health events ar 302172

BROOKSVILLE –
Jazzercize to host benefit class

Jazzercize will host a Thanksgiving Day Jazzercise class at 9 a.m. Nov. 24 at the Spring Hill Jazzercize Fitness Center, 7257 Forest Oaks Blvd., in the Forest Oaks Plaza. Participants should attend dressed to exercise. Organized by Jazzercise instructor Becky Mooneyham, the 60-minute class will include a warm-up, high-energy aerobic routines, muscle toning and cool-down stretch segment. Jazzercise combines elements of dance, resistance training, Pilates, yoga, kickboxing and more to create programs for people of every age and fitness level. Admission to the class is a nonperishable food item, paper products or monetary donation, and the public is welcome to attend. Donations will be given to People Helping People of Hernando County, which serves hot meals and provides free clothing, groceries and resource materials to those in need in the county. For information, call Becky Mooneyham at (352) 442-8595.

Dana Bennett event at Strong Tower

Strong Tower Vineyard & Winery will host the Dana Bennett Beneficiary event from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the winery, 17810 Forge Drive. Bennett was recently diagnosed with breast cancer; and due to her liver disease, her physicians in Denver, Colo. advised her to return to Denver for her mastectomy surgery. The fundraiser event is to help Bennett with the expense of moving back to Colorado and to help pay for some of her medical expenses. Ticket cost for the wine-tasting event is $20 per person, and all proceeds will benefit Bennett. If unable to attend the event but would like to make a donation, checks should be made payable to Diane Rowden/Dana Bennett Beneficiary and mailed to Diane Rowden, 10350 Fulton Ave., Weeki Wachee, FL 34613 or call Diane Rowden at (352) 573-4178.

Memory screenings at Meridien Research

Meridien Research will offer free memory screenings from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tuesday at its facility at 16176 Cortez Blvd., off Fort Dade Avenue. The event is being held in honor of the Alzheimer’s Foundation’s National Memory Screening Day. Walk-ins are welcome, but reservations are encouraged. The public is welcome. For reservations or information, call (352) 597-8839.

Health series at Southern Woods

Oak Hill Hospital will continue its For Your Health community education series from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday at Southern Woods Golf Club, 1501 Corkwood Blvd. Dr. Andre Brooks will present “Living Successfully with Heart Failure.” Dr. Brooks is board certified in cardiovascular disease and is on staff at Oak Hill Hospital. A question-and-answer session will follow. Admission will be free, and a complimentary hot meal will be served. Since seating is limited, reservations are required. To register or for information, call (352) 597-6333.

NAMI to feature presentation

NAMI of Hernando (affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness) will feature a presentation by Kim Garcia, owner of GIME Fitness, on the topic “How to cope with medications through nutrition and exercise” at 6:30 p.m. today at the Beautiful Mind Center in the Brothers I and II Plaza, 10554 Spring Hill Drive. The event is free and is open to the public. For information, call (352) 684-0004 or visit www.namihernandofl.org

Healthy Hearts series at Oak Hill Hospital

Oak Hill Hospital will offer its Healthy Hearts Education Series from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Monday in the cafeteria conference room of the hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd. Mary-Anne Flowers, RD, LD (registered dietitian, licensed dietitian), Oak Hill Hospital’s clinical nutrition manager, will discuss “Healthy Eating for the Holidays.” Admission will be free, and complimentary refreshments will be served. Since seating is limited, reservations are required. For reservations or information, visit www.OakHillHospital.com or call (352) 597-6333.

CPR training at Brooksville Regional

A CPR/AED class will be offered at 6 p.m. Nov. 17 in Room 120 of the new Brooksville Regional Hospital Medical Arts Complex, 17240 Cortez Blvd. The course meets the guidelines of the American Heart Association and the American Safety and Health Institute. The class is designed for the professional health care provider, but anyone is welcome to attend. At the successful completion of the class, the student will receive a two-year certification card. The cost is $20 per person for the complete course to include CPR and Automated External Defribulation. Since seating is limited and classes fill up quickly, early reservations are advisable. For reservations or information, call (352) 597-8875.

‘Surviving the Holidays’ program

Northcliffe Baptist Church will offer a GriefShare program, “Surviving the Holidays,” from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Nov. 19 at the church, 10515 Northcliffe Blvd. A video and panel discussion will be featured. The speaker will be Fran Welch, and the topic will be “Heaven.” A question-and-answer session will follow, along with a light brunch. The program is for anyone who has lost a loved one, and it does not matter how long it has been since the loved one has died. The event is free, and the public is welcome. For reservations or information, call the church at (352) 683-5882.

Filthy Fun Run at The Concourse

Pasco Pediatric Foundation will hold a 5K “Filthy Fun Run” Nov. 19 at The Concourse, 15325 Alric Pottberg Road. The event will feature an obstacle course built into the race route, wherein participants will crawl through mud, climb over walls, and swing from tree limbs to reach the finish line. Participants can sign up for a wave starting every half hour – the first will begin at 8 a.m. and the last will begin at 12:30 p.m. The entry fee is $50 per person. A party featuring a band, disc jockey and catering by Buffalo Wind Wings will run throughout the event and is open to racers and spectators. The fun run is being held in memory of longtime Pasco Pediatric Foundation supporter Dr. Jeffrey Baumrauker, and sponsorships are still available. The race is open to adventure lovers ages 18 and older of all, or no, athletic ability. To register for the event or for information, visit www.FilthyFunRun.com or call (727) 863-2266.

Hospice to hold volunteer orientation

HPH Hospice will hold a two-day volunteer orientation from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Nov. 15 and 17 at the HPH Hospice office, 698 S. Broad St. Attendance on both days is required. Volunteer opportunities will include office duties, patient support visits, clerical support and helping at the Hospice House and Care Center. Registration is required, and lunch will be provided. To register, call Jacqueline Lambert, volunteer coordinator, at (352) 796-2611. For information, visit www.hph-hospice.org

Deaf Literacy Academy offers free program

Deaf Family Literacy Academy (DFLA) of Pasco and Hernando counties is currently enrolling families in the area for a free educational program to teach young deaf and hard-of-hearing children, ages infant to12, and their parents how to communicate using American Sign Language (ASL). Services are offered at no cost to families. Test results show deaf children have the same potential as their hearing peers to achieve the highest levels of academic success. Yet most are failing due to their lack of mastery in a first language as well as substandard reading comprehension skills. To address these critical educational needs, the DFLA program provides families in the community a unique opportunity to learn and practice ASL in their home. Trained deaf mentors go into the home of each family for weekly sessions. To enroll or for information, email Jeff Thomas, Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of Florida, at [email protected] or call (727) 853-1010. The Deaf Family Literacy Academy of Pasco/Hernando is a program of the Volunteer USA Foundation, www.volunteerusafoundation.org

Chatterboxes support group

Community Chatterboxes meet from 3 to 4 p.m. every other Thursday at Community Hospital, 5637 Marine Parkway. Community Chatterboxes is a support group to assist individuals suffering from communication deficits (i.e., aphasia, apraxia, dysarthria, etc.) as a result of a cerebral vascular accident or other neurological disorders. The group was originally established for outpatients that had been discharged from traditional speech therapy but still wished an outlet to practice and interact with others with the same problems. Caregivers and spouses are encouraged to attend. For information, call (727) 845-0757.

‘Look Good’ program at New Hope

Florida Cancer Institute-New Hope has announced that it will host the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good…Feel Better” program once a month in its conference room, 7154 Medical Center Drive. The program is held periodically on Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m., and the next scheduled meeting will be held Nov. 17. This is a free group program that teaches beauty techniques to female cancer patients to help combat the appearance-related side effects of treatment. “Look Good… Feel Better” is free and open to all women cancer patients in active treatment. Reservations are required. For information, call Mary Capo at (352) 596-1926 Ext.150. For information about the Florida Cancer Institute, call 888-206-0054 or visit www.FloridaCancerInstitute-NewHope.com

In addition, a Look Good Feel Better Support Group meets from 3:30 to 5 p.m. the third Wednesday of every month at the Florida Cancer Institute’s Spring Hill Center, 10441 Quality Drive, Suite 203, in the Medical Arts Building, next to Spring Hill Regional Hospital. The next scheduled meeting will be held Nov. 16. For information, call Peggy Beckett, R.N., support group facilitator, at (352) 688-7744.

Ostomy Assoc. meets 3rd Thursday

Hernando County Ostomy Association meets from 2 to 4 p.m. the third Thursday of each month, except July and August, in Conference Room 2, first floor, of Brooksville Regional Hospital, 17240 Cortez Blvd. The next scheduled meeting will be held Nov. 17. New members are welcome. For information, call Linda Ravenhorst, ostomy nurse, at (352) 686-1956 or Ellen Boldt, president, at (352) 597-5426.

Birthplace offers pediatric CPR

The Birthplace at Community Hospital will hold a pediatric CPR class from 9 to 11 a.m. Nov. 19 at the Birthplace, 5637 Marine Parkway. The class is offered the fourth Saturday of every month at the Birthplace. Pediatric CPR teaches how to save the life of a child. Participants will learn the skills of the American Heart Association course, “CPR for family and friends.” The fee is $15 for one person and $25 for two people. For reservations or information, call (727) 834-5630.

Tours offered at Birthplace

The Birthplace at Community Hospital offers tours through its Family Education Program at the hospital, 5637 Marine Parkway. The next scheduled tour is Nov. 19. Tours are conducted by a Registered Nurse educator who will meet with small groups and guide them through the Birthplace. Participants will visit the labor, delivery, recovery, post-partum rooms and will observe the Birthplace’s Infant Safety and Security Program. Participants are welcome to bring questions with them. Since spots are limited, reservations are required. For reservations or information, call (727) 834-5630.

Holiday grief workshop

HPH Hospice will host a holiday bereavement workshop for any grieving adult who is concerned about coping with the holidays. The free workshop will be offered from 3 to 4:30 p.m. Dec. 13 at HPH Hospice’s West Hernando team office, 12260 Cortez Blvd. Led by an HPH Hospice bereavement counselor, the workshop will provide tips on coping with grief during the holiday season. Preregistration is requested. To register, call (800) 486-8784. For information, visit www.hph-hospice.org

Alzheimer’s research by Families to Rescue

Families to the Rescue will be conducting research on Alzheimer’s/Dementia beginning Jan. 1, 2012. The research is filed with the federal government at www.clinicaltrials.gov and the Alzheimer’s Association will be posting the research on the web site. The study is based on using hypnotherapy to enhance the body’s natural immune system to dissolve the beta-amyloid buildup in the brain. Similar study was done in the UK by Dr. Daniel Nightingale and Simon Duff several years ago with success. Each person will be rated on improvement in concentration, relaxation, motivation, activities of daily living, immediate memory, memory for significant events, socialization and the overall quality of life. Anyone interested in participating in the study should call John Bainum of Families to the Rescue at (352) 848-0612.

TOPS 604 meets at Forest Oaks

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter 604 of Spring Hill meets from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. every Tuesday at Forest Oaks Lutheran Church, 8555 Forest Oaks Blvd. Weigh-in is held from 8:15 to 9:15 a.m., followed by an informative meeting from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Meetings include programs offering advice for losing weight and living a healthier lifestyle. Visitors are welcome to attend the first meeting free. In addition to the meetings, social functions such as auctions and picnics are held throughout the year. New members, both men and women, are welcome. Dues are $26 per year and $4 per month. For information, call Nancy at (352) 592-1088 or Doris at (352) 666-9525.

TOPS 530 to meet at First Lutheran

TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) Chapter 530 meets at 9 a.m. every Tuesday at First Lutheran Church, 30419 Park Ridge Drive. Weigh-in is held at 8:15 a.m., followed by the meeting at 9 a.m. For more information, call Evelyn at (352) 796-0477.

Overeaters group meets Thursdays

Overeaters Anonymous of Hernando County offers a 12-step recovery program from 7 to 8 p.m. every Thursday at DaySpring Presbyterian Church in the fellowship hall, 6000 Mariner Blvd. The program is for compulsive overeaters, food addicts, and anorexic or bulimic persons. For more information, call Karen at (352) 200-8433 or visit www.oafreedom.org

Hospice speakers available for meetings

HPH Hospice has speakers available for church, club or civic groups. Educational presentations about HPH Hospice and end-of-life care will be provided. Presentations are generally 20 minutes and can be designed to meet the group’s needs and areas of interest. Advance care planning, how hospice works (common myths and misconceptions about hospice care), home health care and caring for the caregiver are a few of the topics offered by HPH Hospice. Speakers are available weekdays, weeknights and weekends. To schedule a presentation, call Community Relations at (800) 486-8784. For information, visit www.hph-hospice.org/speakers-bureau

Arc seeking volunteers

The Arc Nature Coast is seeking volunteers for its POSSE (Promoting Opportunities and Skills with Special Equestrians) Program, Enrichment Program at the Education Center or Neff Lake Road facility, any of several office locations, community outings and special events. Applications and background screenings are required for any position which involves direct contact with customers. There is a one-time fee of $28 for submission of paperwork to two outside agencies. Orientation and tours of the facilities will be available to all volunteers. For information and application forms, contact John DiRienzo at [email protected] or by calling (352) 544-2322.

Free resources to quit smoking

Hernando County Health Department, in cooperation with Gulf Coast Area Health Education Center, offers free one-on-one counseling to help residents kick the tobacco habit. Veronique Polo, MPH, CHES, a trained tobacco cessation specialist, is available each Wednesday at the Brooksville clinic, 300 S. Main St. Polo will provide education, quitting strategies and support, and information and access to free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (patches, gum, lozenges). For information, call (813)929-1000 or visit www.gnahec.org. To schedule an appointment, call (352) 540-6800.

Alzheimer’s support group meetings

Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will hold Alzheimer’s support group meetings from 10 a.m. to noon the first Tuesday of every month in the second floor conference room, 14000 Fivay Road. Meetings are open to caregivers and interested people to discuss and exchange ideas, as well as help and encourage those involved in the care of Alzheimer’s patients. For information, call Maria Curley at (727) 992-1358 or Kathy Montero at AFO at (727) 848-8888.

AFO expanding volunteer program

Alzheimer’s Family Organization (AFO) is expanding its volunteer program. AFO services the central Florida area including Hernando, Pasco, Citrus, Lake, Sumter, northern Hillsborough and northern Pinellas. AFO has a new volunteer coordinator with many new opportunities available, such as assisting with fundraising and educational events, office help, health fairs, creating gift baskets, contacting newspapers and more. To volunteer or for information, call the AFO office at (727) 848-8888 or toll free at (888) 496-8004.

Crescent Clinic open for services

Crescent Community Clinic is open for services at its new location in the Winchester Plaza, 5244 Commercial Way. The primary health care and basic dental services clinic is for uninsured adults ages 18 to 64 who meet federal poverty guidelines. Patients must bring a photo I.D. and proof of income; e.g., paystub or other information verifying income. The clinic is open the first three Saturdays of the month excluding holidays. The policy for services has changed; a limited number of new patients can sign in between 8:30-9:30 a.m. only. Patients on file can sign in between 9:30-10:30 a.m. only. Lab patients with a script for blood work can sign in at 9:15 a.m. Basic dental services consisting of infection control, extractions and cleanings are now offered. Patients needing refills on prescriptions should have the pharmacy fax a refill request to the clinic by Wednesday. Prescriptions and renewals can be picked up after 2 p.m. on Saturdays. For information, call (352) 610-9916. The fax is (352) 610-9915.

New hours at Health Dept.

Health Department Environmental Health Office announces new service hours: from 7:30 a.m. to noon and 12:30 to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at its annex site, 15470 Flight Path Drive, Airport Industrial Park. For information, call (352) 540-6800.

LifeSouth in need of blood donors

LifeSouth Community Blood Center, 12395 Cortez Blvd., just west of Mariner Boulevard, has a shortage of donors with snowbirds up North, causing a struggle to meet the blood needs of local hospitals. Anyone 17 or older (16 with parental permission) weighing a minimum of 110 pounds and in good health is eligible to donate. A photo I.D. is required. The blood center is open seven days a week as follows: from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Friday; from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; and from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. To make an appointment to donate at a different time other than times listed or to find the Bloodmobile locations, call (352) 596-2002.

Volunteer positions available at Oak Hill

Oak Hill Hospital Volunteer Association has a wide range of volunteer opportunities at the hospital,11375 Cortez Blvd. Morning, afternoon and evening shifts are available in both patient contact and non-patient contact areas, assisting support departments, helping in the gift shop, the hospital’s special programs, and in particular, the newly formed Oak Hill Hospital Partner’s Club. With the approach of the summer months, teens 16 years of age and older are particularly welcome. For information, call the Oak Hill Hospital Volunteer Association president, Dorothy Kaelin, at (352) 597-3038.

Brooksville Reg. seeking volunteers

Brooksville Regional Hospital Auxiliary is seeking volunteers for various positions. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, and year-round residents are preferred. For more information, call (352) 544-6117 or (352) 544-6080, or visit online at www.BrooksvilleRegional.net

NAMI offers free classes

NAMI of Hernando (affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness) invites anyone who is dealing with a mental issue, or has a family member or loved one who is, to join its support activities. Its Consumer and Family support groups meet from 3 to 5 p.m. every Wednesday; and another consumer group meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. every Monday, both at the Beautiful Mind Outreach Center in the Brothers 1 and 2 Plaza, 10554 Spring Hill Drive. Art classes, programs and speakers to inform the public about various aspects and treatments for mental illness will be featured. For more information, call (352) 684-0004.

Caregiver Support at Catholic Charities

HPH Hospice facilitates Caregiver Support Groups at 11 a.m. the last Friday of every month at the Catholic Charities office, 1423 Kass Circle, off Spring Hill Drive. Caregivers can meet and talk with others caring for loved ones with dementia. The information and guidance provided helps caregivers determine a plan for care while coping with the challenges of dementia. Meetings will be facilitated by a master of social work from HPH Hospice. The support group is free and is open to the public. For information, call JoAnn Laperle, MSW, at (352)597-1882 or Loraine Jones, BSW, at (352) 597-1882.

Caregiver Support Group meeting

Florida Cancer Institute-New Hope holds its Caregiver Support Group meeting from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month at its Spring Hill Center, 10441 Quality Drive, Suite 203, Medical Arts Building next to Spring Hill Regional Hospital. For information, call Pamela McGee, support group facilitator, at (352) 688-7744.

Alzheimer’s Assoc. lists support groups

Alzheimer’s Association, Florida Gulf Coast Chapter, offers support groups for family members, caregivers, and others interested in learning more about Alzheimer’s disease. Support group facilitators have received training as required by chapter and National Alzheimer’s Association standards. Program schedule is as follows: First Friday of each month, 2:30 p.m., Main Branch Public Library, 238 Howell Ave., Brooksville, Jerry Fisher, (352) 688-4537; first Thursday of each month, 2:30 p.m., Oak Hill Hospital-Senior Partners, 11361 Cortez Blvd., Brooksville, Jerry Fisher, (352) 688-4537; third Monday of each month, 2 p.m., The Residence at Timber Pines, 3140 Forest Road, off U.S. 19, Spring Hill, Diane Koenig, (352) 683-9009; first Tuesday of each month, 11 a.m., Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church, 550 U.S. Highway 41 south, Inverness, Cathy Heaps, (352) 527-4600; third Wednesday of each month, 11 a.m., Avante Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, 304 S. Citrus Ave., Inverness, Cathy Heaps, (352) 527-4600; second Wednesday of each month, 2:30 p.m., Sunflower Springs Assisted Living Community, 8733 W. Yulee Drive, Homosassa, Cathy Heaps, (352) 527-4600. Meetings are free and are open to everyone. Also, visit the Alzheimer’s Association online support group at www.alzsupport.com for a live chat at noon every Wednesday. Message boards are open at all times to post questions and leave replies. For program information, call the above-listed phone numbers. For other questions or to arrange free respite care in order to attend a meeting, call the Hernando office at (352) 688-4537 or (800) 772-8672.

Man to Man meets first Monday

Florida Cancer Institute-New Hope holds its “Man to Man” prostate cancer support group from 6 to 7 p.m. the first Monday of every month at its Brooksville Center, 7154 Medical Center Drive, off Kadri Boulevard, across from the High Point community. Topics frequently discussed are: importance of early detection, signs and symptoms, prognosis, disease stages, incontinence, impotence, various treatment options including hormone therapy and medications, and especially the latest research and treatment modalities. Speakers will include physicians, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, social workers and others. The support group is co-sponsored by the American Cancer Society. For information, call Mary Capo at (352) 596-1926.

RSVP seeking volunteers

The Retired and Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP) is seeking volunteers, and the only requirement of the program is to be 55 years of age or older. A representative of the RSVP Welcome Center, 880 Kennedy Blvd. will find a position that will fit the interests and needs of interested volunteers. Some of the areas available are Meals on Wheels, senior centers, nature, museum docent or researcher, library, food banks, animal care, child or elder programs and more. If interested in volunteering or for information, call from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday at (352) 796-8117.

Northcliffe Baptist offers GriefShare

GriefShare recovery seminar and support group will meet from 9 to 10:30 a.m. each Saturday at Northcliffe Baptist Church, 10515 Northcliffe Blvd. GriefShare features nationally recognized experts on grief and recovery topics. Seminar sessions will include “The Journey of Grief,” “The Effects of Grief,” “When Your Spouse Dies,” “Your Family and Grief,” “Why?” and “Stuck in Grief.” For information, call the church at (352) 683-5882.

Support Group at Christian Church

Christian Church in the Wildwood offers a Cancer Support Group which meets at 1:30 p.m. the second Monday of every month in the Building A Café of the church, 10051 Country Road. The purpose of the support group is to help caregivers, survivors or those currently dealing with cancer. The support group is free. For information, call Godfrey Eason at (352) 597-9916 or (352) 263-3784 or email [email protected]

Lost art of Kiko lessons at library

Kiko is based on Goju Ryu which means the five-storied pagoda, and not hard and soft, which is based on the five elements represented by the vowel sounds to which the consonants are added which determine the sounds and movements of Kiko which physicalizes and builds up the Ki into the body and life of the practitioner and manifests as health and/or martial arts power. Classes are held at 1 p.m. every Saturday at the Spring Hill Branch Library, 9220 Spring Hill Drive. For more information, call (352) 544-5700.

Myeloma Support meets Wednesday

Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets at 6 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month at the Partner’s Club (formerly Spring Hill Enrichment Center), behind Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd. For information, contact Pat Killingsworth at 715-271-5037 or email [email protected].

Leukemia Support meets Wednesday

Leukemia, Lymphoma, and Multiple Myeloma Support Group meets at 6 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Moose Lodge, 5214 Mariner Blvd. For more information, contact Lourdes Arvelo at (813) 963-6461 Ext. 11 or email [email protected] or visit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society’s website at www.lls.org.

Respite Program has openings

Catholic Charities, one of United Way of Hernando County’s partner agencies, has openings in its Respite Program. The program is for people with early stage Alzheimer’s disease and other memory loss illnesses including stroke, Parkinson’s disease or senile dementia. The program offers caregivers some short-term, dependable relief from their day-to-day responsibilities, providing their loved ones the opportunity to participate in planned activities and friendships. For more information, contact Marie Monahan at (352) 686-9897 Ext. 22 or email [email protected].

SHINE program announces new sites

Florida Department of Elder Affairs will offer the free SHINE program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) at the following locations:

Tuesdays

11 a.m. to noon, Brooksville Enrichment Center, 17222 Hospital Blvd., Medical Arts Building, Suite 120, Brooksville. For information, call (352) 544-6022.

Wednesdays

Noon to 1 p.m., East Hernando Branch Library, 6457 Windmere Road, Brooksville. For information, call (352) 754-4443.

Thursdays

11 a.m. to noon, Spring Hill Enrichment Center, 10441 Quality Drive, Medical Arts Building, Suite 105, Spring Hill. For information, call (352) 684-7568.

SHINE counselors offer information and assistance with Medicare (filling out paperwork, bills and filing appeals), Medicare supplemental insurance, Medicare prescription drug coverage, long-term care planning and pharmaceutical assistance programs. An appointment is not necessary. For information or for counseling locations outside Hernando County, call the Elder Hotline toll-free at 800-262-2243.

Oak Hill announces new Partner’s Club

Oak Hill Hospital announces the formation of its new organization – the Oak Hill Hospital Partner’s Club. Membership is open to all existing Enrichment Center members, H2U members, Oak Hill Hospital volunteers, or any Hernando, Pasco, or Citrus county resident. The Partner’s Club offers a variety of activities and events that focus on health, education, staying active, and meeting new friends. The club will be headquartered in the soon-to-be remodeled facility formerly occupied by the Enrichment Center. The hospital will provide further information about enrollment in the near future. For information about the hospital, visit its website at www.OakHillHospital.com

Assistance for low-income elders

Florida Department of Elder Affairs has launched a pilot project to help low-income elders enroll for benefits. Florida’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as the food stamp program, requires that most applicants for benefits fill out their requests online. However, a large portion of Florida’s 4.45 million seniors are not regular computer users, and statewide 58 percent of eligible elders do not participate in SNAP. The three-year pilot project will enable elders who are reluctant or unable to visit an office location or apply online to call the state’s Elder Helpline and have a trained professional enter the online data for them. Seniors who need help with a SNAP application should call the state’s Elder Helpline toll-free at 800-963-5337.

Volunteers sought for hospital/clinic

Brooksville Regional Hospital and Good Shepherd Medical Clinic are seeking volunteers for various positions. Shifts can be morning or afternoon at the hospital,17240 Cortez Blvd.; and from 7 a.m. to noon at the medical clinic, 8425 Northcliffe Blvd., Spring Hill. Year-round residents are preferred. For information, call (352) 544-6117 or (352) 544-6080 or visit www.BrooksvilleRegional.net.

Volunteers needed to drive patients

American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery program is in need of volunteers to drive cancer patients in Hernando County to their chemotherapy and radiation treatments. Schedules will be flexible, and training will be provided. Requirements will be a safe driving record, valid driver’s license, insurance and a smoke-free vehicle in good running condition. For information, call Joan at (352) 799-9078.

Hospice offers support groups

HPH Hospice holds bereavement support groups from 3 to 4 p.m. Mondays at the HPH at 698 S. Broad St. or from 3 to 4 p.m. Thursdays at the HPH at 12260 Cortez Blvd. The organization invites any adult who is grieving over the death of a loved one. The groups are led by an HPH bereavement counselor and are open to the community. The support group is free, and reservations are not required. For information, call 800-486-8784 or visit www.HPH-Hospice.org.

Al Anon meetings at Holy Trinity

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church conducts an Alcoholics Anonymous Family Group meeting at 7 p.m. each Tuesday in the Ministry Center of the church, 1214 Broad St. (U.S. 41). Meetings are open to the public. For information, call (352) 796-4066.

Elder Helpline offers support

West Central Florida Area Agency on Aging’s Elder Helpline offers support for caregivers and their aging parents. The Helpline provides information for older adults and their caregivers by helping callers make informed decisions about available assistance. It is the starting point in getting connected with programs or services that can meet the needs of the older adult or caregiver. For more information, call 800-96Elder (800-963-5337) or visit www.AgingFlorida.com.

Resource Room at Pinebrook

American Cancer Society has a Hernando Resource Room which is open from noon to 4 p.m. every Wednesday in Suite 203 of the Main Entrance at the Pinebrook Regional Medical Center, 14540 Cortez Blvd. Bras, wigs, prosthesis, turbans, and scarves are available free for uninsured or underinsured patients. For information on other American Cancer Society free programs and services, call 800-227-2345 or visit online at www.cancer.org.

Amplified phones for residents

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of Florida offers amplified and text telephones and ring signaling devices free to Florida residents through its contract with Florida Telecommunications Relay. An individual must be over the age of 3 and certified as being deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind, or speech impaired. Equipment will be available by appointment every Tuesday morning at the Spring Hill Enrichment Center, behind Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd. To schedule an appointment for equipment or for more information, call 866-685-9477 or (727) 853-1010 or visit online at www.ftri.org/ptrichey.

Oak Hill announces ambassador service

Oak Hill Hospital announces the establishment of a new position of Patient Ambassador. The ambassador is an advocate for their patients’ needs while respecting the confidentiality of all involved. The patient advocate’s job duties entail greeting each patient at least twice per four-hour shift to determine whether the patient’s needs are being met – whether the patient needs a newspaper, directions, a water refill or simply a friendly ear, the ambassador will attempt to fulfill the needs and information request. If medical assistance is needed, the ambassador will alert the necessary medical staff. For information, contact the hospital at (352) 596-6632 or visit online at www.OakHillHospital.com.

St. Andrew’s offers support groups

St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church, 2030 Deltona Blvd., is offering the following Community Support Groups:

Divorce Care will meet at 7:30 p.m. in Krysher Hall of the church. Trained facilitators can assist and give support to people who are separated or divorced. For more information, call Geri at (352) 683-7013.

Griefshare will meet from 3 to 5 p.m. every Tuesday. The program is for people who have lost a spouse or close friend. Trained facilitators will be available to offer advice and support. For information, call the church office at (352) 683-2010.

Both programs are ongoing and can be joined at any time.

DivorceCare meetings

DivorceCare divorce recovery seminar and support group will meet at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays at St. Frances Cabrini Parish, 5030 Mariner Blvd. Seminar sessions will include “Facing My Anger,” “Facing My Loneliness,” “Depression,” “New Relationships,” “KidCare” and “Forgiveness.” For information, call (352) 686-9954 Ext. 409.

Health Dept. offers family services

Hernando County Health Department offers family planning assistance at both of its facilities at 300 S. Main St. in Brooksville and at 7551 Forest Oaks Blvd. in Spring Hill. The Health Department family planning services are based on FDA-approved methods which include condoms, birth control pills, Depo-Provera, IUDs, diaphragms, along with abstinence and natural family planning methods; counseling regarding vasectomy services; pregnancy testing; and a comprehensive exam (health history, health promotion and community resource information, physical examination and lab tests including Pap smear and testing for sexually transmitted diseases). Fees for services are based on the client’s income. The services are free for those who have incomes up to 100 percent of the federal poverty level. To make an appointment or for information, call (352) 540-6800.

Lymphedema support groups

Community Hospital, the future Medical Center of Trinity, will host Lymphedema support group meetings at 3 p.m. the third Thursday of every month at the Medical Center at 5637 Marine Parkway. Meetings will be conducted by Alisha Cover, a licensed physical therapy assistant. Since seating is limited, reservations are required. For reservations or information, call 877-4-HCA-DOCS (877-442-2362).

Florida Cancer Institute — New Hope will host its Lymphedema support group from 3 to 4 p.m. the third Thursday of each month at its center, 8763 River Crossing Blvd. Lindsey Wisniewski, licensed physical therapy assistant at Community Hospital, plans and conducts the meetings. For information, call Lindsey at (727) 845-0757.

Overeaters group meets Thursdays

Overeaters Anonymous of Hernando County offers a 12-step recovery program from 7 to 8 p.m. every Thursday at DaySpring Presbyterian Church in the fellowship hall, 6000 Mariner Blvd. The program is for compulsive overeaters, food addicts, and anorexic or bulimic persons. For information, call Overeaters Anonymous toll-free at 800-544-6353 or call Karen at (352) 200-8433. For detailed information, visit www.oafreedom.org

Autistic children support group

The Harbor Behavioral Health is offering a free support group for families with autistic children from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of each month at The Harbor, 7074 Grove Road. The support group is for caregivers of children with autism. Babysitting will not be offered during the meetings, so prior arrangements must be made for child care. For information, call (352) 346-1677.

Respite Room at First UMC

First United Methodist Church of Spring Hill will feature The Respite Room from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Tuesday in Burns Hall of the church, 9344 Spring Hill Drive. The Respite Room provides a weekly program for persons with memory challenges such as dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Participants engage in meaningful and age appropriate activities. This opportunity enables a person to be part of a social setting and participate in activities that are specially designed with them in mind. The program provides caregivers a brief break from tasks and time for themselves. For information, call Christine Powers at (727) 863-6868 or Cindy McLoud at (352) 683-2600.

ER wait times available online

HCA Oak Hill Hospital, Community Hospital and Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point now post Emergency Room wait times to see a qualified medical practitioner on their Websites and via text messaging. Visit www.HCAdocs.org or text ER to 23000. The Emergency Department wait times for these hospitals is updated approximately every 30 minutes using an average from the previous four hours.

Health Dept. offers childbirth classes

Hernando County Health Department/Nature Coast Community Health Center will offer Childbirth Education classes from 6 to 8 p.m. each Wednesday at the Health Department, 300 South Main St. Facilitated by Margaret Purdy, MS, ED, CBE, the series will offer pregnant women and a partner information, instruction and resources to promote a healthy delivery. A partner is not required to participate in the classes. The cost of the program is $60; and participants can pay by cash, check or credit card. The program is free for Healthy Start clients. Registration is limited to 10 participants and 10 partners. To register or for information, call Susan DeLise at (352) 540-6819.

Elder Options offers help

Elder Options, of the Mid-Florida Area Agency on Aging, exists to promote the independence, dignity, health and well-being of elder citizens; to plan, fund and administer a coordinated continuum of services; and to advocate for the needs of older Americans. Anyone who is 60 or older and is being hurt or taken advantage of by someone they know or trust, should report suspected cases of elder abuse, neglect and exploitation by calling 800-96-ELDER or 800-965-5337. To report elder abuse, call the confidential Elder Abuse Hotline at 800-96-ABUSE (800-962-2873).

Memory program at CARES

CARES Early Memory Loss Program will be offered from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Thursday at the CARES Rao Musunuru, M.D. Enrichment Center, 12417 Clock Tower Parkway. The program is for individuals who are experiencing early memory losses and need a proactive day program to provide social support and memory retraining skills. The CARES “Senior Moments” Early Memory Loss program offers individuals and their families opportunities to reduce the progression and challenges of potential memory disorders through early intervention. For reservations or information, call Christine Powers at (727) 863-6868.

Hearing Clinic held at CARES

The St. John’s Hearing Institute will hold a hearing clinic at the CARES Rao Musunuru, M.D. Enrichment Center, 12417 Clock Tower Parkway, from 9 to 11 a.m. the second Monday of each month. Ear wax checks and ear wax removal, hearing screenings and hearing aid checks will be provided. Participants who wear hearing aids will receive one free package of batteries. Amplified telephones are distributed to the hearing impaired by Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services at no charge to qualified Florida residents. For information, call the Center at (727) 868-6363.

Miracle on Wheels qualification

Miracle on Wheels announces that Medicare’s regulations make it easier for seniors and others with debilitating conditions such as arthritis, stroke, heart and breathing problems, or diabetes to obtain a power wheelchair at little or no cost. Anyone who is suffering from any condition that severely limits their mobility should call Miracle on Wheels toll-free at 800-400-4210.

Co-Dependency group to meet

The Co-Dependency (CoDA) Words of Wisdom (WOW) Group meets from 6:30 to 8 p.m. every Wednesday at the Salvation Army, 15464 Cortez Blvd. The group is a 12-step fellowship of men and women whose common purpose is to develop healthy relationships. The only requirement for membership is a desire for healthy and fulfilling relationships. For information, call Valarie at (352) 596-2492.

‘Children Loved’ support group

St. Frances Cabrini Center will offer an “Our Children Loved and Remembered” support group at 7 p.m. the first and third Friday of each month in Room 3 of the Cabrini Center, 5030 Mariner Blvd. The support group is for parents and grandparents that have lost a child of any age or religion. For information, call Dorothy at (352) 684-1369 or Carol at (352) 686-1310.

Celebrate Recovery at Life Center

Celebrate Recovery, a Christ-centered 12-step program for those with hurts, habits and hang-ups, will be held at 7 p.m. Fridays and Mondays at Bridge Family Life Center, aka First Baptist Church, 7279 Pinehurst Drive. The Friday program is a time of worship and a lesson followed by small groups for fellowship and discussion. Child care is provided on Friday nights only. The Monday program is the men’s and women’s 12-step study groups. For information, call (352) 683-2863 or visit the church’s Website at www.firstbaptistchurchsh.com

Yoga classes at Inner Peace

Hatha Yoga classes will be held at 9 a.m. Tuesdays and at 6 p.m. Thursdays at the Inner Peace Bookstore and Wellness Center, 421 West Jefferson St. Bring a mat or towel and bottled water. The cost is $7 per person, but the first yoga class is free with instructor Rachel Oleson, (352) 346-8619. For information, call the Bookstore at (352) 544-0304.

A Reiki clinic will be held at 7 p.m. each Wednesday at the Inner Peace Bookstore and Wellness Center. Reiki is a Japanese word meaning Universal Life Energy, an energy all around people. Reiki allows the person to feel deeply relaxed, calm and peaceful. The cost for the clinic is $10 per person or $22 per month, and Reiki books will be available for purchase. For information, call Maria at (352) 544-0304 or Vicki at (352) 442-1240.

Outreach Center offers support

Beautiful Mind Outreach Center, 10554 Spring Hill Drive, in the Brothers I and II Plaza, is a self-help rehabilitation and recreation center which helps those with a mental illness help themselves and also offers support and education to their families. The Center provides support groups, education groups, friendship groups, bingo, arts and crafts, computer classes, bowling, scrapbooking, guest speakers, social activities and more. For information, call the Center at (352) 684-0004 or Ginny at (352) 686-2687.

Brooksville Regional introduces EUS

Brooksville Regional Hospital, 17240 Cortez Blvd., has introduced its full-service gastrointestinal program incorporating a relatively new procedure, the Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS). EUS combines the techniques of endoscopy and ultrasound examination to obtain images and information about various parts of the digestive tract through a less invasive procedure than surgery. The procedure enables physicians to detect and determine treatment for cancerous and non-cancerous tumors, masses and lesions in body tissues at earlier stages, as well as determine how aggressively these masses should be treated. For information, call (352) 799-5019 or visit www.BrooksvilleRegional.net.

DivorceCare meetings

SHINE program announces new sites

Florida Department of Elder Affairs will offer the free SHINE program (Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders) at the following locations effective Feb. 1:

Tuesdays

11 a.m. to noon, Brooksville Enrichment Center, 17222 Hospital Blvd., Medical Arts Building, Suite 120, Brooksville. For information, call (352) 544-6022.

Wednesdays

Noon to 1 p.m., East Hernando Branch Library, 6457 Windmere Road, Brooksville. For information, call (352) 754-4443.

Thursdays

11 a.m. to noon, Spring Hill Enrichment Center, 10441 Quality Drive, Medical Arts Building, Suite 105, Spring Hill. For information, call (352)684-7568.

Celiac Group to meet 4th Saturday

Celiac Support Group meets from 10 a.m. to noon the fourth Saturday of the month in the Community Room at Coastal Region Library, 8619 West Crystal St. The support group is for those who have celiac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis. Everyone is welcome; bring friends or relatives who also may be gluten intolerant. Anyone who would like to bring a gluten-free snack, bring the recipe and/or list of ingredients for those with other allergies. For information, call Mary Lou Thomas at (352) 628-9559.

Mid-Florida Services provides meals

Mid-Florida Community Services provides nutritious meals year-round to seniors age 60 and over. Seniors are welcome to visit any one of its four dining sites within the county. In addition, the Meals on Wheels program provides nutritious lunches five days a week to seniors who are homebound. The daily contact by the program’s volunteers ensures a visit by someone who provides companionship, while checking on the person’s health and well being. Volunteers are welcome, and donations are appreciated. For information, call (352) 796-1425 or (352) 796-0485.

Leukemia group meets 4th Tuesday

The Florida Cancer Institute’s Leukemia/Lymphoma Support Group will meet from 5 to 6:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of every month at the Florida Cancer Institute’s Spring Hill Center, 10441 Quality Drive, Suite 203, in the Medical Arts Building, next to Spring Hill Regional Hospital. Topics that are frequently discussed are: the importance of early detection, signs and symptoms of leukemia-lymphoma, prognosis, disease stages, the various treatment options, and especially the latest research and treatment modalities. For information, call Jeff Haight, R.N., support group facilitator, at (352) 688-7744.

Hearing services has phones

Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services of Florida has recently announced the addition of several new telephones, ttys and captioned telephones which are available through its no-charge equipment distribution program. Deaf and Hard of Hearing offers amplified telephones and related equipment free to permanent Florida residents who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind or speech-impaired. The telecommunications access program is funded by a surcharge on all landline phones in Florida. Equipment is available Monday through Friday at the Main Office, 8610 Galen Wilson Blvd. or at satellite locations throughout Pasco and Hernando counties. For information or to make an appointment, call (727) 853-1010 or 866-685-9477.

Medicare recipients eligible for wheelchair

All Medicare recipients should now be aware that if they suffer from conditions such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease and respiratory disorders, and have difficulty walking or propelling a standard wheelchair, they may be eligible to receive an electric wheelchair paid for by Medicare. For information on Medicare eligibility, call 800-810-2877.

Grief support group meets Fridays

Survivors Grief Support Group meets at 1 p.m. Fridays in Conference Room 1 of Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd. Everyone is welcome. For information, call Rose at (352) 596-6752.

Enrichment Centers list activities

Department of Veteran Services of Hernando County will be addressing concerns and answering questions from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Tuesday at the Brooksville Enrichment Center, 670 Broad St., Brooksville; and from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Friday at the Spring Hill Enrichment Center, 11375 Cortez Blvd., Spring Hill. Capri Home Care will be checking blood pressure and will host a question-answer session about general health concerns from 10 to 11 a.m. every Thursday at the Brooksville Enrichment Center. Contours Express will be sending a personal trainer to assist the exercise class at 8:45 a.m. every Wednesday at the Brooksville Enrichment Center. A volunteer will take blood pressure Tuesdays and Wednesdays at Spring Hill and Tuesdays at Brooksville. Support groups are available, such as Parkinson’s, diabetic, Alzheimer’s, Ostomy, nurses, well spouse and breast cancer. For information, call the Spring Hill Enrichment Center at (352) 597-6331 or the Brooksville Enrichment Center at (352) 544-5900.

Wishes on Wheels has wheelchairs

Wishes on Wheels has electric power wheelchairs available for nonambulatory senior citizens 65 years old and up, and the permanently disabled of any age, if they qualify. For information, call 800-823-5220 or visit www.threewishes2.com.

WOW program offered at YMCA

Hernando County Family YMCA offers a Working on Weights program that meets twice a week for four weeks on the Wellness Floor of the facility, 1300 Mariner Blvd. The program features one-on-one instruction with a personal wellness trainer to help achieve personal goals while addressing personal limitations and comforts. For information, call Olivia Matles at (352) 688-9622.

Yoga in the park

Yoga in the park will be offered Wednesdays at 9 a.m. at Hernando Park, 205 East Fort Dade Ave. The cost is $7. For information, call Rachel at (352)263-4923 or Hernando County Recreation Department at (352) 754-4031.

Editor’s note: Healthy Happenings events will only be listed as space permits. Email submissions to Karen Cuocco at [email protected].

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