When Jay attended the Living Well Health Fair, he wasn’t just there as a visitor—he was there as a voice for the community. A local DJ, Jay was broadcasting live from the event, sharing insights about the different screenings and resources available. As part of his on-air coverage, he decided to personally experience some of the offerings, including a routine blood pressure test. It was a simple decision, one that would turn out to be lifesaving. Jay had dangerously high blood pressure.
After receiving his results, Dr. Stephanie Van Dyke took the time to explain the findings with compassion and care. She highlighted key areas of concern and walked Jay through healthy, realistic steps he could take to address them. More importantly, she encouraged him to consult his primary care provider as soon as possible.
What struck Jay the most wasn’t necessarily the information itself, he had heard about the importance of healthy choices before. But sometimes, it’s not the information that’s new; it’s how it’s delivered that makes the impact. Dr. Van Dyke’s approach wasn’t just clinical; it was personal. She spoke in a way that made Jay feel seen, supported, and capable of taking action. That gentle but urgent advice stuck with him.
Instead of putting off his health, Jay scheduled an appointment with his health care provider right away. What he learned was eye-opening, he had a major underlying condition that required immediate attention. Without that blood test, and without Dr. Van Dyke’s caring approach, Jay might not have sought care until it was too late.
The Living Well Health Fair gave Jay more than just information, it gave him a second chance. His story is a reminder that sometimes, the right words at the right time can make all the difference.
Dr. Stephanie Van Dyke was a dedicated and much-loved physician at Sky Lakes, known for her passion for preventive care and the kindness she showed to every patient. Stephanie died a year after treating Jay. She is deeply missed by colleagues, patients, and the entire community. Her impact, however, lives on in the countless lives she touched—Jay’s being just one of many.
If you haven’t had a check-up in a while, don’t wait. Your health is worth it.
