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.
Young people, ages 12 to 15, look forward to seeing friends and family as they get the COVID-19 vaccine. Their parents focus on protection.
345 A pediatric infectious disease specialist offers suggestions for how parents of unvaccinated kids should respond to new CDC guidelines.
446 Hoping to avoid severe illness, Mary Sibley opted to receive outpatient antibody therapy for COVID-19.
71 A custom jaw implant makes a drastic difference in appearance and function for 18-year-old Erin Foster.
576 As Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gets her second COVID-19 vaccine dose, six high school students get their first shots—and encourage their peers to do the same.
253 With cheerful hearts, volunteers help make the West Michigan Vaccine clinic an efficient, joyful experience.
166 People receiving vaccinations at a community clinic discuss why they decided to get the shot.
298 As they give COVID-19 vaccines to the community, team members appreciate the joyful responses of "the most grateful people you will ever see."
304 When a brain shunt failed, Austin embarked on a 20-month medical journey.
1.3k After little Evelyn Brummel underwent coronary bypass surgery, “It’s amazing how fast she has bounced back.”
358 As COVID-19 cases surge, health leaders promote vaccines and safety precautions to curb the deadly virus.
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