Community Calendar Listings for January 2013

01/04/2013

Southern Maine Medical Center (SMMC) believes that it has a responsibility not only to treat those suffering from acute illness or injury, but also to serve as a community resource for prevention and health management. The following health education programs will be offered by SMMC during the month of January. This listing is also available on the SMMC website at www.smmc.org under Community Health Education.

CANCER CARE PROGRAMS

Macrobiotics Natural Foods Cooking Class
Fourth Saturday of each month (January 26), 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Location: Sweetser, 50 Moody Street, Saco
Free
Macrobiotics is a natural approach to health and sickness.  A macrobiotic diet consists of whole foods brimming with health-giving qualities. Should you be facing a serious illness or simply looking for better health, we encourage you to explore the possibilities. 
Presented by Macrobiotic Master Chef Connie Arnold.
Pre-registration is required, please call 283-7320.

CLASSES/EVENTS

Breastfeeding Class
January 22, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Free
This class, presented by one of SMMC’s Board Certified Lactation Consultants, will cover how to breastfeed your baby, what's normal, and where to get help if needed.
Pre-registration is required, please call 283-7350.

Childbirth Preparation Class (Lamaze)  
January 19, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Cost: $75
This class is designed to prepare you and your partner for childbirth and instructs you on relaxation techniques to facilitate delivery. You will cover anatomy and physiology of birth, pain control, positions, breathing and enjoy a tour of the birthing suite. Great for both first time and experienced parents. Expectant mothers should be in their last trimester. Please bring a mat, sleeping bag or blanket, two pillows and a watch with a second hand.
Pre-registration is required, please call 283-7350.

Maine Child Passenger Safety Seat Program
SMMC is a Maine Voucher Site, providing income-eligible families with free car seats, in addition to instruction on proper car seat use and installation. For more information, please call SMMC's Certified Passenger Safety Technician at 283-7352.

Safe Baby - Infant Safety & Infant/Toddler CPR 
January 31, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Cost: $25/couple; $15/person
This class provides a non-certificate course by the American Heart Association to family and friends, as well as basic home safety for your baby as they grow. Pre-registration is required, please call 283-7350. 

Safe Travels - Car Seat Information
January 8, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Free
This class is designed to help parents/grandparents understand the importance of proper car seat use. Please bring your car owners manual/car seat manual and car seat (if you have already purchased a car seat). Pre-registration is required, please call 283-7350.

Heartsaver CPR
Location: Kennebunk Fire & Rescue
Cost: $35
Courses include instruction, textbook and a two-year certification card from the American Heart Association.  For more information, please call 985-2102.

Free Total Joint Replacement Education Class
January 15, 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Free
This educational session is designed for those considering total joint replacement. Participants will learn what to expect before, during and after their procedure and stay in the hospital. Open to anyone interested.  For more information and to pre-register (this is NOT a requirement), please call 283-1126.

Weight Loss Surgery Information Session
Second Wednesday of each month (January 9), 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Free.
Is weight loss surgery the right decision for you? Have you tried the other weight loss methods and nothing seems to work? If you're considering gastric bypass surgery, then this introductory class is for you. Information will be presented about nutrition, resources, and other topics to help with the lifestyle and emotional adjustments you may face. For more information, call 283-7987.

SUPPORT GROUPS

Better Breathers Club (Pulmonary Rehabilitation)
Second Wednesday of each month (January 9), 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Location: SMMC PrimeCare Physicians, 9 Healthcare Drive, Biddeford
Free
Open to anyone interested in learning more about pulmonary disease and improving their quality of life.  Small group sessions allow participants to share experiences and learn in a comfortable and caring environment.  For more information, please call 283-7773.

Breast Cancer Survivors Support Group
Every other Thursday (January 10, 24), 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Location: SMMC, Webber Building, second floor conference room, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Free
For more information, please contact Helene Langley at 283-7805.

Weight Loss Surgery Support Group
Second Wednesday of each month (January 9), 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Location: SMMC, 1 Medical Center Drive, Biddeford
Free
Information will be presented about nutrition, resources, and other topics to help with the lifestyle and emotional adjustments you may face.  Talk with others who have faced similar challenges.  For more information, please call 283-7987.

Need a Physician?  Visit www.smmc.org or call 283-7323.

Media Contact: Karen Chasse, 283-7238