health

Living Well with Diabetes Workshop Offered in Duluth

The Six-Week Class is Offered Every Monday at Blue Cross Blue Shield Retail Center in Downtown Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Managing a serious health condition can not only take a physical toll, but a mental and emotional toll as well. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly one in ten adults have diabetes. That rate rises to one in three for adults with pre-diabetes. These conditions can be managed with proven, simple lifestyle changes. If you or a…

UMD Public Health Students Showcase This Year’s Projects

Students proud to show off their hard work.

DULUTH, Minn.- Public Health students at UMD showed off projects they’ve been working on throughout the year. The 2019 student showcase featured campaigns and projects focused on Health and Wellness in and around the University. Presentation topics included ways teachers can prevent burning out from stress. “We all work so hard throughout the semester and we need a chance to celebrate…

FOX 21 Partnering with Memorial Blood Centers to Host Blood Drive for Bennett

The Blood Drive for Bennett is Happening Saturday, May 4 at the FOX 21 Studios on London Road in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – Every day, patients at local hospitals rely on donated blood, but blood doesn’t last forever which is why FOX 21 Local News is partnering with Memorial Blood Centers to host a blood drive Saturday, May 4 from 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Bennett Young, a normally cheerful, sweet 21-month-old boy developed unusual bruising on his leg. He…

Local Veterinarians Express Tick Prevention as Temperatures Rise

A Yearly, Preventative Lyme Disease Vaccination is Available for Animals

DULUTH, Minn. – With warmer days frequently popping up in the forecast many of us will be spending countless hours soaking up the sun and heading out for walks with our four legged friends. While this sounds much needed and well deserved, it’s important to remember it’s also time for ticks to wake up and latch on. “We’ve found them…

Large Crowd Celebrates Women Expo at the DECC

More than five thousand women packed the DECC Saturday

DULUTH, Minn.- Today, more than five thousand women packed the DECC for the Duluth Women’s Expo. 120 exhibitors gave women of the Northland options on travel, home improvement, health, and beauty. And it wasn’t just the expo that was going on today. The Womenrock Breast Cancer Awareness Event and fundraiser was also happening today at the DECC. Vice President of…

American Heart Association Hosted 15th Annual Go Red For Women Luncheon

One third of women's deaths are caused by heart disease or stroke.

DULUTH, Minn. – The American Heart Association celebrated women’s heart health at the 15th annual Go Red for Women lunch today at the DECC. Healthcare providers from Essentia were on hand to give blood pressure testing and provide more information about how to be aware of the risks of heart disease. Several other organizations were also available for women to…

Northland Schools Support Healthy Eating Resolutions

Wrenshall Schools Food Service Director Valerie Dahl Shares Tips to Getting Children to Enjoy Fruits, Vegetables During Meals

DULUTH, Minn. – With the start of a new year, healthy eating is a common resolution for families. School cafeteria professionals can often provide tips and techniques used in the cafeteria to get students to consume healthier food options that can easily translate to habits at home. • Create a food kaleidoscope – Children commonly eat with their eyes, if…

SunSpot Sisters Striving to Help Keep Northlanders Healthy this Winter

A List of Locations for The SunSpot Bus is Located Weekly on Their Facebook Page

DULUTH, Minn. – Katherine and Sue York are out to help community members fight the winter blues. The SOL Sisters are often seen driving their big red bus around the Northland to help Northlanders dealing with depression, Seasonal Affective Disorder and much more. Studies say that 71 percent of people in the Northland suffer from vitamin D deficiency during the grey winter months,…

Improve Balance & Reduce Falls With Tai Ji Quan Class

New Balance & Coordination Class Starts Next Week In Duluth, All Experience Levels Welcome

DULUTH, Minn. – With the icy conditions in place this time of year, the thought of falling can be serious. Especially the older you get and the less balance coordination you may have. One class starting next week helps improve your balance through martial arts movements. It’s called Tai Ji Quan. “It helps improve balance, coordination, strengthens lower extremities and…

Northland’s Largest Baby Shower Happening Now

Life 97.3 and St. Luke's Hospital are Teaming Up Throughout the Month of January to Host the Northland's Largest Baby Shower

DULUTH, Minn. – Life 97.3 and St. Luke’s Hospital are partnering throughout the month of January to throw the Northland’s Largest Baby Shower! Life 97.3 is encouraging residents in the community to donate typical baby shower items that will ultimately benefit a number of organizations spread across the Northland that are helping families in need. Below is a list of all the organizations that…

Fit and Fabulous Tech to Help You Stay Motivated in 2019

Steve Van Dinter with Verizon Wireless Offers Tech Gadgets to Help Keep You on the Right Track in 2019

DULUTH, Minn. – Verizon can help put a little pep in your step if health and fitness are on your 2019 to-do list. These wearable devices make hitting the gym something to look forward to: • Fitbit Versa –The perfect fitness companion for recording workouts, heart rate zones, sleep patterns and more. • Palm – Make a resolution to spend…

Set Standards, Not Resolutions for the New Year

Coach for Success Pam Solberg-Tapper Stops by FOX 21 Local News to Chat about Setting Standards, Not Resolutions in the New Year

DULUTH, Minn. – According to Tony Robbins, “Any time you sincerely want to make a change, the first thing you must do is to raise your standards.” This New Year, if you think you should lose weight, improve finances, stop procrastinating or be kinder this year set standards, not resolutions. A standard is a rule you set for yourself. It…

Reflections on 2018, Intentions for 2019 at The Strength Factory

Owners of The Strength Factory and Rooted in Wellness Invite Twin Ports Residents to Reflect on the Past Year Sunday, December 30, 2018

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – This time of year is a great time to take a look back on the year and reflect of where we’ve come in the last 12 months and also to take some time to look forward to the new year and where we would like to go on the wide open road ahead in 2019. During this…

Coffee Conversation: Staying Heart Healthy this Winter

Dr. Leif Christianson, St. Luke's Cardiologist, Offers Tips to Stay Heart Healthy this Winter Season

DULUTH, Minn. – For this week’s Midwest Roaster’s Coffee Conversation, St. Luke’s Cardiologist, Dr. Leif Christianson, stopped by FOX 21 Local News to chat about ways to stay heart healthy this winter. The Northland is suffering a lack of snowfall so far this year, but that doesn’t mean we won’t make up for it as the season goes on. Christianson wants to…

Tips to Keep Pets Away From the Emergency Room this Holiday Season

Dr. Matthew Severs with Superior Animal Hospital Offers Safety Tips for Pet Owners as the Holiday Season Arrives

SUPERIOR, Wis. – We’re just one day away from Thanksgiving — turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie and more. Chances are many of us will eat a little too much on turkey day, but what about our pets? Local veterinarians from Superior Animal Hospital want to make sure your animal stays safe this holiday season, avoiding a tragic trip to the emergency…

Locally Sourced Items Help Brighten Thanksgiving Dinner

Staff at Whole Foods Co-op in Duluth Offer a Variety of Locally Sourced Items to Include in Your Thanksgiving Meal

DULUTH, Minn. – “You definitely taste the difference,” said Ali Wade, Brand Manager at the Duluth Whole Foods Co-op. Wade stopped by FOX 21 Local News Tuesday morning to offer some fresh, locally sourced items for your Thanksgiving table this year. She says both Whole Foods locations have been busy with shoppers rushing in to finalize their turkey day meals….

Pam’s Purpose: Heart Petals Helping Heal for the Future

In This FOX 21 Special Report, You'll Meet a Woman in Duluth Making the Most out of a Life Changing Situation

DULUTH, Minn. – Thursday, November 15 is World Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Day. In Duluth, Enger Tower will be lit purple, and awareness will be raised across the world. But it doesn’t stop the facts from sounding the alarm. This year, it’s estimated more than 55,000 Americans will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Health officials say more than 44,000 will die…

Holiday Shopping with St. Luke’s Volunteer Service Guild

The Annual Holiday Fundraiser will Kick Off Thursday, November 1 in the St. Luke's Hospital Gift Shop

DULUTH, Minn. – As soon as Halloween wraps up, the St. Luke’s Volunteer Service Guild will be decking the halls of their gift shop in Duluth. The St. Luke’s Volunteer Service Guild’s Annual Holiday Sale, Bake Sale and Raffle will kick off Thursday, November 1 and Friday, November 2 in the St. Luke’s Hospital Gift Shop. Shoppers can find a wide…

St. Luke’s Dietitian Offers Tips and Treats Ahead of Halloween

St. Luke's Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne Offers Tips for Youth and Adults When it Comes to Healthy Halloween Habits

DULUTH, Minn. – Halloween falls on Wednesday this week and many folks have probably already stocked up the candy drawer, but it’s important to remember moderation is the best bet as we head into the height of the holiday season. St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne stopped by FOX 21 Local News Monday morning to offer a few tips before…

Health Officials Pushing to Increase Legal Age to Purchase Tobacco

Tobacco 21 is being led by the American Lung Association.

DULUTH, Minn.- The FDA is calling youth smoking an epidemic and a push to increase the minimum age to purchase tobacco to 21 is coming through Duluth and Hermantown. Tobacco 21 is being led by the American Lung Association. Organizers tell us tightening the age restriction would make a positive impact. The menthol ban as just a big step to…

Free Medicare Advice Offered This Evening in Duluth

UnitedHealthcare is Offering a Free Community Event Wednesday, September 19 for Folks to Learn About Medicare

DULUTH, Minn. – With 62 million Americans enrolled in Medicare, and more than 10,000 Americans turning 65 every single day, there is significant interest in Medicare health coverage. Unfortunately, there’s also tremendous confusion. According to UnitedHealthcare, roughly 39 percent of Medicare beneficiaries say they have a “fair” or “poor” understanding of Medicare, and two in five beneficiaries describes Medicare as “confusing”….

Superior Daycare Provides Flu Shots to Staff to Fight Spread to Kids

Many daycares in the Northland are noticing these flu-like symptoms earlier than previous years but it's not too early for a flu shot.

SUPERIOR, Minn.- Daycares in the Northland are already seeing flu-like symptoms and tell FOX21 this is earlier than usual. If you are young and healthy the flu may not affect your body that harshly, but by getting the flu shot it stops you from being a carrier to those who could suffer serious problems related to the flu. People over…

New Machinery Creating Medical Miracles in Physical Rehabilitation

It's a balancing hoist, funded by an anonymous donor through the Miller-Dwan Foundation and medical professionals tell us the impact is amazing.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s called the ZeroG, a new piece of medical equipment that’s helping make vast improvements possible for patients attempting to walk again. It’s a balancing hoist, funded by an anonymous donor through the Miller-Dwan Foundation and medical professionals tell us the impact is amazing.  The ZeroG is cutting edge technology and it’s creating more opportunities for therapists at…

Unique School Bus Helps Special Olympic Athletes

The UCare Mobile Dental Clinic is providing teeth cleaning and other dental services to Special Olympic athletes.

DULUTH, Minn.- Surprising dentist visits are typically bad but one teeth-cleaning station cruising into the Northland is making quite the impact. Dental students from the University of Minnesota are cleaning teeth on a traveling bus, called the UCare Mobile Dental Clinic. During a pit stop in Duluth on Wednesday, September 12, Special Olympics Athletes are receiving free dental work. The soon-to-be dentists tell…

The Arc Northland Looks to Help Navigate the Workforce, Benefits

The Arc Northland Provides Resources and Assistance to People Living with Disabilities in the Region

DULUTH, Minn. – A free workshop happening on Tuesday, September 18 will help people with disabilities learn the possibilities of working and also keeping the proper benefits. The workshop will take place at the Duluth Workforce Development Center located at 402 West First Street. Folks are also able to participate via video conferencing. The workshop will provide information to people…

Teal Promotes Talks of Ovarian Cancer Awareness this Month

Throughout the Month of September, Northlanders are Raising Awareness of Ovarian Cancer

DULUTH, Minn. – Throughout the month of September, teal will help promote the conversation of awareness for ovarian cancer. According to the Minnesota Ovarian Cancer Alliance (MOCA), ovarian cancer is sometimes called the “silent killer” because the symptoms are often easily overlooked until the disease has progressed to the advanced stages. MOCA has planned a weekend of inspiration to raise funds for…

New Bloodmobile Removes Donation Barriers

Meet the faces you're helping stay healthy by donating blood.

DULUTH, Minn.- The goal is to increase blood donations in the Northland as a brand new bloodmobile is now opening in Duluth and health professionals say blood donations are needed more than you may think. Health experts say having a mobile donation station removes a barrier to donating blood and for some families the need for blood hits close to home….

Help Northland Families Have the “Best Christmas Ever!”

Nominations for the 2018 "Best Christmas Ever" Will Open Saturday, September 1 and Close Thursday, November 15

DULUTH, Minn. – Although were still months away from snow on the ground (hopefully), it’s never too late to start thinking about the Holiday Season and making it special. Best Christmas Ever is a non-profit organization working to partner with business leaders and communities across the country to lift up families who have fallen on difficult times due to health…

Getting Groovy with Ely’s Spiritwood “Forget Me Not” Foundation

The Spiritwood Foundation is set to Host Their Next Performance, "Remember When, A Musical Happening," August 17, 18

ELY, Minn. – The Spiritwood ‘Forget Me Not’ Foundation is committed to supporting organizations that enhance the quality of life of those afflicted with Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia. Their efforts are aimed at the many concerns and worries of family members and caregivers, and their focus is on the dignity of each individual. From their popular “Remember…

Buy a Blizzard, Donate a Dollar Today at Dairy Queen

Miracle Treat Day is Happening All Day Thursday, August 2 at Multiple Northland Dairy Queen's

DULUTH, Minn. – Looking to cure your sweet tooth today? Then you’re in luck! All DQ locations in Northeast Minnesota will be participating in the 2018 Miracle Treat Day 2018. One or more dollars from each sale of a DQ Blizzard will be donated to Gillette Children’s Specialty Healthcare through the Children’s Miracle Network. Gloria Plaisted owns and operates the…

Public Housing Now Smoke-Free Nation Wide

Local officials say the Twin Ports were leaders in this movement.

DULUTH, Minn.- Now all Public Housing in the United States has a new rule, but it’s been established in the Twin Ports for quite some time. Public housing across the nation is smoke-free starting on Monday, July 30. The rule is not asking residents to quit smoking. Local health officials say Duluth was a leader in implementing the smoke-free public housing…

Walk to Rise Above Seizures Thursday in Duluth

The 2018 Rise Above Seizures Walk is Happening Thursday, August 2 at 5:00 p.m. at the Park Point Pavilion & Beach House

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the Epilepsy Foundation, nearly three million people in the United States have epilepsy, also known as a seizure disorder. The foundation states 60,000 people in Minnesota have the disorder, which amounts to enough people to fill TCF Bank Stadium. This Thursday, August 2, Northlanders have the chance to help make a difference by raising awareness…

St. Luke’s Dietitian Offers Summer Food Safety Tips

St. Luke's Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne Offers Important Tips to Remember When Preparing Your Summer BBQ

DULUTH, Minn. – Independence Day falls on a Wednesday this year and many folks will be firing up the grill to help celebrate, but St. Luke’s in Duluth says it’s important to remember a few simple safety tips when it comes to setting out your favorite picnic foods. Monday morning, St. Luke’s Clinical Dietitian Mary Cherne stopped by FOX 21…

St. Luke’s Heart Center Honored

DULUTH, Minn.-St. Luke’s was honored earlier today being recognized as a Heart Attack Receiving Center from the American Heart Association. They received a gold level status from the organization for their work in helping patients with STEMI (ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction) heart attacks – one of the deadliest kinds. Physicians there said the award was a team effort. “It says a…

Raising Awareness on The Longest Day

The Longest Day Helps to Raise Awareness for Patients and Caregivers Living with Alzheimer's Disease

DULUTH, Minn. – On Thursday, June 21, members in the community living with or affected by Alzheimer’s Disease will have the chance to raise funds and awareness for care and support. People across the globe will be putting on activities on this day to raise awareness not only for patients, but for their caregivers as well. Curves Miller Hill in…

Human Development Center Opens in Medical District

The center helps nearly 600 individuals every month.

DULUTH, Minn.- A new The Human Development Center in Duluth is providing multiple services at one location. The center helps individuals in Saint Louis County dealing with mental illness and addiction. The new location allows all 75 community support workers to work under the same roof. Previously the services were scattered throughout Duluth, being at one location helps workers coordinate…

Agent Orange Affects Northland Veterans Decades Later

Agent Orange was a herbicide, sprayed by the U.S. military during the Vietnam War.

DULUTH, Minn.-Many veterans from the Vietnam war are struggling with health problems due to a herbicide known as agent orange, a tactical chemical that the military used to clear the forest floor, and remove enemy cover during battle. Two Northland veterans that are dealing with the aftermath of agent orange all these years later. Overall nearly 300 thousand veterans have…

Duluth Woman Looks to Perfect Beauty Sleep

DeBora Rachelle is a Native Duluth Resident Looking to Keep Health, Wellness and Comfort in Mind While You Sleep

DULUTH, Minn. – Do you toss and turn all night long or wake up drenched in sweat? If so, one Duluthian is looking to make a difference in your life. “I may not be walking the red carpets in California and Hollywood anymore but I’ll be the hottest chick at a toga party,” said DeBora Rachelle, Founder, DeBora Rachelle Inc….

“Make it OK” Campaign Stops at Duluth Area Family YMCA

A Full List of Events is Planned by Northland Healthy Minds throughout the Month of May to Combat Mental Illness Stigma

DULUTH, Minn. – Folks visiting the Duluth Area Family YMCA on Friday had the chance to learn more about the stigma surrounding mental illness, and even sign a pledge to speak up about the ongoing issue. Northland Healthy Minds is a volunteer group that has come together to bring the “Make it OK” campaign to the Duluth area. The group…

Congdon Students Continue Getting in Gear

Rainy Weather Postponed Bike, Walk to School Day for Students at Congdon Park Elementary; Event Continues to Grow

DULUTH, Minn. – Back in 1997 students, staff and parent organizers took part in the first ever National Walk to School Day. In 2012, National Bike to School Day became a reality. The day technically happened on Wednesday, May 9 this year, but due to rainy, cold weather in the Northland, students held off to celebrate until the following day….

Animal Answers: Jimmy Walks Once Again

Duluth Dachshund Jimmy Page Suffered from Intevertebral Disc Disease Two Weeks Ago, Having to Undergo Emergency Surgery

DULUTH, Minn. – Just over two weeks ago, dachshund Jimmy Page had to undergo emergency surgery at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Hospital in St. Paul after slipping two discs in his back. Without any warning sign, Jimmy woke up one day suffering from intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). IVDD is when discs in the back deteriorate, becoming susceptible to bulging or…

Veterinarian Expresses Concern Over Heartworm, Urges Prevention

On Average, Seven Dogs Every Year will Receive Treatment for Heartworm at Animal Allies Humane Society in Duluth

DULUTH, Minn. – The disease is deadly, but the group targeted cannot speak up when they’re feeling ill. Heartworm is more common in southern states due to warm weather year round, but it doesn’t mean animals in the Midwest are out of the clear. “I have actually seen mosquitos out already,” said Lindsay Niemi, Practice Manager at Animal Allies Humane…

Following Along on Local Judge’s Morning Commute

Judge Shaun Floerke rides to the Duluth Court House regardless of the weather.

DULUTH, Minn.-  For nearly a decade Judge Shaun Floerke has been gearing up for each full day of work at the Duluth Court House by hopping on his bike. Once gas prices hit three dollars a gallon all those years ago, Judge Floerke changed up his morning commute, biking instead of driving. “The first couple of weeks were just super…

Twin Ports Focuses on Mental Health Awareness Following Chaotic Week

The month of May is now dedicated to Northland Healthy Minds.

TWIN PORTS-  Mayors from both sides of the bridge are working to break down the stigma that often surrounds mental health. They’re calling it Northland Healthy Minds and they say this is even more timely given the recent traumatic events the Twin Ports have faced. Just this past month Superior firefighters faced the suicide of their longtime battalion chief Eric…

Local Library Helps Community Focus on Health

One method used, was coloring.

DULUTH, Minn.- You’ve heard it many times before, taking time out of your day to care for yourself is important. The Duluth Public Library gave a space for community members to focus on their health on Saturday. Organizers say there are many ways we can reduce stress in our life. One method used, was coloring. Studies show coloring has mental health…

Duluth Public Library Focuses on Health and Wellness

DULUTH, Minn. – Taking care of your health is something important no matter your age, and this weekend the Duluth Public Library is dedicating a day to wellness. The Duluth Public Library is hosting its 2nd annual Wellness Day, dedicated to learning about and trying out healthy lifestyle practices throughout the afternoon. This event will take place at the  Duluth…

Animal Answers: Jimmy’s Road to Recovery

Three-Year-Old Dachshund Jimmy Recently Suffered from IVDD, Intervertebral Disc Disease

DULUTH, Minn. – It can happen in the blink of an eye, one small accident or medical condition leading to a potentially life changing diagnosis. Right now, there’s a dachshund in Duluth learning this all too quickly, and now his mom is looking to spread awareness by telling Jimmy’s story. “Hi pretty boy, Jimmy Page! He’s my little buddy,” said…

Native American Health, Resiliency, Highlighted in New Exhibition

"Zoongide'ewin" Opens Thursday at Karpeles Museum

DULUTH, Minn. – This week an exhibition is debuting at the Karpeles Manuscript Library Museum focused on Native American resiliency, health and perspectives in the Great Lakes region. A reception featuring the work is being held on Thursday, April 26 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m. “Zoongide’ewin: An exhibition on Native American Health & Resilience in the Great Lakes Region,” is…

New Shingles Vaccine Available

Medical professionals say you should receive the shingles vaccine whether you remember having chicken pox or not.

DULUTH, Minn.- It’s a common disease in elderly adults, medical professionals warn, shingles can be painful and cause many side effects. But now a new vaccine is on the market. The new shingles vaccine Shingrix is %90 effective. Medical professionals recommend it for anyone over 50. The vaccine is given in two doses, then lasts for a lifetime. Studies show by…

Working Out with XMT-3 Training Studio

Active Adventures: Why Weight and Resistance Training is Vital for Runners

DULUTH, Minn. – As the weather begins to warm, more and more people are heading outside to enjoy the nice days. Many are doing their first runs outside, while some are training for Grandma’s Marathon. One local personal trainer believes private training can be a game-changer for those looking to get in shape. Eric Franklin, the owner of XMT-3 Training…