Brittany Sweeney
Health and wellness reporterI’m LehighValleyNews.com’s health and wellness reporter and also host “Living in the Lehigh Valley,” PBS39's health and wellness show. I have covered health-related topics for Lehigh Valley Public Media, contributing to PBS39 and 91.3 WLVR, since 2018. Winning the 2020 Emmy Award for Video Journalist is something I am proud of accomplishing while working for Lehigh Valley Public Media. I grew up in Montgomery County and I'm passionate about telling compelling stories in my home state of Pennsylvania. I'm a graduate of Temple University (go Owls!) and spent most of my career working as an anchor and reporter for NBC affiliates in Northeast Pennsylvania and Ohio. When I'm not covering news around the Lehigh Valley, I can be found exploring the great outdoors with my family. Contact me at BrittanyS@lehighvalleynews.com or 610-984-8170.
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Some of the most beloved characters from the "Star Wars" movies paid a visit to the kids at Lehigh Valley Reilly Children's Hospital. The fun was planned to start May the Fourth festivities early and bring a smile to the kids' faces. -
A bi-annual safety report for general hospitals ranks a portion of the Lehigh Valley as one of the best patient safety areas in the nation. The report grades the facilities on how well they prevent medical errors, accidents and infections.
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Allentown’s first ever Community Health Needs Assessment is out. Three areas have been identified as the highest priority and include loneliness and social isolation, safe, stable and affordable housing, and upward economic mobility.
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Avian influenza, called bird flu, is threatening poultry and dairy cows across the country. Now, local doctors are monitoring the situation closely because it could mutate and become more serious for humans.
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A local brain injury patient appeared at Home Care Lobby Day in the State Capitol this month to advocate for better wages for her home healthcare nurse. Wages for home health care employees are low and don't often get updates despite the cost of living going up.
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Various state agencies came together to promote drug take-back day this weekend. People can drop off unused or outdated prescription pills at designated drop-off locations.
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During Donate Life Month, organ recipients and donors share stories of how their lives changed following the organ donation process. Those waiting for an organ can wait on average five to seven years for a transplant.
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Muhlenberg College and Lehigh Valley Health Network are joining forces to provide a broader range of services to the schools attendees. Students will be able to see LVHN healthcare professionals for both primary and behavioral resources.
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If you thought flu season was winding down, think again. The Lehigh Valley is seeing an increase in influenza cases right now. A local doctor weighs in with what you need to know about the latest surge.
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The new roller coaster at Dorney Park is designed to feel dangerous, but a lot of safety testing goes into the ride before people can experience the thrill of Iron Menace.
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Good Shepherd Rehabilitation announced a new program to train long-term care nursing aides. Those who enroll will get paid while training and will be hired at the health care provider upon completion.
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After going into cardiac arrest, a Catasauqua woman is thanking the team of EMS, fire and medical professionals that helped to save her life. After nearly 12 months in recovery, she reunited with her life-savers to say “thank you.”
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As cases of sexually transmitted diseases spike, health experts urge people to get tested. The Allentown Health Bureau is offering free walk-in testing to anyone, including those who do not live in the city.
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Good Shepherd Rehabilitation will hold a public event about the inclusion of those with disabilities. The goal is to educate the community about the needs of those working with a disability.
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Medicare recipients will see cost-cutting measures take effect this year, thanks to the Inflation Reduction Act.
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The Hospital and Healthsystem Association of Pennsylvania announced the 2024 Achievement Award winners. A Lehigh Valley health system is being recognized for their efforts to help the community.
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The Greater Valley YMCA is waiving its registration fee at the end of the month. New members can join at a discounted price during their Leap Year promotion.
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An uptick in syphilis cases in the Lehigh Valley and across the country has doctors conducting more testing for the sexually transmitted disease. The cases are not just present in sexually active adults, but newborns as well.
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A new Women and Babies Pavilion is now open at St. Luke’s Allentown campus. The expansion doubles the number of births the hospital can accommodate each year.
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Access to a warm meal can become few and far between as some people get older, but a local health system is offering low-cost options for seniors. Those looking to grab a bite are coming from across the area to take part in the program.
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A new blood donation site is now open in Bethlehem. Miller-Keystone's satellite location will give people a chance to donate once a month to contribute to critically low blood supply.
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Snacks are a staple during the Super Bowl, but they aren't always healthy. A local dietitian has some swaps that won't compromise flavor.
