Healthcare Heroes

The Big Bass Bash at Grand Lake O' the Cherokees will attract over 1,000 anglers competing for a $100,000 grand prize in a two-day tournament where the biggest bass wins. The event welcomes casual anglers and former pros alike, offering $194,000 in total prizes with 160 bi-hourly payouts during the May competition.

Dr. Barry Katz is a board-certified neurosurgeon who specializes in brain and spinal cord surgery, offering life-changing relief for patients suffering from chronic pain and neurological conditions. He performs a wide range of procedures, from disc repairs to tumor removals, using advanced surgical technology. Driven by a lifelong passion for neurology, Dr. Katz now serves patients across Joplin, Springfield, and Northwest Arkansas with Mercy.

Dr. Lori Schimmel is the medical director of Mercy Joplin’s emergency department and an experienced emergency medicine physician. She values the challenge of treating patients of all ages and conditions with her skilled team. Starting as a nurse, she pursued medical school and residency before joining Mercy Joplin in 2015 and becoming director in 2018.

Dr. Danny Liu, a fellowship-trained bariatric surgeon at Mercy Joplin, specializes in life-changing weight loss surgeries like Gastric Bypass and Sleeve Gastrectomy. He emphasizes a thorough, multi-disciplinary patient process to ensure long-term success. Many patients see significant health improvements and reduced medication use after surgery.

DDS® Dentures + Implant Solutions® in Joplin offers compassionate dental care focused on same-day dentures, combining clinic and lab services for faster, cost-effective results. Dr. Joe Robinson and Dr. Jacob Smith are dedicated to helping patients relieve pain and regain their smiles. Advanced treatments ensure healthy, beautiful smiles that can last a lifetime.

Dr. David J. Gray is a board-certified plastic surgeon at Mercy Joplin specializing in reconstructive surgery, including post-mastectomy breast reconstruction and post-bariatric body contouring. He emphasizes the difference between plastic and cosmetic surgery and works closely with other specialists for comprehensive patient care. Dr. Gray finds particular fulfillment helping patients after bariatric surgery, a field personally meaningful to him.

Dr. Jimmy Morgan, with 25 years in emergency medicine, works at Mercy Convenient Care providing quick, walk-in treatment for minor illnesses like colds and flu. Formerly a paramedic, he thrives on meeting urgent patient needs and serves as medical director for multiple EMS and fire departments. Mercy Convenient Care locations offer convenient hours and no-appointment-needed care throughout Joplin.

Chris Gardner, NP, founded Gardner Express Care to provide affordable healthcare without insurance hassles, offering services like urgent care, primary care, and weight management. His clinic charges significantly less than typical ER visits by not filing insurance, focusing on patient-first care. Outside work, he enjoys family life on their farm with his wife and two daughters.

Dr. Bryan D. Barnes and his team at Advanced Family Medicine & Wellness Center prioritize empowering patients to take an active role in their healthcare. They offer convenient, patient-first care with extended hours and many services in-house to reduce referrals. Their goal is to provide personalized, transparent, and accessible healthcare for all ages.