HEALTH EDUCATION CLASSES
Health New England wants to keep you healthy!  The following is a list of some of the courses and their availability. You may contact the hospitals directly at the phone numbers listed below.  Pre-registration is required for most classes. 

ADULT ASTHMA EDUCATION CLASSES

HEALTH NEW ENGLAND 413-787-4000 or (800) 842-4464 ext. 3553

    In this two hour-long class, learn how to control and avoid asthma triggers, recognize asthma symptoms, measure peak flow and much more. Free to Health New England members who have been diagnosed with asthma - you may bring a guest.

HEALTH NEW ENGLAND 413-787-4000 or (800) 842-4464 ext. 3300

    Living Well Program Workshops
    The Living Well Program is an empowering self-management program for HNE members with chronic health conditions. It brings together small groups of members who meet for 2-1/2 hours each week for six weeks. The class materials cost $35 and include the book “Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions,” and an audiocassette tape, “Time for Healing.”

    The Living Well Program teaches you how to make an action plan, set and attain goals, solve problems, communicate better with your doctors, manage fatigue, make daily tasks easier, lessen your frustration, deal with negative emotions, improve your nutrition, be more physically active, and much more!

    Living Well Grocery Store Tours
    An exciting new offer to Health New England members who have diabetes, high cholesterol, or coronary heart disease. Walk through your local grocery store with a Registered Dietician who will help you read food labels, count carbohydrates, determine portion sizes, fat and cholesterol content, and much more! Only 20 people per tour.

    NEW!!
    HNE's Virtual Grocery Store Tour. Health New England is delighted to present the Virtual Grocery Store Tour, an informative guide to help you to read food labels, count carbohydrates, determine portion sizes, fat, sodium, cholesterol content, and much more! We created this virtual tour because we are committed to helping you live a healthy life. The more you know, the better you will be able to make better choices and take charge of your health. For more information or to order a copy, call 413.787.4000 or 800.842.4464, ext. 3031. Please specify your choice of either VHS or CD format.

CPR CERTIFICATION CLASS

Heart Disease is still the #1 killer of this nation. Learn your risks, warning signs, and CPR. The best time to learn CPR was yesterday, tomorrow may be too late.

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER 413-794-9441

    CPR/Community Heart Saver

    This course is for all lay rescuers who respond to emergencies in the workplace, including day care providers, security guards, school teachers and others. It is designed for those requiring a course completion card or a credential. You will learn adult, child and infant CPR along with first aid for choking. The fee is $35. Includes book. Contact Cheryl Sabola 413-794-9441.

    Healthcare Provider CPR

    This class is sspecifically designed for the healthcare professional, such as: nurses, EMT’s, lifeguards, and other healthcare workers. This class will review techniques in adult, child, and infant CPR as well as the use of the Automated External Defibrillators. The fee is $40. Re-certification is $35. Book is $10.

    Teen CPR

    This class is a fun-filled day designed for teens ages 11 – 17 This class is more than just CPR. Teens will move around from station to station discussing smoking/drugs/alcohol, weather emergencies, perform a fire crawl, tour an ambulance and much more. This is an all day event 9-4 and includes lunch and snacks. The cost for this course is $25. Includes a book.

BERKSHIRE MEDICAL CENTER 800-377-4325

    CPR Certification Program

    Two monthly, four-hour sessions by appointment only. Classes held at the Bishop Clapp Building Education Department.

FAIRVIEW HOSPITAL 413-229-0010

    CPR Certification Program

    This CPR course is offered every 3rd Wednesday of every month from 5:30 - 8:30 PM in the Conference Room. Fee is $30.

    CPR Renewal

    This CPR renewal course is offered every 3rd Wednesday of every month from 5:30 - 8:30 PM in the Conference Room. Fee is $20.

    Infant Safety Seminar

    This one session course offered monthly includes a discussion of the safe use of car seats, cribs, playpens, etc. Household safety will also be discussed. Cost is $15 per family. Call (440) 356-0347.

MARY LANE HOSPITAL 800-377-4325

    CPR Certification Program

    This class covers adult and child CPR, is offered by the American Heart Association, and is held on two evenings. The cost of the course is $35.

MERCY MEDICAL CENTER 413-748-7295

    Infant/Child CPR

    This class taught by the American Heart Association instructors is for parents-to-be, new parents, grandparents and care providers. You will learn valuable, lifesaving techniques.

NOBLE HOSPITAL

    CPR Classes

    Two-part basic life support classes are held monthly to provide training for adult, child, and infant CPR  as well as first aid for choking. Classes are held from 6:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Call 413-572-5172.

DIABETES

BERKSHIRE MEDICAL CENTER

    A free diabetes clinic is held first Tuesday of the month from 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM. Contact Ann Cohn RN at 413-395-7810.

COOLEY DICKINSON HOSPITAL 413-582-2400

    Managing Your Diabetes

    Do you have diabetes? This four-week program taught by a diabetes educator can help you meet the challenges of managing your diabetes by providing you with information to help you take control of your diabetes. Whether you have had diabetes for a few months or many years, you will learn from this course. All classes meet from 6:00 - 7:00 PM in the Third Floor Classroom. The program is free and your family members and friends are welcome to attend with you. Pre-registration is not required. For more information, please phone the Education Department.

    Families of Children with Diabetes

    Held on the fourth Tuesday of every month, rear dining room. For more information call 413-582-2649.

HEALTH NEW ENGLAND 413-787-4000 or (800)842-4464 ext. 3381

Diabetes Management Program

The goal of HNE's Diabetes Management Program is to help you and your doctor manage of your diabetes. The Diabetes Management Program staff work very closely with your doctor to bring this program to you. A major focus of the program is to encourage you to follow the care plan that has been developed by your doctor. The following are components of the program that are available to you free of charge:

Educational Materials: These materials are sent directly to your home. All HNE members with diabetes are eligible to receive written educational materials specific to managing their diabetes.

Reminders: for annual eye exams and regular office visits with your doctor are sent out annually.  The Diabetes Practice Guideline states that patients with diabetes should visit their doctor between two and four times per year.  Also included in the guideline are recommendations for annual retinal exams and HbA1c tests between 2 and four times per year. 

Diabetes Education and Meal Planning Workshops
Both a Nurse/Diabetes Educator and a Dietician/Nutritionist teach this exciting new workshop for Health New England members who have been diagnosed with diabetes. Learn about daily diabetes management, preventing complications such as high and low blood sugar, and important tests for people with diabetes. Also, learn ways to make better food choices, and still enjoy your meal plan. Free to Health New England members who have been diagnosed with diabetes - you may bring a guest.

HOLYOKE HOSPITAL 413-534-2789

    Diabetes Self Management Series
    These free classes are held on the first four Thursdays of each month at 1:30 PM or on the first four Tuesdays of each month at 6:30 PM.

MARY LANE HOSPITAL

    Blood Glucose Screenings
    Screenings offered the 3rd Wednesday of every month $5 fee.

MERCY MEDICAL CENTER 413-748-7174

    Diabetes Basics
    This free class provides an introduction to Diabetes Self-Management and is offered monthly on Monday afternoons.

GENERAL HEALTH

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER 794-2255 or 1-800-377-HEALTH

    Cholesterol Screenings
    Baystate Medical Center is offering full HDL/LDL cholesterol screenings on the second, third and fourth Wednesday of each month from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. A twelve hour fast is required prior to the screening. To register for the program, call The Professionals.

FAIRVIEW HOSPITAL WELLNESS CENTER

    Blood Pressure Screenings
    Offered the second Wednesday of each month from 9 a.m. to noon. A blood pressure reading is one indicator of cardiac wellness and general health. Blood pressure screenings are available on a walk-in basis. No reservations are necessary.

FRANKLIN MEDICAL CENTER

    Basic First Aid
    Classes are held from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the Health Sciences Library. Cost is $25 for students; $40 for adults; and $10 for employees. Pre-registration is required by calling 1-800-377-HEALTH ext. 4325.

    Free Blood Pressure Clinic
    Held on the second and fourth Wednesday of the month, 10am-12noon, in the Community Health Information Center. No appointment necessary.

HOLYOKE HOSPITAL 413-534-2789

    Blood Pressure Screenings
    Holyoke Hospital offers a free blood pressure screening every Tuesday, from 10:30 AM to 12 noon, in the hospital's South 4 Patient Lounge. The screening is open to the public and presented by the hospital as a community service. Often referred to as "the silent killer," high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of  heart attacks and strokes. Experts recommend having your blood pressure checked every few months. It is especially recommended for anyone with a family history of hypertension. For further information contact The Health Promotion Line.

MARY LANE HOSPITAL 413-967-6211

    Health Screenings
    Screenings for blood pressure, blood glucose, and cholesterol available 3rd Wednesday every other month from 8:00 - 10:00 a.m. in the Community Health Information Ctr. Some screenings require pre-registration and a nominal fee. Contact The Professionals at 413-967-9077 or 1-800-377-HEALTH.

    Women's Health Festival
    Free breast exams, mammography by appointments and alternative medicine booths. Contact Michelle Holmgren 413-967-2296.

NUTRITION

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER 794-7024

    Nutrition Series
    An eight week series offered on Mondays at 10 a.m. focusing on a low fat, low cholesterol program. HNE members receive a 10% discount. Call the Professionals.

PRE/POST-NATAL CARE

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER 1-800-377-HEALTH

    BMC Bootcamp for New Dads
    The Boot Camp program uses a man-to-man training approach in which veteran fathers orient the new dads in a three-hour workshop. Boot Camp prepares men to be dads, beginning with holding and comforting a real baby. Veteran dads demonstrate burping, changing, and swaddling babies while telling about their experiences and giving advice to first-time dads. There is a $10 registration fee (includes a class manual) for each participant. To register for the class, please call The Professionals.

    Breastfeeding Class
    This two part course which is designed for expectant parents wanting to know how to successfully breastfeed their baby. Part one: Prenatal breastfeeding class will provide the most current information on breastfeeding. Learn how to begin breastfeeding, positioning techniques and other helpful tips for a successful breastfeeding experience. Fee is $10. Part two: Breastfeeding and Returning to Work. We will notify you after the birth of your baby of the dates for the second class. Time for each class is 2 to 2 hours. To register, call (4130 794-5515.

    Childbirth Refresher Course
    This course is for parents who have taken a prepared childbirth course. It is also recommended for couples planning a vaginal delivery after a Cesarean birth (VBAC). A review of labor and delivery, breathing and relaxation, anesthesia choices and sibling preparation are part of the course. This class is offered every other month, one evening a week for four weeks. Fee is $50. To register, call (413) 794-2229.

    Keeping Baby Safe/CPR
    This course is designed to provide participants with the knowledge and skills to provide a safe environment for a baby, also includes what actions to take during an emergency. Topics to be discussed during the course include: baby-proofing your home, first aid techniques, car seat safety and infant CPR. This 2-hour class is held on two consecutive Tuesdays. Cost is $25 per couple. Please call to verify dates of class. Also, please write the date of your class on your check. To register, call (413) 794-5515.

    Preparation for Childbirth Program
    This eight week comprehensive course will give you and your partner complete, up-to-date information about having a baby. The course will include such topics as coping techniques for life and labor, medication choices, birth options, cesarean birth, tour of the maternity unit, birth and baby care videos, postpartum care for mom, infant care class, breast or bottle feeding class. Classes are offered Sunday through Thursday evening and on Saturday mornings. Class fee is $90. You should enroll in your fourth month of pregnancy for this program even though you will not begin until your 6th month. To register for the class, please call The Professionals at (800) 377-HEALTH.

    Vaginal Birth after Cesarean
    In addition to viewing a film on the topic, the class includes how to make a birth plan, the advantages of VBAC, ways to increase changes for a successful VBAC, the opportunity to share experiences and support with other couples. This class is offered one evening for two hours and is free if you are also enrolled in the "Childbirth Refresher" class, otherwise the cost is $10. For more information, including dates and times for this class, please call The Professionals at (413) 794-2229.

COOLEY DICKINSON HOSPITAL 413-582-2736

    Becoming a Family
    Six class series: four childbirth preparation classes, 1 newborn care class and 1 postpartum reunion, tour of Childbirth Center. Fee is $65. Contact Maria Curtin-McKenna.

    Beginning Breastfeeding Class
    Learn the basics of breastfeeding. Fee is $10. Contact is Maria Curtin-McKenna.

    Breastfeeding Clinic
    Free individual or group meetings with lactation consultant to work out breastfeeding problems and/or learn about breast pumps. By appointment only. Contact Ruth Stevens, Lactation Consultant, 413-582-2096.

    Brothers and Sisters Sibling Class
    For children from 3 - 7 years old. This class is an opportunity for the big brother or sister to learn about babies and become comfortable with the Hospital. Fee is $10 for 1 child, and  $5 for each additional child. Contact person is Maria Curtin-McKenna.

    Childbirth Refresher Course
    Two class series. Review previous birth experiences and relaxation techniques. Learn how pregnancy and birth may be different and practice new labor coping techniques. Tour of Childbirth Center. Fee is $25. Contact is Maria Curtin-McKenna.

FAIRVIEW HOSPITAL

    Becoming A Big Brother and Sister (BABES)
    This one session course is offered to big brothers and sisters- to- be that have concerns about mom and the new baby. Course is held on various Saturdays from 11 a.m. to noon (ages 2-4 or 5-9) for a fee of $12 (plus $2 for each additional child). Session includes a story about new babies, hospital tour and take-home materials to help focus on the unique role of the older sibling.

    Breastfeeding Clinic (Postpartum)
    This clinic is offered weekly, Mondays 1 to 3 p.m. or Wednesdays 10 a.m. to noon or Fridays 2 to 4 p.m. for free to breastfeeding mothers (after delivery). Some topics to be covered are problem solving for engorgement, latching on, weaning, pumping and storing milk, growth spurts, etc. Mothers only for privacy reasons. Registration is not required. Babysitting is available on Wednesdays for a small fee.

    Infant Care
    This two session course offered monthly will help you learn what to expect when the baby comes home and hands-on learning stations demonstrating formula preparation, bathing, diapering and consoling, including baby massage. Program will include information about immunizations, ill child care, circumcision and cord care. A physician or nurse practitioner will be the featured speaker.

    Older Sibling Class
    This one session course offered monthly from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. (ages 10 and up) addresses sibling concerns about a new baby. Provides hands-on experience learning how to offer a bottle and change a diaper. Also includes information on safety issues. Cost is $12.

    Prepared Childbirth (Basic)
    Designed for couples new to prepared childbirth. Instruction in breathing and relaxation strategies for labor and delivery. There are various sessions available. Please register in the fifth month of pregnancy.

    Special Deliveries: For Couples Who Have Had a Prior Cesarean Delivery
    This two-session class offered monthly on Mondays and Wednesdays from 7 to 9 p.m., includes information on laboring after cesarean, risks and success rates, cesarean delivery and recovery, and sibling preparation information.

    Vaginal Birth after Cesarean
    For additional information and registration information, contact the hospital.

HOLYOKE HOSPITAL 413-534-2555

    Pre/Post-Natal Exercise Class
    Classes held each Tuesday and Thursday from 5:45 - 7:00 p.m.  Pre-registration is required.  Contact Kelly Cahill.

MARY LANE HOSPITAL 413-967-6211

    Childbirth Classes
    Classes are held at the Main Conference Room on Tuesday evenings from 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.

MERCY MEDICAL CENTER 413-748-7295

    Baby Sign Language
    This one-day class taught by a Baby Sign Language Specialist will show you a simple three-step process for using American Sign Language with your baby. The cost is $30 for one adult (parent or primary caregiver) and $10 for each adult caregiver.

     Boot Camp For Dads
    This three hour workshop for first time dads-to-be covers baby care and gives them an opportunity for hands-on practice under the guidance of veteran dads. Cost is $10 per person.

    Breastfeeding Class
    This class, taught by a lactation consultant, teaches new mothers about breastfeeding to help them succeed from the beginning.

    Childbirth Class
    Classes are held at Family Life Center Memorial House Auditorium on various dates and times throughout the year.

    Expectant Mothers Exercise Class
    Initial six week session meets on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. provides personalized fitness instruction. Fee is $40 then may continue at monthly rate.

    Hypnobirthing
    This three-class series is designed for expectant mothers along with their birth companion.

    Infant Massage for New Parents
    This two week course will teach new parents infant massage techniques which may help ease discomfort of gas and colic, as well as promote relaxation and bonding.  Course is held from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm. Fee is $20 and includes course materials.

    Laleche League
    Group meets monthly on Wednesdays from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm.

    New Mother and Baby Fitness Class
    This weekly class is designed to help with postpartum fitness and maintaining good health through exercise and socialization. New mothers can bring their baby to class.

    New Mothers and Baby Support Group
    This mother-to-mother support and play group with free “drop-in” sessions meets every other Wednesday. Mothers with babies up to one year may attend. There are monthly guest speakers.

     Sibling Class
    This one hour class prepares children ages 3-8 for the arrival of a new baby. Activities include a story, discussion, safety issues, diapering of dolls and a tour of the Family Life Center for Maternity.

NOBLE HOSPITAL

    Exercise and Pregnancy/ Post-Partum Exercises
    Designed for expectant and new mothers under the direction of a trained therapist. Meets for six weeks on Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. Cost is $45. Call 413-562-3522.

PARENTING

COOLEY DICKINSON HOSPITAL 413-582-2736

    Beyond Birth: Parenting Your Newborn
    Parents of babies up to 4 months meet to discuss parenting issues every Thursday from 1:00 - 2:30 PM at the Childbirth Center Conference Room. No pre-registration required for this free class.  Contact Maria Curtin-McKenna.

    Gentle Baby Touch - Infant Massage
    Three class series for babies from 7 weeks to crawling age. Learn ways to relax and bond with your baby through infant massage. Full body massage is taught including techniques for discomforts like constipation and gas. Fee is $25. Contact person is Maria Curtin-McKenna.

FRANKLIN MEDICAL CENTER 413-774-4444

    Parenting Teenagers Effectively
    Six week session for parents who need additional skills and support in parenting their teenage children. Both parents need to attend, if appropriate. Tuesdays, 6:30 - 8:00PM. For more information, call Central Intake.    

SMOKING CESSATION

COOLEY DICKINSON HOSPITAL 413-582-2519

    Quit Now/Tobacco Treatment Program
    This program will teach you how to quit tobacco and how to "kick the habit".  Meeting regularly for support will help you change your behaviors, build healthy habits and stay smoke free.

FAIRVIEW HOSPITAL (413) 528-8600 EXT. 3140

    Better Breathers Pulmonary Rehab Program
    This is a six-week program, with a new program starting every six weeks. Meets on Monday 12 to 3 p.m. & Thursday 1 to 3 p.m.

HEALTH NEW ENGLAND 413-787-4000 or (800) 842-4464 ext. 3553

    Health New England will reimburse up to $50 for you to attend a smoking cessation program. This offer is for HNE members with asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and/or who are pregnant.

MASSACHUSETTS SMOKER'S QUIT LINE

NOBLE HOSPITAL

    Smoking Cessation
    Classes held at various dates and times throughout the year. Call HealthBeat at (413) 568-BEAT (1318).

STRESS MANAGEMENT

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER 794-7024

    Mindful Wellness
    A six week stress management program. HNE members receive a 10% discount. Call the Professionals.

SUPPORT GROUPS

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER

    Alzheimer's Disease Support Group
    Monthly support groups are offered for friends and caregivers coping with a loved one who has a dementing illness. For specific meeting times, please call Ellen Nepomuceno or Pat Hays at 413-781-5070. There is also an on-line Alzheimer support group in the Baystate Health System Chat Area at www.baystatehealth.com.

    Better Breathers Support Group
    Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) complicates the lives of millions of Americans and their families and friends. To learn how to live with lung disease and meet others who share your concerns, the pulmonary nurses invite you to attend Breath Savers, the Better Breathers Support Group. This group meets 7 - 8 PM at Porter Building Executive Officer's Meeting Room.

    Breastfeeding Support Group
    The support group meets on the first and third Wednesday of each month. Breastfeeding mothers with babies up to one year old are invited to participate in this free support group facilitated by a certified lactation consultant. Mothers are encouraged to share their own challenges and solutions, and offer mother-to-mother support during open discussion. Call 413-794-BABY or 1-800-377-HEALTH

    HIV/AIDS Support Group
    Monthly support groups are offered for the bereaved and for caregivers coping with a loved one with HIV/AIDS. For specific information on meeting times and dates, call Joan Howley 413-781-5070.

    Endometriosis Support Group
    First and third Thursday, 6-8 p.m. Registration is required, call for room location 413-794-2255 or 1-800-377-HEALTH.

    Menopause Support Group
    The Women's Health Program will offer a Menopause Support Group. The group will meet on the first Monday of each month from 6 - 7 PM in the Chestnut Surgery Conference Center Room #2 759 Chestnut St Springfield MA. Fee is $10. 1-800-377-HEALTH or 413-794-2255

    Osteoporosis Support Group
    This Osteoporosis Support Group meets the second Tuesday of every month, from 2 -3 PM in the 2nd floor Conference Room at 3300 Main St Springfield MA. 413-794-5432

    Sexual Abuse Support Group
    The Family Advocacy Center holds a support group for mothers of sexually abused children. The group meets every Tuesday evening from 6 - 7 PM at the Family Advocacy Center Springfield MA 413-794-9792

BERKSHIRE MEDICAL CENTER

    Diabetes Support Group
    Group meets monthly and is staffed by 2 certified nurses. Free outpatient visits for consultation can be made by contacting Ann Cohn at 413-395-7810.

COOLEY DICKINSON HOSPITAL 413-582-2028

    Bereavement Support Group
    For more information, call Steffi Kauffman at 413-584-1060.

    Breast Cancer Support Group
    Sponsored by the Oncology Program. This support group is held at the McCallum Building Trustee Room on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month from 5:30 - 7:00 PM.

    Cancer and Spirituality & Children of Parents with Cancer Support Group
    This support group is held twice a year in the Spring and Fall for an eight-week session. Contact the Oncology Program office for specific dates and times.

    Caregivers Cancer Support Group
    This group meets on the 2nd & 4th Tuesday of each month in the Childbirth Conference Room from 3:30 - 5:00 PM.

    Chronic Illness Support Group - Our Care
    A support group for parents of a chronically ill child. Group meets twice monthly to support each other as they learn to care for a chronically ill child. Trained facilitator. Speakers frequently invited. No charge, call for more information. Contact is Shirley Riga. 413-259-1965

    General Cancer Support Group
    This group meets on the 2nd & 4th Wednesday of each month at the McCallum Building Date Room from 6:00 - 7:30 PM.

    "I Can Cope" Workshop
    A six week program beginning in October for people living with cancer. Sponsored by the Cancer Care program and the American Cancer Society.

    Prostate Cancer Support Group
    This group meets at the McCallum Building Trustee Room on the 4th Wednesday of each month from 6:00 - 7:30 PM.

FAIRVIEW HOSPITAL

    Chronic Mental Illness Support Group
    This support group which meets 4th Wednesday of the month is for families with a member who has chronic mental illness. Group meets 6:30 - 9:00 PM in the Conference Room. 413-443-1666 or 413-269-4928.

    Diabetes Support Group
    The diabetes support group meets 2nd Thursday of every month from 3:00 - 4:30 PM. This is a free support group and all ages are welcome. Classes are held at the Great Barrington Senior Center. All ages are welcome 413-528-8635.

    Lyme Disease Support Group
    Meets 1st and 2nd Tuesday of each month 6:00 - 7:30 PM. For more information, call Gerry McQuiod 413-528-0790 ext. 3225.

    Parkinson's Exercise Support
    Meets every Monday from 1:00 - 2:00 PM. Registration not necessary. 413-528-8600 ext. 3140

FRANKLIN MEDICAL CENTER

    Breast Cancer Support Group
    The Oncology Department at Franklin Medical Center will host an ongoing breast cancer support group for all women who have breast cancer regardless of their current status. This free, drop-in group will meet the second Wednesday of each month in Conference Room A from 5:30 - 7:30 PM. For more information, call Vicki Sutton, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. 413-773-2570

    Breastfeeding Support Group
    This free group will meet and explore the issues and problems associated with breastfeeding on Wednesday mornings at 11:00 a.m. To register, call the Birthplace 413-773-2331.

    Cancer Support Group
    This free, drop-in group will meet on the first Wednesday (except May) of each month in the Oncology Waiting Room from 7 - 8:30 p.m. For more information, call Vicki Sutton, LCSW, Oncology Social Worker. 413-773-2570.

    Caregivers Support Group
    This group will meet on the 3rd Tuesday of each month in Conference Room A from 12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m. Call Vicki Sutton, LCSW at 413-773-2570.

MARY LANE HOSPITAL

    Better Breathers Support Group
    Fourth Tuesday of every month, 2 - 3 p.m. in the Community Health Information Ctr. Conference Rm.

    Cancer Support Group
    Group meets monthly 3rd Tuesday from 5:30 - 6:30 p.m. in the Community Health Information Ctr. Conference Rm.

    Caregivers/Alzheimer's Support Group
    Group meets monthly 3rd Wednesday from 3:30 - 5:00 p.m. in the Community Health Information Ctr. Conference Rm.

    Stop Smoking Support Group
    This free group meets on Wednesdays 6:00 p.m. in the Community Health Information Ctr. Conference Rm. 1st Floor, North Entrance. Call 413-967-2305 or The Professionals at 413-967-9077.

MERCY HOSPITAL

    Mercy Hospital Chronic Pain Support Group
    Meets 2nd and 4th Tuesday each month at 1 p.m. in Weldon Rehabilitation Hospital 1st flr conference room, 233 Carew St, Springfield. Contact Ann Jorn at 413-748-6994.

    Cancer Support Group
    Community-based support group for people with cancer, their family members and caregivers. Meets weekly from 7-9 p.m. at Deliso Conference Ctr at Mercy Medical Ctr, 271 Carew St, Springfield. Contact Sister Madeleine Joy, SP. 413-748-9453.

    Head Injury Support Group
    Meets 3rd Wednesday of each month for people who have experienced a head injury and their family and friends.
    Contact Ed Chastain 413-748-6890.

NOBLE HOSPITAL

    Bereavement Support Group
    A weekly support group for people who have experienced the death of a loved one within the past year. Wednesdays, 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. (no meeting last Wednesday of the month) 413-562-7049.

    Caregivers Support Group
    For those caring for someone with a life-threatening illness group meets second and last Wednesday of every month, 4:00 - 5:00 p.m., Bronson Music Rm. Contact 413-562-7049.

    Crohn's and Colitis Support Group
    Free of charge. No pre-registration. Call 413-568-2328 for dates and times.

    Diabetes Support Group
    Meets 4th Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. in Conference Room A. Free of charge. No registration required. Call HealthBeat at 568-BEAT (2328).

    Stroke Support Group
    This free group meets second Wednesday of every month in the Bronson Rehabilitation Center at 1:30 p.m. Free of charge. No registration required. Call 568-2811 ext. 5809.

WEIGHT MANAGEMENT

FAIRVIEW HOSPITAL 413-528-8600 ext. 3061

    Weight Management
    Weight Management classes are offered on Tuesdays from 4:45 to 5:45 PM at the Medical Library. Fee is $15 for first class, $10 each additional class.

WOMEN'S HEALTH

BAYSTATE MEDICAL CENTER 1-800-377-HEALTH

    Preparing for the Change - Perimenopause and Menopause
    This informative and positive series of classes designed for women over the age of 35 will include myths and fears about menopause, symptoms and treatments, osteoporosis, hormone replacement therapy, nutrition, exercise, stress reduction and sexuality. The cost is $25 per person for the series. For more information, or for the dates of the next series, call The Professionals.

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