Patient Stories

Share your story

Do you have a story you'd like to share about your experience as a patient at Spectrum Health?

Patient Story

Finding a rhythm

When it came time for doctors to repair her damaged artery, knitting aficionado Betty Houtman found solace in her craft—and is now living more vibrantly than ever.

Patient Story

An unwelcome ‘pop’

Surgery to repair a prolapsed bladder puts active Northern Michigan 60-year-old back on the road to adventure.

Patient Story

‘I’m here for a reason’

Surviving sudden cardiac arrest, 17-year-old Luke Anhalt discovers new insights into sports, life and faith.

Patient Story

Upping the game

A new strength and conditioning program aims to help young athletes fine-tune their agility and safety in the pursuit of peak performance.

Patient Story

‘We’re going to figure this out’

For Brenda Tuttle, unlocking the secret to her searing shoulder pain took persistence, an empathetic PA and a skilled neurosurgeon.

Patient Story

A party full of love

Volunteers throw a special party for kids spending time in the hospital on Valentine’s Day.

Patient Story

‘I was going every hour on the hour’

Mary Matzen has dealt with an overactive bladder all her life. With nerve stimulation treatment, she finally found relief from those incessant bathroom visits.

Patient Story

In a bubble, a little girl thrives

Jada's team goes to great lengths to keep her safe from germs, while hoping a thymus transplant will at last help her develop an immune system.

Patient Story

‘No going back’

After four decades as a smoker, Vicky Walker has found long-lasting escape thanks to a smoking cessation program and its ever-accessible leader.

Patient Story

‘We’re here to celebrate with you’

Two families connected by organ donation meet to honor the gift of a young man's heart, now living on in another.

Patient Story

Navigating hope

Marcia Poolman had a sore back. She never suspected lung cancer.

Patient Story

Coming full circle, from patient to physician

Doctors diagnosed Abigail Wenzlick with cancer as a toddler. Some 28 years later, she finds herself working as a medical resident alongside the physician who saved her.