Marlene Rush
"The Family Advisory Council allows families to communicate their needs and concerns to the hospital decision makers in a planned and organized manner." -- Marlene Rush
Marlene Rush joined the Family Advisory Council at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center in April 2007. "Our granddaughter Emily was treated at the hospital from 2000-2003. Emily has a rare autoimmune disease, and she had three acute attacks of this disease. She saw specialists in the Hematology / Oncology and Orthopedic Departments," Marlene said.
"I visited her during hospital stays, waited during surgery, and attended doctor appointments, scans, and treatments with her. Emily's first disease attack was in December of 2000, and she finished her last chemo treatment in December 2004," Marlene said. "She has scans and check-ups annually or more often as needed.
"Our family wants to give back to the hospital and help other families experiencing a child health crisis. We are so grateful that Emily received excellent care during a very frightening time for all of us. Now that she has been symptom-free for several years, we want to try to help and support others," Marlene said.
"The Family Advisory Council allows families to communicate their needs and concerns to the hospital decision makers in a planned and organized manner. Through the council the hospital is showing respect for families and professionals who have a vested interest in the way the hospital operates," Marlene said. "Input from the council during the planning process can provide valuable insight or information to consider before moving forward.
"I would like to represent the grandparent perspective," Marlene said. "During Emily's illness, my husband and I tried to provide support for the family. I hope to be a strong advocate for the needs of the patient and their family. Respect for the child and parents is so very important," Marlene said.
After working 15 years as the director of the Alzheimer's Association in Peoria, Illinois, Marlene and her husband returned to Cincinnati to be closer to three of their children, five grandchildren and extended family. Their daughter Cara works in the Development Department at Cincinnati Children's. They also have a daughter who lives in St. Louis with her husband and two children.
"Since I have worked with families coping with chronic diseases for many years, I think I have some understanding that illness impacts the entire family. I am passionate about family, children, and health issues. I have experience working with mission-focused organizations," Marlene said.
