You "nose" it... we're celebrating Logan Center!

Today, over 1,000 people will pack The Century Center for the Logan Center Nose On.  Green circles will be worn as accessories on purses, earlobes, shirts and yes, even noses! And as the snow melts away, you’ll see more and more green circles throughout the Michiana area as lawn signs will finally be visible! Once again, the Logan Nose On has arrived.

The luncheon is a day of celebration when supporters from various companies or families gather to celebrate the abilities of those served by Logan Center.
As a proud supporter of Logan Center and their mission, The Medical Foundation will be present at the luncheon, as well, showing support for two employees, Elizabeth Foley and Jamie McGraw.

In June of 2008, Jamie began working as the Blood Donor Attendant at the Mishawaka Blood Donor Center on West Edison Road. Each morning, he boards the Transpo Access bus and rides to work, where he begins his day making coffee and refilling the juice machine for the blood donors. Jamie’s list of tasks is quite extensive and includes assisting the mobile blood drive team by making bags, cutting cold cloths, stocking supplies and making sure the juice and cookies are stocked and ready to go. His work week is quite intense with a 7:30am -3:30pm, Monday through Friday shift.

“Far too often, people with disabilities are under-employed.  As a young man with Down syndrome, Jamie has been given a wonderful opportunity to be productive every day at The Medical Foundation and a respected member of the workforce,” said Anne McGraw, Jamie’s mother.

Jamie’s family has been part of the Logan family since he was born.  Through the years the McGraw family has looked to Logan for their expert, supportive services, which celebrates individuals with disabilities and their families through all stages of life.

“It is an organization filled with compassionate and capable professionals who make this community one that places value on individuals of all abilities,” said Anne, regarding Logan.

When Jamie isn’t working, he’s a very busy person! For the last 10 years he has been the Chairperson for the Logan’s Run, a fundraiser that takes place each summer on the Campus of Notre Dame. He also goes to the gym and spends time with friends enjoying music, and following his extreme love for the airline industry online each day via the internet.  He’s a devoted Logan volunteer and has been a Hospitality Minister at St. Joseph Church in South Bend.

According to his mother, “he is endlessly engaged in his responsibilities as a donor attendant and takes his role very seriously, often planning in the evening for the days ahead. The job gives him purpose and has taught him great job skills and self-discipline.”

Jamie’s counterpart in South Bend is Elizabeth Foley.  Elizabeth has been the Blood Donor Attendant since April of 2010 at the Lafayette Boulevard Blood Donor Center. 

“Being gainfully employed at The Medical Foundation has been wonderful for Elizabeth,” said Franky Foley, Elizabeth’s mother.  “It has given her a better sense of self-worth and a feeling of confidence and pride.”  Franky mentioned that they have been approached at church, in the airport, and in the community by blood donors who recognize her from the Foundation. 

Elizabeth works on Mondays and Fridays from 9am until 2pm folding t-shirts and getting refreshments for the donors. 

It’s amazing she can fit us into her busy schedule which includes working at the Mishawaka Public Library for 10 hours each week, playing the piano and learning the ukulele.  She also takes Zumba classes, bowls, swims and bikes.

“She’s been active in the Logan’s Run for the last 8 or 9 years and has been involved in Best Buddies, a Logan program at Notre Dame and Bethel College.  Recently, she pranced down the runway during the Logan “Spread the Word” fashion show where she modeled two outfits.

For both of these employees, their relationship with Logan Center and their relationship with The Medical Foundation has been extremely positive. And while Jamie’s mind never stops thinking about how he can help both of the organizations he is passionate about, he’s come up with another fantastic idea.

If you would like to show support for Logan Center and The Medical Foundation, you can donate blood on May 1st, at Logan Center from 11:30am until 6:30pm.  Logan Center is located at 2505 East Jefferson Blvd in South Bend.  

If Logan Center collects 50 units of blood during the drive, The Medical Foundation will donate another $2,500 to Logan Center. Help make Jamie’s idea a success by donating. For more information or to make an appointment visit www.GiveBloodNow.com and use the sponsor code: Logan.