Feature Stories

Two-Time Breast Cancer Survivor Finds Renewed Hope

Laura Phelps conquered breast cancer once and had just celebrated five years being cancer-free when the unthinkable happened: she felt a lump. It was small, no bigger than a pea, but its presence sent a shock wave through her.

"This can't be happening again," she thought to herself, but the small lump began to grow quickly and she scheduled an appointment to see her oncologist. Learn more.

The Ripple Effect: One Doctor's Quest to Heal His Community

For more than 30 years, Dr. Chao-ying Wu was a family medicine physician, caring for individuals and families in his community. He enjoyed helping people navigate health issues and worked tirelessly to improve the health and wellbeing of the people in his clinic.

When he retired, his dedication to his community didn’t falter. He found himself back in the hospital, a place familiar to him. This time though, he wasn’t wearing a white coat; he was a patient himself. Learn more.

A Telehealth Appointment May Have Saved Jamila; A Stroke Altered Her Life

Jamila Taylor had been grappling with the immense weight of her responsibilities both personally and professionally, juggling her duties as an attorney, a Washington state representative, and caring for her mother and twin brother who were struggling with chronic health issues. On May 6, 2025, the unimaginable happened as she joined a routine virtual appointment with her therapist. Learn more.

Building Pathways to Healthcare: Virginia Mason Franciscan Health's Workforce Commitment

In late April, Kitsap-area high school students traded their typical school day for a hands-on exploration of healthcare careers at the 2026 Healthcare Career Expo. A collaborative effort by Olympic College, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, and a variety of community partners, the event brought together passionate local healthcare professionals to provide invaluable insights into diverse fields. Learn more.

Rethinking Stroke: A Growing Concern Beyond Older Adults

There was once a belief that stroke was something to worry about only in older individuals, but recent trends indicate a shift. New data reveals a surge in stroke cases among younger adults, questioning old perceptions and underscoring a critical need for deeper awareness and early intervention across all age groups. Learn more.

"I was Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired": Chris’ Incredible Weight Loss Journey

In 2023, Chris made the decision to meet with the Weight Management team at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) in Silverdale. VMFH’s Center for Weight Management offers a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to weight management. Their team includes bariatric surgeons, obesity medicine specialists, and registered dietitians. Learn more.

Deep Brain Stimulation: New Hope for Those Living with Tremors

Barbara Cruz first noticed a small tremor in her hands when she was in her mid twenties. When she would hold a glass with a long stem, it would shake slightly between her fingers, sloshing the liquid inside. She knew what tremors looked like, so it wasn’t a shock when the shaking began, but it made her heart sink. Learn more.

Game-Changing Technology Means Earlier Lung Cancer Detection, Lives Saved

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is now home to a powerful new tool in the fight against lung cancer. The state-of-the-art device assists with the expedited diagnosis of lung cancer at its earliest stages, leading to more immediate treatment, improving patients' chances of survival. Learn more.

Is it Back Pain … or Something More? Two Spine Surgeons Weigh In

Ever felt that nagging ache in your lower back after a long day at the desk? Or maybe a sharp twinge when reaching for something on a high shelf? If so, you're definitely not alone. Back pain is a silent epidemic, affecting millions of people at some point in their lives. It can be frustrating, debilitating and often leaves individuals wondering, "Is this just a passing ache, or is something more serious going on?" Learn more.

A Faulty Heart Valve Brought Them Together; Hockey Connected Them

When 46-year-old Clayton Brennan arrived at the hockey rink on May 6, 2025, the day felt like any other. He laced up his hockey skates and joined his team on the ice. Clayton took up hockey as an adult, and he quickly fell in love with the sport. Learn more.

Colon Cancer in Young Adults: It's Time We Talked (and Acted) About a Rising Concern

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and while colon cancer has traditionally been associated with older adults, there's a troubling and urgent trend raising concern: colon cancer is on the rise in young people, and far too often, it’s caught too late. Learn more.

Protect your heart this heart month: Know your risk, take action

This February, as we paint our communities red for Heart Month, we're reminded of the incredible importance of heart health. Amidst the vibrant signs of solidarity, there’s a crucial message: preventing a heart attack isn’t just about reacting to chest pain when it strikes; it’s about how recognizing your silent risk could save your life – and the lives of those you love – long before it ever becomes a crisis. Learn more.

Cal Raleigh Makes Special Visit to St. Joseph Medical Center’s Tiniest Patients

A special visitor recently made his way through the halls of St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma. As he turned the corner to enter the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), nurses applauded and held up signs, their faces beaming with excitement. Cal Raleigh, Seattle Mariners catcher, wanted to bring joy to patients and staff before heading to Arizona for Spring Training. Learn more.

Is Your Wearable Device Trying to Tell You Something? Understanding Your Heart Rate and When to Talk to Your Doctor

Wearable devices give a brief window into personal health, tracking things like heart rate, sleep, steps and more, but for many consumers, the data can feel daunting. Learn more.

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Hospitals Spread Holiday Cheer

The holiday spirit came alive across Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) hospitals this season, transforming spaces of healing with cheer, comfort, and unexpected joy. Our dedicated staff went above and beyond, weaving festive magic into the daily routines of patients and colleagues alike. Learn more.  

Defying the Odds: Laser Therapy Offers New Hope for Brain Tumor Patients

Molly was initially diagnosed with breast cancer after unexpectedly discovering a lump. Unfortunately, breast cancer was only the beginning. Molly underwent chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery, followed by more chemotherapy. Then, one day, during the height of the pandemic in July 2020, she suffered a seizure at work. Learn more.  

The Power of a Black Box: Reclaiming Health for Millions of Women

One month ago today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) made a landmark decision that is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for millions of women. The FDA removed the broad "black box" warnings from estrogen-containing products used for Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and the Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). Learn more.  

Seattle Kraken Team Shares Moments of Connection, Hope at St. Anne Hospital

The Seattle Kraken hockey team took an afternoon away from the ice to make a special visit to patients and staff at St. Anne Hospital in Burien. The visit coincided with "Hockey Fights Cancer," a campaign supported by Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and the Seattle Kraken to help raise awareness about the importance of cancer screenings and early detection during the month of November. Learn more.  

Breast Cancer Rates Increasing, but There is Good News

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the U.S. It accounts for about 30% of all cancers in women each year. Toni Roberts, MD, PhD, FACP, the Breast Cancer Program director at St. Michael Medical Center, said there is good news. Learn more.

80% of Lung Cancer Screenings Missed Each Year, but Why?

The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that about 1 in 5 cancer deaths are due to lung cancer, more than colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. Early detection improves survival rates and John Howington, MD, a thoracic surgeon at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH), says there is more we can do to save lives. Learn more.

Ray’s Story of Hope and Healing Amidst Pancreatic Cancer

If you find a small sasquatch figurine at Virginia Mason Medical Center (VMMC) in Seattle with an inspirational quote scrawled on the base of the tiny statue’s stand, there’s a good chance 70-year-old Ray George placed it there. He won’t confirm or deny it was him, but his chuckle reading off the quotes hand-written on the bottom is what truly matters. Learn more.

Hands-On Health Care: High School Students Explore Careers at St. Anne Hospital

Earlier this year, Highline Public Schools and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) launched a new high school health sciences program providing students with invaluable hands-on career training. This past October, that shared vision came to life at St. Anne Hospital in Burien. Learn more.

The Seattle Seahawks Jake Bobo Delivers a Game Ball to Virginia Mason Medical Center

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jake Bobo is used to stepping onto the football field to the thunderous cheers of a stadium full of people. This week, he found himself carrying a gameday ball in a much different setting-through the quiet halls of Virginia Mason Medical Center.

The Seahawks partnered with VMFH for the NFL's Crucial Catch initiative which helps raise awareness for cancer, promotes cancer screening events, and raises funds to help patients cover the incidental costs of cancer treatment. Learn more.

VMFH Trauma Service Empowers Area Schools with Stop the Bleed Training & Kit Delivery

Unless you’re medically trained, it’s difficult to imagine having the knowledge and power to save another’s life. That is the central message and mission of the nationwide Stop the Bleed initiative.

Created by the American College of Surgeons, Stop the Bleed aims to educate and empower community members to learn life-saving skills through hands-on training and gain access to the tools they might need when every second counts. Learn more.

Marathon Runner Hopes to Inspire Others to Get Screened for Prostate Cancer: “It was a Wake up Call”

Steve Morrison, a 56-year-old marathon runner with a clean bill of health, wasn’t expecting any surprises at a check-up with his primary care physician at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH). He scheduled the visit after his family's encouragement, simply because it had been a while – not because he had any health concerns. Learn more.

A Legacy of Service Unveiled at St. Elizabeth Hospital

A beautiful bronze statue, honoring St. Elizabeth of Hungary, now stands tall at St. Elizabeth Hospital (SEH) in Enumclaw. With a royal crown adorning her head, a basket of bread held under one arm, and roses emerging from her cape, the statue represents her long legacy of service and the legacy of service of the SEH team. Learn more.

From Weight Loss to Race Day: Chelsea's Unbelievable 100K Race After Losing 150lbs

When Chelsea Richardson first started running, she said she felt embarrassed. At the end of her quiet residential street, a fire hydrant perched resolutely in the distance. It was about a quarter of a mile from her driveway, and it served as a marker - a goal just out of reach. She would lace up her running shoes and jog toward it. Learn more.

Breast Cancer Survivor Helps Fund Wigs for Cancer Patients

Crystal Rowe was only 32 years old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer. She was a nurse and young mother at the time, and the diagnosis turned her world upside down. All of a sudden, doctor appointments, radiation, chemotherapy, and the uncertainty of cancer filled her days. Learn more.

Back in the Game: Donna Alderton's Spine Surgery Comeback

In September 2024, Donna Alderton was tormented by debilitating pain. It began in her neck, radiating down her back and spread to her left arm. She tried to mask the pain with over-the-counter medication, but it continued to worsen over time. Eventually, her once vibrant and active lifestyle ceased to exist. Learn more.

Giving Life Back to People with Atrial Fibrillation

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is described as an irregular, often rapid and intermittent heartbeat. When some people experience AFib, they often note a quivering sense in their chest. September is AFib Awareness Month, and it’s a condition Robert King, MD, a cardiovascular surgeon at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, is passionate about. Learn more.

Community Carnival Prepares Bremerton Students for New School Year

On a sunny Saturday in August, Bremerton families gathered at the fifth annual “Back to School Carnival” to get ready  for the upcoming school year. From the time the doors opened, the event was bustling with families picking up backpacks filled with school supplies and stopping by for a visit with local physicians and dental providers for back-to-school education, exams and immunizations. Learn more.

Pierce County Students Prepare for Community Health Careers

Twenty two high school students from across Tacoma Public Schools kicked off their summer break on a mission: Exploring the vital role of community health workers (CHWs) through Virginia Mason Franciscan Health’s (VMFH) new training program. Learn more.

Neil Hampson, MD, and the Heart of Hyperbaric Medicine at Virginia Mason Medical Center

Neil Hampson, MD, made the cross country journey to Seattle and joined the team at Virginia Mason Medical Center (VMMC) in 1988. At the time, he was a young physician and eager to begin his budding career at a world-class medical center. What he didn’t know was that he would one day become a world leader in hyperbaric medicine and put VMMC on the map for this highly-specialized medical care. Learn more.

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health Honors Health Care Heroes: Rudy King & Kelsy Smith

This year, the Puget Sound Business Journal honored 20 individuals as Health Care Heroes including Rudy King, emergency room navigator at St. Francis Hospital in Federal Way, and Kelsy Smith, resident RN at St. Elizabeth Hospital in Enumclaw. Learn more.

Celebrating 25 Years of Welcoming New Life: The Family Birth Center at St. Michael Medical Center

For 25 years, the Family Birth Center at St. Michael Medical Center in Silverdale has been a cornerstone of the community, welcoming over 45,000 babies into the world. A celebration of its past, present and future was recently held bringing together all who have created a special place for birthing mothers over the years. Learn more.

Cal Raleigh Surprises Patients at Virginia Mason Medical Center

Bob Bissett, 57, said today was a day he will never forget. When Cal Raleigh, a catcher for the Seattle Mariners, walked into his hospital room, his face lit up with joy. Raleigh is having a historic season, and is arguably one of the best hitters in Major League Baseball. He has hit 33 home runs this year alone. Learn more.

How Community Health Workers are Bridging Health Care Gaps

When a person visits their primary care physician at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, the health and wellbeing of the individual is the physician's primary focus. They aim to care for the whole person and understand all factors impacting their health but up until recently, many of these factors are out of the medical care team’s control. Learn more.

Keely Shares Her Cervical Cancer Journey, a “Cautionary Tale” for Others

Keely McDowell says her story is a “cautionary tale,” and one she hopes will help other women. Keely said for a long time, she dismissed her symptoms. She wasn’t initially worried about the abnormal bleeding she was experiencing, but she now understands it may have been a sign something was wrong. Learn more.

Andrew’s Story Highlights a New Trend, Stroke in Young People

Andrew Salmon was 31 years old when the unthinkable happened. Like many people, Andrew thought strokes only occur in older individuals. Then one day, it happened to him. Learn more.

A Year After a Fatal Motorcycle Accident, Trevor is Defying the Odds

When Faith Jackson and Paul Jackson walked into the Emergency Department at St. Joseph Medical Center in Tacoma on Feb. 1, 2024, they were in complete anguish. Their son, Trevor, had been in a horrific motorcycle accident. Learn more.

Healthcare Career Camp Inspires Next Generation

On April 24, more than 250 high school students from across Kitsap County packed into the Marvin Williams Recreation Center to learn all about the different health care career opportunities during the second annual Healthcare Career Camp, hosted by Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, Olympic College, and MWRC. Learn more.

A Mother-Son Bond: Now Closer Than Ever After Kidney Transplant

When Jason Houck saw his mother’s number pop up on his phone on his drive home from work, he knew something was wrong. When he answered the call, his mother was crying. He could hear the emotion in her voice. Learn more.

Former VMFH Resident Leads Life-Saving Work in Africa

Nearly 20 years ago, Gregory Sund, MD,  walked the halls of Virginia Mason Medical Center as an anesthesiology resident. At the time, he didn’t realize how far the skills he was gaining would travel or how big of a difference he would make improving health care thousands of miles away. Learn more.

Living in the Moment, Chika Hopes Her Colon Cancer Story Helps Others

In March, Chika celebrated a birthday she didn’t know if she’d get to see. Surrounded by beautiful blooming flowers, Chika held a cake in her hands, a gold 40 sitting atop the creamy frosting–and she blew out two candles. It’s a milestone she’s incredibly grateful to have reached–and one she doesn’t take for granted. Learn more.

Brooke’s Greatest Adventure was Giving the Gift of Life

When Patrick Hannigan and Brooke Edwards met as freshman at Whitman College, a friendship blossomed. The two immediately bonded over a shared love of the outdoors. From hiking to kayaking, skiing to mountaineering, their passions fueled their friendship and forged a deep connection between them. Learn more.

SeaTac Resident Finds Comfort and Care Close to Home at St. Anne Cancer Center

Shirley Gile is a firm believer that attitude is everything. Her positive outlook in life keeps her going each day. The 79-year-old was diagnosed with lung cancer last spring, following a history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Gile was referred to the St. Anne Cancer Center and soon met medical director for oncology, Manoj Agarwal, MD. Learn more.

Seattle Kraken Bring Joy to Patients, Make Special Visit to Kraken Fans

The Seattle Kraken made a special visit to Virginia Mason Medical Center, surprising patients, visitors and staff. Two Kraken players, Ben Meyers and Andre Burakovsky, along with Buoy, walked through the hospital’s halls, signing autographs and taking photos with fans and bringing joy to everyone they encountered. Learn more.

How Susan Got Her Life Back After Heart Disease

Susan Jackels, 78, knew about heart disease. Many of her family members were affected by some form of heart disease, so she saw its impact firsthand. What she didn’t realize was her risk for developing it. Learn more.

Tips for Better Heart Health

In honor of February being American Heart Month, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) cardiovascular care specialists have rounded up tips for better heart health. As the month wraps up, they are sharing tips people can incorporate into their lives year round. Learn more.

Teaming up to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Events, a Unique Screening Event Saves Lives

In 2023, Albert Lee IV was at summer camp. He was playing volleyball with his friends when his heart started racing. The odd sensation was over within a couple of seconds, like sporadic subtle out of sync beats. Albert texted his mother later that day and told her about the odd feeling. “Albert has always had a yearly physical,” said his mother. “It’s required as a student athlete, and no heart rhythm issues had ever been detected.” Learn more.

Seahawks Wide Receiver Tyler Lockett Visits Patients and Fans at St. Joseph Medical Center

On her 77th day in the hospital and after completing 35 radiation treatments, Gillian (Gill) Porter was equally overjoyed and relieved. She was on the road to recovery and one step closer to returning to her home, longtime neighbors and friends in Buckley, Washington. Learn more.

From Volunteer to Leader: Kristin Jarangue Reflects on Journey at St. Francis Hospital

In many ways Kristin Jarangue RN, has grown up at St. Francis Hospital – from volunteering in the nursing administration department while awaiting her nursing license, to taking on her current role as clinical services manager. Learn more.

Hannah Celebrates Her “New Life” a Year After Bariatric Surgery

Sitting on the mantel above the fireplace in Hannah Hallock’s living room is a framed family portrait. She loves the photo of her smiling family, but something about it makes her heart pang with sadness. In November 2023, right before the photo was taken, Hallock embarked on a journey that would change her life–and now that photo doesn’t quite match how she sees herself today. Learn more.

Sara’s Year of “Yes” After Rare Lung Cancer Diagnosis

When the phone rang on a Friday afternoon, Sara Ingersoll’s stomach dropped. “This can’t be good,” she remembers thinking to herself. On the phone was Dr. Luke Seaburg, an interventional pulmonologist at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH). Results had come back from a biopsy, and Ingersoll knew something was wrong. It was cancer, and not just any cancer, a rare form of lung cancer. Learn more.

Critical Care Nurse and Seahawks Dancer Spreads Holiday Cheer at Virginia Mason Medical Center

Normally, Meghan Horn would be tending to patients in the Critical Care Unit at Virginia Mason Medical Center. This last week, she traded scrubs for her Seahawks “snowflake” dance attire to spread holiday cheer to patients. Learn more.

Minimally invasive Mitral Valve Surgery Gave Mrs. Claus a New Life

“Thank you for fixing our Grammie.” 

That’s the note 71-year-old Cheri Robinson’s grandchildren made for Craig Hampton, MD, FACS, a board certified cardiothoracic surgeon at St. Joseph Medical Center (SJMC) in Tacoma. After Robinson underwent a successful minimally invasive mitral valve surgery in November 2023, she brought the handwritten note with her to a follow-up appointment with Dr. Hampton. Learn more.

Virginia Mason Franciscan Health and Seattle Kraken Team up to Fight Cancer 

St. Anne Cancer Center has become like a second home to Katie Sanchez. In April 2024, Sanchez noticed a lump on her neck.

“‘You feel that, right?’” Sanchez remembers asking her husband. “I knew something wasn’t right.”

Sanchez got an ultrasound and a biopsy which revealed the unimaginable. She said the world stopped in its place when she heard the words ‘stage three non-Hodgkin lymphoma.’ Learn more.

One Man’s Journey Through Breast Cancer 

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention, less than 1% of all breast cancer occurs in males. Jonathan Lyons is one of those rare cases. When he developed a lump in his left breast, he brushed it off as a swollen sweat gland for several months. He had no idea that  it could be breast cancer. Learn more.

A Simple Question, a Life-saving Screening

A simple question at Frank Savereux’s annual exam may have saved his life. At 51 years old, he went to his yearly check-up, and his primary care provider asked him: “Would you like to do a PSA screening today?” Savereux’s immediate response was, “What’s that?” Learn more.

Seahawks Boye Mafe delivers Crucial Catch game ball to St. Francis Hospital staff

Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe delivered a “Crucial Catch” game ball to health care providers at St. Francis Hospital, recognizing their vital role in early cancer detection. The Crucial Catch initiative, supported by theSeahawks and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH), aims to raise awareness about the importance of early detection through the NFL's nationwide program. Learn more.

A Ride to Save a Life

Mike Cullum and Brenda Cullum love riding motorcycles. Together, they have been on countless rides, but their most recent one held special meaning. On Sept. 21 at Renegade Classics in Pasco, Wash., surrounded by a community of motorcycle enthusiasts, Mike and Brenda revved their engines, kicked up their kickstands, and hit the road for a good cause. Learn more.
   
   
   

The Sky's the Limit for the Loftons

In 2023, Jason and Jules Lofton attended a barbeque with friends. After the celebration, Jason’s phone pinged. It was a notification from Facebook. A photo of him had been uploaded to the social media platform. When he looked at the photo of himself with friends, his smile suddenly faded away. Jason turned to Jules, handed her the phone and asked, “is this what I look like?” Learn more.
   
   
   

Build 2 Lead Recognized for Transforming Lives of South King County Youth

Build 2 Lead (B2L) is at the forefront of providing youth of color the tools they need to change systems and build skills for the future. Formed during COVID-19 as health disparities widened in our region and across the country – B2L set the goal of creating non-traditional pathways specifically for BIPOC youth through programs and partnerships. Learn more.
   
   
   

All Aboard: VMFH Spine Surgeon Helps Deliver Healthy Baby on Washington State Ferry

In life, you can't always predict every twist and turn. Dr. Eric Varley, a spine surgeon at Virginia Mason, experiences this life lesson nearly everyday – both in – and outside of the OR. Learn more.
   
   
   

Finding Hope in Community: Carl Moore’s ALS Journey

Carl Moore had never heard the term ALS - or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis - until he was diagnosed 30 years ago at age 32. Before his official diagnosis, Carl experienced several symptoms over the course of 18 months, but hadn’t put them together as a cause for great concern. Learn more.
   
   
   

Celebrating a Life of Service: Sister Jude Mary Connelly, OSF

Sister Jude Mary Connelly played a vital role at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, serving her team members and community for decades. Her roles spanned from nurse to chaplain, administrator, member of the board of directors, and more. On March 28, 2024, she passed away at the age of 83. Learn more.

David Nosacka named CFO of the Year by PSBJ

David Nosacka, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health (VMFH) and CommonSpirit Health Northwest Region Chief Financial Officer (CFO), has been recognized as CFO of the year by the Puget Sound Business Journal. Learn more.

Nurses Throw Graduation Party for Mom in the Hospital–Then Another for Her Twins

The medical team at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health’s Birth Centers can add another title to their resumes: party planners. They recently threw a graduation ceremony in the hospital for a mother who earned her PhD just three days before giving birth to twins. Learn more.

Unique Fellowship Gives Residents the Opportunity to be on Set of Grey’s Anatomy

For about six weeks, two Virginia Mason Franciscan Health residents, Anna Melio and Oriyomi Alimi (pictured on right), participated in the Grey’s Anatomy Communications Fellowship Program in Los Angeles, a unique program that gives residents the opportunity to work alongside Grey’s Anatomy writers. Learn more.

Carefully Crafted, Centered in Patient Care

When you walk into the Jane Thompson Russell Cancer Care Center at St. Anthony Hospital, warm wood ascends up the tall walls, inviting you in. Take an immediate left upon entering the Cancer Care Center, and you’re welcomed into a space of healing – a reprieve from chemotherapy and infusions. Learn more.

Tips for Preventing Stroke and Seeking Help if it Occurs

May is Stroke Awareness Month, and in recognition, the Stroke Center at Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is sharing information about stroke, including preventative tips, what to do if you or a loved one have a stroke, and services VMFH provides to patients across the region.  Learn more.

Hands-on robotics experience sparks students interest in health care

How does unwrapping a Starburst wrapper relate to robotic surgery? It doesn't at first glance, but for a group of 25 students from Thomas Jefferson High School and Evergreen Middle School, bringing those two experiences together ignited a sense of wonder and helped them see themselves in a surgeon's shoes. Learn more.
     
     

Lenny’s Transplant Story - The story of how two gifts altered his life

Two gifts have altered Lenny Price’s life. The first was given to him in 1974, when he was 12 years old. It was a beautiful, brass saxophone. As soon as his little fingers played methodically along the keys, he fell in love, and a dream took flight. He knew from that moment on he wanted to be a professional saxophone player. Learn more.