Six medical pioneers honored by BCHS

Six area physicians were selected as members of the first class of the Battle Creek Health System Physicians' Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame was created to recognize doctors who through their long tenure and accomplishments, have served as an inspiration to others.

Members of the inaugural class include Arthur Stevens Kimball, M.D.; Jack Curtis Griffith, M.D.; John G. Girardot, M.D.; John Harvey Kellogg, M.D.; Russell L. Mustard, M.D.; and Sherwood B. Winslow, M.D.

"We recognize this distinguished group of physicians, whose many accomplishments
in health science were instrumental in advancing the frontiers of medicine in greater Battle Creek," says Dr. Jeffrey Mitchell, vice president of medical affairs and chief medical officer at Battle Creek Health System. "Their compassionate deeds, tireless efforts, and long tenure in practice are an inspiration to all who follow in their footprints."

"The selection committee under the leadership of Dr. Reza Tehrani sought nominations from members of the BCHS medical staff to find both historic and contemporary physicians to be considered for induction," says Dr. Jeffrey Jones, chief of the BCHS medical staff. "The large plaque honoring these great physicians was unveiled in the main hospital entrance of the hospital today."

Battle Creek Health System, sponsored by two parent organizations--Trinity Health (the fourth largest Catholic health system in the U.S. with 21 hospitals, 9 nursing homes, 19 senior house facilities, 8 home health care agencies, and 4 hospices in Michigan alone) and BCHS Community Partners, is accredited by the Joint Commission. Battle Creek Health System, a member of the Mercy Cancer Network, is a recipient of the 2008 HealthGrades Orthopaedic Surgery Excellence Award(tm) and 2009 Five Star rated for joint replacement surgery and total knee replacement. HealthGrades is a leading health care information company that provides objective 'report card' ratings nationwide. BCHS provides excellent health care for the community and promotes wellness for the whole person with access and compassion for all. For the latest medical information, visit the BCHS web site at www.bchealth.com or call the BCHS Marketing Department at (269) 966-8132.

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Physician Plaque Inscriptions

John G. Girardot, MD
(1930- )
He completed his residency in general surgery at Leila Y. Post Montgomery Hospital in Battle Creek. He then went on to serve the community for more than 52 years. He was the first chief of staff of Battle Creek Health System, and "one of the most recognized physicians in the area."

Jack Curtis Griffith, MD
(1923-1975)
Battle Creek area's "first, foremost, and finest" neurosurgeon. He was dedicated and caring. His blunt honesty endeared him to his patients and families.

John Harvey Kellogg, MD
(1852-1943)
He was medical director of Battle Creek and Surgical Sanitarium and developed it into a world-famous health institution. He promoted Adventist principles such as vegetarian diet, exercise, and abstinence from alcohol and tobacco. Of his many contributions, he patented a process for making peanut butter. He and his brother introduced cornflakes to the world.

Arthur Stevens Kimball, MD
(1875-1921)
Son of a prominent physician, he was a beloved and civic-minded pediatrician. He worked with Dr. J. H. Kellogg instituting 'open air' schools; was appointed Battle Creek's first health officer. He helped establish a TB sanitarium today known as Calhoun County Medical Care Facility but dying before it opened; his son Arthur, Jr. later became its director.

Russell L. Mustard, MD
(1895-1965)
His reputation as an outstanding surgeon extended far beyond his local practice. He was often called on for a number of special assignments at the national level. He had special interest in the fight against cancer, and was considered by many as "one of the most outstanding surgeons in the United States."

Sherwood B. Winslow, MD
(1908-2000)
A surgeon for over 40 years, he served as chief of staff for Leila Y. Post Montgomery Hospital and chief of surgery for both Leila and Community Hospitals. He developed the first quality assurance program at Community, and served as district surgeon for Grand Trunk Western Railroad. His legacy continues through a lectureship named in his honor.