Banner Health

02/14/2026

When Ken Woolsey walks down the aisle this Valentine's Day, it will be more than just a celebration of love—it will be a testament to the power of determination, expert medical care and a heart that refuses to quit.

On Feb. 4, the 61-year-old Glenrock resident underwent quadruple bypass surgery at Banner Wyoming Medical Center after suffering a heart attack while at work. Now, against all conventional wisdom, Woolsey is preparing to say "I do" to his fiancé, Lonna Heath Porter, on Valentine’s Day.

Joseph Monfre, MD, a cardiothoracic surgeon at Banner Health, said that recovery typically takes a couple of months, but admits that he can't remember ever having a patient that had their wedding looming just days away.

"Open heart surgery is a big deal, and it's an even bigger deal when you have a wedding," Dr. Monfre said. "We all had in the back of our heads that this Valentine's Day wedding was looming."

Woolsey admits that everyone thinks he’s crazy.

"All my friends say I need to rest,” Woolsey said. “But this has been planned, and I just want to marry her."

Friday, Jan. 30, started like any other work day for Woolsey, who makes concrete forms—a dirty, physically demanding job. While in the middle of pouring concrete, he began experiencing throbs in his left arm and chest.

At the ER, doctors quickly determined Woolsey was having a heart attack. What he hoped would be a minor issue turned into a life-changing diagnosis: he needed open-heart surgery.

Dr. Monfre and Gary Idelchik, MD, a cardiologist, performed the quadruple bypass surgery a few days later, giving Woolsey a new lease on life.

The surgical team's expertise and swift action not only saved Woolsey's life but gave him the chance to keep one of the most important dates of his life.

When Lonna offered to postpone the wedding, he wouldn't hear of it.

When asked how it makes him feel that they were able to get Woolsey to his wedding on time, Dr. Idelchik said, "This is why we do what we do."

Dr. Idelchik also reminds people that you can have good baseline health and still have cardiac disease. If something feels different, don’t chalk it up to old age -- get checked out.

The Valentine's Day wedding at the Glenrock Senior Center will be a celebration not just of the couple's love, but of Woolsey's continued recovery and the life-saving care he received at Banner Wyoming Medical Center.

"I'm getting my life back together," Woolsey said. "And marrying her is the best way to start."

02/13/2026

Planning ahead can help you and your future baby get the best possible start. Experts at Banner Health share a helpful pre-pregnancy checklist so you’re physically and emotionally ready for the journey ahead.

Thinking about having a baby? From diet to doctor check-ups, here are things to do before you try to get pregnant.

02/13/2026

Spring has sprung and so have the allergies! If you’ve found yourself sneezing more than usual or rubbing itchy eyes even though it’s only early February, you’re not imagining it — allergy season really is creeping up earlier. Climate shifts have made warmer winters more common and pollen seasons longer. Trees and plants start pollinating sooner and often produce more pollen, so seasonal symptoms can hit before you expect them.

Are seasonal allergies starting sooner and lasting longer? Here’s what to know if the itching, sneezing and congestion seems to be hitting you harder.

02/13/2026

Banner Health is revolutionizing the treatment of complex coronary disease through an innovative strategic partnership with Heartflow, a cutting-edge technology company specializing in cardiovascular disease.

This groundbreaking collaboration combines advanced CT scan technology with state-of-the-art interventional tools to transform outcomes for patients with significant calcium buildup and plaque in their coronary arteries.

“The comprehensive approach addresses one of cardiology's most challenging scenarios: heavily calcified vessels where plaque has become bone-like and difficult to treat with traditional methods,” said Paul Sorajja, MD, director of interventional cardiology and structural heart at Banner – University Medicine. "By integrating multiple advanced imaging technologies in the near future, Banner Health will be able to offer patients treatment options that were previously unavailable.”

"This care approach brings together our radiology and cardiology teams in a truly collaborative way," said David Rizik, MD, an interventional cardiologist with Banner – University Medicine Cardiology Scottsdale. "By combining advanced imaging with cutting-edge treatment tools, we can now successfully help patients with complex coronary disease who previously had limited treatment options."

02/13/2026

Cold plunges and infrared saunas are everywhere these days, but what’s the difference and how do you choose what’s right for you? Banner Health breaks it down so you can decide with confidence and stay safe while you explore these popular wellness tools. Both cold plunges and saunas create real physical stress on your body that can trigger benefits like improved circulation, faster recovery and even mental clarity — but that stress isn’t good for everyone.

Cold plunges and infrared saunas are trending for recovery and wellness, but do they really work? Learn the benefits, risks and who should avoid them.

02/13/2026

Getting blood drawn can feel a little nerve-racking but a few simple steps can make the experience easier, faster and more comfortable. Banner Health experts share tips to help you prepare and get the most accurate results possible.

A blood draw is an important test that gives your doctor crucial information about your health. Here’s how to make the process go as smoothly as possible.

02/12/2026

Recognizing the early signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer is essential, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and survival rates.

If you are experiencing one or more symptoms, it’s important to talk to your doctor to determine the cause and be treated.

It is especially important to see your doctor right away if you find blood in your stool or if other symptoms last more than two weeks.

Learn more: https://www.bannerhealth.com/services/cancer/cancer-type/colorectal-cancer/symptoms-and-types?cid=facebook:social_organic:cancer:02

02/12/2026

Stroke risk and symptoms can be different for women than men, but many don’t know why.

This article explains what factors increase stroke risk in women and what signs to watch for.

Strokes kill more women than men each year. Learn the different symptoms and risk factors women may have and the steps you can take to prevent a stroke.

02/11/2026

As February marks American Heart Month, Banner – University Medicine Tucson is highlighting the importance of recognizing heart conditions that don’t always show up on standard tests, especially for patients who experience persistent chest pain without clear answers.

For 34-year-old Burton Schwartz, those unanswered questions lasted years.

When Schwartz enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 2017, he was in peak physical condition and focused on building a long-term military career. But just a few years later, while stationed in Okinawa, Japan, his health took an unexpected turn.

Schwartz began experiencing episodes of rapid heart rate, chest pressure, palpitations and increasing discomfort while eating. The symptoms were persistent and intense. Despite seeking care from multiple experts, several doctors attributed his symptoms to anxiety.

As time went on, his condition worsened.

After returning to the United States, Schwartz’s physical fitness declined significantly. Once able to meet the rigorous demands of military service, he began failing required physical fitness tests due to severe chest pain and pressure. Ultimately, the unexplained symptoms led to his medical separation from the Marine Corps after just four years of service.

It wasn’t until 2023, after years of pain, uncertainty and dismissal that Schwartz moved to Sierra Vista and finally met the physician who would uncover the true source of his symptoms.

That turning point came through interventional cardiologist Michel Corban, MD, who established coronary microvascular and endothelial function testing at Banner – University Medicine Tucson. The highly specialized diagnostic program is designed to identify heart conditions that often go undetected by traditional cardiac tests.

Dr. Corban is one of two Banner physicians in Arizona – the other being Ankar Gupta, MD, at Banner – University Medical Center Phoenix -- offering this advanced testing and treatment.

Through coronary reactivity testing, Dr. Corban can directly assess how these small vessels function. For many patients, this testing delivers answers they have been seeking for years.

This testing is only available at a handful of major academic medical centers in the country.

For patients like Schwartz, receiving a diagnosis can be life changing.

02/11/2026

Ever feel tired, irritable or overwhelmed, and you can’t figure out why? It might not be one big problem — it could be microstress, quietly wearing you down every single day. When we think of stress, we often picture huge events — a job change or a health scare. But tiny everyday pressures, like a vague email, a last-minute plan, a traffic jam or constant notifications, can stack up and take a toll on your body and mind without you even noticing.

Microstress and hidden stress can quietly build up and affect your health. Understand how microstressors impact your health and what you can do about them.

02/10/2026

The Natrona Collective Health Trust has gifted Masterson Place to Banner Health, ensuring the continuation of a vital community resource that has provided affordable accommodations to patients and families seeking medical care in Casper since 2001.

Masterson Place has served as a hospitality home for 25 years, offering short- and long-term accommodations for patients and families of Casper's medical facilities at a cost of just $50 per night. The facility, conveniently located at 310 S. Washington St., directly behind Banner Wyoming Medical Center's Central Campus, provides a comfortable refuge for those traveling to receive medical care.

As part of the transition, Banner Health will assume the three employees of Masterson Place, ensuring continuity of care and service for guests. The donation includes the building and all furnishings, ensuring guests will continue to receive the same comfort and hospitality they have come to expect.

Masterson Place serves thousands of families each year and features 14 comfortable guest rooms, each equipped with a refrigerator, microwave, coffee maker and free Wi-Fi. A large community room is also available for group meals and gathering with other families.

The only requirement to stay at Masterson Place is that a patient or their loved one will receive some type of medical care in Casper — whether it be major surgery, routine procedures or dental work.

For more information about Masterson Place or to make a reservation, please call 307-237-5933.

02/10/2026

Sepsis is a serious infection that affects the whole body and can take a toll on your strength, energy and daily life. Even after you’re out of the hospital, healing can take time and patience.

Sepsis is a serious illness, and it will take time for you to rebuild your strength and stamina. Here’s what can help you get the best possible outcome.

02/07/2026

Have you ever felt exhausted, moody or just not quite yourself even though nothing big seems wrong? Before you assume it’s just hormones acting up, it’s worth knowing that stress, lifestyle and real hormonal changes can all impact how you feel — and they’re often connected.

If you’re feeling more exhausted and irritable lately, it could be stress, your hormones or both. Here’s what to know about hormone imbalance.

02/06/2026

This morning, we came together in a sea of red to support a cause close to our hearts. Wear Red Day is the American Heart Association's powerful campaign to shine a spotlight on a sobering fact: cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women. By wearing red, we're:
❤️ Raising awareness about women's heart health
❤️ Promoting prevention through healthy lifestyle choices
❤️ Encouraging women to recognize symptoms and take early action
❤️ Standing in solidarity with survivors and those affected by heart disease

Thank you to everyone who's wearing red today to spread awareness. Together, we can save lives by educating, advocating and taking action for women's heart health!

02/04/2026

Have you ever asked your kid to do something simple and gotten a big emotional reaction instead? Sometimes it’s easy to label that behavior as stubbornness or defiance. But for many children, that push back is actually a sign that they’re feeling overwhelmed stressed or anxious — not trying to give you a hard time.

Is your child avoiding tasks or breaking rules? It might be anxiety, not stubbornness. This parent-friendly guide explains the signs and what you can do.

02/03/2026

This Friday, let's paint the town red for an incredible cause! 🔴

The American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign is raising awareness about heart disease - the #1 killer of women. By wearing red, you're showing your support for women's heart health and helping spread this life-saving message.

Together, we can make a difference! Heart disease is largely preventable, and awareness is the first step toward healthier hearts for all women.

Learn more about women's heart health and how you can get involved at heart.org/gored

02/01/2026

Your liver plays a huge role in keeping you healthy — from processing nutrients and filtering toxins to supporting metabolism and immune function. What you eat matters, and choosing the right foods can help your liver stay strong and happy!

Your liver plays a vital role in your health—it helps you process what you eat and filter out toxins. Reach for these foods to help keep your liver healthy.

01/30/2026

Find your future at Banner Health! Learn more about our LVN position at our clinic here: https://bit.ly/4qb6ICr

01/29/2026

Have you heard about magnesium glycinate lately? It’s getting attention as one of the gentler, more absorbable forms of magnesium — and it might be worth knowing about, especially if you’re focused on sleep, stress or muscle health in 2026.

Learn about magnesium glycinate, its benefits and how to take it safely. Find out from Banner Health when supplements may help and when to avoid them.

01/26/2026

If you’re pregnant (or thinking about becoming pregnant) and wondering “Are antibiotics safe?” — you’re not alone! Every choice feels extra important when a little one is growing inside you. The good news? Many antibiotics are safe to take during pregnancy when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Used the right way, they can protect both you and your baby by treating bacterial infections that — if left untreated — can cause serious problems.

Learn what antibiotics are safe to take during pregnancy, what antibiotics you should avoid and how to protect your health and your baby’s development.

01/23/2026

Not all cheese is created equal when it comes to cardiovascular wellness. While many varieties offer nutritional benefits, others are surprisingly high in sodium and saturated fats that can negatively impact cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Understanding which options to limit is an essential step in maintaining a heart-healthy diet. This guide identifies the varieties to avoid and offers better alternatives for your lifestyle.

Dietitians reveal the worst types of cheese for heart health, including ultra-processed and extra-creamy varieties, due to high saturated fat and sodium content.

01/20/2026

Beets are more than just a colorful addition to your plate—they are a functional food with scientifically backed benefits for your heart and muscles.

From supporting cardiovascular health to enhancing stamina during exercise, the natural nitrates found in beets play a vital role in how your body uses oxygen. But with the rise of beet powders and capsules, it can be hard to know which form is most effective for your goals.

Our latest blog explores the science behind this root vegetable and helps you navigate the choice between whole foods and supplements.

In this post, we cover:
- The role of nitrates in supporting healthy blood pressure levels.
- How beets can help improve recovery times for athletes.
- A comparison of fresh beets versus processed supplements.
- Important considerations for those prone to kidney stones.

Learn how to incorporate this nutritional powerhouse into your routine: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/teach-me/beet-basics-what-beet-root-offers-and-when-to-consider-a-supplement

01/17/2026

When the temperatures drop, we tend to seal up our homes to stay warm—but that can also trap dust, allergens and pollutants inside.

Breathe easier this season with a few simple adjustments to your indoor environment. We break down how to keep your air fresh and your family healthy all winter long.

Small changes can make a big difference for your lungs this season. Get the rest of our winter air quality tips here: https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/advise-me/simple-ways-to-keep-indoor-air-clean-this-winter

01/14/2026

Many people think all pneumonia is the same — but the truth is more complex. Learn what pneumonia really is, how anyone can get it and key steps to protect yourself. https://www.bannerhealth.com/healthcareblog/better-me/myths-and-facts-about-pneumonia