Veterans Serving Veterans: A Beacon of Light in Cadillac, Michigan

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Cadillac

HelloCadillac is a video magazine containing information of interest to residents and visitors.

Summer Issue 2025 | ISSN: 3065-6958

Published by HelloNation, © All Rights Reserved

The Gem of the North

Cadillac, Michigan, offers an enchanting blend of charming small-town warmth and stunning natural beauty. Situated amidst the breathtaking landscape of northern Michigan, this delightful city greets residents and visitors alike with a unique blend of history, community, and adventure. With its sparkling lakes and vibrant downtown, Cadillac is an inviting haven for those seeking a life away from the hustle and bustle. The heart of Cadillac lies in its rich community spirit, where festivals, markets, and gatherings bring people together year-round. The local dining scene serves up delightful surprises, from cozy cafes to innovative eateries, ensuring food enthusiasts have much to explore and enjoy. The city’s commitment to arts and culture is evident, with galleries and performances showcasing local creativity at its finest. Nature lovers will find Cadillac to be an outdoor enthusiast's dream. The surrounding forests and lakes make for endless opportunities to hike, fish, ski, or simply soak in the beauty of a sunrise over the water. With places like Lake Cadillac and Lake Mitchell offering year-round activities, adventure awaits at every corner. Whether you're embracing the active lifestyle or relaxing in scenic tra...

A Beacon of Light in Cadillac, Michigan

Situated in the stunning landscape of northwest Michigan, lies a city synonymous with service and community - Cadillac, Michigan.

Nestled amongst serene lakes and beautiful forests, this city embodies the true beauty of Northern Michigan. This beauty is not only in the essence of nature that surrounds it but in the heart and core values of the city, represented by organizations such as Veterans Serving Veterans, Inc. In the heart of this picturesque city, on a 57-acre expanse of pure Northern Michigan grandeur stands a unique community resource that has not only become a symbol of love and support for our veterans but has also brought the community together: The Veterans Serving Veterans Park. Beyond just being a green space, the park is home to an invaluable initiative: a food pantry specifically dedicated to the brave veterans of Cadillac. This substantial initiative feeds over 120 veterans on the 2nd and 4th Thursday each month, affirming the city's commitment to the welfare of those who have dutifully served their country. The Veterans Serving Veterans Park also boasts the most beautiful 5K course in the state, considered one of the fastest three courses statewide. This breathtaking course is the home of the reputable Cadillac High School and Manton High School, offering an inviting and challenging space for their students and community athletes. An integral piece of the park’s offering includes an impressive 8,000 square foot...

A Community of Learners

In Cadillac, Michigan, education is more than just a pursuit—it's a vibrant, inclusive community that fosters a love for lifelong learning. The city's schools, known for their dedicated and innovative educators, create an environment where students are motivated to explore their passions and push beyond their limits. The faculty's commitment to nurturing curiosity and resilience is evident as you walk through the welcoming hallways of Cadillac's schools.

Cadillac Area Public Schools, at the heart of this educational gem, offer a diverse array of programs designed to cater to the needs and interests of every student. From robust arts programs to cutting-edge STEM opportunities, the education system here is committed to equipping young minds with the tools they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world. Lake Superior State University's branch in Cadillac further extends the opportunity for students to pursue higher

education with ease and distinction. Beyond academics, Cadillac's schools emphasize community values and character building, ensuring students graduate as well-rounded individuals prepared to lead and innovate. With supportive community involvement and resources, Cadillac stands as a testament to the power of community-driven education, where every child has a chance to flourish and make a lasting

A Hub of Compassionate Healthcare Excellence

Cadillac, Michigan, is earning its stripes as a beacon of healthcare excellence, offering residents and visitors alike a wealth of robust healthcare services. This charming city doesn’t just look after its own but extends an inviting hand to neighboring communities with its comprehensive medical facilities and compassionate care. At the

heart of Cadillac's healthcare are its state-of-the-art medical centers. Chief among them is the Munson Healthcare Cadillac Hospital, a cornerstone in the community's commitment to health and wellness. This facility is more than just a hospital; it is a hub of innovation, combining advanced medical technology with a personal touch that puts patients first. The dedicated healthcare professionals here are not only

equipped with exceptional skill but also a genuine compassion that makes all the difference in patient care. Complementing the hospital are numerous specialty clinics and wellness services, ensuring that every health need, from routine checkups to specialized care, is met with utmost attention. Cadillac’s robust network of family doctors, specialists, and support staff work tirelessly to deliver top-notch care, making it a community that truly prioritizes the well-being of its people. In Cadillac, healthcare is more than a service; it’s a commitment—a reassuring promise of health, happiness, and a high...

by Laurel Leithauser, MD, FFAD, FACMS

In Cadillac, summer means time outside on lakes, trails, and in backyards. But while Northern Michigan offers some of the state’s most beautiful weather, it also brings a hidden risk. The region’s unique landscape reflects sunlight off water and sand, nearly doubling the amount of ultraviolet (UV) radiation your skin receives. That added UV exposure makes skin cancer more than just a general concern; it’s a regional one.

Many people assume that using sunscreen is enough. And while sunscreen is important, it doesn’t always offer full

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Laurel Leithauser is a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained expert in skin cancer and reconstructive surgery. She specializes in Mohs micrographic surgery and facial reconstructive procedures, while also practicing all aspects of dermatology. Dr. Leithauser has extensive training in skin cancer diagnosis and treatment, advanced Mohs surgery, facial reconstruction, and cosmetic dermatologic procedures.

protection, especially after swimming or sweating. The reflected sunlight in Northern Michigan increases your exposure, even in the shade or on cloudy days. That makes residents of Cadillac more likely to develop certain types of skin cancer, especially basal cell carcinoma, the most common form in the United States.

Protecting your skin through yearly screenings with a dermatologist is not just a routine check. It is essential health care for residents of Northern Michigan. These annual visits give dermatologists the opportunity to spot early

Protecting your skin through yearly screenings with a dermatologist is not just a routine check. It is essential health care for residents of Northern Michigan.

changes in the skin that could indicate cancer. Early detection often leads to easier, less invasive treatment with better outcomes. That includes quick in-office procedures to remove small lesions before they become more serious problems.

Skin cancer screening involves a full-body check by a dermatologist who’s trained to recognize subtle changes in moles, spots, or patches. Even something that looks minor can sometimes be an early sign of basal cell carcinoma or another form...

Hometown Heroes celebrates the brave men and women from Cadillac who answered the call to serve. They left their homes, families, and communities to defend our freedoms. They brought with them the values of their upbringing, woven into the fabric of the communities they cherished. Across generations, these heroes stood united, embodying courage, sacrifice, and a love of country that knows no bounds. Whether on land, sea, or in

the skies, they carried the spirit of their hometowns with them, facing challenges with unyielding resolve and selflessness. We honor their service, their legacy, and the communities that raised them. Today, we remember not just their dedication but the strength and unity that bind us all as Americans. Their stories are our stories, a testament to the enduring spirit of the United States and the bonds that make us strong.