Born and raised in Decatur County, it was a flyer at work that caught Melissa Blasczak’s eye—an invitation to the 2024 Women’s Health Expo hosted by Decatur County Memorial Hospital (DCMH). She had been feeling unusually tired and drained, even after her normal daily activities. At first, Melissa wasn’t sure if it was a vitamin deficiency, the beginnings of depression, or grief. Her husband had recently passed away after 19 years of significant health challenges, during which she had dedicated herself to helping him and managing his many medical appointments.
Like so many, Melissa had spent years putting her loved one’s needs ahead of her own, and it wasn’t until winter 2024 that she realized her health deserved attention too. She decided to attend the Women’s Health Expo, hoping to find some answers. The registration process was quick and easy, and despite the event’s busy pace, Melissa felt optimistic about getting the information she needed. Without a primary care provider or insurance, the free screenings were a huge blessing.
The 2024 Women’s Health Expo and its no-cost health screenings were made possible thanks to the support of the Hospital Foundation of Decatur County and its generous donors and community partners. Their contributions help ensure that resources like these are accessible to those who need them most—making a direct difference in the lives of people like Melissa.
Pictured: Isaiah Steffen, MD (Melissa’s Primary Care Provider), Mandy Lohrum (Hospital Foundation Director), Melissa Blasczak, Liz McCoy (Marketing & Communications Manager)
“Having access to these tests was such a relief—without them, I might still be unaware of what was really going on,” Melissa said.
After receiving her results through the Patient Portal and by mail, Melissa took time to review her information carefully. By clicking the information icons within the portal, she was able to see the normal recommended ranges and noticed her A1c and cholesterol levels were elevated. Although Dr. Isaiah Steffen was working at the Women’s Health Expo, the two hadn’t met during the event. When Melissa called to schedule a follow-up, DCMH’s Contact Center recommended Dr. Steffen as an excellent provider with availability. She accepted the recommendation and quickly connected with him.
“I really liked Dr. Steffen right away,” Melissa shared.
At her appointment, Dr. Steffen confirmed what Melissa had suspected: a diagnosis of type II diabetes and high cholesterol. While the news felt overwhelming at first, Melissa quickly channeled her energy into making changes. Through portion control, a dramatic reduction in sugar and carbs, and a serious commitment to drinking more water (five bottles a day!), she transformed her health.
In just five months, Melissa lowered her A1c from 8.5 to 5.7 and lost 30 pounds. Her mom was a little worried for her at first, but Melissa explained that by reducing and eliminating certain foods—like sugars, carbs, and high-cholesterol items—rapid weight loss can follow. She made these changes under the direction of Dr. Steffen, who closely monitored her progress and overall health throughout the process. With a careful focus on balanced nutrition and portion control, Melissa’s results have been healthy and sustainable.
Today, she feels more energized, focused, and positive—even gaining the confidence to become more outgoing.
“It’s been a good experience—I’ve had coworkers ask me for advice because they noticed the difference,” Melissa said.
Reflecting on her journey, she encourages others to take advantage of the free health screenings Decatur County Memorial Hospital offers, especially if they don’t have insurance.
“You can’t ignore your own health. I spent so much time focused on others that I forgot about myself. These screenings helped me take my life back.”
For more information about the upcoming free health screenings at DCMH’s 2025 Healthy Fair, visit dcmh.net/healthy-fair