed to providing every patient from birth to their senior years with compassionate care that addresses all their physical and emotional needs.  With my recent transition from family practice to our new Charlevoix Walk-in-Clinic, I am really enjoying the variety of patients that I see throughout the day. I enjoy every interaction with every patient. Getting to know them and identifying their needs so I can help improve their health is very rewarding.  

The people that I work with make Munson a special place. Whether it's support staff, co-workers, outpatient testing, or specialty referrals, every person puts our patients first. It is truly special to get up every day and look forward to going to work where you feel supported and respected while caring for our community.” 

Michael Lucido, PhD
Clinical Psychologist

"Choosing psychology was not really a choice for me, it was a calling.  

Everyone has a story, and every story has a deeper meaning and purpose that sometimes needs to be uncovered. I am honored to be chosen as a part of the journey of this self-exploration. People amaze me with how they overcome so many challenges and become resilient over time. They are truly the light in the darkness; they just need another person to see their light and as they are: brave.

I felt drawn to the field of psychology because my mother acted as a therapist in so many ways. Around the kitchen table, she was an active listener, reflected a deep understanding of others, provided patience in turbulent moments, showed unconditional support, and thoughtful guidance for many. In addition, I was also impacted by my own experiences with mental health issues. Participating in intermittent therapy throughout my life helped me cope with the impact of traumatic events like losing my mother to cancer and close friends tragically dying at a young age. Further, I witnessed the impact of mental health issues through loved ones who were challenged by bipolar disorder, anxiety, depression, autism, and those who died by suicide. I wanted to be that support for others as I have received throughout my life.    

I admire and respect every person who seeks care. I am committed to providing my very best effort at helping every person I see.  I hope and wish for their discovery of their hidden strengths, coping with the psychological pain they carry, and working through their past traumas to begin a new present understanding of their best self. I love seeing the outcome of their hard work come to fruition in resolutions, reconciliations, and recoveries. I am grateful to see people overcome their past traumas and resolve the pain they’ve carried for so long.  

Munson is deeply rooted in mental healthcare services beginning with our history as the third psychiatric institution ever in Michigan. Dr. Munson pursued multimodal and humane care for mental health conditions and was progressive in advocating for social services workers to be an integral part of treatment. Now we are coming full circle by forming a unified Munson Behavioral Health program and vision for the future, which is very exciting.  I am honored to be a part of renewing Dr. Munson’s mission and to be a part of advocating for comprehensive mental health care across Northern Michigan.

Munson has been my family’s medical home since we moved to northern Michigan. I have personally experienced two medical emergencies and received the best care through Munson Charlevoix Hospital’s Emergency Department.  My favorite memory was the birth of my daughter at Munson Medical Center.  Beyond personal reasons, my professional work at Munson has been incredible, working alongside some of the most amazing providers.  The physicians, nurses, and physician assistants I have been fortunate to work alongside are uniquely intertwined within their rural communities, making them that much more invested in each patient.  

Moreover, it’s not just the care providers. It is every other employee, from the cafeteria to the cleaning crew to the receptionists at the front desk.  Every person makes Munson feel like people are coming to a home.” 

Allison P., BSN, RN
Ambulatory Nursing Manager, Digital Health

“Looking back, nursing was always my destiny. I was drawn to healthcare from a young age, starting with my mom who was a speech pathologist. She demonstrated that you can be passionate about helping others, while raising a family – and succeeding at both. My then thirteen-year-old sister’s battle with leukemia in the late 1990’s further cemented my desire to join the healthcare field. Nursing felt like a natural choice as I observed the impact her care team had on her outcome. Since becoming an RN, I’ve been blessed with diverse professional opportunities ranging from inpatient oncology to care management, and now my current role in digital health.  

As a nurse, I chose to join Munson because of how they responded to the COVID-19 pandemic with such innovation and creativity, like the Ask-A-Nurse service. Once a “COVID hotline,” Ask-A-Nurse has evolved to a full-spectrum triage and clinical resource that’s available 24/7 to anyone in Michigan at no cost – advancing health equity throughout our region for both residents and tourists.  

The healthcare landscape is complex and ever-changing, and our Ask-A-Nurse team helps eliminate the guesswork for people.  We use evidence-based protocols to guide callers so they receive the best possible care and support from wherever they are. My favorite part of my job is supporting the triage nurses. Witnessing their daily collaboration, positivity, and commitment to improving lives is inspiring. I’m so proud of our team!” 

Jared L. Davis, DO
Urologist

“As a urologist, a large portion of my practice involves men’s health. Let’s be honest: men already tend to steer clear of the doctor’s office, especially with delicate matters such as prostate cancer or erectile dysfunction. I want to remove that 'taboo' element from the office setting so men can feel comfortable talking about whatever health challenge they may have.

The best part of my work is providing a fresh and updated approach to urology in an underserved area. One of my most gratifying experiences has been helping to establish a robotic surgery program at Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital and expanding Munson Healthcare Gaylord Hospital’s robotics to include urology. It's rewarding to inherit patients who were previously driving three-plus hours for an appointment or surgery that they can now have right here in Charlevoix. Being a part of Munson means we can carry out major surgeries with state-of-the-art technology and perioperative care. Growing up in Northern Michigan, I was always well acquainted with Munson’s strong reputation, and I am proud to work for such a highly respected healthcare organization.

What sparked my initial interest in healthcare was medical mission work. My first trip was with my hometown’s (Gaylord) family doctor to the Dominican Republic. I continued to pursue these opportunities during my medical training in various underserved areas throughout Africa. Today, I’m able to focus on my passion for serving others in the place I call home.  My two main roles are geared toward making the newest technology in minimally invasive surgery accessible to Northern Michigan and bringing awareness to the importance of men’s health.”

Samantha K. Windle, DO
Family Medicine Physician

“From an early age, I knew I wanted to do something to care for people and support those in my community in a meaningful way. Whenever I interacted with someone in the healthcare system, I would think, 'This is what I want to do.' When I considered all the possible roles I could play, Family Physician seemed the best fit for me.  

Growing up in rural Northern Michigan, I knew this was the type of community I wanted to care for. When I found out I could complete my medical training and residency at Munson Family Practice Center, where I could be expertly trained, I was very excited. I fell in love with the community and family I created here during my training and found that in addition to working with patients, I also loved teaching and supporting others. Following my residency, I was given the opportunity to stay with the practice, where I could serve as both a primary care provider and a faculty member and educator. I knew I had found my calling and what I was meant to do.  

From the people who trust me with their health and lives to the learners who trust me with their education and the staff who trust me to be a valuable member of the team, it’s the people who bring me back day after day.

I am most committed to providing my patients a safe and collaborative space to embrace themselves and their personal pursuit of health while maintaining high-quality care – including our LGBTQA+ community. Our top priority is meeting the needs of our community and the people we serve. We are here for everyone who needs care and are proud to be able to offer this vital service to our community.    

Moreover, I am committed to providing my residents with an encouraging and inspiring environment to reach their maximum potential while they obtain their Family Medicine training. And I am committed to supporting and collaborating with my colleagues and team in our continued pursuit of excellence.”

Mike Aenis, PT
Physical Therapist

“I always had an interest in the body and how it works. I gravitated toward Sports and Orthopedic Physical Therapy because I grew up as multi-sport athlete until I fractured my kneecap playing football my junior year of high school, which sidelined me for a year. While I didn’t have physical therapy during my recovery, what I can relate to are the struggles that patients endure through a recovery of some kind. I enjoy helping patients successfully return to whatever it is that they haven’t been able to do because of an injury, surgery, accident, or other medical incident. 

Having grown up in Central Lake with three younger siblings who were still in middle and high school when I graduated with my physical therapy degree, I wanted to start my physical career back home. Munson Healthcare Charlevoix Hospital had an opening, and I joined the team at what is now Mary Free Bed at Munson Healthcare – Jordan Valley. I love where I work. We have a great network of therapists who collaborate well throughout the whole system.  

Each of my teammates are highly skilled therapists who genuinely care about the wellbeing of every patient we see.  Every therapist has areas that they are especially good at – chronic pain, sports medicine, orthopedics, and pelvic health to name a few – so we work seamlessly together while offering the best possible care for our patients so they can heal and have a great experience getting there.”

Brian S.
Social Services Technician, Thomas Judd Care Center

“I was born at Munson and had many family members receive treatment here. The compassion, kindness, and superb care I witnessed throughout the decades made me appreciate the Munson Mission. 

Growing up, my parents were original members of the Mesick Fire and Rescue Squad. They were shining examples of giving back to the community and helping others throughout the years. I aspired to give back to my community, particularly the LGBTIA+ community, which I’m proudly part of.

Midlife, I decided to go back to college and choose a career path that was more aligned with my passion for supporting others. During this time, I had the opportunity to work in the non-profit sector, specifically focused on HIV prevention and community education. Twenty-two years later – almost 19 of them with Munson and the Thomas Judd Care Center – I've been able to make a significant impact alongside my incredible colleagues. 

The Thomas Judd Care Center/Ryan White program here covers 30-plus counties. I’m able to help many different people in unique situations all over Northern Michigan. We have a unique program that lets us connect with our clients on a personable and vulnerable level. We're fortunate to have the support and backing of Munson, including their resources and partnerships that enable us to reach and help so many and afford us the ability to build relationships that most other clinics don’t have with their clients. Sometimes we’re the only people who know their status and the struggles they deal with daily.  

I am most committed to keeping our patients/clients, who are often out there in seriously difficult situations, safe. They can’t stay healthy and maintain an undetectable viral load without safe and secure housing, food, transportation to appointments, and a safe home environment. We work hard to solve problems and get the best results possible for them. 

Beyond my work with Thomas Judd, I am proud to say that I work for an organization that truly cares about the communities it serves. The people at Munson are all amazing. I’ve been a patient several times, almost dying, but their care, compassion and wisdom is unmatched anywhere else in the state, maybe even the United States. I am humbled and continuously impressed by my colleagues throughout the Munson Healthcare system.”

Joanna L. Heindl, DO
Family Medicine Physician

“One of the best aspects of being a physician is the relationships you’re able to build with patients. It’s the longevity of this special relationship that drew me to family medicine. I am privileged to take care of generations of families through the best and worst of times. Finding that connection with patients is what I value most in family medicine.    

To me, commitment means putting patients first. Every day we’re all pulled in a million different directions, but when I’m sitting in front of my patient, I am fully present, eager to listen and discuss a plan to improve their health or to solve an ailment.  Munson has allowed me the time, tools, and team to provide the best care.  

The new team at Munson Foster Family Primary Care is ready to serve our community and their healthcare needs. Our team – from front desk staff to nurses and providers – are creating a place our patients can trust to provide expert, compassionate care."