Skip to content

The Chicago Journal

Unfair Care: Dr. Bryan Laskin’s Bold Call to Reclaim Your Health

The Chicago Journal Staff on October 8, 2025

By: Marcus Ellery

When Dr. Bryan Laskin’s wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, he expected challenges. What he didn’t expect was to find himself navigating a system so tangled in inefficiency, miscommunication, and institutional bias that it left patients more confused than cared for. The experience was more than frustrating—it was revealing. “That was the moment I realized healthcare isn’t broken,” he says. “It’s rigged against keeping patients well.”

That realization led to the development of Unfair Care: Get the Healthcare You Deserve in a System Designed to Fail You, a direct, practical, and unapologetically honest guide for patients who are tired of feeling caught in a system that often seems to prioritize institutions over individuals.

A System Not Broken—But Designed This Way

Dr. Laskin, a practicing dentist and tech innovator, has spent years advocating for a healthcare model that puts patients at the center. But as he explains in Unfair Care, many of the problems we encounter in healthcare may not be isolated accidents—they could be structural.

“You think it’s a one-off mistake, or that something slipped through the cracks. But the truth is, these ‘cracks’ are baked into the system,” he says. He points to the way data is siloed as one of the most egregious examples. “Most of the time—essentially 100% of the time—the information that a doctor or dentist needs to provide the ideal care is split up across separate systems. No one, except the patient, has access to the full picture. And most patients don’t even know they have the right to that data.”

Real Stories, Real Stakes

From his own dental practice, Dr. Laskin has witnessed firsthand how the system fails even in seemingly minor ways. “A patient came in with a root canal that looked perfect on the X-ray,” he shares. “But they still had pain. The X-ray didn’t show the whole story. What mattered was the history of that tooth—whether it was still healing or had an active infection. But no one outside their original provider had that history.”

It’s a small example that reveals a much larger problem: lack of continuity and coordination. And these lapses may not just be inconvenient—they could be dangerous.

Taking the Power Back

What makes Unfair Care so different from other books on healthcare is its refusal to play the blame game. It doesn’t ask you to wait for policy changes. It doesn’t suggest that new laws or insurance reforms alone will resolve these issues. It offers a plan to act now.

“Patients can’t afford to be passive,” Dr. Laskin insists. “You need to become the CEO of your own health.”

That starts with owning your data. He encourages readers to request and review their full health records—from all providers, not just medical doctors, but dentists, chiropractors, and even wellness professionals. “That’s the foundation for better care,” he says. “When you have all the information, you can make smarter decisions, spot contradictions, and hold your providers accountable.”

Unfair Care walks readers through how to do exactly that. It offers practical steps—from how to organize your health records to how to interview a doctor before committing to care. There are checklists, scripts, and real-world examples, all designed to empower patients to speak up, ask the right questions, and gently push back when something doesn’t feel right.

Dispelling Dangerous Myths

One of the more concerning beliefs patients hold, according to Dr. Laskin, is that doctors always have the answers.

“They don’t,” he says. “Not because they’re bad people, but because the system keeps them in the dark just like it does to you. They only see a fragment of your story. And often, they’re operating under time constraints and institutional guidelines that don’t prioritize individualized care.”

By reframing the role of the patient—from passive recipient to informed leader—Unfair Care aims to shift how people experience the healthcare system. “This book doesn’t just describe the problem,” Dr. Laskin says. “It offers you the tools to survive—and potentially thrive—within it.”

The Role of Technology

Technology, he believes, is not the enemy—but rather a possible path forward. “Digital health tools are critical,” he explains. “But only if patients are the ones driving them.” In Unfair Care, he highlights emerging tools that can help patients track symptoms, manage medications, and store records—all independently of their providers.

“It’s 100% up to us as patients to aggregate and analyze our information,” Dr. Laskin says. “Nobody’s going to do it for us—not insurance companies, not hospitals. The future of healthcare is patient-led.”

From Outrage to Action

Dr. Laskin knows many readers will come to Unfair Care already feeling frustrated or discouraged by their past experiences. And while outrage is justified, he believes it’s not enough.

“Hope won’t change the system. Action will,” he says. “My goal with this book is not to stir up more emotion—it’s to give people a plan. A real, tangible, step-by-step plan to take back control of their health journey.”

That mindset shift is what makes Unfair Care so timely and impactful. In a world where healthcare often feels like something that happens to us, Dr. Bryan Laskin is offering a potential roadmap to reclaim agency and demand better.

One Change You Can Make Today

If there’s one action he hopes readers will take immediately, it’s simple: “Request and review all of your health records. Medical, dental, chiropractic—everywhere you’ve received care. That’s your data. That’s your story. And you deserve access to it.”

Whether you’re a patient, caregiver, or simply someone tired of the confusion and contradictions of modern healthcare, Unfair Care is a wake-up call—and a survival guide. In Dr. Laskin’s view, real change begins not in Washington, but with you.

 

Disclaimer: The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and reflects the opinions and experiences of Dr. Bryan Laskin. It is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified healthcare providers for personalized medical advice and treatment.

Empty Nesters and Mental Health: Finding Wellness Through Change

The Chicago Journal Staff 2 on October 8, 2025

When children leave the home, it can stir up a whirlwind of emotions for parents. This transition, often referred to as “empty nest syndrome,” brings about significant changes in family dynamics. While some may view this as a time of freedom or relief, it can also create feelings of loss, sadness, or uncertainty. Empty nesters face a unique set of challenges that can affect their mental well-being. Understanding these challenges and exploring ways to adapt can help individuals maintain emotional balance during this phase.

Empty nest syndrome isn’t a clinical diagnosis but rather a term that describes the emotional response parents experience when their children move out. The departure marks a clear shift in daily routines, and for many, this adjustment may feel overwhelming. However, this period can also offer a chance for personal growth and new opportunities. Recognizing the mental health impact of this transition is the first step toward regaining a sense of well-being.

A Shift in Routine: Coping with Sudden Change

The daily routine of caring for children, providing meals, and managing household activities often becomes the foundation of a parent’s day. When children leave for school, work, or a new life, the sudden change in responsibilities can feel unsettling. The house feels quieter, and the space once filled with constant activity can seem eerily still. Empty nesters may experience feelings of loneliness or even anxiety as they adjust to this new environment.

For some, the absence of their children can lead to a sense of purposelessness. This is especially true for parents who have dedicated much of their identity to raising their kids. Without the immediate demands of parenting, empty nesters may struggle with their sense of self and direction.

The key to managing these changes lies in creating a new routine that aligns with one’s needs and interests. Picking up old hobbies, exploring new activities, or even taking time for relaxation can provide a sense of fulfillment and joy. Adapting to a more flexible lifestyle allows empty nesters to rediscover passions or pursue personal goals that may have been put on hold.

The Role of Self-Care in Maintaining Mental Health

Empty Nesters and Mental Health Finding Wellness Through Change

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Self-care is often overlooked, but it plays a vital role in maintaining mental health, especially during major life transitions. For empty nesters, the absence of daily childcare duties presents an opportunity to focus on themselves. Whether it’s physical exercise, pursuing a creative outlet, or simply spending time outdoors, self-care practices can help relieve stress and improve mood.

Exercise is a particularly effective way to combat the feelings of isolation or sadness that may come with an empty nest. Physical activity releases endorphins, which help improve mood and reduce anxiety. Whether it’s going for a walk, practicing yoga, or hitting the gym, regular exercise contributes to both physical and mental wellness.

Mental health can also benefit from activities that promote mindfulness, such as meditation or journaling. These practices help empty nesters process their feelings and develop a deeper understanding of their emotional needs. Mindfulness techniques allow individuals to reconnect with the present moment and manage stress more effectively.

Building a Support System: Strengthening Connections

While it’s normal to feel the absence of children, isolation can worsen the emotional impact of this transition. One of the best ways to combat feelings of loneliness is by building a supportive network of friends, family, and peers. Relationships that offer emotional support can provide comfort and stability during challenging times.

Empty nesters should consider reaching out to others who may be experiencing similar feelings. Support groups for parents going through empty nest syndrome can offer a safe space to share experiences and advice. These groups often provide a sense of camaraderie and understanding, helping individuals feel less alone in their journey.

Additionally, reconnecting with friends and family members can help revive social connections that may have taken a backseat during the busy years of raising children. Scheduling regular social outings, joining community organizations, or even taking up volunteering can bring new perspectives and strengthen personal bonds.

Exploring New Opportunities: Finding Purpose Beyond Parenting

With children leaving the nest, many parents feel a deep sense of loss and question their purpose. While this feeling is completely natural, it also presents an opportunity to rediscover one’s passions and define new goals. Empty nesters can use this phase to explore activities, hobbies, or even career paths that they may not have had time for in the past.

One powerful way to regain a sense of purpose is by focusing on personal growth. Setting goals for learning new skills, traveling, or even returning to education can provide new challenges and excitement. Many individuals in this stage of life find fulfillment in volunteering or taking on new roles within their communities, allowing them to contribute in meaningful ways.

For some, this period may also mark the start of a new career or entrepreneurial venture. With more time on their hands, empty nesters may decide to pursue a passion project or business idea that they had previously put aside. The flexibility of this new chapter can create the perfect environment for personal development and career exploration.

Finding Wellness: Moving Forward with Confidence

Empty Nesters and Mental Health Finding Wellness Through Change

Photo Credit: Unsplash.com

Adjusting to an empty nest can take time, but the process of adaptation can lead to a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. By embracing change and focusing on self-care, emotional well-being, and new opportunities, empty nesters can find peace and purpose in this new chapter of life.

It’s important to remember that every person’s experience with empty nest syndrome is unique. While some may feel a sense of loss, others may find it liberating. Understanding the mental health implications of this life change and taking steps to care for oneself can pave the way for greater resilience and emotional strength.

With time, empty nesters can not only adjust to their new circumstances but thrive in them. By focusing on wellness, building support systems, and seeking new opportunities, this period can become one of self-discovery and personal growth.

Zaya Blaze: From Detective Work to Literary Success in Turkey

The Chicago Journal Staff on October 8, 2025

Zaya Blaze’s journey from a detective in Greece to a novelist in Turkey is a remarkable transition that showcases her resilience and creative passion. After years of working as a detective in Greece, Blaze has ventured into the world of literature, quickly making a name for herself with two books already published in Greece. Now, she’s preparing to introduce her debut novel, Elian, to Turkish readers—a work that promises to captivate and inspire with its deep themes of courage, inner strength, and transformation.

From Investigations to Inspiration: Blaze’s New Path

Zaya Blaze’s career shift from solving crimes in Greece to crafting compelling stories in Turkey is both inspiring and unconventional. Her extensive background as a detective granted her a unique perspective on human nature and psychological complexity, which undoubtedly influences her writing. While her first two books were well-received in Greece, it’s her debut novel, Elian, set to reach Turkish audiences, that is likely to propel her into the spotlight as a literary figure. Published by Destek Publishing, Elian is a dystopian narrative that offers readers a glimpse into the transformative power of self-discovery.

Elian: A Tale of Courage and Self-Transformation

Blaze describes Elian as “a dystopian journey about the courage to face reality.” More than just a reflection of dystopian themes, Elian explores the bravery required to confront one’s innermost truths. The protagonist’s journey in Elian is symbolic of the broader human experience—the pursuit of clarity, strength, and understandingof  one’s true origins.

The narrative invites readers on a deeply emotional and introspective journey, encouraging them to face their fears and uncover their inner resilience. Blaze’s storytelling is designed to resonate with those seeking not only an engaging plot but also a sense of empowerment. Elian is a call to action for individuals to find the strength to make necessary changes in their lives, making it an inspiring read for anyone seeking self-growth and transformation.

A Vision for the Big Screen: Blaze’s Dream of a Movie Adaptation

In addition to her literary accomplishments, Blaze harbors a strong desire to see Elian adapted into a movie. While it is common for authors to have limited influence over film adaptations, Blaze shares her enthusiasm for the prospect of seeing her work on the big screen. “After the book, I would also like to experience that joy. In my mind, I have already shot the movie,” she says. Despite the limited creative control authors may have over such adaptations, Blaze’s connection to the story would continue to guide its transformation from page to screen.

Blaze’s vision for the film’s lead role is clear. She dreams of Demet Özdemir, the popular Turkish actress, playing the protagonist. Known for her incredible energy and depth in acting, Özdemir has earned admiration not only in Turkey but also in Greece. Blaze notes, “Demet is also very much loved in Greece; her energy is wonderful, and in acting she truly gives justice to every role.” The choice of Özdemir as the lead character in Elian speaks to the actress’s ability to bring complex characters to life with authenticity, making her the perfect candidate to represent the novel’s protagonist.

Combining Literature and Cinema: Blaze’s Dual Ambition

Blaze’s ambitions go beyond the world of literature—she envisions her work making an impact in both the literary and cinematic worlds. This dual approach reflects her creativity and drive, with Elian marking the beginning of her journey as both a writer and a visionary. The transition from detective work to becoming an author demonstrates her commitment to personal growth and the pursuit of her true passion. By focusing on both writing and cinema, Blaze demonstrates her ability to combine her analytical background with her artistic aspirations.

Anne Abel: Finding Her Voice on the Road With Springsteen

The Chicago Journal Staff on October 8, 2025

By: Leila Monroe

Anne Abel’s memoir High Hopes is more than a fan’s chronicle of following Bruce Springsteen around the globe. It’s the story of a woman who discovered resilience, connection, and her own voice in unexpected places—from tense classrooms in Philadelphia to packed arenas in Australia, from chance encounters with rock legends to the intimidating world of live radio.

A Surreal Moment in Melbourne

In Melbourne, Abel found herself in the middle of a crowd of 60,000 Springsteen fans, sandwiched between two sets of seatmates who seemed uninterested in talking. Alone, missing the wedding band she usually wore as a small shield of belonging, she tried to shrink into the background.

Then something extraordinary happened. She spotted Barbara Carr—Bruce Springsteen’s longtime manager—near the stage. Carr, whom Abel had met just days earlier outside a hotel in Adelaide, seemed to be pointing directly at her.

“I couldn’t imagine how she would recognize me among a stadium of 60,000 people,” Abel recalls. “Furthermore, why would she want me to come to her?”

But Carr was indeed beckoning Abel forward. Abel made her way down six rows of seats to the wooden barrier. “Anne, don’t you remember me?” Carr asked warmly. Abel, astonished, replied, “Of course I remember you, Barbara, you’re a celebrity.”

Carr had sought her out simply to say she hoped Abel enjoyed the night’s show. It was a brief exchange, but one charged with validation. As Abel made her way back to her seat, she noticed the jaws of her seatmates hanging open. “Everyone was looking at me with open mouths, as if trying to figure out what important person I was,” she laughs. By the end of the concert, both neighboring groups turned to her and said, “You were absolutely right. He is amazing.”

For Abel, the moment was not about celebrity access. It was about being seen and acknowledged in a crowd where she had felt invisible.

Taking the Mic on E Street Radio

That theme—of being seen and heard—continued when Abel returned from Australia brimming with energy. She attended a gala in New York, where she bid on the chance to co-host Live from E Street Nation on SiriusXM’s E Street Radio with Dave Marsh, a veteran music critic and Carr’s husband.

At first, she was thrilled. But after listening to Marsh’s combative style on-air, dread set in. “He was belligerent and rude. Anyone who called in he yelled at,” she says. Worse still, Abel didn’t consider herself an expert. “I hadn’t known who Bruce Springsteen was two years earlier.”

Rather than backing out, Abel threw herself into preparation. For months she studied music, determined to show up ready. Still, on the morning of the broadcast, nerves consumed her. At 3 a.m. she resolved not to speak at all. By 6 a.m., after a cathartic workout to Springsteen’s music, she found her courage. She decided to go on air and share six favorite songs.

Once in the studio, her fears melted. Marsh gave her the freedom to talk, and she surprised him by starting with Tupac Shakur’s Dear Mama instead of a Springsteen track. Over the course of the show, Abel held her ground, even impressing Joan Jett with her knowledge of music history.

The turning point came when Abel corrected Jett, reminding her that Marsh himself had coined the term “punk rock.” For the first time that morning, Marsh made direct eye contact with her. “Anne, you are right,” he said. Before the show ended, Marsh declared her the “most knowledgeable guest host” he had ever worked with and extended an open invitation to return.

For Abel, the experience was transformative. “I had come home from Australia with a positive ball of energy I had never had before,” she says. “By co-hosting the show, I kept that energy alive—and proved to myself I belonged.”

The Silence of Friends

Ironically, the very energy Abel carried back from her travels wasn’t always welcomed by the people closest to her. When she returned eager to share stories from her trip, her friends showed little interest.

“They just wanted to see me as the depressed person who had little to say about herself,” Abel explains. “I realized that my friends expected our relationship to be about me being an audience for their stories.”

That realization was painful, but it underscored the larger lesson Abel had been living: growth often changes the dynamics of our closest relationships. The challenge is to keep going, to keep speaking, even when others prefer silence.

The Power of Recognition

From being motioned down by Barbara Carr in front of thousands, to earning the respect of Dave Marsh in a live radio studio, to realizing the limits of certain friendships at home, Abel’s memoir is about the power of recognition—both from others and from within.

Her journey underscores a truth that resonates far beyond Springsteen fandom: belonging doesn’t always come from fitting in, but from daring to stand out. And sometimes, the most life-changing moments arrive when you least expect them—at a concert, in a studio, or in a fleeting conversation with someone who simply remembers your name.