Health

By Rev. Leah Gunning Francis, Ph.D., Senior VP and Chief Mission and Values Officer, IU Health— MUNCIE, IN—At the heart of community well-being lies a simple truth: health is more than what happens in a doctor’s office. It is shaped by our relationships, our environment, and the support systems that surround us. When we approach health holistically, caring for body, mind, and spirit, we not only nurture individuals but strengthen the fabric of our communities. That principle was the focus of this year’s Interfaith Health & Wellness Summit, hosted by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield at Lucas Oil Stadium….

By Hannah Dunckel— MUNCIE, IN – Meridian Health Services invites the community to Flu-Lapalooza, a FREE one-day flu shot clinic, on Thursday, October 9 from 1 to 6 p.m., or until supplies last, at Meridian Health Services locations throughout the state of Indiana. Each location will be drawing for a chance to WIN a $50 grocery gift card (eligible to participants only). Flu-Lapalooza ensures convenient access to health care by providing free flu shots to those six months and older. No insurance is necessary and no out-of-pocket fees apply. You need not be a current Meridian patient to obtain a…

By Courtney Schmoll, Regional Communications, IU Health East Region— MUNCIE, IN – The Indiana State Department of Health has re-certified Indiana University Health Ball Memorial Hospital as a Level III obstetric and Level III neonatal facility under the state’s Level of Care program. Level III hospitals are equipped to care for complex maternal medical conditions and obstetric complications, as well as infants requiring neonatal intensive care. “The level of maternal and neonatal care we provide means mothers and babies receive the right care, even when needs are complex,” says Rachel Harbison, director of clinical operations, women and children services. “From labor and…

By Emma Shepard, MS, RD, LD— MUNCIE, IN—Now that school is back in full swing, it is important to consider what your kids are eating for lunch. Healthy, well-rounded meals are essential for a child’s growth and development. School lunch guidelines ensure that meals include adequate nutrition. What if your child is packing lunch? Packing a healthy lunch does not have to be challenging if you use USDA’s MyPlate guidelines as a template. Many people are familiar with the Food Guide Pyramid, which was first distributed in the US in 1992. However, this model was replaced in 2011 with MyPlate,…

By Brenda Ewigleben— MUNCIE, IN— Little Red Door Cancer Agency is proud to announce the grand opening and ribbon cutting of its new, expanded Muncie office, marking a significant step forward in providing more services and support to cancer patients, survivors, and their families in East Central Indiana. The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 27th at 5:30 p.m. at the new location, 413 S. Tillotson Ave, Unit 3, in partnership with the Muncie-Delaware County Chamber of Commerce. Community members, clients, donors, and partners are invited to attend. Little Red Door has had a presence in Muncie…

By Mike Rhodes, Editor-in-Chief— MUNCIE, IN— IU Health Ball Memorial Hospital is among  4,800 hospitals nationwide that participate in the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® initiative to improve outcomes for Americans who experience heart disease or stroke. Each year, the American Heart Association recognizes hospitals across the country for consistently following up-to-date, research-based guidelines to ensure all patients have access to lifesaving care. Heart disease and stroke are the No. 1 and No. 5 causes of death in the United States, respectively. These health crises require swift and proven treatment to ensure the best outcomes for patients. The…

By Jordan Moss— MUNCIE, IN—Friday, August 1, 2025 marks World Lung Cancer Day, a day recognized globally to shine a light on one of the deadliest and most misunderstood forms of cancer. It’s an opportunity to raise awareness, reduce stigma, and emphasize the importance of prevention, research, and early detection. This day is not just for patients or healthcare professionals, it’s for everyone. Because the truth is simple: anyone with lungs can get lung cancer. Too often, people assume that only smokers are at risk. While smoking is the #1 risk factor, it’s far from the only one. Environmental exposures,…

By Hannah Dunckel— MUNCIE, IN— Meridian Health Services, with support from presenting sponsor Pridemark Construction, is hosting the Back-to-School Fit Fair on Wednesday, July 23 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Southside Middle School located at 1601 E. 26th St., Muncie, IN 47302. This event is being held in conjunction with Muncie Community Schools’ registration day. The community and people of all ages are invited to the Back-to-School Fit Fair featuring: FREE Health Fair & Fitness Zone including: Health screenings provided by Meridian Health Services Screenings include ADHD, blood pressure, dental, ear checks, flexibility, and mental health Food and…