Health calendar 7/29/08

Thursday

n Understanding Related Dementias: 10 a.m. to noon at the Alzheimer's Association Chapter Southeast Missouri Office at 2411 Abbey Road, Cape Girardeau. Reviews the specifics and characteristics of different types of dementia. Registration is required. Call 800-980-9080.

Saturday

• Breast-feeding support group: 10 to 11 a.m. at Saint Francis Family BirthPlace. A certified lactation consultant will lead group members in sharing successful breast-feeding techniques and encourage confidence in their skills. Call 877-231-2229 to register.
• Family Health Fair: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at West Park Mall. "A Report Card for Your Good Health" will include programs like the Safe Assured ID program, Fitness Fun for Kids, Tobacco Free — You and Me, Living with Diabetes and more. Participants can also sign up to win prizes like an iPod Shuffle, a massage from HealthPoint Plaza or a shopping spree at West Park Mall.

Monday

• Breast-feeding class: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Saint Francis Medical Center. A class for expecting parents (in their eighth or ninth month) who plan to breast-feed. Topics are breast physiology, milk production, positioning, diet, pumping and storing breast milk. Call 877-231-2229 to register.

Tuesday

• Preparation for Childbirth class: 5:30 to 9 p.m. at Saint Francis Medical Center. Comprehensive guide to expected bodily changes, labor signs and stages, pain control techniques and basic infant care. Tips on relaxing, positioning and breathing will also be discussed. Refreshments will be provided. Bring the "Pregnancy, Childbirth and Parenting Kit" provided by your physician's office. Call 877-231-2229 to register.
• Angels of God prayer group: 6 p.m. in the Pastoral Care conference room. Prayer group for parents who've lost a child of any age, especially parents who lost a baby from the time of conception through early infancy. Give and receive emotional support and resolve grief in an atmosphere where grieving parents with similar experiences can come together. No one is forced to speak if they do not feel comfortable. No children are allowed. The day you plan to attend, call 331-5118 and leave a message for Father Augustine to expect you.