Emplify Health by Bellin & Gundersen 2025 Wellness Draft

Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to the most exciting event of the year—where the world of healthcare collides with the thrill of the NFL Draft! We’re bringing you a unique twist on the traditional draft, where our top providers are drafting their top healthcare tips.

So, grab your pom-poms, put on your team jerseys and get ready to witness the ultimate showdown of skill, dedication and passion. Let’s dive into the Emplify Health by Bellin and Gundersen 2025 Wellness Draft and see what makes the cut!

Emplify Health by Bellin providers

This group of Emplify Health by Bellin providers have made their pick! Keep reading to learn their top orthopedic, family medicine, pediatric, women's health and asthma and allergy tips.

Daniel Sjoquist, MD, Hip & Knee Orthopedic Surgeon:

"The average person can walk greater than 100,000 miles over a lifetime. Routine physical activity is a great way to get your hips and knees moving and keep you doing the activities you enjoy. If you are having joint pain, lower impact exercises such as walking, biking and swimming are great for getting you back on track. Integrating regular exercise into your routine will help reduce pain in your joints and improve their function."

Dr. Sjoquist sees patients at Emplify Health by Bellin Surgery & Specialty Center and Escanaba clinic.

Justin LaCrosse, DO, Family Medicine:

"On average, it takes eight to 10 attempts to successfully quit smoking. But quitting is worth it—after one year, the risk of heart disease drops by 50 percent."

Dr. LaCrosse sees patients at Emplify Health by Bellin Escanaba clinic.

Laura Gallistel, DO, Pediatrician:

"An easy way to ensure that your child is eating the right foods is to help them eat the rainbow. Red foods, such as watermelon, cherries and strawberries are good for their heart health. Orange foods such as peaches, oranges and sweet potatoes help their eyesight. Yellow foods, such as pineapples, bananas and lemons, help heal cuts and scrapes. Green foods such as cucumbers, peas and kiwis help with overall growth. Blue and purple foods like blueberries, eggplant and grapes give your child a strong brain. Finally, white foods, such as cauliflower, mushrooms, coconuts and onions contribute to a healthy child throughout the year."

Dr. Gallistel sees patients at Emplify Health by Bellin De Pere East.

Alexandra Klippel, PA-C, Women’s Health:

"Working in obstetrics and gynecology, we often encounter women at risk for osteoporosis (i.e., decreased bone density, which can increase risk for fracture). This is not something we should only worry about in menopause, but instead something we should care about now. It is important to exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week and incorporate muscle-strengthening and posture exercises two to three days a week. Exercises that promote progressive resistance strength training are extremely beneficial in both women and men at all ages. Whether it is walking, running, dancing or Pilates, grab a friend and find something you love!"

Alexandra sees patients at Emplify Health by Bellin 720 South Van Buren St.

Rachel Chastain, APNP, Asthma & Allergy:

“If you are facing any symptoms related to your breathing or allergies, it is important to recognize and avoid your triggers. Follow your prescribed medication regimen, monitor your symptoms, engage in suitable exercise with proper warm-ups, stay hydrated, maintain a healthy weight, practice breathing exercises, keep your living space clean to reduce allergens, be aware of high triggers such as high allergen counts or poor air quality and always have your rescue medications on hand.”

Rachel sees patients at Emplify Health by Bellin Surgery & Specialty Center.

Emplify Health by Gundersen providers

This group of Emplify Health by Gundersen providers are excited to share with you their first picks for behavioral health, internal medicine, aesthetic and bariatric medicine wellness tips.

Emily Rae, MD, EmPATH:

“Just 10-15 minutes of light exercise can promote the release of feel-good endorphins, take the mind off negative thoughts and boost confidence. Emplify Health by Gundersen La Crosse is excited to be opening Wisconsin’s first ever EmPATH (Emergency Psychiatric Assessment, Treatment and Healing) Unit in early 2026. The EmPATH unit will offer our community a place for immediate help and healing through offering the tools and resources they need to start feeling better right away. Our staff believes in a holistic approach to recovery, and that includes utilizing the power of exercise to help people recover from anxiety and depression.”

Dr. Rae sees patients at Emplify Health by Gundersen La Crosse.

Emily Dolan, MD, Internal Medicine:

“If you’re looking to improve cognitive function, blood pressure, mental health, physical activity or sleep, consider this your doctor’s order for more time outside! Studies show that nature exposure is associated with quantifiable health and wellness benefits. Find a green space to visit today!”

Dr. Dolan sees patients at Emplify Health by Gundersen La Crosse.

Lisa Green & Annie Holliday, Advanced Licensed Laser Technicians, Aesthetics:

"We feel you should get in the habit of maintaining and investing in your skin early. You can do this by having a consistent skincare routine, which should always include wearing SPF daily. We also look to our laser procedures as great options for preventative aging and/or corrective aging. We offer a wide range of services with free consultations to set up a plan that best fits you!"

Katelyn Mellion, MD, General Surgery & Bariatric Medicine:

"Bariatric surgery isn’t just about weight loss—it’s about reclaiming your health. This life-changing procedure can cure type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea while dramatically reducing your risk of heart disease and cancer. One first step you can take is by watching our online seminar that introduces our weight loss options. Another option is to hear from real patients at our upcoming "Life After Bariatric Surgery" event."

Dr. Mellion sees patients at Emplify Health by Gundersen La Crosse.