Author:

Marie Havenga

Marie Havenga is a veteran journalist of more than 30 years. The Grand Rapids native launched her journalism career at age 15, writing for WorkWeek, a weekly business magazine. She joined the Grand Haven Tribune staff as a columnist and reporter in 2003, after writing for the Grand Rapids Press for more than two decades. A boating and water enthusiast, she lives on the shores of Spring Lake. Havenga has published an environmental children's book and her writing has been featured in several national publications.

Posts from Marie Havenga

General Health & Wellness

10 things to know before lightning strikes

Here's your primer to keep it from happening to you.

Women's Health
Patient Story

‘Like the fog has been lifted’

Menopause wreaked all manner of havoc on Chris Burns for 10 years. With help from a specialist, she found the relief she needed.

Research & Technology

‘First line of protection’

A new portable intubation chamber may protect frontline health care workers during the pandemic.

Cancer Care
Patient Story

‘One of the most beautiful things’

Cancer survivors are celebrated virtually with messages of hope, flowers and a grove of trees.

Community
Patient Story

‘What a great experience’

When they needed help, these patients found comfort in urgent care.

Community

‘It’s been extremely humbling’

A pediatric infectious disease doctor shares a glimpse into what it takes to keep a community healthy and prepare a hospital for a pandemic.

General Health & Wellness
Patient Story

‘It’s great to be back in our office’

After weeks of focusing on urgent medical needs and virtual care, patients and providers are glad to be able to return to in-person visits for routine care.

Children's Health

Parents: Beware these red flags

A pediatric infectious disease specialist shares crucial information about COVID-19 and the inflammatory disease making headlines around the world.

Community

‘An important thing to do’

Area manufacturers help bridge the gap in face masks with industrial sewing machines, operating room materials and an innovative spirit.

Community
Patient Story

Puppets take on the pandemic

Pediatric patients' drawings come alive with the help of Grand Rapids Civic Theatre dreamers.

Community

‘People like him are the reason we’ll get through this’

Shane Carne wanted to help during COVID-19, so he volunteered to leave his post as a surgical operating room nurse to work as an intensive care nurse.

Community

‘A positive thing to do’

Spectrum Health is seeking volunteers to make masks for non-clinical employees as well as other community partners.