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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.
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I Took a Yale Course in the Science of Well-Being and it Totally Changed My Outlook
I Took a Yale Course in the Science of Well-Being and it Totally Changed My Out - I improved my “happiness score”. Here’s how.
Mar 181 min read
When My Whole Body Grieved
Grief over lost loved ones is physical and hits hard during the holidays. I've been through it multiple times. Here's science-backed advice.
Dec 4, 20248 min read
The Search for Nature’s Ozempic Comes Up Short
The real science behind 3 weight-loss supplements
Oct 28, 20246 min read
Once-Rare Deadly Disease Adds to US Mosquito Worries
Steven Perry was healthy when he contracted a rare disease from a mosquito bite. Perry died within a week of hospitalization in August...
Sep 25, 20243 min read
Empowering Patients with Integrative Medicine
Dr. Jan Patterson, found herself at a painful crossroads in 2012. Her son died from suicide, and she was undergoing cancer treatment...
Sep 10, 20244 min read
Why Should I Get Shingles Vaccine?
You might think it’s “just a rash,” but fluid-filled blisters are the mildest of symptoms that can include debilitating, never-ending pain.
Jun 9, 20237 min read
Mental Health is Advancing But Still Ailing
Progress and challenges in mental health care
May 24, 202310 min read
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...
Apr 13, 20231 min read
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...
Mar 27, 20232 min read
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...
Mar 23, 20232 min read
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...
Mar 6, 20233 min read
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...
Feb 11, 20232 min read
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...
Dec 5, 20222 min read
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...
Nov 19, 20222 min read
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...
Aug 6, 20162 min read
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...
Jul 1, 20162 min read
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...
Dec 6, 20154 min read
Combating Antibiotic Resistance
You may have heard about the White House report, “National Action Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria.” It is a victory...
Mar 6, 20153 min read
Read • Grow • Achieve
For more writings from Dr. Jan, visit her Medium webpage.
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