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 seven 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.
When a mom can’t be home for her daughter’s birthday, caregivers on the bone marrow transplant unit help them celebrate with a purple unicorn party.
Nine-year-old Emma, one of the few girls to have hemophilia, leads an active life with help from regular infusions.
After dozens of surgeries, 18-year-old Jacob Taylor undergoes his most complex one: Surgeons implant custom-designed prosthetic jaw bones.
Injuries caused by slips and trips are almost epidemic among older adults, and they are 'absolutely not a natural part of aging.'
When Don Fournier was in danger of bleeding to death after a snowmobile accident, a small, innovative device came to his rescue.
Sixteen-year-old Lizzie planned to take part in Project Night Lights—just not as a patient.
Philanthropist and entrepreneur remembered for his leadership, generous heart and commitment to improving health care in West Michigan.
At 53, Mark Lackey didn't know how much longer he would live. But then a team of experts crafted a unique fix for the hole in his heart.
While proud of the tremendous growth of Spectrum Health during his 18 years of leadership, President and CEO Rick Breon is ready to embrace retirement life.
Nalleli was a preemie, nurtured by her parents in their small Mexican town. Years later, she gave birth to a premature boy, who had all the luxuries of modern-day technology.
Resilient and fun-loving, Kingston battles spinal muscular atrophy with help from physical therapy and a breakthrough medication.
Learn about the worst culprits behind summertime foodborne illness and practical ways to avoid them.
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