Written by Barb Boose, guest blogger & editor of ‘DMU Magazine’

As we reflect on the year that’s ending and the new one ahead, it’s a good time to remember the men and women serving our country here and abroad.

Many Des Moines University alumni have served or are serving in the military, including Walter Rustmann, D.O., ’95, [pictured at right] currently in charge of all the ICU care under U.S. Air Force direction in Iraq.

“The Air Force was looking for a critical care physician to be in charge of its operations in Iraq, as ICU director and senior critical care and aeromedical evacuation consultant,” he explains. “My name came up as one of the more experienced critical care physicians.”

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If you’ve been around me at all in the last few weeks, you probably have gotten annoyed at my sniffling and coughing. ‘Tis the season apparently.

After a course of antibiotics knocked my sinus infection down (but not out, apparently) my sniffling turned to a horrendous, never-ending cough that wore me out. My dad (’92 grad) listened to me over the phone & told me to get to the doctor. The problem being…it was noon on a Saturday — my primary doctor (’95 grad) wouldn’t be in office and the DMU Clinic was closed. Where would I go? I didn’t want any ol’ random doc!

Posted in DMU Alumni, Life in Des Moines | 1 Comment

Good news, P.T., P.A. & M.H.A. students or prospective students!

U.S. News & World Report picked health policy specialist, physician assistant and physical therapist to be included in their ’30 best careers for 2009′ list.

Posted in Current Students, Health Care Administration, New Students, Physical Therapy, Physician Assistant, Prospective Students | Leave a Comment

Every year DMU students throw a holiday party for residents at the House of Mercy. House of Mercy is an organization sponsored by Mercy Medical Center to assist at-risk women and children.

This year’s party was organized by the Pediatrics Club, Women’s Medical Association & American College of Family Practice groups at DMU.

The three clubs put up 2 Christmas trees in the Academic Center in November and the trees were covered in ornaments listing gift needs. Students, faculty & staff selected the ornaments they wanted and purchased a gift to suit it. All in all, 110 presents were donated for the House of Mercy party. The group also played games, served dinner and offered facepainting.

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Huge pat on the back to DMU PA students who took time out of studying to volunteer in the spirit of Christmas cheer! On Dec. 7 a group of students visited nursing homes to cheer up residents. The following weekend a group rang the bell and sung Christmas carols around the Salvation Army collection kettle. Way to go, group!!!

Read the Salvation Army’s note about it.

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If the thought of a warm cinnamon roll covered in delicious frosting gets your mouth watering, you’ll have to try Iowa’s Machine Shed restaurant! The Travel Channel’s show “Food Paradise” has selected the Machine Shed as part of their ‘Best Breakfast in America’ list. The Register reported this great news today. 

A great restaurant for home-cooked classics and a hearty meal for all, Machine Shed has always been dedicated to the American farmer. They carry this through in their decor, considerate service and dedication to yummy food. They’re a perfect spot for family dinners or any time you’re craving a giant breakfast or pot roast dinner or pot pie.

Posted in Current Students, Life in Des Moines | 4 Comments