Blog Category: Living Well

Dupuytren’s contracture is a rare, benign condition that affects tissue under the skin in the palm and fingers. If left untreated, it can lead to the inability to open the hand. Overlake radiation oncologist, Nicholas Serrano, MD, is one of only a few in the country who provides radiation treatment that can slow the progression of the disease.

When world-class services and facilities are in a community, everyone who lives and works there benefits. The Eastside is such a place, and Overlake is proud to be the outstanding medical center that helps everyone in our community live their best lives.

On a hot summer day last year, a fan’s breeze blew across Theresa Kirkmire’s face and caused such intense pain that she wanted to scream. Theresa, 50, had no warning that she would suddenly feel like she had been stuck by a “hot poker.”

Tom Underhill, 75, of Bothell, owns a furniture company and was on a business trip when he suddenly fell ill. Testing revealed bile duct cancer, and after a recommendation of a highly skilled surgeon, he turned to Overlake.

Overlake has new specialty services for patients seeking treatment for their digestive health conditions. Led by experienced surgeons specializing in surgeries and procedures for the digestive system, the new services cover conditions of the liver, gallbladder, bile duct and pancreas, and the “foregut,” which is composed of the esophagus and stomach.

It’s totally understandable to feel upset at times. In small doses, these feelings serve a useful purpose by alerting you to problems and challenges in your life. But if the feelings are too frequent or intense, they can swamp your body’s response system. Your health may suffer—and your heart could pay the price.

Howard Blair is a housing intervention specialist with a nonprofit organization. He assists his clients with finding shelter and other needs they may have. He loves his job and loves helping people. But last year, it was Howard who needed help.

Grieving the death of a loved one can be all consuming, but having support from others and developing coping skills can help in the healing process. Molly Fairchild, a chaplain at Overlake who also leads the Path of Grief support group, offers suggestions for both those who are grieving and those who want to support someone who's dealing with the loss of a loved one.

It’s not unusual for children to experiment with new clothing, hairstyles or attitudes as they grow. But sudden and extreme negative changes could signal drug or alcohol use. During National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week, it’s important to familiarize yourself with warning signs of substance abuse so you can get your child the help they need.