Author:

Marie Havenga

Marie Havenga is a veteran journalist of more than 30 years. The Grand Rapids native launched her journalism career at age 15, writing for WorkWeek, a weekly business magazine. She joined the Grand Haven Tribune staff as a columnist and reporter in 2003, after writing for the Grand Rapids Press for more than two decades. A boating and water enthusiast, she lives on the shores of Spring Lake. Havenga has published an environmental children's book and her writing has been featured in several national publications.

Posts from Marie Havenga

10 things to know before lightning strikes

Here's your primer to keep it from happening to you.

Sensitive tummy? Or something more?

A gastrointestinal specialist shares the need-to-know facts about irritable bowel syndrome.

Chilled to the bone? 10 tips to relieve joint pain

If winter weather is causing aches and pains, try these tried-and-true suggestions for rapid relief.

Patient Story

Standing strong

After childhood burn injuries led to leg amputations, Miranda Wise learned to move around on her knees. Now she's walking.

‘They acted so fast’

A retired Michigan grocer is alive today thanks to his wife's quick reaction and a speedy response from an expert stroke team.

Patient Story

‘I didn’t have very long to live’

Doctors gave Jim Oldfield a year to live. Today, he's back to training for competitions.

Patient Story

‘Much more optimistic’

Luke Thomas battled weight all his life. With help from a lifestyle medicine program, he shed pounds, beat back diabetes and gained health.

Patient Story

‘We’ll get through this’

Jack Hood, 14, can't control his muscles due to dystonia. Neurologists hope deep brain stimulation can help him.

Patient Story

‘It just kind of hit me’

With help from a registered dietitian, Steve Chappell dropped from 222 pounds to 175 pounds—and he plans on staying there.

‘No ignorar las advertencias’

El agrícola migrante, Quirino Mejía ha pasado casi todo el verano en el hospital recibiendo tratamiento por COVID-19 y desea compartir un mensaje precautorio.

Patient Story

‘Do not ignore the warnings’

Migrant farmworker Quirino Mejia has spent much of his summer in the hospital for COVID-19 treatment. He shares a cautionary message.

‘We’re still in this’

Almost six months into the COVID-19 battle, Blodgett ICU team members continue the fight. Together.