February

February 23
Free Education Seminar at Arden Courts of Monroeville
Arden Courts of Monroeville, 120 Wyngate Dr., Monroeville will host a free education seminar, The Role of Spiritual Care in the Hospice Context with Chaplain Gary Evans, on Thursday, February 23 from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m. Seating is limited, call 412-380-1300 or e-mail monroeville@arden-courts.com for reservations.

February Western PA Kidney Support Group Meetings

• February 26: Pittsburgh East, Panera Bread, Wilkins Twp., 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. Contact: Robb Wilson, robbw81@yahoo.com, (412) 823-5630. Pediatric contact: Lori Bible, sbible6@msn.com, (724) 981-0368
  

Special Events
This month the Nuin Center has a number of special seminars to help you learn more about a natural way of healing for specific concerns.

• Managing Fatigue & Low Energy with Naturopathy & Complementary Medicine
  Sunday, February 19, 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. $40 ($35 with advance registration)

March

March 1
Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Discussion
Join Monongahela Valley Hospital's new psychiatrist Amanda M. Rush, M.D., when she discusses depression and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). Join Dr. Rush at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX at WillowPointe Plaza on Route 51 in Rostraver. Innovations programs are free and begin at 6 p.m.; parking is also free and light refreshments will be served. Reservations are required by calling 724-258-1333

March 1
Understanding Your Diabetes Medications
6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX, Rostraver. Gain a better understanding of how your diabetes medications work and learn the effects diabetes medications have on your blood sugar readings. Completion of the three-day Diabetes Self Management Training is required prior to attending this class. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of the class. Contact the Center for Diabetes at 724-258-1483 for more information and to register.

March 2
Tribute to Excellence 2012
The Allegheny Division of the American Liver Foundation will hold its 6th annual Tribute to Excellence luncheon on Friday, March 2 at the Fairmont Pittsburgh hotel from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. This year's event will again recognize individuals & organizations that have demonstrated the highest levels of dedication and commitment to the Allegheny Division of the American Liver Foundation. For more information, call (412) 434-7077 or e-mail amcdivitt@liverfoundation.org.

March 3
Diagnosis: Dementia. Now What?
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. –This presentation is part of a workshop series on critical caregiving topics offered by Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Country Meadows At Home. This presentation is intended to equip the adult child or spouse with the tools and knowledge necessary to adapt to their new role as caregiver to a loved one. To register or for more information, call Erika Seibel at 412.257.4566. Space is limited. Adult care will be available. Please confirm if you will need adult care when you register. Light refreshments will be served.

March 5
Thirteenth Annual Champions for Children Benefit
The Homeless Children's Education Fund's road to the 2012 Champions for Children Benefit begins here with a message for you from Bob Fragasso and Janine Dillon. "As a consequence of current economic conditions, we see more and more children experiencing homelessness. When families become homeless, the issue of where their children will attend school can become confusing and overwhelming. HCEF works tirelessly to identify and provide needed educational stability to these children. The HCEF staff and dedicated volunteers work on a daily basis to ensure these children are served in a holistic and integrated approach to meet their education needs. We could not be more proud to support this wonderful organization whose vision is that all children experiencing homelessness will receive the necessary educational resources, guidance, and opportunities to launch them on a path of success in school and in life. Through generous donations from our Pittsburgh community and selfless volunteers, HCEF makes a difference for our youth every day. Can we count on your support? We look forward to welcoming you on March 5th at the Rivers Club!"
We are pleased that Scott Lammie, Chief Financial Officer, UPMC, and Susan Lammie are serving as Event Chairs and that once again Ralph and Ruth Anne Papa are honorary Co-Chairs. Also attending are our honored guests Brett and Sarah Keisel. The Papas and Keisels are both Past Champions for Children Awardees. Serving again this year as Patron Chairs are Jim Roddy and Linda Dickerson. A highlight of the evening will be the presentation of the Champion for Children Award to Robert Fragasso, CEO and Chairman of Fragasso Financial Advisors, and the presentation of the Linda Dickerson Service Award to John Lovelace, President, UPMC for You, Inc. Learn more about these gentlemen visit www.homelessfund.org/eventawardees. Tickets for the event will be available at the door should you not have purchased them ahead of time. General admission is $100. Patron tickets are $300. For more information, call (412) 562-0154.
As always, we will be offering a silent and live auction, all proceeds of which will directly support the educational programming that provides "hope through learning" for the children who will be homeless in Allegheny County at some time during 2011. For additional details on the event, visit www.homelessfund.org/championsbenefit

March 6 - 8
Managing Your Diabetes
8:30 – 11:30 a.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. A three-day, two-hour-per-day education series that focuses on diabetes self-management and care. Registration is required at least one week prior to the start of classes. For more information or to register, call 724-258-1483.

March 7
BVRS Plans Safety Training Class for Visually Impaired
Blind and Vision Rehabilitation Services of Pittsburgh's (BVRS) next New Outlook class on skills and techniques for seniors and others interested in tips for living safely in the home with vision loss starts Wednesday, March 7. Training in a variety of adaptive skills and techniques is offered one day each week from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for six weeks. Scheduling is flexible, and the class is free for individuals who qualify. For more information on the New Outlook class or to register, call (412) 368-4400.

March 7
HEALTHY PREGNANCY FOCUS OF FREE GIRL TALK PROGRAM AT SPA HARMONY
If you’re considering pregnancy or are pregnant, you won’t want to miss the next Girl Talk program on Wednesday, March 7, at Spa Harmony, located in the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center of The Washington Hospital.
At the “Healthy Beginnings: Fertility, Pregnancy & Childbirth” program, which is free and open to the public, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from and talk with experts from Spa Harmony, Wellness Center and The Washington Hospital. They will discuss how acupuncture, nutrition, massage and bodywork, fitness, mind/body techniques and medical health can support your efforts to prepare for a healthy pregnancy and childbearing experience.
Join us for the panelist presentations from 6:00-7:00 p.m. Panelists will also be available for one-on-one conversation at the expo before and after the presentations. The expo, which runs from 5:30-6:00 p.m. and 7:00- 8:00 p.m., also features an acupuncture demonstration, yoga pose instruction, hand massages with reflexology points and nutritious fertility food samples. 
There is no fee to attend, but please RSSP by calling 724-250-5238.

March 7 - April 25
Grief Recovery Group
A Grief Recovery Group will be held at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 2040 Washington Rd., Pittsburgh on Wednesdays, March 7 - April 25 from 6:45 - 8:30 p.m. If you have lost a spouse, child, family member, or friend, it may be hard to feel optimistic about the future right now. You have probably found that there are not many people who understand the deep hurt you feel. This can be a confusing time when you feel isolated and have many questions about things you've never before faced. Grief Recovery is a faith-based grief support group that can help you face the challenges of loss and move toward rebuilding your life. To register, call Peg Kinsey at (412) 835-6630. For more information, contact Dave Fetterman at (412) 835-6630.

March 7, 14, 21, 28
Childbirth Preparation Class
7 – 9 p.m. at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. A four-week series of prenatal education classes designed to prepare couples for the birthing process. Topics include: signs of labor, vaginal and c-section deliveries, role of the labor coach, comfort measures including breathing and relaxation skills and pain medication options. Couples will rehearse what they learn in class to help relieve anxiety surrounding the birthing experience. Classes are free to Valley Women’s Health patients and a small fee applies to non-patients. Please call 724-258-2229 ext. 25 to
register.

March 10
World Kidney Day Patient Forum
JEFFERSON REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER JAMES BIBRO PAVILION
565 Coal Valley Rd., Jefferson Hills, PA 15025, Saturday March 10th, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
This information-packed, free program includes sessions on: Pre-dialysis, dialysis and transplant from 3 respected local physicians; Medicare; Nutrition, Practices for stress relief; Living kidney donation; Opportunities to speak with representatives from Renal Support Network (RSN), Davita Dialysis, The Renal Network (TRN), Team Pittsburgh, Center for Organ Recovery and Education (CORE), and the National Kidney Foundation (NKF). For more info on this FREE educational program for patients and caregivers, call Diana Bell at 724-292-9318 or visit www.wpakidneysupport.org

March 12
PLAY: Understanding and Reinforcing the Motor Development of Infants and Toddlers

• Gross and fine motor development
• Reflexes
• Factors that influence motor development
• The importance of play and movement
• Age appropriate toys and activities
• How to incorporate movement and play into your child's life
  

This workshop for parents hosted by accessabilities will be held at the Indiana Area Head Start Center, 155 North Clymer Avenue, Indiana, PA  15701.  Registration starts at 4:45 p.m. and sessions will start at 5:00 p.m. and last for 1 1/2 hours.  Free child care and refreshments will be available.  Registration is limited to the first 15 parents. For more information or to register for the workshops, please contact Amanda Newcomer at (724) 832-8272, ext. 1021.  The parent workshop series is made possible through the United Way of Indiana County.

March 14
Social Skills Workshop
A workshop for parents of children who are deaf or hard of hearing.  Morning Session:9:30  – 11:00 am or Evening Session: 6:30 – 8:00 pm. Workshop is provided free of charge, but registration is required. Babysitting is provided. For more information or to register, contact Kayla Madden at 412-924-1012 or visit www.speakmiracles.org

March 17
Compassion Connection to Host Free Lifestyle Health Fair
Compassion Connection will host a free lifestyle health fair Saturday, March 17, 9 am-noon, at South Hills Assembly, 2725 Bethel Church Road. Featuring professional counselors and experts as presenters, the fair will provide 12 topics in the areas of: personal growth, senior living, parenting, and marriage and love.
"We are providing information that we find to be of interest to many people throughout the spectrum of their relationships, and we anticipate hundreds of people will come take advantage of this community event," said Kay Stepp, Executive Director of Compassion Connection. Specific topics include: Overcoming Anxiety and Depression, Untangling Relationships, Financial Health, Child Development Stages, Creative Discipline, Setting Boundaries with Kids, Five Love Languages, Communication, Conflict Resolution, Maintaining Your Brain, Senior Resources in Allegheny County, and Communicating with Dementia Patients. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, please call 412.835.8900x104 or visit www.compassionconnectioninc.org

March 17
Mystery Dinner Theatre
4:30 p.m., ECC. Musical Mysteries & More and The Auxiliary of Mon-Vale Health Resources, Inc., present “Thugs, Mugs and .38 Slugs.” Experience fun entertainment, a delicious meal and free parking. Tickets are $30 and proceeds benefit Monongahela Valley Hospital. Call 724-929-3192 for reservations and information.

Starts March 17 (Begins)
Help Your Children Live Healthier With Happy Kids, Smart Weight Program
Are you struggling to help your child lose weight and make healthier choices? Learn helpful and effective strategies by enrolling in the Happy Kids, Smart Weight program at the Wilfred R. Cameron Wellness Center of The Washington Hospital. A new session of the eight-week program begins on March 17. The first of its kind in Washington County, the program fights childhood obesity by combining nutritional guidance, physical exercise and behavior modification. “Our goal is to help give parents the tools they need to be good role models, and to show children the choices they have been making and motivate them to make more positive ones – while keeping it fun,” said Dr. Michael Faust, a pediatrician with Washington Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine who serves as an adviser for the program. Openings are still available in the next session, which begins Saturday, March 17, and runs through May 5.  Children with a body-mass index (BMI) in the 85th percentile or above are eligible to participate. A doctor’s referral is required, as is participation by at least one family member. In addition to the eight weekly sessions, participants will be evaluated before and after the program and involved in monthly group follow-up and support meetings for a full year. For additional information or to register, contact Briane Agostinelli, BS, ACSM-HFS, Exercise Physiologist, 724-250-5206, ext. 9004.

March 20
4th Annual Diabetes Day
9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Laird Davis Center, J. Roseta Auditorium, Ohio Valley General Hospital. Event will include speakers every hour, cooking demonstrations, free food samples health screenings, giveaways, diabetic supply vendors. Free event. All are welcome.

March 20
Bariatric Surgery Information Session
6 – 8 p.m., Mon-Vale HealthPLEX. In cooperation with Magee-Women’s Hospital, MVH is offering a free informational program on bariatric surgery which treats obesity and its related complications. Dr. Ramesh Ramanathan of Magee will speak. Please call 412-641-3632 or 412-802-8299 to register for this program.

March 23
Applied Behavior Analytic Approaches to the Treatment of Autism
Doubletree Hotel - Monroeville www.aboard.org

March 29
Bariatric Surgery Information Session
6 – 8 p.m., ECC. In cooperation with Magee-Women’s Hospital, MVH is offering a free informational program on bariatric surgery which treats obesity and its related complications. Dr. Carol McClosky of Magee will speak. Please call 412-641-3632 or 412-802-8299 to register for this program.

March 31
The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center
Shake Your Booties Fundraising Event
The Children’s Home of Pittsburgh & Lemieux Family Center proudly announces that it will host its 11th annual signature fundraising event, Shake Your Booties on Saturday, March 31, 2012 in the East Club of Heinz Field. This year The Children’s Home will be honoring Pittsburgh Hero Franco Harris for his continued commitment to the area's children and families in the areas of education, health, wellness and overcoming disabilities and celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Immaculate Reception. Mario and Nathalie Lemieux, Jim Rooney and Mrs. Patricia Rooney are graciously serving as Honorary Chairs. Co-chairs Julie Kline and Maureen Oehrle invite guests to indulge in an evening of excitement with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres, a seated dinner and short program and opportunities to win fabulous items in our silent and live auctions. There will also be an opportunity to win a $5,000 one carat brilliant cut diamond and $500 towards a custom setting of your choice, in our Fabulous Diamond Raffle, donated by Henne Jewelers. Throughout the evening, guests will also be treated to entertainment by Cityscape. All proceeds raised from Shake Your Booties goes directly to support the programs of The Children's Home & Lemieux Family Center: Adoption, Child's Way, and the Pediatric Specialty Hospital. For more information on the event or to purchase tickets, please contact Lindsey Carter at 412.441.4884 ext. 2044.

March 31
Developing a Family Plan of Care
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. –
Explore the family dynamics of caregiving and the importance of everyone being on the “same page.” Attendees will learn how to structure family meetings and delegate responsibilities to ensure care for their loved one. This presentation is part of a workshop series on critical caregiving topics offered by Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Country Meadows At Home. To register or for more information, call Erika Seibel at 412.257.4566. Space is limited. Adult care will be available. Please confirm if you will need adult care when you register. Light refreshments will be served.

March 31
Multiphasic Blood Analysis
7 to 10 a.m., ECC. This 36-function screening costs only $25. Testing will take place in the Community Room on the lower level of the hospital's Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center. The Multiphasic Blood Analysis is open to the public. Testing is by appointment only and registrations are being accepted at 724-258-1282, Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. until March 28. Participants are asked to provide the full name
and complete address of the physician to whom the test results will be sent.

April

April 9 -May 15
Growing Through Grief Bereavement Program
Presented by Family Hospice
Growing Through Grief: Rebuilding Hope is a six-week bereavement program offered free for anyone coping with the loss of a loved one. Experienced bereavement counselors create a welcome setting for those dealing with a difficult loss.  Space is limited to the first 25 attendees. Jefferson Regional Medical Center, 565 Coal Valley Rd., Jefferson Hills, James Bibro Pavilion Conference Center Mondays, April 9 – May 15  (May 15 is a Tuesday),  6:30-8:30 p.m.Pre-registration is required. To register, please call the Family Hospice bereavement department at 412-572-8829, or visit www.familyhospice.com.

April 14
Heritage Valley's Casual Pairings: A Toast to Your Health Features Great Tastes
Heritage Valley Health System will hold its biennial Wine and Culinary Event, Casual Pairing:, A Toast to Your Health from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday, April 14, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency Pittsburgh International Airport. The event features delectable specialty foods prepared by more than 20 chefs from the area’s most popular restaurants as well as a unique variety of wines and spirits from regional and national wineries. “For more than 20 years I’ve been hosting this truly spectacular event. Our guests are able to sample specialty wines and spirits while enjoying some of the best food available in region,” said Alex Sebastian, chair of the event and proprietor of the Wooden Angel Restaurant in Beaver, PA. “It’s a great party that attracts more than 600 attendees. We hope to see even more turn out this year to taste wonderful food and wines and support a worthwhile cause.” UPMC Health Plan is the presenting sponsor and Andrew Stockey of WTAE Channel 4 will be the honorary master of ceremonies. Proceeds benefit the Cardiology Funds at Heritage Valley Beaver and Heritage Valley Sewickley Foundations. Over the years, the funds raised from this event have helped purchase equipment and expand services at Heritage Valley’s Heart & Vascular Center locations.  Tickets for a Casual Pairings: A Toast to Your Health can be purchased online at www.heritagevalley.org/wine or by calling 412-749-7050. The cost is $125 per person.  .

April 18 -May 23
Growing Through Grief Bereavement Program
Presented by Family Hospice
Growing Through Grief: Rebuilding Hope is a six-week bereavement program offered free for anyone coping with the loss of a loved one. Experienced bereavement counselors create a welcome setting for those dealing with a difficult loss.  Space is limited to the first 25 attendees. Southminster House, 801 Washington Rd., Mt. Lebanon. Wednesdays, April 18 – May 23, 1-3 p.m. Pre-registration is required. To register, please call the Family Hospice bereavement department at 412-572-8829, or visit www.familyhospice.com.

April 11
Take Care Tips for Caregivers
Jennifer Antkowiak presents Take Care Tips for Caregivers on Wednesday, April 11 from 12:00 – 2:00 p.m. at South Hills Country Club, Whitehall. Tickets are $20 and include lunch. Advanced ticket purchased is required. Please RSVP by April 2 to (412) 881-4100 and ask for Christine or e-mail communityservice@johnfslater.com. Sponsored by John F. Slater Funeral Home, Inc.

April 16
Look Who's Talking: Language and Literacy Development of Infants and Toddlers
· How children acquire language
· Stages of language development
· How to choose books for young children
· How parents and caregivers can encourage language and learning
This workshop for parents hosted by accessabilities will be held at the Indiana Area Head Start Center, 155 North Clymer Avenue, Indiana, PA  15701.  Registration starts at 4:45 p.m. and sessions will start at 5:00 p.m. and last for 1? hours.  Free child care and refreshments will be available.  Registration is limited to the first 15 parents. For more information or to register for the workshops, please contact Amanda Newcomer at (724) 832-8272, ext. 1021.  The parent workshop series is made possible through the United Way of Indiana County.

April 26
Exploring Available Dementia Treatment Options
Learn about current Alzheimer’s disease research, causes of Alzheimer’s disease and available treatments for the disease. This presentation is part of a workshop series on critical caregiving topics offered by Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Country Meadows At Home. To register or for more information, call Erika Seibel at 412.257.4566. Space is limited. Adult care will be available. Please confirm if you will need adult care when you register. Light refreshments will be served. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

May

May 6
2012 Pittsburgh Marathon - Run for the American Liver Foundation
Join the Liver Life Challenge Team and "Run for a Reason" in the 2012 Pittsburgh Marathon on May 6. The American Liver Foundation is recruiting runners to run on their team and also raise money for their organization.
For more information, visit www.liverfoundation.org/runpittsburgh

May 18
Spring Senior Expo
CCAC North Campus, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

May 19
H.A.B.I.T.s Can Be Good For You
Free Community Event for Women of All Ages
This fun, informative, interactive, multi-generational event will be held on Saturday, May 19 from 1:00 to 3:00 pm at the Tom Foerster Student Center, CCAC Allegheny Campus, Pittsburgh. The event will feature a healthy cooking demonstration, information about recommended health screenings across the lifespan and dispelling common health myths. In addition, there will be Kid Zone activities, as well as prizes and giveaways.   Bev Smith, a nationally known personality on urban radio, will be the keynote speaker. Sponsored by the Allegheny County Health Department and Tobacco Free Allegheny. For more information, call at Tobacco Free Allegheny 412-322-8321.

May 31
Navigating the Maze of Senior Care
This presentation will help caregivers understand the options in senior care which are appropriate for the loved one who has dementia. Caregivers will learn what to expect at the various levels of care which may include private duty home care, dementia care at a retirement community or skilled nursing care. This presentation is part of a workshop series on critical caregiving topics offered by Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Country Meadows At Home. To register or for more information, call Erika Seibel at 412.257.4566. Space is limited. Adult care will be available. Please confirm if you will need adult care when you register. Light refreshments will be served.

June

June 15
Kids Expo
Butler County Airport, 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

June 15 & 16, October 5 & 6
Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children 2012 Educational Conferences
In celebration of 125 years of service to our community, the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is hosting two educational conferences in 2012. Please save these dates:

• June 15 & 16: Cortical Visual Impairment (CVI) Conference. Keynote Speaker: Jeni Stepanek, author of "Messenger: The Legacy of Mattie J.T. Stepanek and Heartsongs."

• October 5 & 6: Vision Symposium: Pioneers of the Past, Present and Future.
  More information coming soon. Please contact Beth Ramella, Director of Outreach with any questions or for more details at (412) 621-0100 (ext. 379) or ramellab@wpsbc.org.

June 21
Girls Just Want to Have Funds-Planning for Life After Retirement
For more information or to register, call (412) 341-2888, e-mail sdurzo@singlestepsstrategies.com or visit www.singlestepsstrategies.com

June 31
Panel Discussion: Accessing Resources in Your Community
1 p.m. to 3 p.m. –
The panel discussion and Q&A will feature industry experts from Country Meadows Retirement Communities, Country Meadows At Home, Valley Care Association and Prime Time Adult Care Inc. This presentation is part of a workshop series on critical caregiving topics offered by Country Meadows Retirement Communities and Country Meadows At Home. To register or for more information, call Erika Seibel at 412.257.4566. Space is limited. Adult care will be available. Please confirm if you will need adult care when you register. Light refreshments will be served.

July

July 19
Don't Go Softly Into that Good Night-Dealing with Late Life Issues
For more information or to register, call (412) 341-2888, e-mail sdurzo@singlestepsstrategies.com or visit www.singlestepsstrategies.com

September

September 21
Fall Senior Expo, Butler County Airport, 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

October

October 5 & 6
Vision Symposium: Pioneers of the Past, Present and Future.
Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children 2012 Educational Conferences. In celebration of 125 years of service to our community, the Western Pennsylvania School for Blind Children is hosting two educational conferences in 2012. Please contact Beth Ramella, Director of Outreach with any questions or for more details at  (412) 621-0100 (ext. 379) or e-mail: ramellab@wpsbc.org

Ongoing Events

Family Hospice Offers the Following on-going Bereavement Support Groups
All are free to the public and no registration is required. For more information on these South Hills support groups, contact the Family Hospice Bereavement Dept., at 412-572-8829.
SOUTH: The Center for Compassionate Care, 50 Moffett St., Mt. Lebanon, Third Monday of every month; 7-8:30 p.m.
Southminster House, 801 Washington Rd., Mt. Lebanon, Second Tuesday of every month; 1-2:30 p.m.
Baldwin Community United Methodist Church, 5001 Baptist Rd., Whitehall, First Wednesday of every month, 7-8:30 p.m.
 
NORTH: All are free to the public and no registration is required. For more information on the Grove City, Hermitage and Greenville support groups, please contact the Family Hospice Hermitage office, at 724-983-6020
Grove City Medical Center, 631 North Broad St. Ext., Grove City, Third Tuesday of every month; 6-7:30 p.m.
Shenango Valley Senior Center, 220 North Buhl Farm Dr., Hermitage, Second Wednesday of every month;, 1-2:30 p.m.
St. Paul Homes, 339 E. Jamestown Rd., Greenville, First Thursday of every month; 6:30-8 p.m.

Good Grief Center offers Bereavement Support Groups
The Good Grief Center for Bereavement Support offers support groups for anyone having trouble coping with the death of a loved one. General groups are from 3 to 4:30 p.m. on first and third Wednesdays; and from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on second and fourth Thursdays. A "Daughters without Mothers" support group meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on the first and third Thursday of each month. The Good Grief Center, a nonprofit organization located at 2717 Murray Ave. in Squirrel Hill, serves all ages and is a division of Ursuline Senior Services. To register, call 412-224-4700 or send e-mail to support@goodgriefcenter.com. For more information, visit www.goodgriefcenter.com

Compulsive Eaters Anonymous Meetings
CEA-HOW is a non-profit 12-Step, self-help group for anyone who has a problem with food. It is based on the principles of Alcoholics Anonymous. If you have a problem with food addiction or compulsive eating, CEA-HOW might be for you. It's simple, it's free & it works! It's a new way of life. For more information, call (412) 225-1664, or email info@ceahowpa.og or visit our website at www.ceahowpa.org.

Sunday
8:30 a.m. - Bethel Park Library
5100 W. Library Road (Book Study), Bethel Park, PA 15102

Monday
6:30 p.m. - Avalon Ministry Center
336 South Home Avenue (Step Study), (Intersection of California & Home Ave) Pittsburgh, PA 15202 (Avalon)

Tuesday
7:15 a.m. - Trinity Episcopal Church
550 S. Main Street (Pitch), Washington, PA 15301

4:30 p.m. - Dormont Presbyterian Church
2865 Espy Avenue (Book Study), Dormont, PA 15216

Thursday
7:00 a.m. - Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
105 Gateshead Drive (Big Book), McMurray, PA 15317

Friday
6:00 p.m. - Our Redeemer Lutheran Church
105 Gateshead Drive (Book Study), McMurray, PA 15317

Saturday
8:30 a.m. - Alliance Church
2510 Old Washington Road (Attitude Adjustment) Upper St. Clair, PA 15241

9:00 a.m. - Christ Church Parish House
122 N. Maple Avenue Rear (Attitude Adjustment) Greensburg, PA 15601

accessAbilities

accessAbilities to Host Parent Workshops
You learned what to expect when you were expecting, but what can you expect when your little bundle of joy arrives? accessAbilities, Inc., a leading Early Intervention services provider, is here to help with a parent workshop series funded through a grant from the Armstrong County Memorial Hospital (ACMH) Medical Staff Fund, an affiliate of the ACMH Foundation. The goal of the parent workshop series is to provide information and practical tips to support families in successfully navigating the developmental stages and challenges of early childhood from infancy through the terrible twos. Parents will have the opportunity to share their experiences, ask questions, and learn how to best enhance their child's growth and development. Each session will be led by a developmental specialist with experience in the field of early childhood education. To register, contact Amanda Newcomer at (724) 832-8272, ext. 1021. A complete schedule and overview of topics may be viewed at www.accessabilities.org/parentworkshops.asp.

Free Bariatric Surgery Information Seminar - Second Monday of each month
Christopher J. Myers, MD, minimally invasive bariatric and general surgeon with the UPMC Horizon Bariatric Surgery Center, will offer a free bariatric surgery information seminar at UPMC-Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Associates. Dr. Myers will continue to hold information seminars at the Franklin office the second Monday of every month. To register for the seminar or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Myers, call (724) 588-6660. UPMC-Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Associates is located at 44 Circle St., Franklin.

St. Clair Hospital Offers Weigh Of Life Program
Weigh Of Life is a 7-week weight reduction program from St. Clair Hospital. The program begins on October 6 and will be conducted every Wednesday from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Weigh Of Life classes include nutrition education; weekly weigh-ins; individual meal plans; and group support. Program fee is $90. Register by calling (412) 942-2170.

Community Health and Education Programs
The Washington Hospital Breastfeeding Support Group For pregnant women, mothers who are currently breastfeeding, fathers and siblings. Last Monday each month (except December) from 6:30 to 8 p.m. in the Community Room The Washington Hospital. Register by calling (724) 250-4476.

Living Each Day Support Group
For cancer patients and their families. Second Thursday each month at 5:30 p.m. at Occupational Therapy Apt., 4th floor, The Washington Hospital. Register by calling (724) 229-2278

Prenatal Classes
Classes include prepared childbirth, baby care and breastfeeding. There is a fee, but many insurance plans will reimburse you for some or all of the cost. Call (724) 223-3173

Prostate Cancer Support Group
For patients with prostate cancer and/or their families. Third Thursday of each month from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at Occupational Therapy Apt., 4th floor, The Washington Hospital. Register at (724) 229-2278

Sports Medicine Injury Clinic
Free injury clinic for anyone with athletic-related injuries. Evaluation provided by a team of sports medicine-trained physicians, therapists and trainers. Mondays (beginning Jan. 11) from 4 to 6 p.m. at Washington Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, 95 Leonard Ave., Building One, Suite 202, Washington. For more information, call (724) 206-0610.

Stroke Support Group
Share feelings associated with life after stroke, as well as obtain information on services available to stroke victims and their caregivers. Third Tuesday of each month from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at Occupational Therapy Apt., 4th floor, The Washington Hospital. Register at (724) 229-2449

Teen Outreach Program
With Mary Jo Podgurksi and the staff of the Academy for Adolescent Health, Inc. ECHO – Educating Children for Healthy Outcomes – Home-based early intervention program for children in grades 4-8. Parents & Daughters – Girls ages 9-12. Parents & Sons – Boys ages 10-14. Pregnant & Parenting Teens – Supportive services for high-school teens that are pregnant or parenting. Teen Father Program – Young fathers up to the age of 22. For more information, call (724) 222-2311.

Cancer Caring Center Programs

The Cancer Caring Center is pleased to announce two new ongoing programs at two locations:

"What's On Your Plate?" will be led by Leslie Bonci, MPH, RD, CSSD, LDN, on the second Tuesday of each month, from 7:00 – 8:30 p.m. at the Cancer Caring Center Headquarters in Bloomfield, 4117 Liberty Avenue. Leslie will "set the table" by discussing the timing of eating, food amounts and choices and invite guests to ask questions.

"Laughter Club Yoga" led by Dave Russell, M.Ed., will be held at the First Unitarian Church of Pittsburgh in Shadyside on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of every month from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. During this interactive process, Dave discusses laughter and how the art of laughing can help reduce stress and increase deeper breathing. Programs are free but registration is requested by calling (412) 622-1212. For more information, visit www.cancercaring.org or twitter.com/Cancercaring.

Canonsburg General Community Events

Canonsburg General Hospital Offers Free Health Education Programs
Are you looking for a speaker for your club or organization? Through Canonsburg General Hospital's Speaker Series, physicians and other health care professionals can present a program on a wide variety of health-related topics at no cost. For a copy of the Speaker Series brochure, call the Community Relations Department at (724) 873-5835.

Canonsburg General Hospital Offers Medivan Service
Area residents who need transportation to Canonsburg General Hospital for testing or surgery can use the Hospital's free Medivan service, operated by Canonsburg Ambulance. The service cannot accommodate patients in wheelchairs. Transportation must be scheduled at least one day prior to use to avoid delays for other riders. To schedule transportation, call (724) 745-6911.

Canonsburg General Hospital Offers Free Medication Record Keeping Resource
Canonsburg General Hospital pharmacists are offering a free medication record for people to list prescription and over-the-counter medications currently being used. To obtain a free copy of the hospital's medication record, call the Community Relations Department at (724) 873-5835.

Canonsburg General Hospital's Physician Access Service Available
Need a physician?Call Canonsburg General Hospital's Physician Access at 1-877-284-2000. In addition to basic information such as name and phone numbers, callers can ask about which insurance plans are accepted. Other information such as number of years in practice, office locations and appointment hours, board certifications and specialty areas of expertise are also available. A Communications Associate is available from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Canonsburg General Hospital Offers Ask-A-Pharmacist
Canonsburg General Hospital registered pharmacist, Mary Ann Brown, R.Ph., can be reached by telephone to answer questions regarding prescription and over-the-counter medications. This free service is available Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Callers should be sure to have the medicines available when speaking with the pharmacist. The service does not replace a physician's advice, but is meant to answer some of the most common questions regarding medications. The Ask-A-Pharmacist number is (724) 873-5893.

Concordia Events

Concordia Hosts Alzheimer's Support Group Meetings
Concordia Lutheran Ministries' Adult Day Services (ADS) hosts an Alzheimer's/Dementia Caregiver Support Group meeting on the second Tuesday of every month at 2:00 p.m. in the newly remodeled ADS program area on the ground floor of the Lund Care Center at 136 Marwood Road in Cabot. The meetings are free and open to all caregivers of individuals living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Each session covers a different topic related to caregiving. Adult care is available during the meeting. To RSVP or receive additional information, call the Concordia director of adult day services at (724) 352-1571 ext. 8271 or visit www.concordialm.org.

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