“Saginaw News Health Digest - MLive.com” plus 2 more

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• Saginaw News Health Digest - MLive.com
• Getting a Flu Vaccine for Your Better Health - Associated Content
• TO YOUR HEALTH: Sept. 8 - Abington Mariner

Saginaw News Health Digest - MLive.com Posted: 08 Sep 2010 01:04 PM PDT Published: Sunday, September 05, 2010, 4:02 PM Updated: Wednesday, September 08, 2010, 4:04 PM Health Digest is a listing of support groups, medical services and more in the Tri-County region. They range from caregiver or cancer support to a variety of drug and alcohol meetings. PARENTING/FAMILIES - Bereaved Parents USA, Saginaw chapter, a support group for parents who have experienced the death of a child at any age, meets at 7 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Grace Lutheran Church, 4690 Tittabawassee in Kochville Township. Call Vicky Passage at 907-1479. - La Leche League, which provides free breastfeeding information and support for mothers,meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Monday of the month at First Free Methodist Church, 2625 N. Center, Saginaw Township. Contact Elizabeth at 790-2411, or e-mail lllsaginaw@gmail.com for location. - Mid-Michigan Area Children and Adults with Attention Deficit Disorders (CHADD) meets in Midland. For location and time, call Bruce at (989) 631-1317. - Truth in the Adoption Triad is a support group for adoptees, adoptive parents and birth parents. For location and time, call (989) 665-0024. - Caring Companions, a support group for families and friends adjusting to life without loved ones, meets at 3 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at SouthernCare-Saginaw, 6272 State, Saginaw Township. Call 790-7533. - Mid-Michigan Chapter of the Autism Society of America meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at First Presbyterian Church, 805 Center in Bay City. Call Sue at 892-2715 or Kim at 684-1962. - HOPE (Helping Other Parents Endure) offers support for family members who have experienced a miscarriage, stillbirth, neonatal death or death of a child up to 2 years. Call Beth Engerer at 684-5748. - Breastfeeding Support Group, for moms who breastfeed their babies, meets at 6 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at Central Michigan Community Hospital, 1221 South, Mount Pleasant. Call (989) 772-3856. - The Baby Pantry of Old Town Christian Outreach Center distributes new and like-new clothing, bedding, disposable diapers, formula and other newborn items to first-time mothers. Assistance is available by appointment. For information, call 249-8696. - Parenting the Second Time Around, a support group for grandparents raising their grandchildren, meets at10:30 a.m. Wednesdays at First Ward Community Center, 1410 N. 12th, Saginaw. Call 753-0411. - Life Changes Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at First Presbyterian Church, 121 S.Harrison, Saginaw. It provides support for those experiencing family break-ups, children overseas, children moving in or out, or the death of a child or spouse. Register by calling the church at 793-9890 (before 5 p.m.) or Brenda at 642-4640 (after 5 p.m.). - Newborn Parenting Support Group meets at 1 p.m. Thursdays at Conference Room F, MidMichigan Medical offices, Campus Ridge, Midland. Call (800) 999-3199. - Caregiver Support Group meets from 2:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of the month at Saginaw Commission on Aging, 2355 Schust, Saginaw Township. Call Julia or Nyla at 797-7564 or 797-6880. - ADD/ADHD Support Group,for adults and children with Attention Deficit Disorder/Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, meets at 5 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month at Houghton Jones Resource Center, 1708 Johnson, Saginaw. Call Oreata at 754-7545 or Delores at 754-3154. - Kinship Care Support Services, for grandparents and others raising related children, meets at 12:30p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month at the Saginaw County Commission on Aging, 2355 Schust, Saginaw Township. Call Saginaw County Commission on Aging, 797-6884, if you need child care or transportation. - Caregiver Support Training is offered free in the home through the Saginaw County Commission on Aging for those caring for a loved one. Call Julia Schmidt at 797-7564. MEDICAL - Chesaning-area Charcot-Marie-Tooth Support Group — For information, contact Carolyn Koski at (989) 845-5131 or cmtasg_chesaning@charcot-marie-tooth.org. - ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) Group, for patients and their families, meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Monday of the month at Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church, 545 Seventh in Freeland. Call the Michigan Chapter of the ALS Association at (866) 927-2873. - Free blood pressure testing is offered from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Mondays at Zauel Memorial Library, 3100 N. Center, Saginaw Township; 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays at Mount Olive Baptist Church, 1114 N. Sixth, Saginaw; and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.Tuesdays in Room 109 of the Saginaw County Department of Public Health, 1600 N. Michigan, Saginaw. - Hearing Loss Association of America meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Monday of the month at Covenant Medical Center Harrison, Conference Room C, 1447 N. Harrison, Saginaw. Call Bonnie Holt at 790-5028 for information. - Smoking Cessation Class meets at 4 p.m. Mondays at Michigan CardioVascular Institute, 1015 S. Washington, Saginaw. To register, call 754-3000 and ask for the respiratory department. - Amputation Support Group, for people with amputations and their families, meets at 4 p.m. the second Monday of March, May, July, September and November at Covenant Medical Center Michigan, basement rehabilitation gym, 515 N. Michigan, Saginaw. Call Ben at 583-2788. - Alzheimer's Disease Support Group, for caregivers and families of those who suffer from Alzheimer's disease or related dementia disorders, meets at 7 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month at MidMichigan Medical Center Clare, Conference Room 1, 703 N. McEwan, Clare. Call Karen Johnson at (989) 802-5110 or visit www.midmichigan.org. - Women's Cancer Support Group, for women surviving female-related and other cancers, meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Covenant Medical Center Mackinaw, third floor, 5400 Mackinaw, Saginaw Township. Call 583-5267 or 583-5263. - CPAP/BiPAP Support Group meets at Covenant Medical Center Mackinaw, lower level conference room, 5400 Mackinaw. Call 583-2931. - Diabetes Support Group meets at 4 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at MidMichigan Medical Center Clare, 703 N. McEwan, Clare. Call (800) 999-3199. - Bridgeport Area Alzheimer's and Dementia Support Group for Caregivers meets at 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at St. Christopher Catholic Church, 3926 Williamson, Bridgeport Township. Call Sue Stuart at 777-7656. - Alzheimer's/Dementia Support Group, sponsored by TLC Healthcare Services for families who have a loved one with Alzheimer's disease or dementia, meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at Edgewood Assisted Living Center, 4850 Gratiot in Saginaw Township. For information, call 497-9970. - Brain Injury Association of Michigan, Tri-County Support Group, meets at 7 p.m. the first Tuesday of the month at HealthSource Saginaw, Sands Day Room, 3340 Hospital, Saginaw Township. It provides support to those with head injuries and their families during the crisis and through rehabilitation. - Coping with Cancer, a support group for survivors, patients and caregivers, meets at noon Tuesdays at Covenant Medical Center Mackinaw, 5400 Mackinaw, Saginaw Township. Call 583-5267 or visit www.covenanthealthcare.com. - Hope Keepers Group, for people with any chronic illness such as lupus, arthritis, fibromyalgia or cancer, meets at 1 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Messiah Lutheran Church, 1550 S. Poseyville, Midland. Call (989) 835-7143, ext. 204. - Vision Impaired People, a support group, meets at 1 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at First Christian Church-West, 5545 McCarty, Saginaw Township. Call Del Pawlik at 793-1154. The group does not meet in June, July or August. - Northeast Michigan Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets at 2:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the Auburn Library, 235 W. Midland, Auburn. Call 792-6168. - Spinal Cord Injury Resource Group,for individuals with various levels of spinal cord injuries, meets at5:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of January, March, May, July, September and November at St. Mary's of Michigan Towne Centre, 4599 Towne Centre, Saginaw Township. Call 497-3075. - Alzheimer's Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. the last Tuesday of the month at A&D Health Care Professionals, 3150 Enterprise, Saginaw Township. Call Lyn Bradfield at793-1182. - Tri-City Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets at 3 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at the West Side Senior Center, 2112 W. Genesee, Saginaw. Anyone with an interest in Parkinson's is welcome. Call 797-6886. The group does not meet in July or August. - Mid-Michigan Young Onset Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at the United Way building, 909 Washington in Bay City. The group is for younger adults diagnosed with the disease. Call Joan Szczepanski at (989) 893-1503. - Living with Cancer, a support group for patients, family and friends, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first and third Tuesday of the month from October to June at Covenant Medical Center Frankenmuth, 600 N. Main. Call 583-5267 or visit www.covenanthealthcare.com. The group also meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month from July to September. - Cholesterol Screenings are offered at 8 a.m. Mondays at MidMichigan Medical Center-Clare, 703 N. McEwan. Cost is $10. Call (800) 999-3199. - Stroke Support Group,for stroke survivors and their family and friends, meets at 6 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at Central Michigan Community Hospital, Conference Room FDJ, 1221 South, Mount Pleasant. Call (989) 774-7289. - Transplants in Motion Everywhere (TIME),a support group for organ transplant patients and their families, meets at 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at Memorial Healthcare Center, Owosso. Call Buddie Stroub (517) 743-4863. - Stroke Education Class meets at 3:30 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday and Thursday of the month at Covenant HealthCare Michigan, fourth floor dining room, 515 N.Michigan. Call Jennifer at 583-2826 for more information. - Stuttering Support Group meets at 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Covenant Medical Center Michigan, Room 2141, 515 N. Michigan, Saginaw. Call 583-4071. - Central Michigan Area Stuttering Support Group meets at 7 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month in the lobby of Health Professions Building 2171, Central Michigan University, Mount Pleasant. - Latex Support Group, for those allergic to latex, meets in a latex-free location. Call Sue at 667-6977. - Stroke Support Group meets at 3 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at HealthSource Saginaw, recreation room, 3340 Hospital, Saginaw Township. Call Trish at 790-7830. - Better Breathers Society, a pulmonary rehabilitation support group, meets at 1 p.m. Wednesdays at Covenant Medical Center Mackinaw,5400 Mackinaw, Saginaw Township. A social worker and respiratory therapist facilitate the group. Call 583-5267 - Stroke Support Group meets at 3 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Covenant HealthCare Michigan, fourth floor dining room, 515 N. Michigan. Survivors and family members are welcome. Call Jennifer at 583-2826 for more information. - Hospice Support Group, sponsored by Home and Hospice Advantage, meets at 6:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at Edgewood Assisted Living Center, 4850 Gratiot in Saginaw Township. For more information, call 497-9970. - Type 2 Diabetes Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at the Lincoln Center, 820 S. Lincoln, Bay City. The group is sponsored by Bay Regional Medical Center and provides educational support for people living with diabetes. Call 894-8628. The group does not meet in June,July or August. - Midland Fibromyalgia Support Group meets the second Wednesday of the month at Trinity Lutheran Church, 3701 Jefferson, Midland. At the September meeting, 7 p.m. Sept. 8, Dr. Jeff Hargrove will update the group on his research study. Members are reminded to complete the online NFA survey. Call (989) 835-5992. - Support for Living,a cancer support group for patients, family members and members of the community, meets at 6 p.m. the second Thursday of the month at St.Mary's of Michigan Seton Cove, 1647 S. Washington, Saginaw. Call 907-8122. - Open Heart Support Group meets at 6:30 p.m.the fourth Thursday of the month at St. Mary's of Michigan Health Education Center, 800 S. Washington in Saginaw. Call 907-8920. The group does not meet in November or December. - Huntington's Disease Society of America support group meets at 7 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at Saginaw Township Fire Department, Station 3, 155 N. Center, Saginaw Township. Call (800) 909-0073. - Mid-Michigan Parkinson's Disease Support Group meets at 2 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at MidMichigan Medical Center-Clare, basement Conference Room 1, 703 N. McEwan, Clare. An elevator is available, and parking is in the rear. Friends and caregivers are welcome. Call Lorraine Koehn at (989) 386-2922. - Free Blood Pressure Checks are available at 11 a.m. Thursdays at Farwell Community Center, 101 W. Michigan, Farwell. No appointment needed. - Bariatric Treatment Support Group meets at 11 a.m. the fourth Saturday of the month at St. Mary's of Michigan Health Education Center, 800 S. Washington, Saginaw. The group is for people who've had bariatric surgery or are considering it. - Multiple Sclerosis Self-help Support Group meets at 10 a.m. the second Saturday of the month at Butman-Fish Library, 1716 Hancock, Saginaw. Call (800) 243-5767. The group does not meet in April or May. - Essential Tremor Support Group of Northeast Michigan meets at 10 a.m. the first Saturday of the month at St. Mary's of Michigan Towne Centre, 4955 Towne Centre in Saginaw Township. Call Carol Jerome at 799-5413 for information. - CPR, AED and First Aid Classes are offered by the American Red Cross of Saginaw County, 1232 N.Michigan in Saginaw. Cost is $35 for one class, $55 for two or $75 for three classes. Advanced certification, skills review and workplace training available; fees vary. Please call 754-8181 for schedule information or to register. ALTERNATE LIFESTYLES - Parents, Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays/Tri-Cities (PFLAG) meets at 2 p.m. the fourth Sunday of the month at the Unitarian-Universalist Fellowship of Midland, 6220 Jefferson at Wackerly. Those interested in support, education and advocacy concerning gay and lesbian sexual orientation are welcome. Call (989) 941-1458. - Walk In His Light Ministries serves all Christians, including gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender. Services are at 11 a.m. Sundays at Country Inn and Suites, 12112 S. Beyer, Birch Run. E-mail cvrose26@hotmail.com or rev.jerryandbobby@yahoo.com. - Perceptions, serving the mid-Michigan gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community, meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at St. John Episcopal Church, 123 N. Michigan in Saginaw. Call (989) 891-1429 or visit www.perceptionssv.org. SEXUAL ISSUES - Women's Adult Survivor Therapy Group, for survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault, meets at 11 a.m. Wednesdays at Child and Family Services of Saginaw County, 2806 Davenport in Saginaw. Contact Barb Domina at 790-7500, ext. 232. - Men's Adult Survivor Therapy Group, for survivors of sexual abuse and sexual assault, meets at 6 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month at Child and Family Services of Saginaw County, 2806 Davenport, Saginaw. Contact Barb Domina at 790-7500, ext. 232. - COSA, a 12-step support group for people dealing with a sexual addiction in a friend or relative, meets in Saginaw. For information or meeting locations, call (989) 624-9893. SUBSTANCE ABUSE - Unity Club, a private, not-for-profit group, allows people to socialize in an alcohol- and drug-free atmosphere, at 1151 N. Niagara, Saginaw. Member dues are $10 a month. Closed Alcoholics Anonymous meetings are at 2 p.m. Sundays; 8 a.m. Monday through Friday; noon Monday through Saturday; 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Fridays; 9 a.m. Saturdays; 7 p.m. Wednesdays for women only; 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays for men only; and 7 p.m. the first Sunday of each month for open talk. A closed Narcotics Anonymous group meets at 7 p.m. Saturdays. Call 752-9401. - Al-Anon, a support group for relatives and friends of alcoholics, meets locally at 7 p.m Sundays at Bay Arenac Behavioral Health, Room 207, 201 Mulholland, Bay City; 7:30 p.m. Sundays at Peace Lutheran Church, 3427 Adams in Saginaw; 9:30 a.m. Mondays at First Presbyterian Church, 121 S. Harrison in Saginaw; 8 p.m. Mondays at Freeland United Methodist Church, 205 E. Washington, Freeland; 8 p.m. Mondays at Messiah Lutheran Church, 501 S. Catherine, Bay City (use South Catherine entrance); 11 a.m. Tuesdays at Charismatic Renewal Center, 1108 State in Bay City; 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Memorial Presbyterian Church, Room 58, 1310 Ashman, Midland; 8 p.m. Tuesdays at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River in Thomas Township; 10 a.m. Wednesdays at the Midland Community Center, 2001 George in Midland; 7 p.m. Wednesdays at St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic Church, 5376 State in Saginaw Township; 7 p.m. Thursdays at Charismatic Renewal Center, 1108 State in Bay City; and 8 p.m. Saturdays at St. Brigid Catholic Church, Ashman and Ellsworth, Midland. Call 695-2953. - NAR-ANON, a support group for relatives and friends of drug abusers, meets at 7:30 p.m. Sundays and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays at Holy Spirit Catholic Church, 1035 N. River, Thomas Township; 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Mondays at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 2206 Airfield, Midland; and 8 p.m. to 9 p.m. Wednesday at Ten Sixteen Recovery Network, 1016 Eastman, Midland. - Alateen, for children (8 and older) of parents with alcohol problems, meets at 7:30 p.m. Sundays at Peace Lutheran Church, 3427 Adams, Saginaw; and 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Memorial Presbyterian Church, 1310 Ashman, Midland. Call the 24-hour hot line at 695-2953. - Courage to Change, an Alcoholics Anonymous group, meets at 7 p.m. Mondays in the basement of St. Mary Cathedral, 615 Hoyt, Saginaw. - Families Anonymous, a self-help group for relatives and friends concerned about alcohol abuse, drug abuse or behavioral problems in loved ones, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Bay Arenac Behavioral Health, Room 208, 201 Mulholland, Bay City. Call 895-5223. - Celebrate Recovery, recovery groups for alcoholism, drug addiction, sexual abuse, food addiction, domestic violence and more, meets at 8 p.m. Tuesdays at New Life Christian Fellowship Church, 6115 Shattuck in Saginaw Township. Worship and teaching is at 7 p.m. Call 498-0223. - Reformers Unanimous Addictions Program, a faith-based addiction program, meets at 7 p.m. Fridays at First Baptist Church of Bridgeport, 2400 King, Bridgeport Township; and 7:30 p.m. Fridays at Sheridan Road Baptist Church, corner of Sheridan and Curtis in Bridgeport Township. Call 777-0550. For information or to request transportation, call 777-0210. - Christian counseling for the addict and/or their loved ones is available through Valley Ministries by the Rev. Bill Burns. Call 980-2447 or e-mail pastorbill@valleyministries.info. - Christian Substance Abuse Group, a support group for adults with a history of substance abuse and dependence, meets weekly. A substance abuse group for youth 12-19 also meets weekly. Call Hope Christian Counseling at 399-9233. - Insight Recovery Center provides services through group and individual therapy for anyone struggling with mental health, substance abuse and gambling issues at 3216 Christy Way, Suite 5, Saginaw Township. Call 792-0150. - Narcotics Anonymous, a support group for alcohol and drug abusers, sponsors more than 30 meetings weekly in the Tri-Cities. Sessions meet daily. For meeting times and locations, call the 24-hour helpline at 695-2977. - Alcoholics Anonymous sponsors more than 50 meetings weekly in the Saginaw Valley. For local meeting times and locations, call the 24-hour helpline at 776-1241. PHYSICAL ABUSE - Children's Domestic Violence Support Group, for children 8 and older who have witnessed domestic violence (physical, emotional or verbal abuse), meets Wednesdays in Saginaw. Call Jean Burk at the Underground Railroad, 755-0413, ext. 215. - Domestic Violence Survivor Support Group, for adult survivors of domestic violence, meets 11 a.m. Wednesdays (call Lisa at 755-0413, ext. 218) and 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays (call Ivy at 755-0413, ext. 219) at the Underground Railroad in Saginaw. MENTAL HEALTH - Tri-County Alliance for the Mentally Ill meets at 7 p.m. the first Monday of the month at Bay Arenac Behavioral Health, 210 Mulholland, Bay City. Call 686-6709. The group does not meet in July, August or December. - Midland Alliance for the Mentally Ill, a support group for families and friends of those with schizophrenia, manic depression and other disabling disorders, meets at 7 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Midland County Building, first floor conference room, 220 W. Ellsworth, Midland. Call (989) 835-9578. - Anxiety and Panic Disorder Support Group meets at 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at HealthSource Saginaw, board room, 3340 Hospital, Saginaw Township. Call 790-7742. - Gamblers Anonymous meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays, call 777-6639; and 7 p.m. Thursdays, call 695-8004; at HealthSource Saginaw, Cafeteria B, 3340 Hospital, Saginaw Township. - Recovery Inc., which offers self-help for nervous symptoms and fears, meets at 7 p.m. Tuesdays at First United Methodist Church, 4790 Gratiot, Saginaw Township; and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays at Zion Lutheran School, 1707 S. Keisel, Bay City. Call 781-2130. - A nondenominational Grief Support Group meets at 5:30 p.m. the second and last Wednesday of the month at Green Acres Village Apartments Clubhouse, 4545 Colonial, Saginaw Township. Ann R. Clynick, a licensed grief therapist, is the facilitator. Call Deisler Funeral Home, 799-1151. - Bipolar Support Group, for people coping with bipolar disorders and their family and friends, meets at 5:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of the month at Central Michigan Community Hospital, 1221 South, Mount Pleasant. Call (989) 772-6263. - Cancer Caregivers Support Group meets at 4 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at St. Casimir Catholic Church, 2122 S. Jefferson, Saginaw. Call 777-6663. - Healing Hearts Grief Support Group, for adults who have experienced the death of a loved one, meets at 11 a.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 12149 Church, Birch Run. Contact Christine at Heartland Hospice at (800) 275-4517. - Former Prisoners of War Support Group meets at 2:30 p.m. the second Wednesday of the month at Lutz Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Room 527, 1500 Weiss, Saginaw. Call Cara Ciesielski at 497-2500, ext. 11793, for more details. - A Depression and Bipolar Support Group is sponsored by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance. Call 321-0873, e-mail bipolarsupportmi@gmail.com or visit www.bipolarsupport.us. - The Saginaw Alliance for the Mentally Ill meets at 7 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 5335 Brockway, Saginaw Township. For information on this support group for families and friends of those with schizophrenia, manic depression and disabling disorders, call 799-1467. The group does not meet in December. - Depression and Bipolar Support Group, sponsored by the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance, meets at 6 p.m. every other Wednesday of the month at First Presbyterian Church, 121 S. Harrison in Saginaw. No pre-registration is necessary. Call 321-0873, e-mail bipolarsupportmi@gmail.com or visit www.bipolarsupport.us. - Schizophrenics Anonymous meets at 3 p.m. Wednesdays at Bayside Lodge, 2700 W. Genesee, Saginaw. It is a six-step self-help support group run by and for those with schizophrenic-related disorders. Call 799-1266. - Survivors of Suicide, a support group for families and friends of loved ones who have died of suicide, meets at 7 p.m. the first and third Thursday of the month at Child and Family Services of Saginaw County, 2806 Davenport, Saginaw. Call 781-5260. - Gamblers Anonymous meets at 6:30 p.m. every other Wednesday of the month at 710 Columbus, Bay City, behind St. James Catholic Church in the high school gymnasium. Call Lee at 450-1795. - Adult Grief Support Group meets at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at 190 E. School in Frankenmuth. The free group is for anyone grieving the death of a loved one. Call Jane Olivier at the Lutheran Home Care Agency at 652-4663. - Supporting Partners in Grief meets at 10:30 a.m. Thursdays at Covenant Medical Center Mackinaw, 5400 Mackinaw, Saginaw Township. The group is for spouses who have lost loved ones. Call 583-5267 or visit www.covenanthealthcare.com. - Children's Grief Support Group meets at noon the second and fourth Saturday of the month at Stepping Stone Grief and Trauma Center, 814 Adams, Bay City. There is no charge. A parents' group also is available. To register, call 895-8632. - Adolescents with Oppositional Defiant Disorder/Conduct Disorder is a two-group program for adolescents diagnosed with these disorders and their parents. Youth group meets for six weeks and parent group meets for eight weeks. Call Hope Christian Counseling at 399-9233. - Divorce Care Support Group meets weekly at In His Presence Ministries, 4521 Monitor in Bay City. New members can join at any time. Child care is provided. Call 686-5704. - Family Matters, a six-week support group for children experiencing divorce, meets at Child and Family Services of Saginaw County, 2806 Davenport in Saginaw. To register, call Theresa Walters at 790-7500, ext. 255. WEIGHT CONTROL - TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) meets at 9:30 a.m. Mondays, 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays and 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Community State Bank, 7590 Gratiot in Thomas Township; 5:45 p.m. Mondays at Wickson Memorial Library, 359 S. Franklin, Frankenmuth; and 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Brady Township Hall, Oakley. Also at 9:30 a.m. Tuesdays at St. George Catholic Church, 3121 Sheridan, Saginaw; 5:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Vassar United Methodist Church, 139 N. Main, Vassar; 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Hemlock Township Hall, 218 S. Elm; 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at the Rehmann Health Center, 147 S. Saginaw, Chesaning; 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Junction of Hope, 4136 Peet, Chesaning; and 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Bridgeport Community Church, 3821 State, Bridgeport Township. Also at 9:10 a.m. Wednesdays at First United Methodist Church in Vassar; 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at 5003 Chesaning, Chesaning; 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays at Merrill Congregational Church, 245 S. Midland, Merrill; 9:30 a.m. Thursdays at the Rehmann Health Center, 147 S. Saginaw, Chesaning; 9:30 a.m. Thursdays at Christ Lutheran Church, 1946 S. Reese, Reese; 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at St. Christopher Catholic Church, 3945 Williamson, Bridgeport Township; 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Indianfields Public Library, 840 W. Frank, Caro; and 6:30 p.m. Thursdays at Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, 5335 Brockway, Saginaw Township. Weigh-in times occur before each meeting. For more information on chapter locations and meeting times, contact (800) 932-8677, visit www.tops.org or call Janice Emmendorfer at (810) 638-5877. - Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous, a 12-step program to help people suffering from food addictions such as overeating, bulimia or anorexia nervosa, meets at 6 p.m. Mondays at St. John Lutheran Church of Amelith, 1664 Amelith, Bay City; 7 p.m. Tuesdays at Saginaw Valley Community Church, 3660 Hermansau, Saginaw Township, and 10 a.m. Wednesdays at Saginaw Valley Church of the Nazarene, 1815 Tittabawassee, Saginaw Township; and 7 p.m. Thursdays and 10 a.m. Saturdays at Covenant Medical Center Mackinaw, 5400 Mackinaw, Saginaw Township. Call 686-5491 for Bay City or 585-3296 for Saginaw, or (866) 914-3663. foodaddicts.org. - Weight Loss Surgery Support Group meets 7 p.m. the third Tuesday of the month at Coldwell Banker-Mount Pleasant Realty, 304 E. Broadway, Mount Pleasant. Past, present and future surgery participants and their supporters are welcome. Call Denyse at (989) 506-8320. - Overeaters Anonymous meets at 10 a.m. Tuesdays at State Street United Methodist Church, 3617 Mackinaw, Saginaw; 10 a.m. Wednesdays at Blessed Trinity Catholic Church, 958 E. Tuscola, Frankenmuth; and 10 a.m. Saturdays at State Street United Methodist Church, 3617 Mackinaw, Saginaw. Call Karen at 652-8136 or Louise at 790-1768. - Waist A-Weigh, a weight-loss support group, meets at 9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Tuesdays at St. Charles Village office, 110 Spruce, St. Charles; and 10 a.m. Thursdays at Camelot Place Apartments Clubhouse, 141 Camelot, Saginaw Township. Call June Meisel at (989) 585-3210. -- compiled by Sarah Nothelfer of The Saginaw News. You may reach her at 671-1205 to make changes or updates to your listing. 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Getting a Flu Vaccine for Your Better Health - Associated Content Posted: 08 Sep 2010 09:00 AM PDT Preservatives in a majority of influenza vaccines include thimerosal which is a form of mercury. There has been much controversy about this type of preservative used in vaccines as a cause of other maladies such as autism. The Centers for Disease Control says this substance is completely safe for use in vaccines. Cost Concerns and Availability Influenza shots are relatively inexpensive. Some clinics offer flu shots for a little as ten dollars per shot. More commonly drug stores offer a flu shot for around 30 to 50 dollars. Many insurance companies cover seasonal flu shots as a preventative measure. National chain drugstores are offering influenza shots even now before flu season begins. Walgreens, Rite Aid, and CVS are all companies that can have flu shots done when the pharmacy is open and some can administer the vaccine. Consult with your health care professional about getting your seasonal flu shot as recommended by the CDC. This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered actual medical advice. The Centers for Disease Control, the Medicare website, and HealthyDoctors.com provided information for this article. This entry passed through the Full-Text RSS service — if this is your content and you're reading it on someone else's site, please read our FAQ page at fivefilters.org/content-only/faq.php Five Filters featured article: "Peace Envoy" Blair Gets an Easy Ride in the Independent. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

TO YOUR HEALTH: Sept. 8 - Abington Mariner Posted: 08 Sep 2010 02:48 AM PDT HEALTH Plymouth Weight Loss Challenge Be Plymouth's biggest loser and look great for the holiday season, and win money and prizes for getting healthier, feeling good and looking great. Open to the public, the Plymouth Weight Loss Challenge is run by local wellness coaches and is being hosted Saturdays, by Mid-Cape Home Design Center, 28 Shops at 5 Way. In-person registration at Mid-Cape is from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 11; and from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 12. Space is limited. The class is filling up fast. The cost is $40 per person and a portion of the registration fee is paid out in cash prizes. Winners are determined based on percentage of body weight lost. Each participant will receive their own personal wellness coach and nutritional classes for the entire 12 weeks. First weigh-in and class begins at 9 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 25, at Mid-Cape Home Design Center. Classes run for approximately 30 minutes after weigh-in. To preregister to hold your spot or to obtain additional information, call Noreen at 508-272-2183.   Life Care blood pressure clinics Life Care Center of Plymouth nurses will host a monthly blood pressure clinic from 10 to 11:30 a.m. the first Thursday of each month, free and open to the public, at Life Care Center, 94 Obery St., Plymouth. Participants will receive blood pressure tracking logs. For information, call Barbara Jeffery, RN, at 508-747-9800.   Zen meditation The Plymouth Zen Group meets for Zen meditation and Zen practice every Wednesday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at 26 North St., Plymouth. At 26 North St., use the cobblestone driveway to the left of the house, go around to the back door, and up the stairs. Meetings include meditation instruction, chanting, meditation, a reading, time for questions, and possibly a short talk or discussion. Chairs and cushions are provided although you are welcome to provide your own cushion or a meditation bench. There is no charge and no requirements to fulfill before joining the group. The group is led by Craig Richards, a dharma teacher who has more than 15 years of Zen practice in the Kwan Um School of Zen. In the future the group will host visits by Zen masters, organize retreats and offer consulting interviews. Call 781-733-9361or visit the site www.PlymouthZen.com for more information.   Reiki, Main Street Free Reiki Shares are being held at The Sanctuary's Plymouth location, 47 Main St., second floor. Reiki Lightworks offers monthly Reiki classes. Call 508-789-5469 or e-mail Reiki313@yahoo.com for information.   Reiki, Village Landing Free Reiki Share, second and last Saturday of every month, 9 to 11 a.m. Experience the tranquility of Reiki. Supply your own sheets and pillowcase. Angels by the Sea, Village Landing, 170 Water St., Plymouth.   Pinehills blood pressure screenings Free blood pressure clinics are offered every Wednesday at 10 a.m., provided by NVNA and Hospice at NVNA and Hospice's Pinehills office at The Village Racquet and Fitness Club, 30 Golf Club Road, The Pinehills, Plymouth.   Jordan Hospital classes Courses are held at the Jordan Hospital, 275 Sandwich St., Plymouth. ·CPR: For all levels; held monthly; call 800-256-7326. ·First aid: Held monthly; call 800-256-7326. ·Quit tobaccoprogram: A six-class series to help individuals quit smoking or chewing tobacco; call Bette Antonellis, 508-830-2174. ·Self-management for adults learning about diabetes: A four-week series that meets once a week in two-hour sessions, at the Diabetes Education Center, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 314, Plymouth; physician referral and blood test required; call Kay Grosberg, RN, 508-830-2446. ·Gestational diabetes education: Meets for two hours on an as-needed basis, at the Diabetes Education Center, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 314, Plymouth; physician referral is required and blood tests are performed before and at the end of each program; call Kay Grosberg, RN, 508-830-2446. ·Visions for Tomorrow: A free, eight- to 10-week education course for primary caregivers of adolescents with brain disorders; taught by trained family-member volunteers; the curriculum covers brain biology, ADD/ADHD, PDD/autism, Tourette's, conduct disorder, bipolar disorder, depression, eating and anxiety disorders, OCD, childhood schizophrenia/psychosis; Contact Jan Holt-Kerns at 781-837-1162 for details or to register. ·Pre-op joint-replacement class: Prepares the pre-op patient for joint surgery; topics include review of physical therapy, occupational therapy, equipment and discharge planning; classes are the first Tuesday of each month at 1 p.m. at Jordan Hospital. ·Yoga: Offered at Jordan Hospital, Saturdays at 9 a.m.; cost for eight classes is $76. Call Joyce Malaguti at 508-830-9519 for information.   ACCESS program - HIV/AIDS Jordan Hospital provides free primary care and anonymous counseling and testing for persons living with HIV/AIDS in Greater Plymouth through a federal Ryan White CARE Act grant for Early Intervention Services. Referred to as the ACCESS program, the collection of programs and services offered under the grant provide AIDS Comprehensive Care Education and Support Services. Patients can receive primary care services including physical examinations, treatment services and planning, lab testing, immunizations and screening, antiviral medications, referrals to specialty care and clinical trials, as well as medical case management. Call Program Director Ruth Cooper, ACRN, at 508-732-8981 for information about eligibility and services under the grant. For free, anonymous counseling and testing information, contact Kerry Haskell, 508-732-8982.   Plymouth AIDS Support Services Plymouth AIDS Support Services offers referrals for free, confidential HIV tests, assistance with utilities, housing, transportation, groceries and nutrition, free condoms and referrals to medical, dental, mental-health and substance-abuse treatment facilities for those with HIV/AIDS. Assistance is also available for social, legal, SSI and MassHealth issues, and qualified MassHealth-recipient referrals to adult-care living programs. Stop by 123-1 Camelot Drive in Plymouth or call 508-747-2189 or 508-747-5359 to speak to a case manager or leave a confidential message.   Beacon Hospice volunteers Beacon Hospice provides quality end-of-life care to local terminally ill patients out of its South shore office and relies on volunteers to ensure the delivery of extraordinary care to these patients. Volunteers can provide much needed support to patients and their families in a number of ways including visiting with patients on an ongoing basis, sitting vigils, organizing craft projects and working in their Beacon Hospice office. For more information, interested volunteers should contact John DaSilva, volunteer coordinator, at 508-747-7222. Beacon Hospice is Medicare-certified, MA state licensed, and CHAP (Community Health Accreditation Program) accredited for hospice services.   Holistic wellness Taighsolais is a holistic wellness center located at 36 Cordage Park #123, Plymouth. Its mission is to provide complementary holistic services to the chronically ill. This is provided through counseling, psychiatry, yoga, massage, acupuncture, meditation and reiki. Call 508-927-6920 or visit www.taighsolais.org for details.     SUPPORT Plymouth Job Networking Club Looking for a job or a new opportunity? The Plymouth Job Networking Club is a positive group of local professionals meeting twice a month from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at Panera Bread at Colony Place in Plymouth. Next meeting is Sept. 8. E-mail rich.sampson@live.com for more information.   AD-IN of Plymouth AD-IN meetings are usually held on a Friday, at 7:15 p.m., in the Little Theater at Plymouth Community Intermediate School in Plymouth, during the school year. A $5 donation at the door is suggested. An annual family membership is available for $20. Refreshments are sold to benefit the scholarship fund. To confirm meetings, call 508-746-3959. The Attention Deficit Information Network Inc. is a nonprofit all-volunteer organization offering support and information to families of children with ADD, adults with ADD, and professionals through a network of AD-IN chapters. Contributions are appreciated and may be made to AD-IN of Plymouth and mailed to the treasurer at 42 Talia Way, Plymouth, MA 02360. Sept. 24: "Medical Treatment of ADHD in the Context of Mood, Anxiety and Developmental Disorders," Mary Ann McDonnell, PhD, APRN, BC; South Shore Psychiatric Services, Marshfield; North River Assoc., Marshfield; Professor of Nursing, Northeastern University.   Jordan Hospital support groups The Jordan Hospital, located at 275 Sandwich St. in Plymouth, offers numerous support groups on a regular basis. Visit www.jordanhospital.org or call 508-746-2000 for details. ·Adult loss: This group meets in Cordage Park in Plymouth throughout the year and is led by a clinician and experienced volunteers. Meetings are held for five sessions. The daytime sessions are every other Wednesday from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the evening group is every other Wednesday from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215 for details. ·Alzheimer's: A support group meets the first Tuesday of each month, at Stafford Hill, 60 Stafford St., Plymouth. Call Caitlin Bates for information, 508-746-4343, ext. 298. ·Cancer: This drop-in support group is for all types of cancer patients and their caregivers. Meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month from 11 a.m. to noon in the Cancer Center at the Jordan Hospital. ·Caregivers: Meets third Thursday of the month, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Duxbury Senior Cener, 10 Mayflower St., Duxbury. Call Joan Wright at 781-659-2342 or Donna Ciappina at 781-934-5774, ext. 105. ·Children's/teen's bereavement support: First and third Tuesdays, from 6:30 to 8 p.m., during the school year; call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215 for details. ·Chronic fatigue immune dysfunction syndrome (CFIDS)/fibromyalgia: Meets the last Sunday of each month, from 2 to 4 p.m.; discussion, videotape presentation and written information; call Mike Banner at 781-585-3483. ·Depression after delivery: Meets the second Thursday of each month, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., in the meditation room on the third floor; all new mothers and their families are welcome; call Gerri Piatelli at 781-837-4242. ·Diabetes: For patients, families and friends of diabetics; meets at the Diabetes Education Center, 36 Cordage Park Circle, Suite 314, Plymouth, the second Wednesday of each month, 6 to 7 p.m.; for information, call Kay Grosberg, RN, 508-830-2446. ·Gamblers Anonymous: Thursdays, 7:30 to 9 p.m. in Boyton Conference Room. 12-step recovery program. ·Lupus: The Greater Plymouth Lupus Group meets once a month except in July and August. Call Nicole Peterson for details, 781-582-8770. ·Men's support: Meets at Hope Floats Healing and Wellness Center in Kingston every other Thursday for five sessions, 7 to 8 p.m. Call Kathleen McAleer at 508746-0215. ·NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill): NAMI is a nonprofit organization serving Plymouth and nine surrounding communities. NAMI sponsors a free Family to Family support group Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Sgarzi conference room at Jordan Hospital, for family members and caregivers of those living with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or other psychiatric disorders. Call the Plymouth area NAMI at 781-829-7215 or Jean Albanese at 508-746-8094 with questions. ·Sexual assault: This group meets for 12-week sessions and is free of charge for survivors. Call Ann Hoban at 508-830-2835 for information. ·Stroke: The "Coffee Hour" Stroke Club is a support group offering guest speakers and group discussion aimed at the challenges facing victims of stroke and their families. Meets the first Thursday of each month, noon to 2 p.m., call 508-830-2104 for information. The group is made up primarily of people who have suffered strokes, but loved ones, spouses and caregivers of stroke survivors are encouraged to attend. ·Suicide loss: Meetings are in Cordage Park in Plymouth every other Thursday from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Call Kathleen McAleer at 508-746-0215 for details. ·Transplants: STATS, the Second Time Around Transplant support group, is for organ recipients, those waiting for a transplant, donors, family members and anyone with an interest. Meets the second Tuesday of the month from 6 to 9 p.m. in the Sgarzi conference room. For information call Bob Fredericks at 774-269-1283.   The Wellness Community The Wellness Community-Massachusetts South Shore provides emotional and social support programs for people living with cancer and their loved ones in a welcoming, homelike environment. TWC-MSS offers a variety of free programs throughout the year. All groups meet at The Wellness Community-Massachusetts South Shore, 273 Hanover St., Hanover. For drop-in groups, an RSVP would be appreciated by calling 781-829-4823. Newcomer's orientation: Each Tuesday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. newcomer's orientation tells people living with cancer and their caregivers about the free programs and services TWC-MSS provides. Drop-ins are welcomed. Drop in groups: The Breast Cancer Network, Men's Network, and Caregivers' Network, are drop-in groups that offer members an opportunity to share common feelings and concerns about their experiences living with cancer. The Wellness Community-Massachusetts South Shore is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that offers its programs free of charge to participants. Original funding was provided by The Friends of Mel and the Chrystine Sullivan Foundation. Originally called Pathways for Cancer Care, The Wellness Community-Massachusetts South Shore has provided services at its Hanover location since 2001 and received The Wellness Community charter from the national organization in February 2009. Founded in 1982 by Harold Benjamin, PhD, The Wellness Community today reaches people worldwide. TWC-MSS's program philosophy revolves around the patient active concept that states people with cancer improve the quality of their lives and chances of recovery when they consider themselves part of their health care team and participate in their fight for recovery. Visit www.thewellnesscommunitymass.org for more information.   Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. The only requirement for membership is a desire to stop drinking. There are no dues or fees for AA membership. Visit www.alcoholics-anonymous.org or www.aaboston.org, or call 508-746-5611 or 617-426-9444 for information and to find a meeting in your area.   Al-Anon For more than 50 years, Al-Anon (which includes Alateen for younger members) has been offering hope and help to families and friends of alcoholics. It is estimated that each alcoholic affects the lives of at least four other people. Alcoholism is truly a family disease. No matter what relationship you have with an alcoholic, whether they are still drinking or not, all who have been affected by someone else's drinking can find solutions that lead to serenity in the Al-Anon/Alateen fellowship. For information, call 888-4AL-ANON or visit www.al-anon.alateen.org.   Alzheimer's caregiver support Sunrise Assisted Living of Plymouth provides two Caregiver Educational Support Groups specializing in the Management of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias. The groups are facilitated by Suzanne Faith, RN, BS Psych. They are held from 7 to 9 p.m. the first Wednesday of each month, and from 12:30 to 2 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month, at Sunrise Assisted Living of Plymouth, 97 Warren Ave., Plymouth.   Alzheimer's support, Plymouth Co-sponsored by Radius Health Care Center, this support group for family and friends of patients with Alzheimer's meets the first Tuesday of the month at 3:30 p.m. at Stafford Hill Assisted Living, at 60 Stafford St. in Plymouth. For more information, contact Caitlyn Bates at 508-746-4343, ext. 298.   Alzheimer's support, Duxbury Duxbury House Alzheimer's Care Center hosts a monthly Alzheimer's support group in the tavern at Bay Path Rehabilitation & Nursing Center, 308 Kingstown Way, Duxbury. The group is led by Sandi Wright, RN, and Eilish Broderick-Murphy, and meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month. The group is open to all families, friends, and caregivers who have a loved one affected by Alzheimer's disease, and anyone who would like to attend is welcome. For more information contact Sandi Wright or Eilish Broderick-Murphy, at 781-585-2397, or call Bay Path Rehabilitation & Nursing Center at 781-585-5561.   Autism and Our Kids This parent-run support group does not meet any longer but for information, support and referral, send e-mail to aokgroup@yahoo.com.   Bereavement support groups Beacon Hospice, 32 Resnik Road, Suite 3, Plymouth, offers bereavement support groups for anyone who is currently experiencing grief and loss. All services are free of charge and open to anyone in the community. For more information about bereavement support and for a current schedule, call Scott A. Ciosek, M.Div., at 508-747-7222, or e-mail sciosek@beaconhospice.com.   Caregiver support group Beacon Hospice is offering a support group for anyone who is caring for a loved one. This group is an opportunity to be with others who are in a similar situation, to learn coping skills and to share feelings about the grief and stress of being a caregiver. This group is free of charge and is open to anyone in the community. Meetings will take place from 10 to 11:30 a.m. Fridays, beginning July 9, at Beacon Hospice, 32 Resnik Road. Preregistration is required by calling Scott Ciosek at 508-747-7222.   Caregiver educational support group This group meets in the upstairs activity room at Sunrise Assisted Living of Plymouth, 97 Warren Ave., Plymouth, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. the third Wednesday of each month. Facilitating the group discussion is Suzanne Faith RN, BS Psych, Alzheimer's disease specialist. Call 508-746-9733 with any questions.   Celebrate Recovery Celebrate Recovery meetings are from 7 to 9 p.m. every Friday at Faunce Church, 158 Halfway Pond Road, in South Plymouth. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step program in which people learn how to truly get freedom from their hurts, hang-ups, and habits through Jesus Christ. Individuals are finding freedom from alcohol addiction, substance abuse, and healing from life's hurts every day. This is the only Celebrate Recovery group in Plymouth. Check the website at www.faunchchurch.org for further information or call 508-224-3753.   Compulsive gambling The Massachusetts Council on Compulsive Gambling is a private, nonprofit health agency dedicated to reducing the social, financial and emotional costs of problem gambling. The Council provides information, prevention, education, advocacy and referral services for problem gamblers, their loved ones and the greater community. Visit www.masscompulsivegambling.org for details. The Council headquarters is located at 190 High St., Boston, 617-426-4555; and there is a Helpline number, 800-426-1234.   Domestic violence Domestic violence support groups for women are held in Plymouth, Tuesday and Thursday mornings and evenings. Other groups are available. Call South Shore Women's Resource Center, 508-746-2664 for information. There are also specialized older women services available, including group support.   Hear Together Hear Together is a local nonprofit support group for families with children who are deaf or hard of hearing. The group provides support and an information network for families of children with all degrees of hearing loss in Plymouth and surrounding towns. Meetings are the last Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at Mt. Pleasant Preschool on Whiting Street in Plymouth. Throughout the year family friendly events and parties are also held so children have the opportunity to meet and socialize with each other. For more information call Cathy at 508-830-1765 or e-mail heartogether@Comcast.net.   HIV/AIDS support An HIV/AIDS support group is held from 4 to 5 p.m. the second and fourth Thursday of each month at the Plymouth Post Office building, first floor, Main Street, Plymouth. This group is led by an RN who is a professionally trained facilitator. For more information, call 781-585-5770.   Lupus group The Greater Plymouth Lupus Group has a new name, location and time. It is now the South Coast Lupus Group and meets from 1 to 3 p.m. the second Monday of the month at the Bourne Council on Aging, 239 Main St., Buzzards Bay. The first meeting is Monday, Sept. 13. Due to the holiday, the second meeting will be Monday, Oct. 18. The meetings are open to patients, family and friends. There is no registration required. For anyone interested, lunch is served prior to the meeting, at the Bourne COA, for a nominal fee; reservations must be made by Fridays by calling 508-759-0653. For information, call Nicole Peterson at 781-582-8770.   Mental health awareness The Plymouth Area Mental Health Awareness Coalition Inc. meets monthly in Plymouth. The coalition consists of providers and recipients of mental health services, as well as family members and other interested members of the business, educational, medical and religious communities. Programs include a speakers bureau, sponsorship of the Plymouth Area Mental Health 5K Run/Walk and educational training for police, fire and school personnel. Call Loretta, 508-732-3014.   Multiple sclerosis For people with MS, run by people with MS. Individuals with multiple sclerosis, their families, friends and other care partners, are welcome to the Plymouth MS self-help group (affiliated with the National MS Society Greater New England Chapter). Group members share common experiences and concerns, provide and receive emotional support, and obtain information on living and coping with MS. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. the third Thursday of the month, at PartyLite Worldwide, in Plymouth Industrial Park at 59 Armstrong Road, Plymouth. Call Susan Howard at 508-361-9421 for information and directions.   NAMI of Plymouth NAMI (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) is a nonprofit organization serving Plymouth and nine surrounding communities. NAMI sponsors a free Family to Family support group Thursdays from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the Sgarzi conference room at Jordan Hospital, 275 Sandwich St., Plymouth, for family members and caregivers of those living with depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia or other psychiatric disorders. Call the Plymouth area NAMI at 781-829-7215 or Jean Albanese at 508-746-8094 with questions.   Narcotics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous is an international, community-based association of recovering drug addicts with more than 33,500 weekly meetings in over 116 countries worldwide. Narcotics Anonymous sprang from the Alcoholics Anonymous program of the late 1940s, started as a small U.S. movement and has grown into one of the world's oldest and largest organizations of its type. Visit www.na.orgfor details or call 866-243-3578.   Plymouth New Beginnings Plymouth New Beginnings is a nonprofit, nonsectarian organization devoted to helping single, divorced, separated or widowed men and women. Meetings are held every Tuesday from 6 to 9 p.m. at the Plymouth United Methodist Church, 29 Carver Road, Plymouth. Call the church at 508-746-1642 or visit www.PlymouthNewBeginnings.com for information.   South Shore OCD group The South Shore OCD Support Group holds monthly meetings for adults suffering from OCD, parents of children suffering from OCD or friends and family of adults suffering from OCD. Meetings are at 7 p.m. at South Shore Mental Health, 64 Industrial Park Road, Plymouth. There is no cost and it is wheelchair accessible. Call Barbara Lashley at 508-830-1630 for more information. The group will meet the second Wednesday each month at this new address. This entry passed through the Full-Text RSS service — if this is your content and you're reading it on someone else's site, please read our FAQ page at fivefilters.org/content-only/faq.php Five Filters featured article: "Peace Envoy" Blair Gets an Easy Ride in the Independent. This posting includes an audio/video/photo media file: Download Now

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