“I was tiny as a kid, and I was athletic growing up. I did not have the problems that obese children have. But when I quit being physically active, I started gaining weight. Then I went into a depression after my mother died of cancer, … Continue reading‘Tough old bird’ survivor of rare carcinoid cancer
When her mother tried to register Saundra Smith for school in Port Arthur, Texas, she got a surprising response. “They said they didn’t have a nursery school, and that she should bring me back next year for kindergarten,” Saundra said. Old enough to be a … Continue readingShe deals with the weighty issues of carcinoid cancer
“She came three weeks early, so we weren’t really prepared. By the time we showed up at the hospital, I was too far along to get an epidural or anything. “When the head delivered, the doctor saw that the cord was wrapped around her neck. … Continue readingSupporting disabled daughter comes with challenges
“I retired when I was 61 because I kept passing out and nobody could figure out why. I did a pulmonary test recently and passed out. I’m still going to see doctors all the time. “Right now I’m dealing with COPD. I struggle to get … Continue readingMan with health issues thankful for Obamacare
Jenny Willis-Davis was working in downtown Houston last October when her husband contacted her. “He got a phone call from school. They told him, ‘You need to come get your son immediately or we’re calling the ambulance,’” she said. Not something that any parents want … Continue readingThis parent an advocate for young athletes’ health
Sometimes, one incident can change your path in life. For Derek Coy, it was the death of a close friend to gun violence in 2004. “He was everybody’s best friend. It was one of the hardest things I have been through, mostly because it was … Continue readingMaking a difference for veterans with health issues
It’s not always easy. But as the mom in a family of six, Amanda Vela tries her best to spread the love around. “One of my biggest challenges is time,” she said. “With multiple children at different ages, it’s hard to find the time for … Continue readingDaughter with cerebral palsy inspires mom
This was written by Ruth Elliott about her husband, John. His name is John Elliott. He is currently teaching at Lee College. To some, that may not mean much. But to me, it is a testament to a man who when I first met him … Continue readingWife marvels at her husband’s transformation
Sylvia Escontrias caught the business bug as a teenager. “I remember telling my parents when I was a sophomore in high school that I was going to get a job at the mall,” she said. “They laughed and told me not to let my grades … Continue readingShe is sold on being a successful businesswoman
“I’m just a country bumpkin from Arkansas. I grew up poor, just like a lot of the people I teach who are going to school with help from different assistance programs. They’re trying to make a better life for themselves. My objective is for them … Continue reading‘Country bumpkin’ points way to petrochemical industry