Many adults enjoy alcohol or use cannabis products for a variety of reasons. They may use these as ways to relax, but did you know that these substances can raise blood pressure? Here’s what you need to know about how alcohol and cannabis may raise blood pressure in adults.* 

Alcohol is a buzzkill for your liver

Alcohol is processed by the liver, which can handle only so much at a time. Too much alcohol can damage the liver over time. Drinking too much alcohol — beer, wine, or liquor — can raise the force your blood exerts on your arteries. What is “too much”? As with many substances, the poison is in the dose, which means — it depends on how much, your size, gender and age.

“We process alcohol differently as we age,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “Men and women handle alcohol differently. Medications also can impact how your body responds to alcohol.” 

Moderate drinking is considered to be two drinks or less in a day for men and one drink or less for women. Binge drinking means four or more drinks for women, or five or more drinks for men during an occasion. Heavy drinking means eight or more drinks for women, or 15 or more drinks for men during a week.

A “drink” is:

• 12 ounces of beer with 5% alcohol
• 8 ounces of malt liquor with 7% alcohol
• 5 ounces of wine with 12% alcohol
• A shot or 1.5 ounces of liquor or distilled spirts (80-proof liquor)
  • 80 proof means the liquor has 40% alcohol.
  • Types of liquor include brandy, gin, rum, tequila vodka, and whiskey.

“Even moderate alcohol consumption can interfere with blood pressure medication,” Dr. Brandon said. 

According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism: 

• Alcohol can alter the metabolism of a medication, speeding or slowing the clearance of the medication from the body and thus lowering or raising the blood levels of the medication.
• A medication can influence the absorption and metabolism of alcohol, potentially resulting in higher blood alcohol concentrations (BACs) and other adverse effects. 
• Alcohol can alter the pharmacological effects of the medication, which can increase or decrease the effect of the medication on the body.

Cannabis is not a chill as you might think (at least for your heart)

Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary active compound in cannabis. It’s what gives users a “high.” THC can cause temporary spikes in heart rate and blood pressure. How your body responds to THC depends on several factors, including:

• Dose
• Method — smoking, gummies, edibles
• Overall health, including the presence of chronic conditions
• The presence of other substances, such as medications, alcohol, or tobacco
• Age
• Frequency and duration of use

The side effects of cannabis taken with blood pressure medication include:

• Marijuana’s biggest-known impact is with opioids, sleep medications, muscle relaxants and alcohol, because all affect the central nervous system. Marijuana use combined with these may boost the effects of both.
• Marijuana may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding, such as aspirin, blood thinners or other pain relievers, including ibuprofen and naproxen.
• Marijuana may affect blood sugar levels. If you are taking medication or insulin for diabetes, you should be watched closely by a health care provider.  
• Marijuana may cause low blood pressure, which may affect people on high blood pressure medication. 

As cannabis becomes legal in more places, both for recreational use and for medical purposes, people should stay informed about the potential health risks. One small study showed a moderate increase in systolic blood pressure with cannabis use. The general consensus is more research is needed, especially in older adults. 

Blood pressure and substance use

High blood pressure is referred to as a “silent killer,” due to the lack of symptoms. Long-term high blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack, heart disease, stroke and kidney disease.

• High blood pressure is often symptom-free — hence “the silent killer.”
• Long-term high blood pressure  increases risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease.
• Alcohol and cannabis can make it harder to manage or detect changes in blood pressure.
• Getting blood pressure checked regularly is key — even if you feel fine.

No judgment, just things to know:

• Your first step should be awareness. Get a baseline blood pressure reading with your health care provider at your annual checkup. Keep track of your blood pressure using an at-home monitor. Check your blood pressure after alcohol consumption or cannabis use. 
• Be honest with your health care provider so they can give you the best care and offer options to keep you safe and healthy. This may help you make smarter choices for your health. 
• Little tweaks can add up, and your doctor can help by adjusting medications or explaining how much to cut back. 

Checking in with your heart

Heart health isn’t about giving up things you enjoy; it’s about understanding how your lifestyle may affect your health. Talk to your doctor honestly about your drinking, even if it’s an uncomfortable topic.

“It is important for your health care provider to know if you are using alcohol or cannabis, even if it’s moderate use,” Dr. Brandon said. “There may be potentially harmful interactions that you don’t know about.” 

*Disclaimer: Recreational cannabis use is currently illegal in Kentucky and Indiana.

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You used to bounce back after a weekend of yard work — now your back feels it for days afterward. You started having knee pain when you use the stairs. Or maybe your hands started feeling stiff in the mornings. Any of this sound familiar?

As the years go by, our bodies change, and certain symptoms remind us of the aging process. But how do you know when these body aches and pains are just part of normal aging? When are they signs of something that needs medical attention?

“It’s important to address discomfort early, rather than pushing through pain or limiting your regular movement,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “Your primary care provider can suggest early interventions to help you remain active and independent for as long as possible.”

Normal aging aches and pains vs. red flags

As we get older, our bodies inevitably change. After age 55, normal signs of aging can involve some mild stiffness or achiness first thing in the morning, that improves as you move around. After being more active than usual, you might be more susceptible to general muscle soreness that resolves within a couple days. It might take longer to recover from physical exertion, compared with your younger years. Occasional joint stiffness, especially during weather changes, is common as well.

However, you should be aware of the red-flag symptoms when it comes to aches and pains associated with aging:

• Pain that interferes with your regular activities or hobbies you enjoy
• Pain that wakes you up at night
• Visible swelling or redness around joints
• Numbness, tingling or weakness in limbs
• Sharp pain with certain movements
• Pain that steadily worsens over weeks or months
• Discomfort that limits your daily activities or independence
• New symptoms that appear suddenly
• Over-the-counter medications not providing adequate pain relief

Common causes of aging aches and pains

As we age, a variety of factors can cause increased physical discomfort, including:

Arthritis: Over 50% of adults over 65 experience joint pain, with arthritis being one of the most common causes. Osteoarthritis, the wearing down of joint cartilage, is more common in older adults and often affects the knees, hips, hands and/or spine.
Inflammation: Our bodies may develop more chronic inflammation with age, which can contribute to general body aches, muscle pain, joint pain and discomfort.

Past injuries: Old injuries can reemerge as pain points with age. Whether you broke a bone playing high school sports or hurt your neck in a car accident many years ago, the pain may become noticeable again.

Muscle changes: Sarcopenia is the gradual loss of muscle mass in older adults. This can put additional stress on joints and increase the risk for added strain during normal activities.

Underlying conditions: Your primary care provider can help rule out an underlying medical condition. Conditions such as diabetes, osteoporosis, peripheral vascular disease and other health issues also cause pain, stiffness or discomfort in muscles and joints.

How your primary care provider can help

Many adults avoid mentioning new aches and pains during checkups, thinking they’re just part of getting older or fearing they’ll be told to “just live with it.” The reality is that your primary care provider can be one of your greatest advocates in maintaining mobility and comfort as you age.

Your provider can help rule out serious conditions and develop management strategies to address your pain. This may include lifestyle recommendations, medications or referrals to specialists like rheumatologists, orthopedists, physical therapists or pain management specialists.

3 ways to maintain mobility with age

Staying ahead of the aches and pains that come with aging can help preserve your mobility and independence during your older years. Incorporating the following lifestyle habits can help improve your quality of life:

1. Stay active: Regular, gentle movement helps maintain joint function and muscle strength. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends strength training exercises for older adults twice per week.
2. Maintain a healthy weight: A healthy weight can avoid additional stress on your joints. This includes regular movement, such as walking, and proper nutrition.
3. Have regular checkups: Take notice of symptoms and share details with your provider to help find the best treatment for you. Don’t hesitate to speak up during appointments. Instead of just saying your knee hurts, take note of when it hurts, what makes it better or worse and how it affects your activities.

When it comes to aging, you don’t have to accept persistent pain or misery as an inevitable part of the process. While some bodily changes come with aging, you don’t have to silently endure extreme pain without any medical help. Your provider can help support you on the journey of aging gracefully.

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The value of primary care for seniors

When dealing with elderly parents, having a plan in place for health care, living arrangements and other considerations before the need arises is a good idea. It’s also important to have an established primary care relationship.

“We can catch issues early and set a baseline for health, such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels and other aspects of health,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “Then we can monitor changes over time.”

Primary care providers can help manage medications to avoid harmful drug interactions and can coordinate care services, including respite care or home care.

“We can make a plan for care services, home care or nursing home — whatever the family needs,” Dr. Brandon said. 

It also can be very helpful to have a primary care provider who knows the history and family dynamic of the aging parent.

“It can take time to build a relationship, so sooner rather than later is preferred,” Dr. Brandon said. 

When to offer support for aging parents

Knowing when or how to intervene in an elderly parent’s life isn’t always obvious. Here are some signs it might be time to start the conversation:

• Medication errors: forgetting doses or taking incorrect amounts
• A pattern of missed appointments
• No longer managing chronic conditions effectively
• Changes in sleep or eating patterns
• Notable changes in mobility
• Behavioral changes, including mood swings or withdrawal from typical activities
• Memory lapses beyond normal aging

How to talk to your aging parent about health care

The goal here is to find a situation that works for everyone while maintaining healthy boundaries and open communication. If you’re starting this conversation with the older adults in your life, approach with empathy, patience and an open mind. Frame your talk around maximizing independence for as long as possible, not taking it away. Address concerns — both those of the adult children and the elderly parent — openly and honestly. If it feels appropriate to include siblings, other family members or friends, bring them into the conversation as well. 

Making the most of doctor appointments

It’s a good idea for the elderly parent to take a friend or family member to doctor appointments. Before the appointment, make a list of questions or concerns to take with you, so you don’t forget anything important. 

Norton MyChart lets you see and update medications, review past diagnoses and treatments, and check upcoming appointments. You also can email your care team, and you can set up proxy access for your loved one’s Norton MyChart account. 

Practical next steps

After you’ve had the initial conversations around caring for your aging parent, you can start taking basic next steps, including:

• Making any doctor appointments together, including routine checkups
• Establishing a shared calendar
• Creating a medication system to help with doses and timing
• Considering further or more intensive care services
• Looking at nursing homes or other choices for living situations.
• Considering the need for home health care

Moving forward

As you have these conversations with your loved one about what life might start to look like in the coming years, emphasize that it’s a partnership.

“Even small interventions can make a difference and help build a deeper relationship between adult children and their parents,” Dr. Brandon said.

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High blood pressure medication and sexual function

“We have a pretty good understanding about the link between high blood pressure and sexual dysfunction in men,” said Joshua H. Brandon, M.D., family medicine physician with Norton Community Medical Associates. “We understand less about how it affects women.”

High blood pressure does not usually have symptoms. In time, this condition does damage to the lining of the blood vessels throughout the body. As the arteries harden and narrow, blood flow to the entire body is reduced, including the penis. This can lead to a condition called erectile dysfunction, which makes it difficult to get and maintain an erection. High blood pressure also can affect ejaculation. 

For women, it is possible that high blood pressure reduces blood flow to the vagina. Some women may also experience:

• Lowered sex drive or arousal
• Difficulty having an orgasm
• Vaginal dryness

Erectile dysfunction, lowered sex drive, difficulty reaching orgasm and other symptoms of high blood pressure can increase anxiety and relationship issues. 

There are several medications used to treat high blood pressure, and some of them may have sexual side effects. Some high blood pressure medicines can affect sex drive or the quality of sex.

• Water pills can decrease blood flow to the penis, which can make it difficult to get an erection. They also lower levels of zinc, which is needed to make the hormone testosterone. 
• Beta blockers especially older beta blockers such as propranolol, are often linked with sexual issues. 

Some high blood pressure medications may have fewer sexual side effects.

Other common medications and sexual health

Besides blood pressure medication, there are other kinds of drugs that can impact sexual function, including:

• Antidepressants (especially selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, known as SSRIs) 
• Antihistamines and allergy medications
• Cholesterol-lowering medications
• Diabetes medications
• Hormone therapies
• Parkinson’s disease and seizure medications

Taking control: Practical steps for better sexual health

If you think your medications are causing unwanted side effects, are impacting sexual activity or are affecting your quality of life, it is important to talk to your health care provider. You should always take medications as prescribed, and do not stop or start a medicine without direction from your provider. Consider keeping track of your medication schedule and any effects you notice around sex or intimacy, and share that with your health care provider. 

“We may be able to modify medications, adjust dosage, change prescriptions or recommend other changes you can implement,” Dr. Brandon said. 

It is very important to be as open and honest as possible with your physician. Here are some guidelines for talking about sexual health with your health care provider:

Make a list of side effects and questions you have before your appointment.

Find a way to start the conversation that feels comfortable. Here are some tips for talking to your doctor about this issue. Try saying things like:

• I’m having some concerns about my sexual health.
• I want to ask about a specific health issue.
• I am having issues with sexual desire/low libido/sexual performance.

Once you start the conversation, most providers will pick it up from there. If you sense your provider may be uncomfortable, ask for a referral.

Primary care providers are your ally in sexual wellness

Your provider is a valuable resource and adviser for all your health needs. It may feel uncomfortable, but you deserve to have your questions answered and find help. Sexual health is important for your overall well-being and quality of life.

“We can’t help if we don’t know there is an issue,” Dr. Brandon said.

Beyond medication: Additional Solutions

There are ways to manage sexual side effects of drugs, including antihypertensive medication, mental health medicine and other medications, including: 

• Mechanical aids such as vacuum devices or penile implants may help with erectile dysfunction. There’s also a vacuum device for women. Dilators may help people who experience narrowing of their vagina due to menopause. Devices like vibrators can be helpful to help improve sexual enjoyment and ability to achieve orgasm.
• Sex therapists can help people experiencing sexual issues that can’t be addressed by the primary care physician. Therapists often can do couples counseling.
• Behavioral treatments involve various techniques, such as addressing harmful behaviors or self-stimulation methods. 
• Psychotherapy with a trained counselor can help you address psychological factors that affect sexual function, including trauma from the past, feelings of anxiety, fear, guilt and poor body image. 

The next step

Sexual health is a concern at any age. Prioritize your overall well-being, including intimate relationships. Talk with your primary care provider about any concerns you may have.

The post Medication side effects and your intimate life: A guide for older adults appeared first on Norton Healthcare.

Justin M. Givens, M.D., orthopedic surgeon with Norton Orthopedic Institute, is among the first five surgeons in the country — and the first in Kentucky — to perform a new groundbreaking, robotic-arm assisted reverse shoulder replacement surgery with Mako SmartRobotics. This procedure hopes to offer a higher degree of precision and accuracy compared with traditional methods.

“It’s an honor to be among the first to use this technology,” Dr. Givens said. “This new procedure allows me to give my patients a level of accuracy unlike any other. It’s a more personalized approach to each patient’s needs, which can lead to improved results and faster recovery times.”

The technology is designed to elevate the surgeon’s control and confidence by providing the surgeon with a 3D image of the patient’s unique shoulder anatomy. Dr. Givens can then study the 3D simulations before surgery and view them on a screen during the procedure. The robotic arm assists him in shaving down the patient’s glenoid (shoulder socket), creating the new surface and inserting the implant.

“I still do the approach, meaning I make the incision and move the soft tissue, nerves and veins out of the way,” Dr. Givens said. “But now, the technology helps me to know the movements I’m making are exactly the ones I want to make. This gives us precision to ensure every cut and movement is exactly what the individual patient needs.”

The robotic arm’s capabilities help provide enhanced feedback to ensure the implant is positioned within the preplanned boundaries, while aiming for improved accuracy. The goal is to allow for a more natural range of motion and better long-term outcomes for patients.

“We’ve never had this level of accuracy before in this field,” Dr. Givens said. “Now, the procedures we’ve theorized can be put into practice, and that’s why it’s so exciting to be at the forefront of innovation.”

Reverse shoulder replacement is ideal for patients with severe arthritis, rotator cuff tears or other degenerative shoulder conditions that do not respond to conservative treatments. Furthermore, shoulder arthroplasty (reconstruction or replacement) is the fastest-growing joint arthroplasty in the U.S. According to Dr. Givens, more than 90% of patients are satisfied with their replacements, but doctors are consistently striving for more accuracy and reproducibility to improve that number and help patients achieve a higher level of satisfaction in a shorter amount of time.

Dr. Givens’ orthopedic surgery practice is focused on shoulder and elbow care, including arthroscopy, fracture repair, and joint replacement and revision. In 2024, he performed more than 150 shoulder arthroplasties and anticipates performing more than 200 in 2025.

“My goal is to restore the shoulder to where it’s supposed to be and allow my patients to get back to their normal activities,” Dr. Givens said. “I want my patients to go back to living their normal lives as soon as possible, and this new technology is another tool that will allow them to do so.”

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INspire, funded by the Indiana Department of Health’s Safety PIN grant program, was developed to implement best practices in care for Indiana moms and babies and recognize hospitals for excellence in addressing key drivers of infant and maternal health. Norton Clark Hospital earned an INspire Category of Excellence recognition based on implementing best practices in key areas, including infant safe sleep, breastfeeding, perinatal substance use, social drivers of health, obstetric hemorrhage and maternal hypertension.

“Providing high-quality care for the mothers and infants of our community, close to home, is of utmost importance,” said Kathleen S. Exline, DNP, R.N., chief administrative officer, Norton Clark Hospital. “Our neonatal intensive care unit has been providing lifesaving care to our tiny patients for seven years. We are proud of our women’s services team and happy to be recognized by the Indiana Hospital Association.”

 “The Indiana Department of Health remains focused on working with health care providers to improve outcomes for Hoosier moms and babies,” Weaver said. “We are grateful to have hospitals across the state support initiatives, such as the Indiana Perinatal Levels of Care and obstetrical emergencies training, that have contributed to improvements in both maternal and infant health.”

“We are proud to celebrate the Hoosier facilities that have successfully demonstrated these best practices and how far our state has come in the five years since the launch of INspire. Together, we are truly making a difference,” said Scott B. Tittle, president, IHA.  

IHA serves as the professional trade association for more than 170 acute care, critical access, behavioral health and other specialized hospitals in Indiana.

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Bringing West Louisville’s history to life

Among the students who stepped into history was fourth-grader Jordy Lett-Hasberry, who proudly portrayed Sarah Fitzbutler, M.D., the first Black woman in Kentucky to receive a medical degree. Dressed in a white lab coat and wearing a stethoscope, Jordy recited a summary of Dr. Fitzbutler’s life and accomplishments for anyone who stopped at her station.

“Without me, African American women and girls wouldn’t have the option to be in the medical field,” Jordy said during her presentation as Dr. Fitzbutler.

Nearby, fourth-grader Kaycee Smith stood in front of a poster honoring Mary E. Merritt, who made history as the first registered nurse — of any race — to work in Kentucky.

“Hi, my name is Mary E. Merritt,” Kaycee said, in character. “I was born on April 27, 1881, and died in 1953. When I finished my nursing degree, I went to Louisville, Kentucky, to serve at the Red Cross, the only hospital for Black people.”

Several Norton West Louisville Hospital staff members made sure to visit the event. For them, it was exciting to see the students inspired by historical figures in the medical field, as it highlights the impact and opportunities of a community-driven hospital in their neighborhood.

“Education is important. Health care is important. And when you combine them together and do a ‘wax museum’ like this, this is awesome,” said Corenza Townsend, chief administrative officer of Norton West Louisville Hospital. “It’s already exciting that [the kids] have seen the monument. They recognized that we have a hospital across the street. They know Norton Healthcare.”

Inspiring future generations

Brandeis Elementary’s living wax museum didn’t just teach students about history — it inspired them to think about their own futures.

“They are definitely more interested in becoming doctors and nurses,” Koneshia said. “I can’t wait for our class, or even our school, to be able to go and take a tour and build all of the connections that we’ll be able to have, with the hospital being so close.”

For some students, the experience sparked dreams of potential careers in health care.

“It just seems like fun trying to help people in need,” Kaycee said.

Her classmate Luke Fields also sees a future in medicine. He wants to follow in the footsteps of his wax museum character — Louisville’s first Black doctor, Henry Fitzbutler, M.D.

“I think that I could help lots of people when I grow up,” Luke said. After visiting the monument, “I saw them having lots of big moments to be heroes, and I think I could be a hero too.”

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The offices feature roughly 6,000 square feet of space and 14 exam rooms split among Norton Community Medical Associates primary care, a Norton Immediate Care Center and, eventually, a Norton Orthopedic Institute office. The new location also will have laboratory testing and X-ray capability to help providers accurately diagnose a variety of illnesses and injuries.

“Norton Healthcare is committed to expanding access to health care throughout the area,” said Russell F. Cox, president and CEO, Norton Healthcare. “The comprehensive care that will be provided in this new space will make it easier for so many more people to receive the care they need.”

The new space, located at 10798 Dixie Highway, is Norton Healthcare’s southernmost primary care office and immediate care center in Louisville. The building is just off the Gene Snyder Freeway (I-265/KY 841), allowing easy access for those using the city’s highway system, while also supporting population growth in the southwestern part of Louisville. The location also provides access to care for people just outside the city limits, including parts of Meade and Hardin counties.

“It’s very exciting to see the growth in this part of our city,” said Stephanie Harmon, practice manager for the new Norton Community Medical Associates office. “As someone who grew up in the south end of Louisville, I know this is something we’ve needed. To be a part of the team providing that care is extra special.”

The primary care practice will be led by Arilennis Medel Leyva, APRN, family nurse practitioner, who will move from Norton Community Medical Associates – Fairdale. Her diverse, bilingual experience as a clinician enables her to provide comprehensive, patient-centered care. Her philosophy emphasizes empathy, compassion and respect, focusing on individualized patient needs and holistic care.

“Access to primary care is essential for a healthy community,” Leyva said. “I’m excited to bring these services to Valley Station. I believe my experience and expertise can add to the level of care and trust we’ve already built in South Louisville, and I’m excited to care for and form relationships with patients in the area.”

The practice will have self-pay options and quick, easy access to the Norton Healthcare financial services teams for assistance with bill payment.

A Norton Children’s Medical Group pediatrician office will remain open in Fairdale at 189 Outer Loop, with plans to expand. Schedule an appointment by calling (502) 629-1234.

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Why are so many people lonely?

Studies, including one from Harvard’s Making Caring Common project, have revealed that while the COVID-19 global pandemic was a contributing factor to the rise of loneliness, about half of American adults surveyed were feeling alone before the pandemic. Some other catalysts for this loneliness epidemic include:

• Reliance on technology as a substitute for interaction: The use of texting, consuming social media, games and media can make it feel like you are part of a community, but it can be very isolating.
• Overwork, busyness and general fatigue: Many people report feeling too busy or too tired to be social.
• No community involvement or strong social network: This could be volunteering, church or other religious involvement, that gets people interacting in person and in real time.
• American society tends to be individualistic: We tend to applaud self-reliance, and resist asking for help.
• Remote work: The pandemic sent a large part of the American workforce home to work during quarantine. Many people have opted to continue this arrangement, which limits in-person interactions.
• Age: This may be surprising, but younger people tend to experience feelings of isolation more frequently than older people. In a Harvard study, people between ages 30 to 44 were the loneliest group — 29% of people in this age range said they were frequently or always lonely. Adults ages 65 and older reported the lowest rate: 10% said they felt lonely.

“There is also still a stigma around mental health issues,” Dr. Brandon said. “People feel embarrassed about their loneliness, or they believe they should be able to ‘snap out of it.’ That creates a cycle of self-isolation.” 

Loneliness and physical health

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has noted that social isolation and loneliness can increase a person’s risk for:

• Heart disease and stroke
• Type 2 diabetes
• Depression and anxiety
• Suicidality and self-harm
• Dementia
• Earlier death
• Weakened immune system
• Physical pain

People who feel isolated often need more health care and miss work more often than their counterparts with strong social connection.

What can we do about chronic loneliness?

 The Harvard study revealed some solutions to this public health crisis. If you are experiencing loneliness, you can:

• Reach out to family or friends.
• Work on self-love and practice self-care.
• Learn to be more forgiving of others.
• Find ways to help others.

Researchers from the Making Caring Common project stress the need to foster a culture that cares and serves others and building a sense of community with social infrastructure. Survey respondents mentioned wanting more community events, accessible public spaces and other ways to build meaningful relationships. Also, research on the “Blue Zones” — regions where people live longer and healthier — identified 10 habits for a healthier life, which include ways to get connected, reduce stress and improve overall health.

If you or a loved one is experiencing feelings of loneliness, talk to your primary care provider. There are many resources for people in our community and ways to get involved.

The post More than half of U.S. adults report feeling lonely appeared first on Norton Healthcare.

Unfortunately, a medical crisis and devastating diagnosis in 2025 makes it likely they will not see their 21st wedding anniversary. Bonny came to Norton Audubon Hospital on Monday, Jan. 27, with severe abdominal pain. After undergoing emergency surgery, she learned that she has a life-changing terminal diagnosis. She recently transferred to hospice care.  

Bonny learned that her cousin, who was visiting her in the hospital on Jan. 31, had just taken a course to be ordained to perform weddings. She looked over and asked Robert if he would like to renew their vows. 

Robert replied, “Of course I will, honey.” 

When Bonny’s care team at Norton Audubon Hospital found out about the vow renewal plan, they made it their mission to make the event — happening that day — as beautiful as possible. Reaching out to colleagues to assist, one ordered a dozen white roses on Door Dash while another supplied the couple with a plant for the bedside ceremony.

Two decades ago, what made them decide to marry after seven years of dating?

“He’s just a very good man,” Bonny said.

Robert made them both giggle with his reply: “Because she is hot and still is hot!” 

He called Bonny the “biggest-hearted person” he’s ever met. 

Bonny’s care team agrees and calls her an amazing woman who remains upbeat despite her diagnosis.  

“In the short time Bonny has been at Norton Audubon Hospital, she has won over the staff,” said Lindsay Lewis, BSN, R.N., director, invasive cardiology, patient care services “I’m pretty sure they are fighting over who gets to take care of her. 

“I let her know that even though there are times when we are with our patients only for a short time, they leave an impact on us that will stay with us forever.”

Bonny has been one of those patients for the staff on the Progressive Care Unit.  

What would Bonny share with others?

“When you love someone, let them know it — let them know it a lot,” she said. “You can’t lose your mind at the same time, but when you know, you just know.”

She takes it a step further. Each year on her husband’s birthday, she sends Robert’s mother a thank-you card.  

Bonny also wanted to share that the caregivers she has met at Norton Audubon Hospital are amazing, and the list of those who she raved about could go on and on. 

At a time when she was not able to drink or eat anything, yet was craving coffee, she said one of her favorite nurses smelled of coffee, and that just made her morning.

“He smelled so good!” she said.

It’s an important reminder to appreciate the small blessings in life — to be thankful during the good times and make the best of out of the bad. 

When we are given the opportunity to provide blessings during another’s bad time, it can make all the difference in the world.

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