As a 20-year thyroid cancer survivor, Shannon Akers of Sullivan, Mo., is super vigilant when it comes to her health. She’s also been a nurse for the last 32 years and understands how important it is to prioritize one’s health with regular checkups and screenings. When her family medicine physician, Dr. Om Sam, noticed a change in her thyroid numbers at her checkup in December 2023, they were both equally concerned.

For Daniel Jones, 62, of Cuba, Mo., working as a drywall taper was something he enjoyed for many years. It was a physically demanding job with hauling heavy supplies, balancing on stilts, and working long hours. He never thought a seemingly minor injury would force him to not only retire earlier than expected but it almost cost him his foot.

Congratulations to Heather Sluis, Missouri Baptist Sullivan Hospital Clinical Educator for receiving the BILD Ed Stiften scholarship award!