AdventHealth Explorers get exposure to health settings
ZEPHYRHILLS – A second year of student Explorers completed a program on health care careers at AdventHealth Zephyrhills by getting CPR-certified.
The first-of-its-kind Explorers program started at the hospital in spring 2024 with a cohort of 17 youth ages 16 to 20. This year, 20 students were accepted at Zephyrhills as AdventHealth volunteers, giving them access to an immersive learning experience.
Explorers is a program sponsored by Scouting America, where youth can develop career experiences. Explorers meet monthly and work on various student-driven projects with adult guidance and support from AdventHealth team members.
At Zephyrhills, Explorers left with learning experiences in areas like radiology/imagining and emergency medical services. Students finished up their months-long program by getting critical CPR training and certification.
AdventHealth Zephyrhills started the Explorers program, but 10 AdventHealth hospitals in the West Florida Division hosted their own programs this year. Seventy of the AdventHealth Explorers attended a July 17 graduation ceremony.
“We’re excited to be able to grow this program with nearly every AdventHealth hospital in the West Florida Division taking part for the 2026 session,” said Mistie Palmer, AdventHealth workforce development programs manager. “We are excited to invest in and inspire young people in our community to pursue jobs with great potential for personal growth, professional fulfilment and financial success.”
AdventHealth brings Christmas to pediatric patients
TAMPA – In the heat of summer, AdventHealth Tampa is sharing the magic of Christmas.
All July, community members have been donating toys, games and financial gifts to support pediatric patients receiving care at AdventHealth Tampa. The special Christmas in July is meant to bring comfort, smiles and a bit of cheer to children who may be going through a difficult or scary time.
“For children staying in the hospital, every day can feel uncertain and overwhelming, but a simple toy can make a world of difference during treatment,” said McKenzie Doll, the executive director for the AdventHealth Tampa Foundation. “This Christmas in July event is also a powerful reminder that joy and kindness can shine any time of the year.”
AdventHealth Tampa offers Advanced Children’s Emergency Room care, a level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and on-site pediatric specialty services.
Bill would end burn pits
WASHINGTON, D.C. Representatives Gus Bilirakis (R-FL-12) and others have introduced the Waste and Illegal Property Eradication (WIPE) Act.
The legislation would improve, expand and enhance protections for Veterans under the PACT Act in addition to eliminating burn pits to help prevent future toxic exposure cases.
The WIPE Act would improve servicemember health and strengthen national security by improving how the U.S. military eliminates dangerous materials both at home and overseas.
“Exposure to toxic emissions from burn pit toxins has led to tragic consequences for far too many members of our military community,” Bilirakis said. “We owe it to our heroes to transition to safer, more sustainable waste management technologies.”
Saint Leo provides pathway to medical school
- LEO – Saint Leo University biology majors now have a direct path to medical, dental, pharmacy or podiatry school through a new partnership with Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine.
Eligible students may apply to LECOM’s Early Acceptance Program before or during junior year. Qualified applicants can bypass the MCAT and receive provisional acceptance.
While LECOM is based in Erie, Pennsylvania, it recently opened a campus in Bradenton, Florida, and will soon have another in Jacksonville, allowing Saint Leo students to continue their studies in the state.
LECOM offers one of the lowest private medical school tuition rates and a 94% residency match rate. Email Dr. Cheryl Kozina at for details.
Support groups help moms
LUTZ – St. Joseph’s Hospital-North offers free in-person support groups and classes in August about breastfeeding and newborn care.
The events are open to all no matter which hospital you delivered or plan to deliver your children. Events are held in St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, 4211 Van Dyke Road.
- Breastfeeding Support Group – For breastfeeding mothers, their babies and one support person (grandmother, aunt, etc.) The group provides a place where breastfeeding mothers receive support from other breastfeeding mothers and certified breastfeeding consultants. Offered Aug. 14 and 28, 10 to 11 a.m.
- Understanding Your Newborn – Provides information to the expectant mother and one support person about many aspects of safe infant care, including feeding, diapering, bathing, signs of illness and cues and communication. Offered Aug. 14, 1 to 5 p.m.
- Understanding Breastfeeding – Provides information to the expectant mother and her support person about breastfeeding basics, skin-to-skin contact, tips for returning to work and when to call a health care provider or lactation consultant. Offered Aug. 28, 1 to 5 p.m.
Register in advance by visiting BayCareEvents.org or calling 855-314-8352 and pressing the number “2” at the prompt.
