Author:

Taylor Ballek

Taylor Ballek is a multimedia visual storyteller for the Health Beat team. Born in Winfield, Illinois, she went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in photojournalism from Central Michigan University in 2015. Her love for storytelling continues to grow with every person she has the privilege to meet through her journey of photojournalism. In her spare time she enjoys hammocking near Lake Michigan, rollerblading, collecting antique clocks, trying new restaurants and traveling to new cities.

Posts from Taylor Ballek

Patient Story

A bunny and a chinchilla try to charm kids with their soft fur …

... and it worked.

Patient Story

Na na na na na … Batman!

The Dark Knight of MI roared up in his Batmobile, delighting kids in the hospital.

Patient Story

Clowning around at the children’s hospital

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus performers entertain our littlest patients with banter and tricks.

Patient Story

Christmas arrives early for children in the hospital

'Seeing their faces is what this is all about.'

Sunny days, classy cars

Spectrum Health's 10th annual car show gives community a close-up view of classy rides past and present.

‘Berenstain Bears’ make special visit to children’s hospital

Joined by characters from the beloved children's series, author Mike Berenstain takes time to meet with children and sign books.

Patient Story

Dogs and ice cream? Yes, please

Four-legged volunteers coax smiles, and a chill treat, at the children's hospital.

Choose Pikachu, but don’t let the game choose you

Go ahead, get addicted to Pokémon Go. I admit it, I am.

Patient Story

Patient’s idol, Darth Vader, makes special visit

"May the force forever be with you, Princess," Vader said.

Patient Story

A ‘stinky’ ferret, an owl, and a tarantula roll into a hospital …

... and thrill children and their parents alike.

Patient Story

Whitecaps players win with kids

Athletes might not win at board games, but they sure did win at coaxing smiles and giggles from kids in the hospital.

Zoo critters brighten day for kids in hospital

John Ball Zoo animals bring smiles to children at Spectrum Health Helen DeVos Children's Hospital.