Michigan Medicine

02/07/2026

This month, we are shining a light on women who lead the way forward in cardiovascular medicine, surgery and education.

Over several weeks, we will introduce you to different members of the Frankel CVC — diving into their work, inspirations and interests.

Our first leader is Mary Passow, RN, BSN. She is a clinical care coordinator for cardiac surgery and has worked in the field for 26 years. No days or weeks are the same, but she spends her time rounding at the hospital, seeing patients in clinic, coordinating surgical plans and taking patient calls.

Passow loves working directly with patients and their families, guiding them through the process of open-heart surgery.

She leads every day by supporting her nurse colleagues: from helping them navigate complex patient situations to offering guidance on difficult conversations with families.

“I believe leadership is about lifting others up and ensuring our team has what they need to provide exceptional care,” Passow said.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her children and granddaughters. It helps her recharge and reminds her what matters most.

02/07/2026

You might be surprised to learn that the first Black medical student to graduate from our University of Michigan Medical School received his degree in 1872.

But there's a lot more to discover - and examine - about the history of Black students, faculty and staff in U-M .

In honor of , read about some of the people, and milestones, across our 175-year history here: https://michmed.org/mDzn9

If you're fascinated by medical history, or U-M history, come to our special museum exhibit before it closes at the end of April: https://michmed.org/museum

It's open every Saturday and Sunday from 12-4 p.m., or you can arrange a weekday group tour, and it's free! It's at the Museum on Main Street, near Kerrytown, run by the Washtenaw County Historical Society

02/06/2026

⛸️Team USA's not-so-secret weapon, U-M Health physical therapist Kristen Schuyten, has helped US Olympic figure skaters prepare for their Olympic competitions over the years. The Milano-Cortina Olympics are no different.

Practicing out of MedSport, Schuyten has become the clinic's performing arts rehabilitation program coordinator treating dancers, figure skaters, gymnasts, cheerleaders, musicians and vocalists at all levels. With her background as a dancer, she understands the unique demands of performing arts athletes.

Read more about Schuyten's work with Olympic figure skaters from Michigan and her approach to physical therapy with the link from Hour Detroit Magazine. https://www.hourdetroit.com/life-style/kristen-schuyten-team-usa-figure-skating-physical-therapist/

02/06/2026

❗There is one week left to register for the second annual Transplant Center Research Symposium.

Join the U-M Health Liver Transplant Center on Wednesday, February 25 at the BSRB Kahn Auditorium to learn more about current innovations in transplantation and the advances shaping it's future.

Registration closes on Friday, February 13. Visit https://michmed.org/8xeX5 to register.

02/05/2026

Dr. Uren from the U-M emergency medicine department met with Gov. Whitmer this week. On behalf of the Michigan State Medical Society, he will work on policies to help reduce the impact of impaired driving.

Today, I met with families whose lives were forever changed by impaired driving. Their stories are heartbreaking and a powerful reminder that every decision behind the wheel matters. Let’s all do our part to keep each other safe on the road.

02/05/2026

Atrial Fibrillation is the most common heart arrythmia, and symptoms can be triggered in a variety of ways. A nurse practitioner shares some helpful tips and potential triggers to avoid.

For a longer list of common Afib triggers, click this link: https://www.michiganmedicine.org/health-lab/7-common-afib-triggers-may-surprise-you

02/05/2026

Join Eric R. Fearon, M.D., Ph.D., director of the University of Michigan Health Rogel Cancer Center, and a panel of leading experts during National Cancer Prevention Month. Learn practical ways to identify and lower your cancer risk, and understand how your genetics and family history can help you make informed choices. Plus, get the latest information on lifestyle factors (and how they shape your risk profile) and recommended screenings. Take charge of your health during National Cancer Prevention Month!

02/04/2026

HEART OF AN OLYMPIAN: After 50 years at Michigan Medicine, Dr. Eric Bates has treated thousands of patients, trained more than 250 cardiologists and been cited in over 60,000 medical research papers.

But the professor of internal medicine at University of Michigan is often known by another title: Evan’s dad.

Starting this week, Evan Bates will compete in the Winter Olympic Games — Milano Cortina 2026 — making history as the first U.S. figure skater in any discipline to skate in five Winter Olympics.

An Olympic gold medalist, Evan has won three consecutive world championships with Madison Chock, his wife and longtime ice dancing partner who is participating in her fourth Winter Olympics. The pair will skate on Feb. 6 and 7 in the team event and Feb. 9 and 11 in the individual competition.

“The next two weeks are going to cause peak excitement, anticipation and anxiety for the parents who have been on this 25-year journey with them,” Eric Bates said.

“Evan and Madi are making history in these games, a testament to sustained excellence as elite athletes. I could not be prouder and am excited to be there supporting them.”

The pair is also featured in a three-part Netflix docuseries “Glitter and Gold,” which highlights the world of ice dance and the athletes’ preparation ahead of the games.

02/03/2026

The flu and COVID-19 seasons are far from over. But our new poll of people over 50 nationwide shows that 42% of middle-aged and older adults are facing this season without updated protection against both viruses, and even more hadn't gotten updated protection against COVID-19.

We asked them why. Read what we found, and what the answers mean for efforts to prevent severe illness in this vulnerable age group: https://michmed.org/YWZwK

02/01/2026

One Day Closer to a Cure invites high school students to explore cancer research and careers through interactive activities, engaging research talks, and lab tours. We hope this event inspires the next generation of scientists and clinicians, building a strong future in advancing cancer research and care. More info and registration: https://michmed.org/DQRbW