Author:

Sue Thoms

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.

Posts from Sue Thoms

Esa carga adicional

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.

COVID-19 and your heart

Those with cardiovascular disease should continue to be careful about avoiding the virus because they are at high risk for complications.

‘It’s heartbreaking’

COVID-19 takes a heavy toll on Black and Latino communities in West Michigan, reflecting longstanding systemic health and social inequities.

Keep your cool in dangerous heat

Be aware of heat-related illness and follow these top tips for handling this recent blast of high temps.

Patient Story

‘A brand-new life’

When a spot showed up on David Kidder’s lung X-ray, he turned to a minimally invasive approach for his biopsy and surgery.

COVID-19 and dementia: Tips for caregivers

A neuropsychologist advises patience and empathy with loved ones. And be kind to yourself.

Patient Story

100 and counting

Alma Gilleo has seen a century of change, but she’s not focused on the past. She still has big plans for the future.

‘Art will heal the world’

Boarded-up windows in downtown Grand Rapids become paintings promoting justice and unity. Spectrum Health is there to support.

‘These COVID-19 wins’

The ICU team celebrates as patients graduate from the unit—and draws strength and knowledge to help care for others.

‘Helping out the community’

A team works together to make a drive-up specimen collection site for COVID-19 efficient.

Patient Story

‘So glad to be alive for my kids’

After a stroke at age 30, Josh Crandall-Morgan gets inspiration from his children as he works toward independence.

Patient Story

‘He was such a giver’

In the wake of the pandemic, the Renucci Hospitality House provides a gathering place for a family to say goodbye to a loving father.