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

Is your GI tract on track?

Complementary and alternative therapies may help common digestive ailments.

Patient Story

‘I was going every hour on the hour’

Mary Matzen has dealt with an overactive bladder all her life. With nerve stimulation treatment, she finally found relief from those incessant bathroom visits.

Patient Story

Navigating hope

Marcia Poolman had a sore back. She never suspected lung cancer.

Patient Story

‘It’s like a pebble in your shoe’

After Madalin Wixson suffered a sports injury, doctors discovered a bone tumor. After surgery, she's back to playing sports pain-free.

Patient Story

‘It’s very scary to have this’

Corey Ledin Bristol felt short of breath. He never dreamed it could lead to a short life.

Focus on the long game

Do your mental homework now so you're prepared to step into a healthier lifestyle and make it last a lifetime.

Patient Story

‘What do you say to the person who saved your life?’

Lilly Vanden Bosch lived much of her life in a hospital after being diagnosed with a rare anemia at age 7. A donor oceans away changed her life.

Patient Story

‘I’m a warrior’

Fabiola Garnett suffered cardiac arrest at age 13. Two decades later, she received the gift of a heart.

Revolutionize your treadmill routine

Try these 6 tips to keep your workout from getting lame.

Patient Story

‘I’m just thankful she’s alive’

Kaitlin Frederick's first baby died. Red flags and skilled intervention saved her second baby's life.

Low sugar ho-ho-wholesome holiday hints

You don't have to deny yourself the dessert table, but choose wisely.

Patient Story

‘I’ve got to keep going’

With a love of hobos and an aversion to technology, Claud Wolff seemed the least likely guy to find solace in the high-tech Spectrum Health app.