Glowing sparklers, massive booms from afar and collective “oohs” and “ahhs” are familiar sights and sounds this time of year. Yes, the Fourth of July will soon be upon us. And once again, Memorial Health hospitals are preparing for an…
In May 2013, Daniel Fouts was enjoying every minute of his life with his wife, their toddler and a six-month-old baby. But a few months earlier, the then 26-year-old had experienced a sense of impending doom he couldn’t quite forget.…
Matt Cruise, 19, has loved playing baseball for as long as he can remember. Fortunately, a devastating line drive to the head will not bench the pitcher indefinitely, thanks to a quick response on the field at Robin Roberts Stadium…
Interstate 55 may be open for traffic again after the deadly 70+ car pileup caused by a freak dust storm, but the lingering effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may impact involved drivers, rescue personnel and bystanders well beyond that…
Back-to-back holiday parties on your schedule? Keep an eye on your alcohol intake in order to avoid “holiday heart syndrome,” which is the incidence of irregular heart rhythms (also known as atrial fibrillation) brought on by unusual and excessive alcohol…
Darlene Steinkamp, RN, is an accomplished young woman pursuing her doctorate in nursing practice with a goal to work in an ICU as a nurse practitioner. She is also competing to be named Miss Illinois this summer and using her…
The Black Friday craze may look different this year, but you can always prepare now for standing in line in frigid temps, avoiding the crush of shoppers sprinting for hot sales or even thumb fatigue – yes thumb fatigue –…
Hannah Bond, RN, has learned from 18 months experience to look for the positives as she continues to care for seriously ill COVID-19 patients. “I had experienced death and sickness before COVID-19, but nothing prepared me for the helplessness I…
A mental health crisis is frightening. Often it can be difficult to determine the right course of action—will an appointment with a behavioral health professional help or does the crisis require a trip to the Emergency Department (ED)? First, if…
John Steven Taylor, 53, of Decatur, has survived numerous ischemic strokes and is able to quickly recognize stroke symptoms. Passionate about the importance of stroke awareness, he shares his story with anyone who will listen. “I’m just blessed because I…