Welcome
My name is Alyssa Hurst
I'm a lifelong writer, a journalist at heart, an eagle-eyed editor, an advocate for inclusivity and the voice behind brands that care about people (and animals).
Featured Articles
The articles below represent the incredible work of individuals across a wild spectrum of topics. I am honored to tell stories like these.
The Black Brick House
On an unassuming street in an older neighborhood in Denver, couched between two typically cute suburban homes, is an all-black house with a spiky iron fence. Its spooky-stylish exterior would certainly catch your eyes if they weren’t already trained on the squawking turkey that prowls the front yard.
Seeking Grace
Though Black women have long had a meaningful presence at DU, until now, much of the University’s history has left out their legacy. “Seeking Grace: Early Black Alumnae,” an exhibit curated by a DU archivist in partnership with the University’s Sistah Network and former DU professor Nicole Joseph, aims to remedy that.
Redefining Incurable
Over the years, there have been hundreds of clinical trials that have thrown every tool in a researcher’s arsenal at DMGs. But those approaches were missing a critical piece of information. In 2016, as biopsies of DMGs became safer and more widely available, researchers found the genetic change responsible: the H3K27M mutation.
Researching AHUS
Bradley Dixon, MD, thinks of the body’s complement system as a Ferrari. For most people, the Ferrari is a well-oiled machine. But if you take something that powerful out for a drive with faulty brakes, someone’s getting hurt. That’s exactly what happens in patients with a genetic disease called atypical hemolytic uremic syndrome.
Genomic Sequencing
The amount of information gathered from one genome is staggering — about 250 gigabytes of data are generated in the process. That would take a whole team of people at least a full year to process. At the Children’s Colorado lab, specialized tools and equipment allow the team to do it in just a few hours.
Crickets Who Purr
Though professor Robin Tinghitella had come to Kalaupapa, Hawaii unsure she’d find any crickets at all, she had, in fact, made a remarkable discovery. These crickets were not belting out their familiar singsong chirp, and no cat was responsible for the incessant hum in the room. It was the crickets that were purring.
Additional Reading
How can efficiencies in the emergency department free up beds for critical mental health needs?
Resilience isn’t just a buzzword for the post-pandemic world. It’s a research-backed skillset.
An unapproved drug is saving cats' lives.
The first time Bunny spoke, it was like a light bulb turned on in her furry head.
One professor's research aims to demystify HIV.
My Expertise
Journalism
Illuminating Complexities
With a focus on health journalism, Alyssa covers pivotal topics that inform and engage readers, offering clear insights into health trends and issues that matter.
Branding
Creating Identity
Alyssa specializes in branding, helping clients define their unique voice and presence in the market, ensuring their message stands out and connects with audiences effectively.
Editing
Ensuring Accuracy
Alyssa has deep expertise in AP Style and believes no comma is inconsequential. She has worked with a variety of other style guides, as well, and brings consistency to all areas of work.