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

Patient Story

Feeling like Iron Man

At 53, Mark Lackey didn't know how much longer he would live. But then a team of experts crafted a unique fix for the hole in his heart.

‘I love this job’

While proud of the tremendous growth of Spectrum Health during his 18 years of leadership, President and CEO Rick Breon is ready to embrace retirement life.

Patient Story

‘Two miracle babies in the family’

Nalleli was a preemie, nurtured by her parents in their small Mexican town. Years later, she gave birth to a premature boy, who had all the luxuries of modern-day technology.

Patient Story

‘He just wins over hearts’

Resilient and fun-loving, Kingston battles spinal muscular atrophy with help from physical therapy and a breakthrough medication.

Eight tips to prevent foodborne illness

Learn about the worst culprits behind summertime foodborne illness and practical ways to avoid them.

Patient Story

‘A tremendous relief’

A discovery of an abdominal aortic aneurysm leads an 81-year-old woman to an innovative, minimally invasive treatment.

Patient Story

‘The love for horses’

When a hospice nurse invites 84-year-old Lloyd Robinson to her farm, memories of his childhood and rodeo days spill forth.

Patient Story

‘She’s perfect’

Born with a rare disorder that causes visual impairment, Luna is a 2-year-old girl who is full of surprises.

Patient Story

‘She has a mission’

Adjusting to life without her right leg, Nicole Campbell shows tenacity and humor. Her goal: to return to the teaching job she loves.

‘A true health care visionary’

Tina Freese Decker, chosen as the next president and CEO of Spectrum Health, brings to the role a passion for health care and extensive experience in operations and strategy.

“Una auténtica visionaria en la atención a la salud”

Tina Freese Decker, nombrada presidente y CEO de Spectrum Health, aporta a esta función pasión por la atención a la salud y amplia experiencia en la gestión operativa y estratégica.

Patient Story

‘A good moment’

A father in hospice care spends an evening at a Whitecaps game with his sons: "Just being with the kids is the main thing."