According to the National Institutes for Health website, pulmonary fibrosis affects 200,000 Americans. Pulmonary fibrosis is a condition in which the lung tissue becomes thickened, stiff and scarred. As this process occurs, the individual loses the ability to transfer oxygen to the bloodstream. Most cases of pulmonary fibrosis have no known cause and survival rate is low.

As an organization, we have developed a close relationship to this disease. One of our own was recently diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, Fred Daniels. Many of you know Fred as a member of the maintenance staff. He has dedicated 17 years of service to Meadowlark Hills.

Fred has become a champion of awareness for others that may be dealing with the same conditions. Meadowlark Hills has formed a plan to support his efforts, beginning with contributing our earnings of Jeans Days to his cause. 

If you recall, Jeans Days are specified days out of the week that Meadowlark Hills employees are able to wear jeans if they donate at least one dollar to a selected philanthropy.   

For the month of November, Jeans Day will benefit the Flint Hills Pulmonary Fibrosis Support Group. The support group meets once a month in Junction City. The group helps to provide a compassionate environment for supporting patients with pulmonary fibrosis and their loved ones. Fred has found his own support and encouragement by attending this group. 

If you have the desire to donate to this cause, you can bring donations to the Human Resource office, across from Verna Belle’s Café. 

Fred Daniels will be retiring this year, after his many years on the job at Meadowlark Hills. You are invited to attend a retirement reception in honor of him from 2 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 6, in the Community Room. Refreshments will be served.