McLaren Flint

It's been a hot summer, and there is nothing better when the heat is on than something sweet and frozen. The good news is, there are plenty of healthier options available. "Aim for no sugar added popsicles (Outshine makes these) or even a sorbet/Italian ice rather than regular ice cream, to cut down on saturated fats, which is more heart healthy," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. "Better yet, make your own blended fruit popsicles with the family for a fun activity."

Dr. Nicole Franklin, PsyD, LP, ABPP, assistant medical director at the McLaren Bariatric and Metabolic Institute has just received a prestigious appointment. Dr. Franklin is now the chair of the Integrated Health Section Multidisciplinary Care Committee of the American Society of Bariatric and Metabolic Surgery (ASBMS). The committee is tasked with providing evidence-based support for the role of team members in long-term success of bariatric surgery patients. The goal is to define optimal approaches to patient care. Congratulations and many thanks to Dr. Franklin.

A routine screening revealed Marvin Tate's PSA (prostate specific antigen) level was extremely elevated. A biopsy and further screening revealed Marvin had stage 4 prostate cancer. He was not a candidate for surgery, but radiation oncologist Dr. Brooke Spencer told Marvin proton therapy would be an excellent option for him. Find out how his faith, family, friends, and proton gave him the tools he needed to take on cancer at the link below.

Congratulations to patient account representative Angela Toliver, McLaren Flint's July Outstanding Employee of the Month. For more than 20 years, Angela has been a go-to person on the outpatient imaging team. Her colleagues know they can count on her to go the extra mile and provide support and empathy to patients and their families. "Angela's face is often the first one patients see when they come in, and she has the smile they remember long after they leave,” said her nominator. “She treats everyone with compassion and kindness. You can always count on her, and she is an exceptional worker.”

Dr. Barbara Wolf, who served as the McLaren Health Care Director of Behavioral Health Education and Physician Well-Being, was posthumously recognized in Crain’s Detroit Business’ list of Health Care Heroes for 2025. Recognized as a Corporate Achievements Hero, she spent nearly 30 years at McLaren Flint and McLaren Health Care. To read more about Dr. Wolf's legacy follow the link.

Try making your favorite summer pasta salads with either whole wheat pasta or a bean-based pasta (like Banza or Brami, for example.) These are higher fiber choices, which means you get more nutrients. "Having more beans or wheat in your pasta means you are getting more protein, as well. This will make your pasta salad a main course rather than a side," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. "Don't forget your fresh veggies and dressing to top it off."

Mammograms are a standard screening radiology exam recommended for asymptomatic women over the age of 40 for early detection of breast cancer- the most common cancer among women. Recommended yearly mammograms helps detect breast cancer early, which often means less invasive treatment and significantly improved odds of survival. So, what happens if you get a call back from your screening mammogram, and further testing is recommended? Learn more at the link below.

If you are using a GLP-1 to aid your health journey, it is important to remember to eat enough protein. What is important to help sustain your muscle mass. You can get the protein you need with a balance of meat, eggs, and plant-based proteins. "Consuming beans, lentils, lean meats like chicken and fish can all help in preserving your muscles," said McLaren Flint clinical dietitian Elexia Sylvester. "Aim for at least 46 grams of protein per day for females, and 56 grams of protein for males."

When you check in to McLaren Flint, chances are good, Mary O'Brien will be in Patient Registration to greet you. She's been a volunteer at McLaren Flint since 2008 and truly loves working with patients and their families. Find out why Mary enjoys the work so much and what drove her to start volunteering at the link below. https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/g_W9heNq

When Brian Brandau was diagnosed with stage 3 melanoma, his doctor in Cheboygan referred him to the Karmanos Cancer Institute at McLaren Flint. Brian and his wife, Martha, were concerned about where they were going to stay in Flint during his treatments. One of Brian's oncologists suggested the Hospitality House, and the couple says the accommodations and support they found at the House have been game changing during this difficult journey. Find out what makes the House so special for out of town patients and their families at the link below. https://xmrrwallet.com/cmx.plnkd.in/gf6P3B5q