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.
Health care providers rely on teamwork, skills and compassion as they treat and comfort patients with COVID-19.
237 While mourning her father's death from COVID-19, a daughter shares their story in hopes of helping others stay safe.
26 With great determination—and with the gift of new lungs—John McKay begins a new life with his wife and family.
1.1k After an extremely complicated pregnancy, Mallory Hoeve delivered a healthy baby girl. “We know how blessed we are,” she says.
472 Acacia shared her high school graduation ceremony with two special guests—a doctor and dietitian who helped her through kidney disease and a transplant.
323 Racism takes a toll, physical and emotional, on Black health care professionals. Addressing it could have far-reaching benefits, improving the overall health of the community.
3.8k El racismo tiene un costo, físico y emocional, en los profesionales de la salud afrodescendientes. Combatirlo podría tener beneficios de largo alcance, mejorando la salud general de la comunidad.
19 Those with cardiovascular disease should continue to be careful about avoiding the virus because they are at high risk for complications.
29 COVID-19 takes a heavy toll on Black and Latino communities in West Michigan, reflecting longstanding systemic health and social inequities.
270 Be aware of heat-related illness and follow these top tips for handling this recent blast of high temps.
135 When a spot showed up on David Kidder’s lung X-ray, he turned to a minimally invasive approach for his biopsy and surgery.
362 A neuropsychologist advises patience and empathy with loved ones. And be kind to yourself.
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