Atrium Health

12/20/2025

Ashley was accustomed to doing it all: a longtime finance executive, wife and mom of two young boys, with days marked by demanding deadlines, frequent travel and a nonstop family schedule. So, when she started feeling headaches, dizziness and exhaustion, she did what many people do: she brushed it off as stress.

But one night, everything changed. Ashley woke up unable to feel her right arm. The numbness spread quickly, and she went to the ER. Her symptoms were a warning sign of transient ischemic attacks (TIAs), often called “mini-strokes.”

“TIAs can be easy to overlook because symptoms may come and go,” said Dr. Navid Jalali, neurologist at Atrium Health. “But sudden numbness, weakness, dizziness or changes in speech are never something to ignore. Immediate care can make all the difference.”

Today, Ashley is slowing down, listening to her body and putting her health where it belongs — at the top of the list. Her story is a reminder for anyone who’s ever pushed through symptoms because life felt busy, full and demanding.

Know the signs of stroke. Remember BE FAST:
Balance • Eyes • Face • Arms • Speech • Time to call 911

Read more of Ashley’s story: https://bit.ly/497TSyh

12/19/2025

Managing chronic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or asthma just got easier. Virtual primary care brings expert guidance & personalized care plans—all from the comfort of home. Learn more: https://bit.ly/4jVTDL0

12/19/2025

12/19/2025

12/18/2025

What keeps Santa’s spirit alive after a stroke?

Gerald had one Christmas wish: to spread joy as Santa at a children’s charity event. But just weeks before, a severe stroke changed everything — leaving him unable to walk or manage daily tasks. Heartbroken, Gerald canceled his plans.

Thanks to the incredible team at Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation, Gerald’s story didn’t end there. With determination and support of his care team, he suited up as Santa and surprised fellow patients with candy canes — just one day before his discharge.

Gerald’s resilience and his care team’s compassion turned a setback into a holiday triumph.

“I knew I had to just get out and do it,” Gerald said.

This season, his journey shows us the power of care, compassion and coming together.

See the full story of resilience and holiday spirit: https://bit.ly/3MOVRzX

12/17/2025

12/16/2025

Every step tells a story. 👟🤍

For Drew, designing custom sneakers and cleats isn’t just about the artwork, it’s about precision, creativity, and in many cases, purpose. He often works on projects for the Carolina Panthers like “My Cause My Cleats” and Crucial Catch in which he is designing custom shoes that tell a story. Each time he starts with a blank canvas and a player’s vision, but some designs are more than just an assignment, they’re deeply personal for Drew.

In 2015, Drew noticed he was getting increasingly winded on hikes. When his shortness of breath became a persistent cough, he went looking for answers. He never imagined that as a 35-year-old non-smoker he would be diagnosed with non-small cell lung cancer. After he completed aggressive treatment with radiation and chemotherapy, his cancer unfortunately returned in 2016 at stage 4, which came as a shock to both Drew and his family members.

After that relapse his care team at Atrium Health Levine Cancer decided to embark on a new treatment designed to target his cancer cells specifically. After battling the side effects of chemotherapy and radiation, seizures and even a blood clot, Drew’s targeted therapies have made a big difference in his fight against cancer.

For Drew, art has become his outlet, a powerful way to channel his journey and emotions. With every cleat he creates to raise awareness for cancer, he hopes his art serves not only as a personal expression, but also as a form of advocacy — giving hope to others facing similar battles.

Learn more about lung cancer care: https://bit.ly/4fNaWwd

12/15/2025

12/15/2025

We’re proud to honor Monique, Nurse of the Year for Advocate Health’s North Carolina and Georgia Division at Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center!

Monique sets the standard for compassionate, patient-centered care, from calming anxious surgical patients with empathy and clear communication to ensuring every teammate is informed and aligned in care.

Her leadership extends far beyond the bedside. As Wellness Champion, Monique launched a quarterly wellness newsletter featuring healthy recipes, stretching routines, aromatherapy and “tea-time stations” to support teammate well-being. She also promoted the Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute's Transplant Run 5K, organized a Community Health Fair connecting more than 100 people with resources, and as professional governance chair, helped triple nurse advancement through mentorship and guidance.

Thank you, Monique, for your dedication to empowering your colleagues, improving patient safety and fostering a culture of wellness and growth.