McLaren Flint

12/02/2025

Ci******es were Colleen DeMars-Eickholt’s go-to stress remedy for years. The 911 operator smoked for 40 years until her husband developed a heart issue that inspired her to quit. A year later, Colleen learned she had lung cancer after a CT lung screening. Find out how the latest technology, available at McLaren Flint helped catch her difficult to detect cancer early and helped save her life at the link below.

Stress is part of the job description for 911 operators. Colleen DeMars-Eickholt found different ways to cope; some were not so healthy. “I smoked for 40 years,” Colleen said. “I would have a cigarette to calm down between calls.” Colleen had COPD and knew she needed to quit, but it wasn’t...

12/01/2025

Ever wonder why you feel so sleepy after eating a big holiday meal? Turkey contains a nutrient called tryptophan, which can enhance your sleep quality. Other foods that contain tryptophan include tart cherry juice, chamomile tea, dark chocolate, and nuts.
"The tryptophan in these foods combined with the naturally occurring hormone melatonin can help you have a better sleep cycle," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. "Try to avoid sugary, acidic items, and alcohol before bed as these tend to disrupt the quality of ZZZs."

11/28/2025

Congratulations to lead radiation tech Stephanie Angell of the McLaren Proton Therapy Center, our November 2025 Outstanding Employee of the Month. Stephanie is a go-getter, admired by patients and colleagues for her work ethic, friendliness, and ability to juggle multiple responsibilities.
"No matter what the challenge, Stephanie always goes out of her way to accommodate," said her nominator. "We watch her take on challenges with grace and enthusiasm. She loves to learn, and it shows. It is obvious she loves what she does and always has our patients' best interests in mind."

11/28/2025

WHAT'S GOING AROUND?— Each week, we ask our ER physicians what ailments and conditions are commonly being seen in our Emergency Room.

THIS WEEK, Dr. Emily Orille, an emergency physician with McLaren, reports:

URI
While patients are still largely testing negative for the flu, COVID-19, and RSV, many are presenting still with similar symptoms, which are caused by a viral upper respiratory infection and seen mostly in pediatric patients.

Gastro
After weeks of sustained high volumes, patients seeking treatment for viral gastroenteritis have noticeably tapered off.

Ortho
Patients continue to seek care following orthopedic and soft tissue injuries, and those volumes have increased after the arrival of wintery weather.

11/27/2025

As you gather with family and friends to celebrate, remember that McLarenNow is available for your needs at any time. Our providers are available 24/7, even on Thanksgiving, to help with urgent needs and common seasonal illnesses all from the comfort of your home.

Whether you need quick advice, a prescription, or peace of mind, McLarenNow Virtual Care is here to help. Visit https://mclarenhealthcare.org/44rGHV8 to start your visit.

11/26/2025

This week kicks off the overeating season. There are a few tricks that can help you do better at holiday parties and gatherings. Start by keeping a regular eating schedule. Contrary to belief, "saving up for the big meal" usually ends in overeating and feeling guilty for all that deliciousness.
"Instead, eat your normal meals prior, and go into the special holiday meal without feeling ravenous," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. "Start with small portions of each item you want (you can always go back for seconds), balancing protein and carbs, and of course some dessert. Also, stay hydrated."

11/25/2025

Logan Wirebaugh’s second pregnancy was difficult. She became seriously ill and had to stop working. However, her third pregnancy had an even more devastating, life-altering impact: her daughter was stillborn. Overwhelmed by grief, Logan went into a deep depression. Consumed with grief, she stumbled across a new way of looking at her health called Lifestyle Medicine. After joining the program at the McLaren Flint Family Medicine Residency Center her life started to change- physically, emotionally, and mentally. Follow Logan's journey to healing

11/24/2025

At McLaren Hospice, we go beyond medical care, it’s also about creating moments that matter.

Through immersive virtual reality therapy, patients can step into breathtaking landscapes, visit places that hold emotional value to them, and find peace in guided meditation and relaxation… all from the comfort of where they receive their care.
This innovative therapy helps patients experience more. More joy, more connection, more meaning.

Learn more about immersive virtual reality therapy by visiting: https://www.mclaren.org/main/immersive-vr-therapy

11/21/2025

As much as you may enjoy that morning cup of joe, coffee alone is not a sufficient breakfast. Even if you aren't a breakfast person, starting your day with food helps stabilize blood sugars, may help avoid high blood pressure, and provides your brain with energy from.
"Start small and try to have a granola bar and piece of fruit, or a slice of toast with peanut butter and sliced banana," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. "This can also help you avoid overeating when you finally get to lunch."

11/20/2025

Between family gatherings, travel, and holiday meals, getting sick during Thanksgiving can throw off your plans. With McLarenNow Virtual Care, you can connect with a trusted provider anytime, anywhere, even on the holidays.

Whether you’re dealing with a cold, sore throat, or sudden stomach bug, our team is ready to help so you can get back to enjoying time with loved ones.

Learn more and visit https://mclarenhealthcare.org/4oQCW5B whenever the need arises for quick and convenient access to care.

11/18/2025

With the holiday season quickly approaching, many will gather for parties and celebrations with family, friends, and co-workers, which coincides with cold and flu season. So how do you take part and stay healthy at the same time? We spoke with a McLaren Flint internal medicine specialist and got a few tips. You will find them at the link below.

With the holiday season quickly approaching, many will gather for parties and celebrations with family, friends, and co-workers, which coincides with cold and flu season. So how do you take part and stay healthy at the same time? “The best ways to promote staying healthy are through hand hygiene, ...

11/17/2025

Diabetes is known as “the silent disease” for a reason — many people have it and don’t even know it. Watch for early signs like constant thirst, fatigue, or frequent urination, and take simple steps now to protect your long-term health.

Diabetes is more common than ever — and the tricky part? Many people don’t realize they have it. It can develop slowly, without dramatic symptoms, earning it the nickname “the silent disease.” But the earlier you spot the  early signs of diabetes , the better your chances of avoiding se...