Author:

Zinta Aistars

Zinta Aistars is a bilingual writer in English and Latvian. She has three books published in the Latvian language and is currently at work on a fourth, this time in English. Zinta is a regularly contributing writer for many local and regional publications. She is the host and producer of the weekly radio show, Art Beat, at WMUK 102.1 FM, the NPR affiliate station in Southwest Michigan. Zinta is a former employee of Spectrum Health, working in marketing and communications as a writer and editor, and she is pleased to continue writing health care stories since becoming a full-time freelance writer.

Posts from Zinta Aistars

Patient Story

‘Keep a close eye on them’

Trampolines make for great childhood fun. But it's important to recognize the inherent risks, doctors say.

Tips to reduce breast cancer risk

While you can't control all the factors, you can improve your odds by building a healthy lifestyle.

Patient Story

‘We’re running it together’

In battling leukemia, pharmacist Jeffrey Conzelmann found a perfect bone marrow donor in his longtime running partner—his brother.

Patient Story

‘I’m just getting started’

After a years-long struggle to lose weight, Dave Duggan found success when a physician helped him shape a plan for diet, exercise and lifestyle.

Patient Story

Always a friend in sight

Born with a congenital cataract in one eye, Sam Pepper has come to see treatments as a fun childhood adventure with a cherished friend—his doctor.

Patient Story

No place like home

A rare sarcoma brought Gary Zacharias into the doctor’s office—and he found not just healing, but a special connection.

Patient Story

‘In good hands’

A fast-acting surgery on a ruptured hemangioma pulled Victoria Beauregard back from the brink.

Patient Story

‘It was like a dream’

The Gashi family, of Michigan, traveled far in their quest for answers to their daughter’s mysterious illness. They found success right here at home.

Patient Story

‘Be optimistic about the outcome’

Anne Stoll faced a worrying diagnosis of ovarian cancer—but she persevered with her health team. 'I faced my worst fears and overcame them,' she says.

‘Look for that meaningful moment’

With today's youth facing a 'tsunami' of mental health challenges, parents and caregivers must learn to recognize the signs—and know how to help.

Patient Story

Therapy on the slopes

When Kyle Kelly injured his knee, he made no plans to slow down. With help from his physical therapist, he set out for a world record.

Patient Story

On the move

Chronic pain had long hampered Jim Houseman's active lifestyle—until he found a new treatment plan.