Penn Medicine Doylestown Health

Christina Seif, a nurse in the Intensive Care Nursery at Penn Medicine Doylestown Hospital, knows first-hand just how meaningful and long-lasting connections between caregivers and families can be. Three years ago, Christina cared for baby Wesley, who arrived six weeks early and spent several weeks in the ICN gaining strength. During that time, Christina and Wesley’s parents formed a bond built on trust, compassion, and countless quiet moments at the bedside. Even after Wesley went home, they stayed in touch. This spring, that bond came full circle. Wesley, now three, became a big brother to twins. When Wesley’s mom, Jillian, experienced a whirlwind delivery, many team members she and her family had grown close to were at her side. The twins arrived healthy and thriving, with no need for an ICN stay this time. Jillian later shared this photo with Christina—a proud Wesley and his new siblings. Moments like this are at the heart of her work. “It is an absolute joy to see our patients grow and at times become a big brother,” Christina said.

Thanks to Penn Medicine Doylestown Health's Christine Bold and Roseann Gemzik, students at the “Careers of Tomorrow” STEM-AG Expo didn’t just hear about science careers. They got a firsthand look into the fast-paced, fascinating world of medical laboratory science. As hundreds of students explored future opportunities across science, technology, engineering, and math, Christine and Roseann brought the lab to life through real conversations, hands-on learning, and stories from the front lines of health care. From explaining how laboratory professionals help diagnose disease to sharing the many paths within the field, they helped students see that some of the most impactful work in medicine happens behind the scenes. By sparking curiosity in students from 8th through 12th grade, they helped open the door to careers many young people may never have considered and inspired the next generation of innovators, problem-solvers, and caregivers along the way.

At 27 years old, Doylestown native and competitive cyclist Chris Baccash was chasing personal bests and pushing through grueling races until a seizure at work led to a life-changing diagnosis: a malignant brain tumor. But instead of letting fear define his future, Chris chose to redefine what mattered most. Through surgeries, radiation, chemotherapy, and the uncertainty that comes with cancer, he found something unexpected: perspective. He climbed mountains, crossed the finish line of a 100-mile race in Colorado, earned a master’s degree in positive psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, and built a life centered around purpose, connection, and joy. Today, Chris is teaching, coaching, giving back to his community, and reminding others that even life’s hardest moments can lead to profound growth. His story is a powerful reminder that resilience isn’t about pretending things are easy, it’s about finding meaning and hope through the climb. http://spr.ly/6045BBfDAF

There’s a reason so many people turn to Rochelle Young, Penn Medicine Doylestown Health senior executive assistant, when they need help, guidance, or simply someone they can count on. In the middle of nonstop meetings, shifting schedules, and constant interruptions throughout the administration suite, Rochelle somehow always makes time for others. Recently, when new equipment was installed in the board room, she patiently walked the team through the system and made sure everyone felt comfortable using it. Behind the scenes, she’s balancing countless calendars, keeping things moving smoothly, and helping policies get reviewed, revised, and returned quickly and efficiently. No matter how busy the day gets, Rochelle leads with patience, professionalism, and kindness. Congratulations to Rochelle on being recognized as Associate of the Month, a well-deserved honor for someone who gives so much to others every day.

For more than 20 years, Dr. Albert Ruenes has been transforming urologic care in West Africa. His work began after meeting Senegalese urologist Serigne Gueye, MD, at Doylestown Hospital in 2002. This connection that led him to Dakar to teach, perform procedures, and help build a sustainable training model for local surgeons. Dr. Ruenes later founded ASSISTS, a nonprofit that strengthens surgical education and expands access to care across Senegal. The collaboration has grown to include the renovation of a community clinic serving thousands and a formal Memorandum of Understanding between Doylestown Hospital and two Senegalese health centers to support ongoing training and shared learning. This long‑standing commitment to global health and capacity‑building has earned Dr. Ruenes the Scott Levy, MD, Physician Trailblazer Award, an annual recognition honoring a Penn Medicine Doylestown Health physician whose leadership and innovation elevate care for the community and beyond. “Dr. Ruenes has assured his passion for medicine and health is shared by a broad constituency, both locally and notably in his work in Western Africa. He truly exemplifies the spirit and intent of the Trailblazer award. I am proud to have him as the second recipient of this award,” said Dr. Levy. "This labor of love would not exist if not for my mentor, David F. Paulson, MD, the ongoing support of my family, the backing of my practice partners here in Doylestown, the operating room staff at Penn Medicine Doylestown Health, and the generosity of our community members who have helped finance this initiative,” said Dr. Ruenes. Dr. Ruenes, a member of Doylestown Health for more than 30 years, continues to advance patient care locally while empowering clinicians globally through education, mentorship, and sustainable surgical training.

Nurses Week at Penn Medicine Doylestown Health was filled with gratitude in meaningful (and tasty!) ways. From early morning coffee and donuts to surprise Philly treats, a scavenger hunt, ice cream breaks, and a well-earned breakfast, every gesture was a small “thank you” to the nurses who give so much, every single day. Between shifts, in quick pauses and shared smiles in the hallway, these moments helped remind our nursing team just how valued they are.

We were honored to spend Mother’s Day weekend with some amazing mothers and growing families as they began their newest chapters together at Penn Medicine Doylestown Hospital. Little baby Jack Thomas helped celebrate his mom Gwendalyn Bobeck in the sweetest way, sporting a special onesie just for the occasion. Moments like these remind us how powerful, tender, and unforgettable every family’s story can be.

Congratulations to all of the exceptional Penn Medicine Doylestown Health Nursing award and scholarship recipients honored this week! #NursesWeek2026

As a Russian-speaking nurse at Penn Medicine Doylestown Hospital, Anna Voronchikhin often becomes a vital bridge for patients who might otherwise feel unheard or uncertain in their care. In those moments, she doesn’t just translate words, she builds trust. Time and again, she removes barriers, prevents delays in treatment, and helps patients feel safe enough to be seen and understood. For one reluctant patient, her persistence made all the difference. Through patience, reassurance, and unwavering advocacy, Anna helped him accept the critical care he needed, ultimately leading to a full recovery. Anna’s care is present, empowered, and deeply human reminding us that healing often begins with being truly heard. Congratulations to Anna on being a Penn Medicine Advocacy Award recipient, a well-earned honor that reflects the extraordinary leader she is!

It was meant to be one of the happiest days of their lives: the moment they welcomed their child into the world. And then, in an instant, everything changed. What followed was chaos, fear, and uncertainty. But in the middle of it all, there was Laura. Penn Medicine Doylestown Health nurse Laura Borek didn’t just step in, she took command. With calm confidence, she recognized the early signs of postpartum hemorrhage, activated life-saving protocols, and never lost her steady, reassuring presence. Because of her skill and experience, what could have been devastating became a story of survival. "Honoring her with a DAISY Award isn’t just deserved, it’s a privilege" shared Lauren's nominator. Congratulations to Laura on receiving this recognition which honors nurses for their compassionate care and kindness.