MAGAZINE Vol 3 – 2014

Circle Health Urgent Care: When Illness or Injury Can’t Wait VNA of Introduces New Name: Circle Home A Full Circle Approach to Cancer Care Upcoming 2014 Health and Wellness Programs

295 Varnum Avenue, Lowell, MA 01854 I 978-937-6000 TTY: 978-937-6889 I www.circle-health.org Dear Friends,

As summer winds down, we are looking forward to an exciting fall season at Circle Health. In the coming weeks, we hope to finalize our plans to create a new healthcare system with . When we first announced these plans this past spring, I noted that this partnership gives us the chance to create a health system that is unlike any other that exists in today. We are working together with Tufts Medical Center to not only focus on taking care of patients when they are sick, but have our providers and staff closely collaborate to help members of our community prevent disease, manage chronic illness, and achieve stronger wellness for themselves and their families.

The chance to work together to create something truly unique is incredibly exciting – a health system model that utilizes the strengths that both community-based healthcare and complex specialty and academic medicine offer patients. It will also allow both Lowell General and Tufts Medical Center to remain independent under the partnership. So while we are able to more closely work together to serve our patients, we will maintain our ability to manage their care and dedicate our resources right here in your community. We are hopeful that we will complete the regulatory process necessary to form the new health system this fall, and will continue to provide updates on our progress in the coming weeks.

This summer has also been exciting as we have opened a new outpatient facility in Westford. Located at 198 Littleton Road, Circle Health Westford features a great variety of services including a Circle Health Urgent Care, Lowell General Patient Service Center for diagnostic testing, primary care physicians, obstetricians and gynecologists and advanced pediatric specialty clinics through our affiliation with Floating Hospital for Children at Tufts Medical Center. See page 3 for a spotlight on our new Urgent Care and the services it provides.

Be sure to also see pages 5-7 to learn more about the collaborative work to prevent, detect, and treat cancer happening right here in the Merrimack Valley. From comprehensive education and screening offerings, to new treatment options and compassionate home care and hospice services, we are extremely proud of the full circle cancer care our Circle Health members and providers are providing each and every day in our community.

In good health,

Norm Deschene President and CEO, Circle Health CEO, Lowell General Hospital

Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Lowell Introduces New Name – Circle Home

The Visiting Nurse Association of Greater that means they do everything possible to make sure patients experience Lowell has been a proud member of the a smooth and seamless transition from rehabilitation, acute care or other community since 1909. A trusted provider of healthcare providers to safe and comfortable home settings. They also make home health care, hospice and community sure that the emotional and support needs, as well as the education and care services, the Visiting Nurse Association information needs of their patients and families are fully met. recently introduced a new name for the organization – Circle Home. “We hope that our patients and supporters like our new name as much as “We are excited about this new identity because it reflects our belief that we do,” says Steven Joncas, President of Circle Home’s Board of Directors. home is not only where your heart is, it’s where your sense of health and “We are very grateful for the community support we’ve received since well-being is best realized,” says Rachel Chaddock, Executive Director of our beginnings here in 1909. With our Circle Health partners, we’re Circle Home. “And that can only happen when there is a true collaboration committed to providing Complete connected care to new generations of of physicians, nurses, and other care providers and community patients and families.” organizations all working together on your behalf.” To learn more about Circle Home and its diverse array of home health, hospice As a part of Circle Health, Circle Home shares a brand promise to the and community care services, please visit www.circlehomehealth.org. community of Complete connected careSM. For the team at Circle Home,

02 For more information, visit www.circle-health.org Circle Health Urgent Care: When Illness or Injury Can’t Wait

A new level of care is now available for your your kids falls and hurts an ankle? People are doctor and can’t wait, our Urgent Care centers family with the recent opening of Circle Health very busy, and want to get in and out when can provide immediate care, update your Urgent Care at our new facility at Cornerstone faced with a non-life threatening illness or records with your personal physician, and help Square in Westford. Open seven days a week injury. Urgent Care serves as a great option.” you with any follow-up treatment needed. from 8:00am-8:00pm, families can rest easier knowing they have another option for urgent “The Urgent Care centers allow us to When to go to the Emergency Room health needs when their regular primary care bring seamless care to patients who need It’s important to remember that a visit to the physician (PCP) or pediatrician is unavailable. the appropriate care at the right time, at a closest hospital is your Staffed by experienced urgent care physicians, lower cost than an emergency department only option if your condition could cause Circle Health Urgent Care is a great alternative setting,” says Dr. Nathan MacDonald, Chief significant harm or death without expedited when injury or illness is not severe enough to of Emergency Services at Lowell General medical attention. Dial 911 for immediate require a visit to the emergency department. Hospital. “Patients receiving Urgent Care assistance when you have a life-threatening treatment have full access to all the diagnostic situation, such as chest pain, severe bleeding, Circle Health now has two locations for urgent and treatment resources at Lowell General difficulty speaking or breathing, or other care needs – one at 198 Littleton Road in Hospital, as well as other specialty providers major trauma. For serious medical conditions, Westford and another at 1230 Bridge Street in that are part of the Circle Health network. Lowell General Hospital has two emergency Lowell. Both locations provide walk-in care Patients don’t need a Circle Health physician departments operating 24 hours a day, seven for non-life threatening conditions and other to use our Urgent Care centers.” days a week at the Lowell General Hospital ailments that require prompt medical attention, main and Saints campuses. such as: allergies, rash or hives, sprains or If you or your family needs care right away, To learn more about Circle Health Urgent Care, possible fractures, or conditions needing try to reach your PCP or pediatrician, who visit www.circle-health.org/urgentcare. X-rays or laboratory tests. Both Urgent Care knows your medical history and can help you centers serve children, adolescents, adult and with a treatment plan. If you cannot reach your older adult patients with convenient, accessible care without an appointment. Conditions Treated at Our Urgent Care Centers Unlike many other urgent care centers or clinics, the Westford and Lowell locations are • Respiratory infections (common cold, • Workplace injuries staffed with experienced urgent care physicians flu, sinus infection, and bronchitis) • Sports injuries from Merrimack Valley Emergency Associates • Sore throat • Physicals (work, camp, sports) who are available onsite during operating hours. • Earache • Skin conditions such as poison Dr. David Lezberg, one of the lead physicians • Vomiting and diarrhea ivy, ringworm and acne at the Urgent Care centers, has over 32 years of experience and is board-certified in both • Scrapes, laceration, and minor burns • Testing for common issues emergency medicine and internal medicine. • Sprains and minor fractures including strep throat, mononucleosis, pregnancy, • Muscle aches and pains “Urgent care is one of the fastest growing fields glucose, and diabetes • Routine gynecological problems in the United States,” says Dr. Lezberg. “We • Prescription orders for know that a bad sprain on the soccer field • Urinary tract infections needed medication doesn’t always happen during your primary • Minor eye injuries, infections or irritation • Moderate back problems care physician’s office hours, or what if you are • Dressing changes vacationing here from out-of-state and one of

Circle Health’s For Your Health | www.circle-health.org 03 Welcoming new physicians to Circle Health

Saud Alzahrani, MD Katharine Cronk, MD, PhD Endocrinology and Metabolic Disease Neurosurgery 978-323-5300 978-687-2321 Dr. Saud Alzahrani is a board-certified endocrinologist Dr. Katharine Cronk is a neurosurgeon practicing at practicing at Endocrinology Associates of Greater New England Neurological Associates, P.C. in Lowell Lowell in Lowell, MA where he is accepting new and Lawrence, MA where she is accepting new patients. He completed a fellowship in endocrinology patients. She completed a fellowship in complex at Tufts Medical Center in Boston, MA and completed his residency in internal spine, stereotactic and functional neurosurgery and her residency in neurosurgery medicine at St. Barnabas Medical Center in Livingston, NJ. Dr. Alzahrani received his at Barrow Neurological Institute at St. Joseph Hospital in Phoenix, AZ. Dr. Cronk medical degree from King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. He is fluent received her medical degree from Columbia University in New York, NY. in English and Arabic.

Brian Cullingford, MD Olga Rose, MD Cardiology Pediatrics 978-256-6607 978-256-2828 Dr. Brian Cullingford is a cardiologist practicing at Dr. Olga Rose is a pediatrician practicing at DrumHill Merrimack Valley Cardiology Associates in North Pediatrics in North Chelmsford, MA where she Chelmsford, MA where he is accepting new is accepting new patients. She completed her patients. He completed a fellowship in cardiology residency in pediatrics at Massachusetts General and his residency in internal medicine at Weill Cornell Medical Center at New York Hospital in Boston, MA. Dr. Rose received her medical degree from the University Presbyterian Hospital in New York, NY. Dr. Cullingford received his medical degree of California San Diego School of Medicine in La Jolla, CA. She is fluent in English from Georgetown University Medical School in Washington, DC. and Russian. Need a physician? For information on more than 700 physicians in over 30 specialties, call an advisor 24/7 at 1-877-LGH-WELL or visit www.lowellgeneral.org/findaphysician

TeamWalk: Celebrating 15 Years of Support for Local Cancer Patients

On May 18th, more than 5,000 walkers, volunteers, and supporters flocked to the Tsongas Center at UMass Lowell for the 15th annual TeamWalk for CancerCare. This year’s annual walk is expected to raise over $850,000 to provide services and support for local cancer patients and their families – support such as medications, nutritional supplements, wigs and prosthesis, support groups, transportation, and much more. Since the walk began in 2000, more than six million dollars has been raised to provide assistance to well over 18,000 people in the community.

Please note that donations for this year’s walk are welcome through September 30, 2014. Thanks to all our corporate sponsors, and all who walked, donated and volunteered — you are the ones who truly help make the difference.

SAVE THE DATE! Sunday, May 31, 2015 A Full Circle Approach to Cancer Care

At Circle Health, our focus on cancer extends well beyond the diverse array of vital diagnosis and treatment options offered by our expert providers and facilities. With a strong focus on preventing cancer through community education and helping reduce risk factors for cancer and other chronic illnesses, Circle Health physicians, providers and member organizations — Lowell General Hospital, Circle Home (formerly Visiting Nurse Association of Greater Lowell), and Lowell Community Health Center — offer a comprehensive and collaborative approach to cancer care for thousands of residents throughout the Merrimack Valley. From the latest diagnostic testing and treatment options and patient and family- centered support, to home and hospice care and support groups, Circle Health offers a full circle of services and programs that help us deliver on our promise of Complete connected care to our community.

Lowell Community Health Center Targets Prevention Imaging Technology is Key in the Fight Against Breast Cancer and Education Proper diagnosis and effective treatment of a breast abnormality often In addition to the medical services it provides, Lowell Community Health begins with accurate imaging. Lowell General Hospital offers the Center serves as a resource for information on a broad variety of health latest in screening and diagnostic technology for all types of cancer. topics, including disease prevention and wellness. The Health Center, Accredited by the American College of Radiology as a Breast Imaging whose mission is to reach the most diverse and underserved members Center of Excellence, the hospital’s consistent quality performance of our community, focuses on education and preventive care so people for mammography, breast ultrasound, and stereotactic breast biopsy understand cancer risk factors, symptoms and how and when to seek care. represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. In addition, the Health Center offers a call center that serves as a direct From fully digital mammography suites featuring 3D mammography line for women’s health services, and workshops are offered in homes and (tomosynthesis), breast ultrasound and stereotactic biopsy, breast MRI, community settings in languages such as Spanish and Portuguese. and genetic testing for breast cancer, patients benefit from the latest “Our goal is to educate patients on the importance of breast self-exams, technology and confidence that each mode of detection – mammography, regular mammography and skin screenings, as well as addressing the ultrasound and biopsy – meets the standards of excellence set forth cross-cultural or language barriers,” says Melanie Priestly, Director of nationwide.* Family Planning at Lowell Community Health Center. “If one of our Additionally, the hospital offers on-site certified Breast Health Navigators patients has an abnormal pap smear, or finds something unusual, we – specialized nurses who assist women in facilitating timely tests and help her navigate the next course of action and if needed coordinate care treatment as needed for breast care as well as providing emotional support through the cancer specialists at Lowell General Hospital’s Cancer Center.” and educational resources. To learn more about Lowell Community Health Center services, visit *Women’s Imaging Services at Lowell General Hospital possess a valid license www.lchealth.org and certificate of inspection issued by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health.

Circle Health’s For Your Health | www.circle-health.org 05 Klaudia Hunter, MD consults with Radiation Therapist Komal Patel, BSRT (T), while a patient practices breath-hold technique.

World Class Treatment at the Cancer chest ports allowing for safe and reliable access procedure works by placing a needle through Center at Lowell General Hospital directly into the vein for medication administration. the skin into the tumor under CT scan guidance Now, with the aid of imaging such as X-rays, and heating the tumor to a lethal temperature. When faced with a cancer diagnosis, members computed tomography (CT) scans and ultrasound This elevated temperature effectively “cooks” of our community receive care that not only (US), the interventional radiologists at Lowell the tumor without the need for more invasive offers the greatest hope for a cure, but is General Hospital have an evolving role in surgical removal of tissue. Patients experience compassionate and addresses his or her needs cancer treatment. little pain and are typically out of the hospital in as a person. Cancer treatment requires the less than a day. expertise of many specialists from different “Working closely with the medical and surgical departments and disciplines. A partnership oncologists, we have brought new image-guided, “The treatment of cancer patients is an evolving with the Massachusetts General Hospital targeted treatment options to Lowell General,” field and therapies will increasingly become less Cancer Center allows Lowell General to bring says Dr. Gregg Franco, who specializes in invasive, more targeted and have a continued world class treatment to area residents with interventional oncology. “Two of these procedures emphasis on a multidisciplinary approach to the comfort and convenience of staying close that have been very beneficial for patients are care,” adds Dr. Franco. to home and family. Lowell General offers a transarterial chemoembolization for the treatment multidisciplinary approach where a team of care of Hepatocellular Carcinoma (HCC), the most New Techniques in Radiation Therapy specialists review the diagnosis and collaborate common type of liver cancer, and microwave Help in the Treatment of Breast Cancer to develop a comprehensive treatment plan. ablation for the treatment of solid tumors New techniques are constantly being researched With affiliations for clinical research trials, involving the kidney, liver, lung and bone.” that help reduce the risk of damage to other multidisciplinary conferences and access to organs for those patients undergoing radiation Transarterial chemoembolization is a procedure some of the world’s best cancer specialists, therapy. For example, patients who are being performed by Dr. Franco where medicine coated patients receive integrated care to help fight the treated for left-sided breast cancer are now on microscopic beads is delivered directly to the disease and maintain their quality of life. taught a new breath-hold technique that cancer cells through a catheter. This procedure minimizes the heart’s exposure to radiation. New Advances in Image-Guided, delivers a very high concentration of When the patient takes a deep breath and holds Targeted Cancer Therapies chemotherapy medicine and blocks the tumor’s it during radiation treatment, the lungs expand, blood supply as well. Doctors treat most cancers with surgery, moving the chest wall and breast tissue away chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or some “Historically, patients with HCC have limited from the heart. combination of these treatments, depending options, and a typical survival rate of less than on the type and stage of a patient’s cancer. Called Deep Inspiration Breath Hold (DIBH), 12 months. With these new tumor-fighting Specialty-trained physicians, called interventional the technique has been shown to reduce the advancements, the results can significantly extend radiologists, are uniquely skilled in using imaging radiation dose to the heart by as much as 50 one’s life,” says Dr. Franco. to deliver targeted treatments to cancer patients. percent, without compromising the dose to the Microwave ablation offers a minimally invasive, breast or chest wall. Traditionally, the role of interventional localized treatment that kills the target tissue radiologists was to aid in cancer diagnosis by with heat while sparing the healthy tissue. The performing image-guided biopsies, and to place

06 For more information, visit www.circle-health.org “This is important because studies suggest a Circle Home’s Palliative care program offers Care physician, nurses, social workers, link between the cardiac dose during left-breast specialized care, focused on providing relief spiritual and bereavement counselors, aides radiation and heart problems – including heart from symptoms, pain, and the stress of and volunteers. attacks – later in life,” explains Matthew Katz, serious illness. “Patients who are receiving Noting that a patient’s illness affects everyone MD, Medical Director of Radiation Oncology at chemotherapy or other treatments often in the family, Perry says that the hospice team Lowell General Hospital. benefit from palliative care,” said Barbara Perry, supports family caregivers with information Manager of Circle Home’s Palliative Care and As part of planning the treatment, each patient and coaching. She said that “Helping a loved Hospice Program. is first scanned breathing normally, then again one complete his or her journey is a very holding her breath to determine how effectively When treatments designed to cure are no meaningful experience that often brings it expands the lungs and creates space between longer effective or wanted, hospice services families a continuing sense of peace.” the heart and the chest wall and breast tissue. are appropriate. Circle Home’s hospice team To learn more about Circle Home’s home and hospice “Then we can individualize treatment for each works to ensure comfort, dignity, and a focus care, please visit: www.circlehomehealth.org patient,” says Dr. Katz. on the patient’s most important goals. The team includes Medical Director Helena A. Thornley, For a full listing of treatment services at Lowell Lowell General’s Radiation Oncology MD, a board certified Hospice and Palliative General Hospital, visit: www.lowellgeneral.org/cancer Department treated its first patient with left- sided breast cancer using the deep inspiration breath-hold technique in February 2014. “This patient sought us out specifically because Cancer-Related Support Groups this approach to treatment was available here,” Dr. Katz notes. “Until recently, the breath-hold Living with Cancer - Patient/Family Support Group technique was used more at academic medical A general support group for patient and family members living with cancer, this group centers, but we want to ensure our patients offers support, education and resources. Meets on the first and third Tuesday of the month have the best possible treatment options, close at 2:30pm in the Cancer Center at Lowell General Hospital’s main campus. to home.” Living With Breast and GYN Cancer Supporting People with Chronic Offers education and resources for women with Breast or Gynecological Cancers. Support and Terminal Illness persons are also encouraged to attend. Care for patients with cancer follows them • For newly-diagnosed patients this meeting takes place on the second Tuesday of the home, especially when it becomes difficult month at 6:00pm in the Cancer Center at Lowell General Hospital’s main campus. for them to leave their houses or apartments. Circle Home continues the care by delivering • For those who have completed treatment this meeting takes place on the second a full range of home health, palliative care, and Tuesday of the month at 7:00pm in the Cancer Center at Lowell General Hospital’s hospice services. main campus.

“Most patients with cancer want to continue “US TOO” Prostate Cancer Support Group living safely and comfortably in their own Offers support, education, and resources for men with prostate cancer. Newly diagnosed homes, among what is most familiar and loved,” patients and their support person are encouraged to attend. says Cynthia Roche, Circle Home’s Director of For questions or to register, please call Meg Lemire-Berthel, MSW at 978-937-6142. Home Care and Hospice Services.

Circle Home clinicians include nationally- certified specialists in wound care, intravenous Look Good ... Feel Better therapy, palliative and hospice services. They Sponsored by the American Cancer Society (ACS), this program helps women who are work to coordinate treatment with the patient’s currently being treated, learn to cope with the appearance-related side effects of treatment physician and other providers. Rehabilitation and regain a sense of self-confidence and control of their lives. For questions or to register, therapists, medical social workers, and home please call the ACS office at 800-227-2345. health aides are also ready to bring their knowledge and skills to patients at home.

Roche notes that Circle Home works closely with Lowell General Hospital’s Cancer Center. “We’re in frequent communication with the physicians and nurses there,” she says. “Everyone, including the patient and family, is ‘on the same page’ regarding the details of care and treatment. We all work together to make life better for each patient, every day. We celebrate every success and every ‘good day.’”

Circle Health’s For Your Health | www.circle-health.org 07 Lowell General Hospital’s Health and Wellness Programs Fall & Winter 2014

Get your body movin’

® Gentle/Moderate Yoga Zumba Sign up today for our FREE Wednesdays, October 22-December 3, Thursdays, October 9-November 13, 5:30-6:30pm, $45 5:00-6:00pm, $75 This class will consist of interval training sessions Community Health and This class is for people who are new to yoga or like where fast and slow rhythms and resistance Wellness e-newsletter at to work with a high level of instruction offered in a training are combined to tone and sculpt your body compassionate manner. while burning fat. www.lowellgeneral.org/health

Insanity® Mondays, October 27-December 1, 6:30-7:30pm, $45 Insanity® is a cardio-infused, total body conditioning program and is the most INSANE workout program you will ever try! Burn tons of calories during the Surf, Boot Camp and Boxing for Kids! class and long after you leave. October 11-November 15 or November 22-December 27 Tai Chi Thursdays, October 2-November 20, 5:00-6:00pm, $60 Through its partnership with SLS Fitness, Lowell General offers a youth program package for children Tai Chi is known for many benefits including tension ages 7 and up and includes surfing, boot camp and boxing classes. All classes are located at SLS reduction, improved circulation and balance, Fitness at 345 Chelmsford Street in Lowell. Package costs $149.99 for six-week program. increased strength and flexibility, as well as states of mental and physical relaxation. Kids Surf Tuesdays, 4:30-5:00pm Turbo Kick This class is designed to develop your child’s strength, flexibility, power and core control through the ® Tuesdays, October 7-November 18*, 6:30-7:30pm, use of SURFSET boards. $45 *No class on November 4. Kids Boot Camp This class blends together intervals of strength and Tuesdays & Thursdays, 5:00-5:30pm endurance training with a combination of kickboxing The child-focused boot camp teaches the importance of health and fitness in a fun atmosphere. All and dance to high energy music. aspects of fitness will be addressed, including nutrition tips, flexibility, strength and cardiovascular training, along with general guidelines for a healthier overall lifestyle. PiYo™ Mondays, October 27-December 1, 5:30-6:30pm, $45 Kids Boxing This unique class builds strength and improves Thursdays, 4:30-5:00pm and Saturdays, 11:00-11:30am flexibility with a focus on energy, power, and This boxing class is supervised by a boxing coach who teaches boxing basics, including how to rhythm. It will help sculpt abdominals, increase properly hit the bag, and foot and handwork techniques. overall core strength, and increase stability.

8 For a full description or to register for these and other programs, classes and support groups, please visit www.lowellgeneral.org/health or call 1-877-LGH-WELL (1-877-544-9355) Parenting programs: For parents of children of all ages

Basic Child Passenger Safety November 12, 6:30-8:30pm, FREE Great Expectations Get your car seat inspected by a certified child October 14, 5:00-8:00pm, FREE passenger safety technician and learn about car seat misuse and which seat type is right for your child. Are you pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant? Stop by this fun baby shower-themed event to Celiac Disease and Gluten-Free Diet learn about local providers who will help care for October 16, 7:00-8:30pm, FREE you and your baby. Have your questions answered This workshop, created for parents and childcare by obstetricians, childbirth educators and nurses, providers, will explain what gluten is, what foods pediatricians, lactation consultants and more! Tour contain it and how to incorporate a gluten-free diet The Birthplace, receive gift bags courtesy of The into everyday life. Bump and enter to win prizes, including a $300 gift card donated by Babies “R” Us®! Light refreshments Dealing With Teen Depression: will be served. From A Parent’s Perspective September 30, 6:00-8:00pm, FREE This parent workshop will discuss the difference Infant Massage Let’s Be Honest between depression in teens and what the lingering Novermber 5 or January 7, 6:30-7:30pm, FREE November 8, 9:00am-12:00pm, FREE effects of depression can be. You’ll also learn how Infant massage is a centuries-old tradition that offers This parent workshop will provide strategies to encourage teens to open up and how to benefits such as bonding, better sleep, improved for responding to children’s hard-to-answer support them. colic, relaxation and better digestion. questions as well as techniques for talking about sexual health issues in a skilled, knowledgeable and Family and Friends CPR Itsy-Bitsy Movement and Signs comfortable manner. Second Monday of the month, 6:30-8:30pm, $40 Fridays, October 17-November 21 or This program is designed for parents, family December 5-19, 10:00-11:00am, FREE members and those who want to learn the lifesaving Explore new and different ways for parents and skills of CPR. This class is presented in partnership babies to utilize music and movement to benefit with Trinity EMS. development and attachment.

Tweens and teens programs

Babysitting Basics plus CPR Taking Back Your Life October 11, November 8, December 13, or January 10 September 25, 6:00-8:00pm, FREE SIDS Workshop for 9:00am-1:00pm, $60 Do you have trouble having fun or do you often feel Boys and girls ages 10 and older will learn babysitting sad, angry, worthless or guilty? This workshop will Childcare Providers skills, CPR and receive a CPR Anytime Kit to practice help you work through these feelings, talk to your January 5, 7:00-8:30pm, FREE at home. parents and get the help you want and need. This SIDS certification course will define Dare to Prepare: What Teens Need Teen Talk sudden infant death syndrome, discuss risk to Know Before They Take the Wheel November 8, 9:00am-12:00pm, FREE factors and identify safe sleeping positions November 20, 6:30-8:30pm, $10/Family Certified sexuality educators will provide facts in a and environments. This pre-driver’s permit presentation by AAA© is for comfortable and safe environment for questions about parents and teens. This program provides critical their bodies, puberty, relationships and more. information for teens before they take the wheel.

Personal Safety and Self Defense for Teens October 25 or January 17, 9:00am-1:00pm, $10 Support groups Learn the warning signs of aggressive behavior and Lowell General Hospital offers a variety of support groups for both new moms and patients. how to react to an attack. Participants will also learn Our support groups include a range of areas, from diabetes and sleep disorders, to cancer, heart basic self-defense skills. disease, stroke and more! For more information visit: www.lowellgeneral.org/supportgroups

For a full description or to register for these and other programs, classes and support groups, please visit www.lowellgeneral.org/health or call 1-877-LGH-WELL (1-877-544-9355) 9

Childbirth classes

Lowell General Hospital offers a variety of classes to help you prepare for the birth of your child. Space is limited and registration is required. Lowell General Hospital’s Get Med Call 1-877-LGH-WELL or visit lowellgeneral.org/health for full descriptions, dates, times and cost. Birthplace tours included. Smart program is designed to help ensure our community receives • Prepared Childbirth • Online Prepared the best possible care. We have • One Day Prepared Childbirth • Hypno-Birthing® • Weekend Prepared Childbirth • Prepared Teens created an easy-to-use and editable form to help you track your medical information.

Getting ready for your baby For more information or to download

ABCs of Babies for New Parents The Happiest Baby on the Block® a form, which is available in English, October 7 or December 2, 7:00-9:00pm, FREE November 10, 6:30-8:30pm, $15/family Spanish and Portuguese, please visit Get started as a parent with everything you need to Learn how to calm your baby, tips on helping know about infant care, feeding, development and babies sleep longer and ways to soothe infants in www.lowellgeneral.org/medsmart achieving good sleep. minutes. Fee includes program DVD and Soothing Sounds CD. Big Brother & Sister Sibling Class October 14 or December 9, 3:45-4:45pm, $20 Tiny Fingers, Tiny Toes: Everything New This class, in partnership with Babies “R” Us®, Parents Need to Know provides children the opportunity to explore their October 4, November 1, December 6, or January 3, Online education feelings concerning the arrival of a new baby. 9:00am-4:30pm, FREE Geoffrey will stop by to meet the children to make This series teaches expectant parents about the care To register visit www.lowellgeneral.org/ the experience even more memorable. of their new baby, including infant care basics and onlineed or call 1-877-LGH-WELL at-home safety. Boot Camp for New Dads® These programs can be completed at your November 22, 9:00am-12:00pm, $40 Quit Smoking for Your Baby Webinar own pace from the comfort of home. Courses This nationally-recognized workshop for rookie To register or for more information, visit: consist of concise, learner-friendly modules dads (men expecting their first baby) is oriented to www.lowellgeneral.org/health, FREE that focus on personal development and fatherhood with the help of a coach and veteran dads. This program provides facts about the dangers of provide strategies for aspects of your life. smoking while pregnant, second hand smoke, the - Conquer Your Anxiety Breastfeeding Class importance of having everyone in the family quit and Second and fourth Monday of each month, FREE strategies for quitting. - Understanding Key Warning Signs of Early-Onset Mental Illness in Children Learn the art of breastfeeding. Discover the benefits and Adolescents for mom and baby, valuable tips and other information. - Workplace and Personal Skills Certificate Labor 101 October 13, 6:30-8pm, FREE In this class taught by a local obstetrician, you will learn all about the labor process including stages of labor, delivery methods, types of interventions, monitoring options, and terminology that will be used while in delivery.

Prenatal Yoga and Strength Training October 12-November 16, November 23- December 28, or January 4-February 8, $149.99/ 6-week session Develop and strengthen your body for the changes it will experience during pregnancy through yoga and strength training. Classes are held three days per week at SLS Fitness at 345 Chelmsford Street in Lowell.

10 For a full description or to register for these and other programs, classes and support groups, please visit www.lowellgeneral.org/health or call 1-877-LGH-WELL (1-877-544-9355) Wellness and you

Diabetes 101 Self-Defense for Women Introduction to Zentangle® November 10, 6:00-7:30pm, FREE January 12, 14, and 16, 5:30-9:30pm, FREE October 1, 6:30-8:30pm, $30 Join us as we talk about the signs and symptoms This course utilizes the RAD (Rape Aggression Zentangle is an easy-to-learn, relaxing method of of diabetes and the strategies used to manage Defense) approach to provide self-defense education creating images while reducing stress, increasing the disease. for women. For more information or to register for focus, and improving personal well-being. the class please call Alison at 978-937-6360 Freedom from Smoking® More Zentangle® Tuesdays, September 30-November 18, 6:00-7:00pm, Small Steps That Make Big Changes November 5, 6:30-8:30pm, $25 $30 (refunded upon completion of course) October 1, 6:00-7:30pm, FREE This class will build on what you learned in Zentangle This American Lung Association program will give Learn how to make changes stick, misconceptions, 101. Paper will be supplied; bring your Zentangle attendees the tools needed to end dependency on and how the media can be confusing. This class mini-kit which you received in the 101 class. smoking and improve health and wellness. will teach you the difference between fat loss and weight loss and how to focus on fat loss; how to Zentangle®: Stress Relief for the Holidays Guilt-Free Holiday Eating: Tips to Maintain, train smarter, not longer; and quick and easy tips to December 3, 6:30-8:30pm, $30 Not Gain During the Holidays exercise and diet. Don’t let the holidays stress you out – try a new November 11, 6:00-7:30pm, FREE way to relax and calm your mind so you can enjoy Join us for party tips and meal time strategies to Stress Management with Self-Hypnosis the holidays. Through deliberate strokes and focus, enjoy your favorite holiday food without the guilt. September 17, 6:00-8:00pm, FREE Zentangle® creates a relaxed state similar to This class is for anyone who wants to cultivate meditation. Fee includes supplies and a mini-kit. Joint Replacement Education their inner-world and nourish their body, mind November 3, December 1, or January 5, and spirit through the means of meditation. All 4:00-5:00pm, FREE levels of meditators from beginners to advanced Learn what to do before, during, and after your hip or are welcomed. knee replacement surgery. The Center for Substance Abuse: What You Need to Know Weight Management Let’s Meditate: Going Within to Your About Opiates Peaceful Space November 6, 6:00-7:30pm, FREE and Bariatric Surgery October 8, 6:00-8:00pm, FREE Whether you are a parent looking out for your child or This class will explore different styles of meditation a healthcare provider caring for patients, learn how FREE Weight Loss Surgery and reconnect with the teacher that is always opioids affect the body, who‘s using and how, and available within you. All levels of meditators from the available community resources. Informational Sessions beginners to advanced are welcomed. Learn about laparoscopic gastric bypass and laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding, sleeve Personal Safety and Self Defense gastrectomy, pre- and post-surgery care, the September 20, 9:00am-1:00pm, $10 Learn warning signs of aggressive behavior, how to benefits of surgical weight loss, how to work react to an attack and basic self-defense skills. This with your health insurance company and more. class is open to both men and women. North Chelmsford office: 20 Research Place Tuesdays from 6:00-7:00pm: October 7, November 4, or December 2 Your heart health Fridays from 12:00-1:00pm: September 19, October 17, November 21, Cardiovascular Screenings or December 19 October 20, November 10, December 8, January 12, 7:30-11:30am (30-minute appointments), $25 North Andover office: Screening includes blood pressure, body mass index, ICD Support Group/Dinner 203 Turnpike Street body fat analysis, cholesterol, blood sugar, peripheral September 29, 6-8pm, FREE Thursdays from 6:00-7:00pm: artery disease and more. For people and their significant others who are living September 18, October 9, November 13, with an ICD. Free dinner provided. Registration required. or December 11 CPR, AED, First Aid Spanish Sessions: October 4, November 1, December 6, or January 3, Stroke Survivorship Dinner Saturdays from 9:30-10:30am: 9:00am-5:00pm, $85 October 2, 6-8pm, FREE September 13, October 11, November 8, This one-day combined course is designed for For people and their significant others who are living participants to become certified in Basic CPR, AED, with the effects of a stroke. Free dinner provided. or December 13 and First Aid. Cost includes workbook and face mask. Registration required.

For a full description or to register for these and other programs, classes and support groups, please visit www.lowellgeneral.org/health or call 1-877-LGH-WELL (1-877-544-9355) 11 Lowell General Hospital 295 Varnum Avenue Nonprofit Org U.S. Postage Lowell, MA 01854-2193 PAID www.circle-health.org Lowell, MA TEL 978-937-6000 Permit #362 TTY 978-937-6889

For Your Health is published by the Marketing and Public Relations Department­ at Lowell General Hospital. The information is intended to educate people about subjects pertinent to their health, not as a substitute for consultation­ with a personal physician.

© 2014. Printed in U.S.A.

Save the Date! Circle Health Fall Festival October 18, 11:00am-2:00pm, FREE - Costumes Welcome!

Lowell General Hospital, Chelmsford Campus Research Place in North Chelmsford

Your kids won’t want to miss this exciting journey as they learn about their bodies and earn stamps on a “passport to Health.” Join us for fall-themed activities and games – healthy snacks and Halloween safety bags provided!

For more information, please visit www.circle-health.org/health or call 1-877-LGH-WELL