Everyone’s looking for shortcuts and quick fixes, including when it comes to staying focused and energized for those long study sessions. While it might be tempting to reach for stimulants or drugs to boost your concentration, there are plenty of natural, healthy ways to keep your mind sharp and your body energized. Here are seven…
With a medical career spanning continents and decades, Raghubir Mangat, MD, has dedicated her career to pediatric medicine, culminating in her impactful work in Bogalusa. Recognized as a master pediatrician in 2022 by the Louisiana Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and board certified in pediatrics and pediatric emergency medicine, Dr. Mangat’s approach is…
Since 1949, people across the Lafayette region have relied on Our Lady of Lourdes Health to meet their physical needs in a way that also nourishes their spiritual health. As the region celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, that mission continues across a broader footprint than ever as their leadership team and team members continue…
College life comes with a lot of perks, but living in close quarters with a roommate can also mean sharing more than just snacks and study sessions — especially when sickness strikes. If your roommate catches a bug, it’s crucial to take extra steps to protect yourself. Here are some practical tips to help you…
For Ariane “Dior” Tero, CNA, compassion isn’t just part of the job — it’s the heart of everything she does. Whether she’s offering a comforting word, playing a patient’s favorite song or praying with them through tough moments, Dior goes beyond routine care to make sure every person she touches feels seen, heard and loved.…
The richness of Hispanic heritage and its impact on our communities is something we celebrate as a health system every year, honoring the diverse cultures, histories and contributions of our Hispanic and Latino colleagues. Embracing a Blend of Cultures Ariana Canales, RN, a registered nurse at Our Lady of the Lake Health, proudly celebrates her…
Healthcare costs are soaring, often becoming the second highest expense for organizations after salaries. For employers focused on their teams’ health and well-being, the challenge is greater than ever. You need partners who bring value, help you trim excess cost and work with you to achieve your goals. Enter Workforce Health Solutions from Franciscan Missionaries…
When Ashlyn joined our health system in November 2021, she didn’t just start a new job. She embarked on an inspiring journey that reshaped her career and enriched her life. shifting gears in her career Initially stepping in as a principal trainer for Epic Cupid, a cardiology-focused module within our electronic medical record system, Ashlyn…
For more than 18 years, Pearl has been a beacon of dedication at St. Francis Health, leaving a lasting impact wherever she goes. Now a physician practice office supervisor with St. Francis Medical Group, Pearl started her career here at the front desk in the emergency department. She quickly became known for her attentive listening…
Adolescence can be a stormy period of life, with pressures, stress and emotional highs and lows. As parents, it’s crucial to know how to recognize signs that your teen may be struggling and to have open conversations about mental health. Open the Conversation Talking about suicide can be daunting, but research shows that when someone…
When Kandis and John welcomed their son Tucker into the world, everything seemed perfect. The pregnancy was normal, and Tucker was a healthy baby, hitting all the right milestones. But at 18 months old, something changed. Tucker started having strange spells — his eyes would roll back, and his body would wobble. Kandis and John…
Welcome to dorm life — a place where freedom, fun and, let’s face it, a bit of messiness collide. Whether you’re a first-time college student excited about your new space or a parent nervously sending your kid off to their home away from home, keeping that dorm room clean is key to staying healthy and…
Brandi Woods leads a busy life. Two careers keep her constantly on the move and often traveling. But as someone with sickle cell disease, that kind of non-stop lifestyle can take a toll. Sickle cell disease is a genetic disorder that affects the shape of Brandi’s red blood cells, making them stiff and sticky. This…
Maybe you’ve been told to watch your cholesterol, or you have a family history of high cholesterol? Or maybe you’re just looking for ways to keep your heart healthy and work on prevention? You’re in luck! September is National Cholesterol Education Month, and Ronni Naramore, DO, family medicine physician with St. Francis Health, has some…
It was a routine day in June 2019 when Jessica Pannell dropped off her daughter at daycare. But, within minutes, things took a drastic turn. Pannell couldn’t see the papers to sign her daughter in for the day. When she tried to wave goodbye, she could barely make out her child’s shape and features. “I…
Your skin isn’t just vulnerable to the sun’s rays during summer days by the pool or at the beach. Prolonged exposure to the sun any time of year can lead to sun damage — that includes working in the garden on those first warm days of spring or sitting in the bleachers for an early…
When it comes to learning to breastfeed, having a strong team makes a difference. The third time was the charm for Heather, an administrative assistant at Our Lady of the Angels who has been part of our team for a decade. Heather’s Path to Motherhood Heather and her her husband, Blake, are proud parents of…
Emily found out she was pregnant at 19, in the middle of her sophomore year at the University of Louisiana Monroe. She knew her life was about to change in ways she couldn’t fully predict. What she didn’t expect, however, was how beautifully her journey into motherhood would unfold — starting with the birth of…