A HealthBeat Special Series

Humans of Spectrum Health

Who are the people behind the lab coats, scrubs and name badges? This series shows the human side of the caregivers who are proud to call Spectrum Health their work home.

Health Beat Special Series
Patient Story

A reservoir of healing

With the gentle touch of an artist, RaNae Couture helps patients harness the power of creativity on the path to recovery.

A lifetime of change

A nursing technician looks back at the innumerable changes in health care after half a century of service.

Patient Story

Independence days

Project SEARCH teaches young adults like Jaime Blomeling about independence. "I could work here the rest of my life," Blomeling says.

Patient Story

On the ninth floor

Thomas Sikkema, who went from outfield to in-patient, is using his gift of compassion to help others find their way.

Patient Story

In the club

A special team at a children's hospital harnesses joy and creativity to keep young patients on track with school work.

‘It’s God’s gift’

Mary Lou, Sue and Christina celebrate three generations of caring for mothers and babies.

Patient Story

Run for joy, run through grief

Jennifer Millard embraced an active lifestyle―and found emotional and spiritual strength after tragedy struck her family.

Patient Story

‘It’s so incredible’

Robilynn Anders-Sterk is a poster child for weight-loss surgery—and she's helping others who want longer, healthier lives.

Let your light shine

Throughout her career, Dr. Rima Shah has had to push past—and through—bias and discrimination.

A long and storied road

At age 26, love and hope helped carry Ayde Kuyers on the 2,200-mile journey from Mexico City to Michigan.

From lowest lows to highest highs

Real-life experience makes for a much-loved nurse. Maybe that's why Nikki Coy soars in the world of nursing.