Author:

Sue Thoms

Sue Thoms is a writer and storyteller who joined Health Beat after a 30-year career at The Grand Rapids Press. She loves writing stories that shine a light on the resilience and beauty of the human spirit. In addition to medical features, she writes fiction and has published six picture books for children. Michigan born and raised, Sue enjoys exploring the state with her family―especially the lakes, sand dunes and ski hills. Contact her at susan.thoms@spectrumhealth.org.

Posts from Sue Thoms

Yes, you should wear a face mask

An infectious disease doctor explains how to wear them—and how they can help keep the COVID-19 virus from spreading.

Antibody tests: ‘Another piece in our toolbox’

Those seeking to learn whether they have already suffered through a COVID-19 infection are now able to find out.

‘You put your heart and soul into it’

The ICU team draws on support from each other and the community as they care for patients with COVID-19.

Patient Story

‘Thankful to be alive’

She thought she might have COVID-19. She soon learned she'd suffered a severe heart attack.

Patient Story

‘You have to move from empathy to action’

A drive-up option for cancer treatments serves patients' needs during the pandemic.

Don’t delay care for stroke, heart attack

A neurosurgeon and cardiologist urge people not to put off a trip to the hospital because of fears of COVID-19.

‘It is absolutely an honor’

In a unit dedicated to caring for COVID-19 patients, health care workers speak with compassion and pride about their roles.

Patient Story

‘It is so good to have victories’

After 10 days in the ICU fighting COVID-19, Don Force grew strong enough to leave—and that called for a special celebration.

Patient Story

Lessons from ‘the bubble’

The parents of a little girl born without an immune system have tips for families trying to stay safe and happy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Patient Story

‘Now I can help people’

Those who have recovered from COVID-19 are donating plasma in hopes of it helping others fight the disease.

A ‘Herculean effort’

With a surge in COVID-19 patients expected soon, a health system works to expand capacity so it can best care for the community.

‘It is the best medicine’

ICU patients and family members share virtual visits, with help from donated iPads and technical assistance.