Brattleboro Memorial Hospital

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WINTER–SPRING 2007
HEALTH EDUCATION CALENDAR

Monday, February 12, 2007, 7:00–9:00 PM
HELPING CHILDREN DEVELOP HEALTHY EATING PATTERNS
Presented by Elizabeth M. Wilkins-McKee, LICSW, Program Manager of Children & Family Services, Anna Marsh Behavioral Care Clinic, Retreat Healthcare Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
With the rising incidence of childhood obesity and diabetes, healthy eating and activity patterns are even more essential for our children’s health. However, it is far from easy to implement such changes given our fast food availability, cultural and family stressors, peer pressures, and our quick-paced society. This presentation will provide information regarding how to assist families and children to develop healthier food and physical activity behaviors. Change is hard, but even small changes in the right direction can mean a healthier child. This series is free. For more information call: (802) 257-8877.

Thursdays, February 15 to March 22, 6:00-8:30 PM
HEALTHIER LIVING WORKSHOP SERIES – 6 SESSIONS
Sponsored by Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
This 6-part series of sessions, free for Vermont residents, is designed to help people with long-term health challenges to maintain active and fulfilling lives. This interactive series is designed to help people who are experiencing chronic conditions such as arthritis, diabetes, heart disease, fibromyalgia chronic pain, MS, asthma, emphysema, and other long-term conditions to live healthier lives. (Their caretakers and/or support people are encouraged to attend.) Full of fun activities and useful tools and skills, the group also helps build mutual support and confidence. Participants learn how to use breathing and imagery to manage symptoms; tips for healthy eating; how to evaluate new health treatments; and how to talk with family, friends, and health professionals in order to be heard and understood. The program will help participants set goals and problem solve, and will offer exercises to maintain and improve strength, flexibility, and endurance. Enrollment in this workshop, based on the Stanford University School of Medicine model, is limited. Call Jane Yetter Lunt at (802) 251-8459 to register, or for more information. A course textbook and CD will be provided.

Monday, February 26, 7:00-9:00 PM
RELIEF FOR BACK PAIN FROM A RADIOLOGIST?
Presented by BMH Radiologists Michael D. Resnik, MD, & Christopher J. Ladner, MD, PhD
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Brattleboro Memorial Hospital continues to expand the advanced imaging services available to the community. With the addition of a multislice Computed Tomography (CT) Scanner, BMH offers the community one of the most sensitive and powerful tools available for the noninvasive diagnosis of illnesses, as well as for guiding imaging-based treatments. Drs. Resnik and Ladner will each give brief presentations highlighting the three-dimensional multiplanar capability and applications of the CT technology for guiding minimally invasive treatments of common problems such as back pain.
Come learn about new equipment and procedures at BMH by attending this free session. To register, call (802) 257-8877.

Monday, March 12, 7:00-9:00 PM
ART FOR HEALING – CREATIVE JOURNALISM
Presented by Beth Newman, LMFT, ATR, Brattleboro Area Hospice Care Coordinator
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
The expressive arts have been the path for growth, spiritual investigation, healing, and health for many centuries. Creative journaling is one of many techniques available to explore and play in a fun and safe way. This evening will encourage each participant to bring more joy, discovery, and connection into your life. Using the creative journaling process, each individual will be introduced to several tools and given the opportunity to access that well of wisdom and guidance that resides within each of us in a non-threatening way. You will be invited to abandon self consciousness and judgment; to explore and discover what is within you in a new way. Bring a sketch book or journal to work in if you wish; preferred size is 11 X17; a $5.00 donation for materials is suggested. No previous skills required. To register, call (802) 257-0775 X106.

Monday, March 19, 7:00-9:00 PM
PREPARING FOR WEIGHT LOSS: UNDERSTANDING THE LIFESTYLE CHANGE PROCESS
Presented by Sandra T. Campbell, PsyD, Director, Eating Disorder Services, Anna Marsh Behavioral Care Clinic, Retreat Healthcare
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Maintaining motivation and guarding against discouragement are two of the biggest challenges of the weight loss process. This workshop will review the steps involved in planning and preparing for weight loss and lifestyle changes. We will discuss strategies to maximize healthy living over the lifespan. Recommended reading: Changing for Good by James Prochaska. To register for this free event, call the BMH education line at (802) 257-8877.

Thursday, March 22, 1:30- 5:00 PM
LIVING WITH GRIEF: BEFORE AND AFTER THE DEATH
Hospice Foundation of America’s 14th Annual Teleconference
Co-sponsored by Brattleboro Area Hospice and The Brattleboro Retreat
Location: The Brattleboro Retreat
The panel on this teleconference will explore the most current theoretical perspectives on loss and grief as experienced by those who are dying and by survivors after the death. Some of the topics addressed are anticipatory grief, research on the effectiveness of grief interventions, grief reactions of professional and volunteer caregivers, and ways that individuals and organizations can effectively support the bereaved. Following the teleconference participants will have the chance to ask questions and engage in conversation with a panel of local professionals who have experience in the community working with bereavement issues. Light refreshments will be served and CEUs are available. To register for this free event, call Brattleboro Area Hospice at (802) 257-0775.

Monday, March 26, 7:00–9:00 PM
DID YOU KNOW THAT OBESITY IS AN EPIDEMIC?
Presented by Robert Tortolani, MD, & BMH Nutritionist Carrie Quimby, RD, CD, MOE
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Obesity in adults and children has reached epidemic proportion in this country, leading to diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, and other medical complications. BMH family physician Robert Tortolani, MD, and hospital nutritionist Carrie Quimby, RD, CD, MOE, will discuss these illnesses and the complications of being overweight. They will also provide useful tips for promoting physical activity, and healthful nutrition strategies for prevention and treatment. To register for this free program, call the BMH Health Education Line at (802) 257-8877.

Tuesday, March 27, 5:00–6:30 PM
LETTING GO OF STRESS
Presented by Marc Cohen, MA
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Learn how stress affects your body and mind, and how you can counteract the negative impact of stress and develop “stress hardiness.” No fee for this single session which serves as an introduction to a six-week stress management class to be held at BMH on Tuesday evenings starting the following week. Call the BMH Community Health Education Line at (802) 257-8877 to register for this free introductory session.

Wednesdays, March 28 – May 2, 1:00-3:30 PM
HEALTHIER LIVING WORKSHOP SERIES – 6 SESSIONS
Sponsored by Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
See Thursday, February 15 for information about these workshops

Tuesdays, April 3 – May 15, 5:00–6:30 PM
STRESS REDUCTION & RELAXATION PROGRAM: A 6-SESSION MINDFULNESS-BASED CLASS
Presented by Marc Cohen, MA
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
This supportive and practical training program in stress reduction, modeled after the University of Mass. Medical Center’s innovative Stress Reduction and Relaxation Program, was featured on Bill Moyers’ PBS series “Healing and the Mind.” This class will provide participants with the theory, practice, and motivation needed to establish and maintain an effective lifelong stress reduction program. Enrollment limited. Fee: $150 for 6-week class (includes audio tape and handouts). Call (802) 257-0319 to register.

Wednesday, April 11, 7:00 – 8:30 PM
THE INFORMED COOK: LIBRARY RESOURCES FOR DELICIOUS & HEALTHY EATING
Presented by Jeanne Walsh, Reference Librarian; Sue Meachem, Library Clerk & professional caterer; and Jerry Carbone, Library Director, Brooks Memorial Library.
Location: Brooks Memorial Library – Meeting Room, 224 Main St., Brattleboro
Is there no joy in eating anymore? How does anyone find time to make healthy meals? What are all those leafy greens in the produce aisle, and do we dare cook them? Public libraries hold answers to these and many other questions. In preparation for National Library Week, three information professionals and food enthusiasts from the Brooks Memorial Library will host a celebration of good food and good information, including cookbook reviews, website tips, and interesting stories from the long, strange history of cuisine. Presenters will offer tested recipes from the Library’s shelves and electronic collections. Healthy snacks will be served! To register, call the BMH Education Line at (802) 257-8877.

Thursdays, April 12 – May 17, 6:00-8:30 PM
HEALTHIER LIVING WORKSHOP SERIES – 6 SESSIONS
Sponsored by Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
See Thursday, February 15 for information about these workshops

Thursdays, April 19 – May 24, 4:30–5:30 PM
CANCER SURVIVAL TOOLBOX
Facilitated by BMH Oncology Department & Visiting Nurses of VT/NH
Location: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital , 2nd Floor Classroom
The Cancer Survival Toolbox is a self-advocacy training program for newly-diagnosed cancer patients or those previously diagnosed facing treatment. The six-session psychoeducational group will cover topics such as negotiation skills and finding information. Call Agnes Mikijaniec at (802) 257-8221 for more information and/or to register.

Friday, April 20, 6:00-7:15 PM
INTRODUCTION TO REIKI
Presented by Ann Moureau, MS
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
A lecture and demonstration of Reiki (pronounced ray-key) will be given by this Reiki teaching master. Learn the history and technique of this gentle, non-invasive, and ancient healing method using the hands. Included will be a demonstration of a full Reiki treatment which is one application of this modality. Feelings of relaxation, comfort, and balance are some of the effects from receiving Reiki, which accelerates healing, relieves pain, and is compatible with and supports all healing methods. Call the BMH Community Health Education Line at (802) 257-8877 to register for this free program. (Future courses will be planned based on interest of participants attending the introductory session.)

Saturday & Sunday, April 21 & 22, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM
Presented by AARP and BMH
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
This drivers’ refresher course is for people 55 years old and over and is designed to provide awareness of aging as it affects driving. The class, formerly called “55-Alive”, covers the normal changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time associated with aging. It also provides practical techniques to compensate for these changes. Participants will have a thorough review of “rules of the road” with emphasis on defensive driving practices. Class size is limited to 25 persons. To register ($10 fee covers the cost of materials), call the BMH Education Line (802) 251-8425 by Friday, April 13th, as space is limited.

Monday, April 23, 7:00–9:00 PM
SPORTS MEDICINE AND ATHLETES – INJURED OR NOT
Presented by BMH Orthopedic Surgeon, Jon Thatcher, MD
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Sports medicine is a very important aspect of an athlete’s life, whether or not he or she is injured. This field has become a major component of most orthopedic practices because of its importance in today’s world. Dr. Thatcher will provide an overview of the specialty including what it is, how it got started, who is involved in sports medicine, and why is it important. Dr. Thatcher will talk about the tangents in which the field is going and growing. Following his talk, he will encourage open discussion of the various possibilities in sports medicine. To register for this free program, call the BMH Health Education Line at (802) 257-8877.

Monday, April 30, 7:00-9:00 PM
FUNERALS: TRADITIONAL AND ALTERNATIVE – WHAT IS POSSIBLE?
Presented by Bettina Berg, Hospice Volunteer and Education Coordinator, Brattleboro Area Hospice
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
We spend a great deal of time planning for life’s big events such as births and weddings, so why shouldn’t we also give time to the planning of funerals? Tonight’s presentation and discussion will focus on alternative funerals…ways to memorialize a loved one or oneself in a unique, non-traditional way. Resources and available options will be explored and the PBS documentary called “A Family Undertaking” about home funerals will be shown. This is a chance to become aware of the possibilities for end-of-life plans in order to be better prepared to move ahead with what needs to be done when it is time to do so. To register, call (802) 257-0775.

Monday, May 14, 7:00–9:00 PM
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW ABOUT DIABETES
Sponsored by BMH
Presented by BMH Endocrinologist Margaret Ferry, MD & Houghton Smith, RN, CDE
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Diabetes is a disease in which the body does not produce or properly use insulin, the hormone needed to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy you need for daily life. It afflicts 20.8 million people in the U.S., and while some 14.6 million have been diagnosed with diabetes, the remainder (nearly one-third) are unaware they have the disease. Dr. Ferry will address the fact that 45 million people nationwide are at risk for pre-diabetes, a condition that does not have obvious symptoms, and offer valuable information about its diagnosis, treatment, and consequences. Local studies show southeastern Vermont has a large population with diabetes. The BMH certified diabetes educator, Hoty Smith, will discuss risk factors associated with diabetes, and give general information in addition to giving advice on coping with this chronic condition, and how to avoid complications of diabetes. They will be available to answer questions. To register for this free program, call the Hospital Education Line at (802) 257-8877.

Saturday, May 19, 10:00–12:00 noon
SUMMER CYCLING KICKOFF
Sponsored by Brattleboro Memorial Hospital & Meeting Waters YMCA
Location: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Get ready for a summer of family bicycling fun! Prepare for the BMH Century Ride on Saturday, August 25th which offers family-friendly routes and distances for all cycling levels. BMH and the Y will offer cycling fitness and safety tips; bicycle maintenance and simple repair; and training tips for longer rides. Healthys snacks and nutrition for exercise tips will also be available, as will bicycle helmets at reduced cost. Helmets will be properly fitted. There will be a bike rodeo for the kids, and a bike/trike decorating activity. No registration is necessary for this free event…just show up and have fun while getting some tips.

Wednesday, May 23, 5:30 PM
MEDITERRANEAN DINING: A HEALTHY APPROACH TO LIVING
Presented by Nutrition Services and Cardio/Pulmonary Rehab Services
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Come enjoy delicious, healthy food at this popular BMH Healthy Dining event. The low-fat fare is based on food eaten by people living in the Mediterranean area. It is open to the public, but seating is limited. The speaker for the evening is the BMH Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab coordinator Jeff Harr, MS. His topic will be weight loss. He will delve into research from the “National Weight Control Registry” which tracks people who have lost at least thirty pounds, and who have maintained their weight for at least a year. Reservations must be made by the Friday before the dinner, May 18, by calling the Cardio/Pulmonary Department at (802) 257-8331. The cost for the dinner is $9.95 per person.

Thursday & Friday, June 28 & 29, 5:00 – 9:00 PM
AARP DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM – EVENING SESSIONS
Presented by AARP and BMH
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
This drivers’ refresher course is being scheduled for evening sessions for participants’ convenience. It is designed for people 55 years old and over and provides awareness of aging as it affects driving. The class, formerly called “55-Alive”, covers the normal changes in vision, hearing, and reaction time associated with aging. It also provides practical techniques to compensate for these changes. Participants will have a thorough review of “rules of the road” with emphasis on defensive driving practices. Class size is limited to 25 persons. Call no later than one week before the session begins and please note that space is limited. To register ($10 fee covers the cost of materials), call the BMH Education Line (802) 251-8425.

OTHER FOR FEE CLASSES OFFERED AT BMH

SAFE SITTER™ BABYSITTING CLASS
Presented by BMH Education Department
Location: Brew Barry Conference Center, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
Safe Sitter classes have helped thousands of adolescents across the country to learn basic lifesaving and safety techniques. BMH is offering the Safe Sitter course for boys and girls, ages 11 to 13. These classes will help young people become more confident caregivers. As a parent you will feel more secure having a Safe Sitter in your home. Scholarship money for those with financial need is available for Safe Sitter tuition. Southern Vermont Area Health Education Center has made these scholarships possible. Cost: $40.00. Call (802) 251-8425 for dates of upcoming classes. (All sessions must be attended for this class.)

FRESH START SMOKING CESSATION CLASS
Presented by BMH Cardio-Respiratory Services
Location: 2nd Floor Classroom, Brattleboro Memorial Hospital
This weekly six-session program offers group support and individualized strategies to help people quit smoking. Free nicotine patches are available to participants on VHAP. Placing emphasis on long-term maintenance, this program helps quitters stay off tobacco for good. There is a smoke-free target date for participants to aim for. The facilitator will offer helpful hints to refrain from smoking during the first few weeks, discussing stress management, weight control, and other triggers that cause people to smoke in social situations. Fee: $10 for class and materials. Call (802) 251-8456 to register or for further information.

DIABETES EDUCATION
Presented by Houghton Smith, RN, CDE; Peg Canal-Wittler, RD, BMH Nutritionist
The Diabetes Education and Counseling Service Program at BMH is designed for people who want a better understanding of diabetes and who want to learn how to make the disease more manageable. For more information, call (802) 251-8429.