In this video, you will learn more about Rathbun Agency.

For over 65 years, they have been providing quality insurance service to the Lansing area, and we get to meet and hear from some of the people you will meet if you do business with them.

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Nubian, a retail store focused on Nubian fashion and culture, hosted a fashion show in November 2024 aimed to unite the community and bust down cultural barriers through the power of fashion.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive health condition that impacts millions worldwide. With its often subtle onset, early detection is critical for managing the disease and improving patient outcomes. Marie Haverkamp, a family nurse practitioner at Cass Study Family Practice, has been at the forefront of efforts to strengthen CKD detection. Through her work with the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative, the Michigan Center for Rural Health, and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, Marie has gained valuable insights into the importance of early CKD diagnosis and how technology can play a key role in saving lives.

### Participating in the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative

Marie Haverkamp has long understood the vital need for early detection of CKD. As a family nurse practitioner, she has actively participated in the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative, a partnership aimed at improving CKD detection and management across Michigan. Working closely with organizations like the Michigan Center for Rural Health and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, Marie has helped promote strategies that empower healthcare providers and patients.

According to Marie, “Early detection of CKD gives patients more options when diagnosed in the earlier stages.” This proactive approach allows healthcare providers to intervene sooner, slowing the disease’s progression and offering patients a range of treatment options.

### Leveraging Technology for Better CKD Detection

One of the standout achievements at Cass Study Family Practice has been implementing advanced technology in their approach to CKD management. Marie has spearheaded automated alerts within the clinic’s Electronic Health Records (EHR) system. These alerts are specifically designed to flag patients who are at higher risk for CKD, including those with diabetes or hypertension.

The alerts prompt practitioners to conduct critical tests such as estimating the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and measuring urine creatinine albumin ratios. Marie ensured that the clinic staff received proper training to respond swiftly to these alerts, enhancing the overall efficiency of the CKD detection process. The result is more accurate early diagnoses and a streamlined experience for both healthcare providers and patients.

### Valuable Resources for CKD Management

Another key resource that Marie emphasizes in her work is the “How to Manage CKD” handout from the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. This resource offers essential guidelines for managing CKD, including initial screening procedures, detection criteria, and classification systems that help clinicians better understand and treat the disease at various stages.

These materials have become essential tools for Marie and her colleagues, enabling them to approach CKD with greater confidence and expertise. By equipping healthcare providers with such valuable resources, Marie believes improving the quality of care and treatment options for patients at all stages of CKD is possible.

### Early Detection: A Cornerstone for Better Patient Outcomes

The Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative’s focus on early detection reminds us of the significant impact that proactive healthcare can have. Identifying CKD in its early stages allows healthcare providers to intervene with targeted treatments that can slow disease progression, enhance patients’ quality of life, and provide more options for managing the condition.

Marie highlights several key benefits of early CKD diagnosis:
More Treatment Options: Early Diagnosis of CKD opens up a range of potential management strategies to slow the disease’s progression.
Patient Education: Early detection provides an opportunity to educate patients about their condition, empowering them to be more involved in their care.
– **Improved Quality of Life:** With timely intervention, patients can often experience fewer symptoms and maintain a higher quality of life.

### What Is CKD and Who Is at Risk?

CKD is a gradual decline in kidney function, which impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood. This condition is typically diagnosed through tests like GFR and urine creatinine albumin ratios—measures that are becoming more commonplace in practices like Marie’s.

High-risk groups for CKD include individuals with:
– Diabetes
– High blood pressure
– A family history of kidney disease

In the early stages of CKD, patients often experience few or no symptoms, which is why early testing and detection are so crucial. However, as the disease progresses, signs may include fatigue, swelling in the ankles and feet, and high blood pressure.

### Conclusion

Marie Haverkamp’s work within the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative highlights the transformative power of early detection of CKD. By partnering with organizations like the Michigan Center for Rural Health and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan and utilizing cutting-edge technology in the form of EHR alerts, Marie is helping to ensure that more patients receive the timely care they need.

Her approach reflects a broader shift in healthcare toward proactive, patient-centered care. By emphasizing the importance of early detection, Marie and her colleagues are improving the immediate and long-term health outcomes for people with CKD.

As Marie herself concludes, “We need to continue emphasizing early detection, as it presents more treatment avenues and better outcomes for patients.” This message underscores the critical role that early diagnosis plays in managing CKD and offers hope for better care and healthier futures for patients everywhere.

In a world where division and challenges often dominate the headlines, stories of connection, love, and giving back shine brightly as beacons of hope. The journey of Michelle Hoffman and Carmen Moultrie-Turner is one such story—a testament to the transformative power of volunteerism, the lasting impact of service, and the deep joy found in making a difference in the lives of others.

**A Blessed Beginning**

Michelle Hoffman’s story starts with a simple yet profound sentiment: “I hit the adoption lottery with my parents and have had such a great life because of my parents.” From the beginning, Michelle’s parents instilled in her the values of service and generosity. One of the most significant moments came when she was just a child. Instead of celebrating the holidays in the typical fashion, her parents dedicated their time to charity.

“No, we’re going to celebrate next week. Daddy and I are going to work.”

This pivotal moment set the foundation for Michelle’s lifelong journey of volunteerism, a path that would lead her to touch countless lives. The family’s decision to serve at local charities, allowing others to be with their families during the holidays, made a lasting impression on Michelle. It was an early lesson in putting others before oneself.

**Growing Up With Volunteerism**

By nine, Michelle was already making a difference in her community. She helped an elderly couple—survivors of the Holocaust—by mowing their lawn and shoveling their snow. As she grew older, her acts of service expanded. Throughout high school, she was actively involved in fundraising efforts and supporting charitable events, always wanting to give back and contribute meaningfully to her community.

**From Small Tasks to Lifelong Passion**

Reflecting on her early experiences with volunteerism, Michelle often recalls how these formative moments shaped her trajectory. Her sense of giving did not end after high school. After graduation, Michelle worked in the for-profit sector but soon realized her true calling lay elsewhere.

“That’s when you know if this is your trajectory, or is this something that’s kind of expected?”

Her heart was drawn to service, and it was a natural shift for her to dedicate over two decades to working in the nonprofit sector, where her passion for helping others truly flourished.

**Leadership at the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing**

Carmen’s commitment to serving others peaked when she became CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing. There, she spent over twenty years guiding and nurturing an organization dedicated to empowering young people. Under her leadership, the Club became a beacon of hope and opportunity for many young lives.

**The Impact of Small Acts**

Carmen has always believed in the power of small acts of kindness and understanding their far-reaching effects. She shares a powerful insight on the impact of ripple of service:

“Some people put a small value on touching a person’s life, but what you don’t understand is if you touch that person’s life, you are touching generations, which changes the dynamic.”

These words encapsulate the idea that a tiny act of service can change not just a single life but generations to come. It is the little things that add up to make a monumental difference.

**A Call to Action: Do It**

Carmen’s message to anyone considering volunteering is simple yet impactful: “Just do it.” She encourages people to take action in a world that often seems filled with excuses and limitations. Even if finding time to volunteer feels difficult, she reminds us that donations are another valuable way to contribute.

**Cultivating a Community of Change**

What stands out in Carmen’s story is not just her journey but the community she has helped foster. It’s a community built on the idea that everyone has a role in improving the world. As Carmen says:

“It’s what brings the community together. Everybody’s doing their part.”

Together, individuals can create a formidable force for change.

**Conclusion**
Their lives exemplify the profound power of volunteerism and the incredible impact one person can have on countless others. Their story reminds us that service isn’t always about grand gestures but often the simple, everyday acts of kindness that can change lives. Whether through volunteering or making donations, their message is clear: Help others in any way you can. Each small effort contributes to building a better world.

Embarking on a journey in medicine isn’t simply about textbooks or hours spent in labs. It’s about passion, perseverance, and personal growth, shaped by the experiences that define one’s life. This is the story of Emily Mathijs, a medical student at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM), whose path to medicine is inspiring and deeply rooted in her desire to give back to her community.

**From Ukraine to a New Beginning**

Emily’s journey began long before she entered a medical school classroom. Born in Ukraine, she and her family immigrated to the United States for a better life. Motivated by the hope of brighter opportunities for their children, Emily’s parents arrived with dreams of a fresh start. The support they received from generous volunteer organizations played a crucial role in their transition to their new home. This early exposure to the power of community service had a lasting impact on Emily.

Since age 10, Emily has been actively involved in volunteer work alongside her mother. Their efforts began with nursing homes and hospitals, where Emily developed a passion for helping others. She said, “My journey started when my parents came from Ukraine. They came here because they wanted a better life for me and my brother.”

**Early Inspirations and the Call to Medicine**

As she grew older, Emily’s desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives evolved into a calling to medicine. Her volunteer experiences in hospitals allowed her to immerse herself in the healthcare world, where she found her true purpose. Inspiration also came from within her family—her brother, a pioneer in their family’s medical journey, became the first doctor in their household. Emily’s admiration for her brother’s accomplishments only fueled her medical career ambition.

**Overcoming Barriers and Embracing Opportunities**

Emily’s story is not only one of ambition but also of overcoming significant historical barriers. As a member of a Jewish family, she was deeply aware of the struggles her ancestors faced in Ukraine, where Jews were once barred from entering medical school. The opportunity to study medicine in the United States filled Emily with immense gratitude and reinforced her sense of purpose. She reflects, “Coming from Ukraine, my parents are Jewish, and Jews were not allowed to go into medical school at that time.”

**Choosing Osteopathic Medicine**

In her search for a medical path aligned with her values, Emily found osteopathic medicine to be the perfect fit. The holistic approach to healthcare resonated deeply with her, focusing on treating the whole person rather than just addressing symptoms. Emily’s decision to pursue osteopathic medicine at MSUCOM became a turning point in her educational journey. One of her first experiences, working with Detroit Street Care, provided invaluable exposure to the diverse and vulnerable populations needing compassionate care.

**Real-World Challenges and Personal Triumphs**

Emily’s passion for medicine was tested during her internal medicine rotations. There, she encountered a 17-year-old Hispanic immigrant from Venezuela suffering from a severe leg infection. Language barriers complicated his access to medical care. Still, Emily’s ability to communicate in Spanish became a crucial bridge, enabling her to advocate for him and ensure he received the necessary treatment.

Her efforts paid off when, months later, the patient sent her pictures of his healed leg, a testament to her commitment and the impact of compassionate care. Emily says, “Just that little extra touch can sometimes honestly change a patient’s life.”

**Looking Ahead: The Future in Orthopedic Surgery**

With her medical education underway, Emily is focused on her dream of specializing in orthopedic surgery. As she moves through the application process, she acknowledges the invaluable support she has received from the Michigan Osteopathic College Foundation (MOCF) scholarship. The scholarship has made her dream of becoming a doctor more attainable and affirmed her commitment to giving back to others.

**Giving Back in Gratitude**

For Emily, her journey is not solely about personal achievements. As a wife and mother, she understands the broader impact of the support she’s received. Emily looks forward to paying it forward and helping others achieve their dreams just as she has been helped. “I’m truly grateful for what the scholarship has done for me and look forward to paying it forward to others when I have the means.”

**Conclusion**

Emily Mathijs’ story powerfully reminds us that the path to medicine is more than just an academic pursuit. It is a journey driven by empathy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Emily’s dedication to overcoming obstacles and advocating for patients serves as a beacon of inspiration for future medical professionals. Through her story, we are reminded that medicine is not merely a career but a vocation that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.

Bringing a newborn into the world is a joyful and life-changing experience. However, new parents often face various health screenings and check-ups, many of which can feel overwhelming. Among these, the newborn hearing screening is one of the most important. Early identification of hearing issues is crucial for a child’s development, and the **1-3-6 EDHI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention)** collaborative goal ensures hearing loss is detected and addressed as quickly as possible. In this blog post, UnoDeuce Multimedia explores the significance of the **1-3-6 framework**, its importance, and how it can impact both parents and their newborns.

### What is the 1-3-6 EDHI Framework?

The **1-3-6 framework** is a nationwide initiative to ensure early detection and intervention for hearing loss in newborns. It provides a structured timeline to guarantee that children with hearing impairments receive the necessary care at the right time. Here’s what the 1-3-6 goal entails:

– **1 Month**: Every newborn should undergo a hearing screening within the first month of life.
– **3 Months**: If hearing loss is indicated, it should be diagnosed by the age of three months.
– **6 Months**: Early intervention services should begin in six months if hearing loss is confirmed.

This collaborative initiative involves healthcare providers, Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EDHI) programs, and early intervention services to ensure that newborns with hearing loss are supported promptly.

### Why Early Detection is Vital

The first month of life is critical for a child’s development, and newborn hearing screenings are the first step in detecting potential hearing issues. Identifying hearing loss early helps to avoid delays in communication, cognitive development, and overall growth. Early screening leads to diagnostic tests and referrals, ensuring your child receives the necessary support without delay.

The 1-3-6 framework emphasizes that early intervention is essential for a child’s development. If hearing loss is diagnosed by three months, and intervention begins by six months, the child has a much better chance of achieving key developmental milestones such as:

– **Communication**: Early intervention supports developing verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
Early Literacy: Children with early hearing issues can still develop strong literacy skills with proper support.
– **Language Acquisition**: Early intervention helps children acquire language skills vital for social and cognitive growth.

An early start ensures the child can keep pace with their peers, bridging any potential gaps caused by hearing challenges.

### Real-Life Impact: A Parent’s Perspective

For many parents, the newborn hearing screening can come as a surprise. One parent shared their experience, saying, *“I didn’t even know the newborn hearing screen existed until he was born. They had done the test thrice, and they said he didn’t pass each time. But they didn’t emphasize how urgent it was.”*

This situation is not uncommon. While navigating the responsibilities of newborn care, many parents may not fully understand the urgency of follow-up screenings. Delays in follow-up testing can affect a child’s development, as timely intervention is critical in supporting language and communication skills. In this case, the family followed up when their child was eight weeks old, but early intervention could have mitigated the impact on developmental milestones.

### The Role of Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers play a vital role in guiding parents through the 1-3-6 process. They must communicate clearly about the newborn hearing screening results and ensure that parents understand the urgency of any follow-up testing. Parents must leave the doctor’s office clearly, understanding why timely action is essential. Phrases like “Don’t worry, but don’t wait” are much more helpful than reassuring parents that everything is fine.

Providers should also help parents navigate the next steps by connecting them with resources such as audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and early intervention services. These professionals can provide a structured plan to address the child’s needs.

### Navigating Early Intervention

The early intervention process can seem daunting once a hearing loss diagnosis is confirmed. However, the 1-3-6 framework ensures that families are not alone in this process. A network of specialists and support systems is available to help guide parents through the following steps. Early intervention services include therapies and communication support, which help children develop the skills they need to succeed.

### Key Takeaways for Parents

– **No Panic, Prompt Action**: Understand the urgency of follow-ups, but don’t panic. Be proactive about scheduling your child’s appointments.
– **Utilize Resources**: Engage with the network of specialists available through early intervention programs to ensure the best support for your child.
Stay Informed: Communicate openly with healthcare providers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about the next steps in the process.

Parents can take the necessary steps to support their child’s development by staying informed and utilizing the right resources. The 1-3-6 framework provides a clear path forward, ensuring hearing loss is detected and addressed early, helping children thrive despite potential challenges.

### Conclusion

The 1-3-6 EDHI collaborative goal offers an essential framework for ensuring early identification and intervention for hearing loss in newborns. Understanding this framework empowers parents to take timely action, connect with healthcare professionals, and utilize the available resources. Early detection and intervention can have a lasting positive impact on a child’s communication, literacy, and overall development. By following the 1-3-6 guidelines, parents can help ensure their child is on the best possible path to a bright future.

In rural communities, healthcare presents distinct challenges. With limited access to medical services, fewer educational resources, and a lack of awareness, many health issues go undiagnosed until they reach advanced stages. Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is one such condition that can often remain hidden until it becomes more severe, making early detection and management essential for improving patient outcomes. Thanks to the efforts of the Michigan Center for Rural Health (MCRH) and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, crucial steps are being taken to empower rural healthcare providers and improve CKD management.

### Addressing Rural Health Challenges

A variety of factors complicates healthcare in rural areas. Many rural healthcare providers face inadequate resources, which limits their ability to diagnose and treat chronic conditions effectively. CKD is particularly concerning because it can develop silently and remain undetected until significant damage is done. This delay in diagnosis can lead to complications that could have been prevented with earlier intervention. As a result, the collaboration between MCRH and the National Kidney Foundation is a critical step in equipping rural providers with the knowledge and tools to manage CKD better and improve patient outcomes.

### Who is Jillian Oesterle?

Jillian Oesterle, the Director of Provider Solutions at MCRH, has been instrumental in bridging the gap between rural healthcare providers and the resources needed to combat CKD. Her leadership has been vital in bringing together the expertise of MCRH and the National Kidney Foundation to create practical solutions that address the unique challenges rural health professionals face. With Jillian at the helm, the initiative has gained momentum in providing healthcare providers with the tools to manage CKD and its associated risk factors.

### A Collaborative Approach

The MCRH and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan partnership is centered on empowering rural healthcare providers. Through education, resources, and developing a CKD management toolkit, both organizations are working to provide the support needed to address CKD effectively.

**Education on CKD:** The first step in this initiative is to educate healthcare providers about CKD, including how it can be detected early and the importance of managing risk factors like hypertension and diabetes.

**Integrating CKD Screening:** Providers can identify the disease in its early stages by incorporating it into routine clinical workflows. Early detection is crucial for preventing or slowing its progression. As Jillian Oesterle states, *“By integrating CKD screening into clinic workflows, rural providers are empowered to identify CKD in early stages and optimize management of modifiable risk factors.”*

**Developing a CKD Management Toolkit** In collaboration with the National Kidney Foundation, MCRH has developed a CKD management toolkit that equips healthcare providers with educational materials and resources to manage CKD in rural clinics better.

### The Impact of Empowering Providers

The collaboration has had a tangible impact on healthcare providers, who now have access to tools and resources that significantly improve their ability to manage CKD. The CKD management toolkit is designed to:

– **Improve Early Detection:** Early identification of CKD allows healthcare providers to take timely action, slowing the progression of the disease.

– **Enhance Patient Care:** Providers can deliver more effective care to patients With better resources and a clearer understanding of CKD management.

– **Reduce CKD Prevalence:** By equipping rural healthcare professionals with the necessary tools, the prevalence of CKD can be reduced, ensuring better health outcomes for rural communities.

### The Role of the National Kidney Foundation

The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan is pivotal in raising awareness about CKD in rural areas. Their involvement is crucial in ensuring that rural healthcare providers have the knowledge and resources to prevent, detect, and manage CKD effectively.

### Looking Ahead

The MCRH and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan partnership is an inspiring model for addressing chronic disease management in rural communities. Their collaborative approach continues to evolve as they expand resources and educational opportunities for healthcare providers. The ultimate goal is to foster healthier futures for individuals affected by CKD, regardless of where they live.

### Join the Cause

If you’re interested in learning more about the efforts to combat CKD in rural communities or want to support this important cause, visit the following resources:

– Michigan Center for Rural Health
– National Kidney Foundation of Michigan

Through collective efforts, we can make a significant difference in the lives of individuals living with Chronic Kidney Disease. Stay informed, stay involved, and help support the fight for better health in rural communities.

Jubilee is a pivotal organization supporting households working to overcome homelessness. Their mission goes beyond merely providing shelter—helping individuals maintain their housing and access vital resources, relationships, and services to create a more sustainable life. At its core, Jubilee believes in the power of connection and community, aiming to ensure that people are housed and supported holistically in their journey to stability.

One of the most potent initiatives at Jubilee is its involvement in the Ingham Health Equity Council. The council’s goal is to weave a web of support and connections for individuals, no matter their background or identity. Whether a person’s race, economic status, or personal history, Jubilee seeks to ensure everyone is equitably served and has access to the resources necessary for their health and well-being. Jubilee understands the importance of community and support systems in a world where no one achieves lasting success alone.

A key aspect of Jubilee’s work involves bridging clients and resources. This includes the organization’s health coaching program, funded by a generous $13,000 grant from the Health Equity Committee. This funding was used to cover health coaches’ incentives and to provide participants with supplies, such as backpacks filled with essential items. The program offered two distinct yet complementary approaches to health coaching: physical and emotional well-being.

Dinah, a health coach at Jubilee, focused on improving clients’ physical health, including helping them navigate health insurance options, find a primary care physician, schedule appointments, and follow through with medical care. Her efforts were invaluable in ensuring clients received the proper care to manage their health effectively. Meanwhile, the emotional and social health coaching offered by Jubilee focused on coping strategies, stress management, and personal empowerment. These sessions often occurred in uplifting settings, such as Frances Park, where clients could experience new, healthy, positive activities.

The program’s personalized approach to care has profoundly impacted its participants. Many people enrolled in the program had never experienced the level of support they received from Jubilee. One client shared how, through the program, they had received critical assistance such as transportation to necessary appointments, help with obtaining disability benefits, and guidance in securing better housing. The individual expressed that they were amazed by how Jubilee staff went above and beyond to ensure they were supported—offering emotional care and tangible help, such as arranging for a hotel stay so they could rest after a medical appointment.

Another participant spoke about the importance of the health coaching sessions, emphasizing the value of having someone to talk to who genuinely listens and helps them work through challenges. This holistic support—combining financial incentives with emotional care—has proven life-changing. One individual was able to schedule a long-needed surgery and received assistance with managing their health and housing situation.

Erica, a Jubilee staff member, was highlighted for her immense support and client advocacy. Before working with Jubilee, one participant struggled without a caseworker. Erica’s involvement made all the difference. The person noted how valuable it was to have someone in their corner who understood their struggles and worked tirelessly to help them navigate the system.

At its heart, Jubilee believes everyone deserves care, respect, and the opportunity to reclaim self-love and self-care. For those who may have lost touch with these concepts due to trauma, hardship, or instability, Jubilee provides the tools, resources, and guidance to help them rediscover their worth and build a healthier, more stable future. Jubilee creates lasting change by offering emotional and practical support—one person at a time.