FirstHealth of the Carolinas

10/23/2025

At FirstHealth, we know that obesity is a complex, chronic medical condition—not a matter of willpower or quick fixes. That’s why our Medical Weight Management program takes a personalized, science-based approach to uncover the root causes of weight gain and build realistic, sustainable treatment plans.

The program is led by Ann Marie Richards, M.D., a board certified obesity medicine physician with a background in primary care and specialized training in plant-based nutrition. We asked Dr. Richards to weigh in on the latest headlines about new weight-loss medications and what these advances could mean for the future of treatment—especially with the promise of oral GLP-1 therapies.

Learn how oral GLP-1 weight loss medications could transform obesity medicine. Making weight loss medications more convenient, affordable, and accessible.

10/22/2025

💕 PINK FOR A PURPOSE!

The lights in the FirstHealth Cancer Center are pink in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we are committed to raising awareness, supporting early detection and celebrating the courage of survivors and fighters.

10/22/2025

🎅 Meet the Santa Who Walked Again🦿

After losing his leg to a life-threatening infection, Rusty Disney didn’t just recover — he inspired. From hospital bed to prosthetic, he returned as Santa and became a beacon of hope for fellow amputees. Many thanks to Dr. Gretchen Arnoczy, one of our infectious disease physicians, for sharing Rusty's story and his impact.

Rusty's legacy will live on through the Step Forward Amputee Support Group, the newest support group we are offering for members of our community.

Read Rusty's incredible story 👉 https://bit.ly/3WfNqzm

10/21/2025

NEW SUPPORT GROUP | We are launching a new support group for people who have experienced amputation surgery. Our new group will hold its inaugural meeting next week, Oct. 28, at Clara McLean House in Pinehurst.

Support groups can play a vital role for patients as they recover from certain medical conditions or diagnoses, offering a safe and understanding environment for patients to share experiences, challenges and triumphs.

“Our goal is to help amputees, people with limb loss or limb difference and their families cope with the initial shock of loss and regain control of their lives through education, compassion and encouragement,” said infectious diseases physician Gretchen Arnoczy, M.D. “Amputees can do virtually anything they want to do, and we want to support them in their endeavors.”

Each of the support group meetings will feature a presentation followed by a time for questions, answers and discussion. Learn more: https://bit.ly/3WfMtXO

10/21/2025

🫀❤️ 🩺 Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but the majority of cases are preventable with the right lifestyle choices! Dr. Sun Moon Kim, an interventional and structural cardiologist at FirstHealth, runs through some key things you can do to modify your risk of heart disease.

- Eat a balanced diet
- Get active and stay active
- Prioritize your sleep
- Don’t smoke

Your heart works hard for you - be sure to return the favor! ❤️

10/20/2025

👩‍🍼 Did you know FirstHealth hosts a new mother support group?!

This group offers new moms a safe and welcoming space to talk about postpartum care, breastfeeding stressors, change in identity/role and the importance of both sleep and self-care! The group is free and meets on the third Thursday of every month from 1 to 3 p.m. at FirstHealth OB/GYN (145 Applecross Road, Southern Pines). We hope to see you on November 20! More info here: https://bit.ly/49dLoY1

10/20/2025

Wellness is critical for everyone, and it's especially important for anyone going through a cancer treatment journey. At the FirstHealth Cancer Center, our cancer wellness program is designed to enhance the lives of our patients through exercise, education and group support. We hope to empower patients and ensure they can tackle their treatments and thrive in survivorship.

Learn more about our cancer wellness program: https://bit.ly/4gDVP7a

10/17/2025

We had a great time with 8th graders from Lee County Schools!

10/16/2025

💕 Throwing it back to a great Pink Out last week at Southern Lee High School!

Thanks to everyone for wearing pink and waving our rally towels to help us raise awareness during Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

10/16/2025

Our FirstHealth Fitness members are a constant source of inspiration. Well done, Lorraine! 🏊🏻‍♀️🤿

Can you 🏊🏻‍♀️ 100 miles? Pictured on the right is Lorraine Krug, who has accomplished 100 miles in our pool since April 2025. Vivian Jacobson, pictured left, has helped her with every lap.

10/16/2025

🧬 😷 🩺 Genetic counseling has advanced dramatically in recent years, giving patients and families new opportunities to understand their health risks and make more informed, personalized decisions.

Harleigh Quick, MMSc, Oncology Genetic Counselor at the FirstHealth Cancer Center, joined our podcast to discuss how genetic counseling is used in treatment plans and what the future holds. Listen here: https://bit.ly/47F3f9w

10/15/2025

At only 31 years old, Hayley Arnold faced a life-changing breast cancer diagnosis. With the support of her family, care team and our new integrative oncology program, Hayley found strength, healing and hope. 💪 💗

Hayley's story is a powerful reminder that survivorship begins at diagnosis and continues with compassion, community and care.

🔗 Read about Hayley's journey with FirstHealth Cancer Center: https://bit.ly/46y8GX6