Blog | Dr. Jan Patterson

Read • Grow • Achieve

Dr. Jan's Blog

Integrative medicine doctor, infectious diseases doctor, author, bereaved parent, cancer survivor, mom, gardener, and believer

For a complete list of writings, please visit my Medium.com page.

My Nineteen Days of Cancer

Some things women should know about uterine cancer. It was only a few weeks since the unexpected death of my 18-year-old son, Will, from...

Ten Years After My Son’s Suicide

Here are 10 things I have learned. Our son, Will, died at age 18 of mental illness and suicide. I continue to learn how to live with this...

Barbara Jordan: A Legacy for Our Time

Her message of unity and love is needed today. In celebrating Women’s History month, I read Barbara Jordan An American Hero (1), the...

Grieving on Saint Patrick’s Day

Remembering my mother’s sorrow for her child loss. For many, Saint Patrick’s Day is just a day to wear green and drink beer. There are...

Of Discontent and Dark Chocolate

Now we have to be selective about a healthy, enjoyable treat I am someone who struggles with weight. So, I’m always interested in...

Managing Holiday Expectations

The Christmas and holiday season is associated with many joys, but it can be a difficult time for those who have lost loved ones or are...

Essential Oils and Masks

Mask-wearing days are over in most situations, but in many areas where COVID-19 transmission is still substantial, masks are still needed...

Gratitude

It was a slow clinic day. The first patient was “no show” and the next two patients were follow-ups. There was a lull before the next...

Sifting through Memories

My sister and I recently had the responsibility of preparing our deceased parents’ house for sale. My dad had moved to long term care...

Coping with Holiday Blues

In the past, I've talked about the unspeakable grief of losing a child, and the sadness and alienation that can occur at Christmas in...

Combating Antibiotic Resistance

You may have heard about the White House report, “National Action Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria.” It is a victory...

For more writings from Dr. Jan, visit her Medium webpage.