Better You Blog
Enjoying the Lakes as Fall Approaches: Staying Safe from Waterborne Illnesses
As the leaves begin to turn and the air gets crisper, many of us are still drawn to the beauty and tranquility of Minnesota's lakes. Whether you're enjoying a final swim, paddling in a kayak, or simply wading along the shoreline, it's important to be aware of...
Sun Safety: Protecting Yourself and Your Family
By: Marlee Morrison, CHI St. Joseph's Health Community Health Director The rates of skin cancer are increasing, and the more time you spend in the sun without protection, the more at risk you are. It's really important to protect yourself and your family from UVA and...
Back-to-School Blueprint: Setting the Stage for a Successful Year
By: Amy Morris, PHN, Family Home Visiting Coordinator Summer's carefree days will be winding down before we know it, and the school bells are about to ring! While the shift from sun-soaked adventures to classrooms and homework can feel jarring, a little preparation...
Making a Splash Safely: Water Safety Tips from a Minnesota Native
By: Beth Hirt, PA-C Welcome to the land of 10,000 lakes! As the summer sun shines and the temperatures rise, there's no better place to be than enjoying the refreshing waters of our beautiful state. But with so much water around us, it's crucial to prioritize water...
Sun’s Out, Safety On: Skin Cancer Awareness Month with Dr. Dante Beretta
By: Dante Beretta, MD May is Skin Cancer Awareness Month, a crucial time to remind ourselves about the importance of protecting our skin and being vigilant about potential changes. As your physician, Dr. Dante Beretta, I want to share some essential tips to help you...
Don’t Let Woodticks Bug You: A Guide to Staying Safe This Season
By: Scott Maanum, MD Spring has sprung, and with it comes the joy of spending time outdoors. Hiking, gardening, camping – the possibilities are endless! But with the warmer weather also comes the return of a less welcome guest: the woodtick, also known as the American...
Sneeze Less, Enjoy More: Find Allergy Relief Now!
Spring is a time for blooming flowers, warmer weather, and enjoying the great outdoors. But for many, it's also a season of relentless sneezing, itchy eyes, and a general feeling of misery. If you're one of the millions suffering from spring allergies, you don't have...
Ava’s Journey Back to the Court
An ACL tear is a common yet devastating injury for athletes. For Ava Welk, a senior at Walker-Hackensack-Akeley High School in Walker, Minnesota, it happened during a Junior Olympics volleyball tournament on Mother's Day, May 12, 2024. While blocking, Ava landed on...
The Importance of Childhood Immunizations
Marlee Morrison, PHN, CHI St. Joseph’s Community Health Director The resurgence of vaccine-preventable diseases has raised concerns throughout the United States. In Hubbard County, childhood immunization rates have fallen. The percentage of children vaccinated for...
Planning for the Future: Ensuring Your Healthcare Wishes Are Heard
As we navigate the journey of life, it's crucial to ensure our healthcare wishes are known and respected, especially during challenging times. One of the most profound gifts we can give our loved ones is clarity about our end-of-life decisions. This is where advanced...