Mary Rathman

Learn to be a SHINE volunteer
Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders, a volunteer program of the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, is in need of help.

Volunteers offer free counseling and assistance to seniors and those with disabilities on topics related to Medicare, Medicaid, prescription drug assistance, supplemental insurance and more.

Volunteers are needed in Pasco and Pinellas counties.

A three-day training is provided. Costs for transportation are reimbursed and meals are provided.

For information, call Sue Samson at (727) 570-9696, ext. 234.

To fill out an online application, visit FloridaSHINE.org.

Give blood, get $10 to Publix
OneBlood is teaming up with Publix and providing its bloodmobile to the following locations:

• Aug. 8: Publix, 19034 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., New Tampa, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

• Aug. 9: Publix, 16560 N. Nebraska Ave., Lutz, Aug. 9 from noon to 6 p.m.

Donors will receive a free wellness checkup and a $10 Publix gift card.

To make an appointment, call (888) 936-6283, or visit OneBloodDonor.org.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly multiple sclerosis support group on the second Tuesday of the month, with the next meeting scheduled for Aug. 12 at noon.

Caregivers and family members are invited to attend.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Athletic injuries seminars
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is hosting these athletic injuries seminars:

• Aug. 12, 6 p.m.: “Foot and Ankle Injuries in Athletes.”

Dr. Guillermo Donate will present information on understanding the types of injuries and helpful prevention tips. Reservations are required. A free meal will be provided.

• Aug. 13, 7 p.m.: “Injury Prevention for Athletes: Reduce Your Risk of Injury.”

Daniel MacLea and Aly Dhanani will present information on identifying high-risk movement patterns and corrective exercise strategies to reduce the risk of injury.

For information on both seminars, call (813) 929-5432.

Obstetrics program offers classes
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering the following:

• Aug. 16 at 9 a.m., a pediatric/infant CPR course. Cost is $15 per person, or $25 for two.

• Aug. 16 at noon, a tour through the mother-baby and birthing suites.

• Aug. 16 at 1 p.m., breast-feeding class with a focus on fundamentals and how to access support.

Reservations are required for all classes.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Vegetarian cooking demo
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, will have a vegetarian cooking demo Aug. 19 at 6 p.m.

Guests can learn to cook healthy vegetarian dishes, how to prepare a plant-based menu, and taste samples.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

Cost is $5 for members, and $10 for non-members.

To register, call (813) 929-5432.

New opportunities at HPH Hospice
HPH Hospice has new volunteer opportunities for those who have a few hours to spare every week.

HPH is accepting applications for a two-day volunteer orientation that will take place Aug. 12-14 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 37445 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.

Thrift store volunteers need only attend the morning of the first day.

Lunch will be provided, but reregistration is required.

For store volunteers, call Caroline Wertel at (813) 355-4830. For hospice opportunities, call Liz Helms at (352) 518-1400.

Gulfside Hospice orientation
Gulfside Hospice is offering a two-day orientation for all new volunteers Aug. 14-15 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Gulfside’s Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

‘I Quit’ at FHZH
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the “I Quit” tobacco cessation program Aug. 21 at 5 p.m.

The workshop will include education on nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies for handling cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral to the Florida Quitline for ongoing support.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000, or visit AHECtobacco.org.

 

TCH staff supports local programs
The medical staff at Tampa Community Hospital recently donated $10,000 to Southeastern Guide Dogs Inc., which has been providing guide dogs to people with visual impairments since 1982.

Within the last six months, the medical staff at TCH has donated $30,000 to various programs.

Tobacco cessation program
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a free seminar to help tobacco users quit.

The “Tools to Quit” program will be July 31 at 5 p.m.

Participants will set a quit date, make a plan, and work through simple steps to quit, as well as receive optional free nicotine replacement therapy.

Space is limited.

For information, call (813) 929-1000, Ext. 213.

‘Latch On’ at Simms Park
Momcierge is hosting the “Big Latch On” in Simms Park, Bank Street and Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey, Aug. 2 at 10 a.m.

All breastfeeding mothers and supporters are invited to join in this family picnic-style gathering. Attendees are asked to bring a blanket and a snack.

For information, visit Momcierge on Facebook.

Free screening of ‘External High’
National Alliance on Mental Illness Pasco County is offering a free screening of “Eternal High” by Bryce Mackie. The film covers a teenager’s experience with addiction, depression, suicide and recovery.

The screening is Aug. 4 at 7 p.m., at North Tampa Behavioral Health, 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Refreshments will be served.

For information, visit NAMIPasco.org.

Caregiver support group
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is hosting a caregiver support group the first Tuesday of every month, for family and friends caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

The next meeting is Aug. 5 at 10 a.m.

To register, call (813) 991-7524.

Plant-based food seminar
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is offering the seminar “Power of Plant-Based Foods” Aug. 5 at 6:30 p.m.

Learn about a plant-based diet with more antioxidants, nutrients, vitamins, minerals and fiber, and less damaging fat and sugar.

Seminar is free for Health & Wellness members, and $5 for non-members.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

To register, call (813) 929-5432.

Tour obstetrics program
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering scheduled tours through its obstetrics program.

Guests can visit the mother-baby and birthing suites, and observe the Infant Safety and Security Program.

The next tour is Aug. 6 at noon.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

 

Lokesh honored with humanitarian award
The Medical Center of Trinity has honored Dr. Haravu Lokesh with its 2013 Frist Humanitarian Award. The award recognizes a physician who epitomizes commitment to the communities served.

Lokesh has been practicing pediatrics for more than 30 years, and is board certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He is a fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics.

Gulfside orientation
Gulfside Hospice & Palliative Care is hosting an orientation for new shop volunteers July 30 at 9 a.m., at the Lutz Thrift Shoppe, 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

Tobacco cessation program
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a free seminar to help tobacco users quit.

The “Tools to Quit” program will be July 31 at 5 p.m.

Participants will set a quit date, make a plan, and work through simple steps to quit, as well as receive optional free nicotine replacement therapy.

Space is limited.

For information, call (813) 929-1000, Ext. 213.

‘Latch On’ at Simms Park
Momcierge is hosting the “Big Latch On” in Simms Park, Bank Street and Grand Boulevard in New Port Richey, Aug. 2 at 10 a.m.

All breastfeeding mothers and supporters are invited to join in this family picnic style gathering. Attendees are asked to bring a blanket and a snack.

For information, visit Momcierge on Facebook.

Caregiver support group
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is hosting a caregiver support group the first Tuesday of every month, for family and friends caring for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.

The next meeting is Aug. 5 at 10 a.m.

To register, call (813) 991-7524.

Teens given chance to grieve
Gulfside Hospice hosted its first teen night June 26 at the Gulfside Center for Hospice Care in Zephyrhills. The event was part of the Mending Hearts Bereavement Program for teens who have lost a loved one.

Teens participated in craft activities to express their feelings, beaded bracelets with a word that reminded them of their loved one, painted masks to represent their feelings, and lit decorated lanterns as part of a memorial.

For information on upcoming teen nights and bereavement services, call (800) 561-4883.

Get the most out of insurance
Many health care plans must now cover a set of preventive services like shots and screening tests under the Affordable Care Act. To better understand insurance coverage, Bayfront Health Dade City’s free physician referral service is offering information on how to get the most out of insurance.

Those in need of assistance can call (877) 362-5321, or visit BayfrontDadeCity.com.

Balloon release at West Winds
Gulfside Hospice hosted a memorial at West Winds Assisted Living Facility in Zephyrhills July 3, as residents honored loved ones who have passed away.

A memorial service was led by staff and culminated in a balloon release to remember and honor the lives of their loved ones.

Guests shared stories, poems, songs and prayers.

Bereavement support
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department is offering a 10-week Newly Bereaved Support Group beginning Aug. 6 at 4 p.m., at Gulfside’s East Clinical Office and Bereavement Center, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City.

For information, call Cecilio De Leon at (727) 992-8034.

 

Obstetrics unit tour

The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers scheduled tours through its obstetrics program.

Guests can visit the mother-baby and birthing suites, and observe the Infant Safety and Security Program.

The next tour date is July 19 at noon.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Free breast-feeding class
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a motivational class on the health benefits of breast-feeding July 19 at 1 p.m.

The class will cover fundamentals and how to access support.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Mobile medical unit at OLOR
The Mobile Medical Unit, sponsored by the Pasco County Public Defender’s office, will be at Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, July 24 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Uninsured or homeless Pasco County residents can receive basic health care at no charge. Emergency services are not provided at the unit.

The unit offers treatment for a brief illness, treatment for high blood pressure and diabetes, treatment for temporary infections, wound and derma care, school physicals (with Social Security card and ID), pregnancy testing, flu shots, and some prescription voucher assistance.

No drugs are kept on board the unit.

Gulfside orientation
Gulfside Hospice & Palliative Care is hosting an orientation for new shop volunteers July 30 at 9 a.m., at the Lutz Thrift Shoppe, 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

Gulfside offers bereavement group
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department is starting a new 10-week support group for those who are newly bereaved.

The first cycle begins July 10 at 1 p.m., at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes. The second starts Aug. 6 at 4 p.m., at Gulfside’s east clinical office, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle, in Dade City.

For information, called Erica Warren at (727) 992-8357.

Summer blood drive
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host a summer blood drive July 10 from noon to 5 p.m.

All donors will receive a wellness checkup and a beach towel. Photo ID is required.

Those who donate twice before Aug. 31 can receive a free lunch offer from Outback Steakhouse.

To make an appointment online, visit OneBloodDonor.org, and use sponsor code “0B034.”

Super-prep childbirth
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a childbirth super-prep class July 12 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

This is a one-day accelerator/refresher course.

Cost is $50 per person.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Fat loss seminar
The Health & Wellness Center at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2700 Healing Way, is hosting a seminar on optimizing fat loss July 15 at 6:30 p.m.

Guest speaker is Matthew Luckie. The seminar will cover research-backed strategies that include current practices in fitness, nutrition and lifestyle.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

Cost is $5 for non-members and free for health center members.

To register, call (813) 929-5432, or visit FHWesleyChapel.org/events.

‘Look Good’ cancer program
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering the American Cancer Society’s “Look Good … Feel Better” program July 16 at 2 p.m.

The program includes educational information as well as wigs, hats, turbans and prostheses.

To RSVP, call (727) 834-5630.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host breast cancer support group meetings every other Thursday at 6 p.m., at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is July 17.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Gulfside orientations
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care is hosting orientation for all new East Pasco volunteers July 17-18 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Gulfside’s Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old. Opportunities are available at the thrift shops, in the kitchen and serving meals, answering phones and greeting visitors, patient care, and spiritual care.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

‘I Quit’ at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the “I Quit” workshop July 17 at 5 p.m.

The workshop provides education on nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies for handling cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral for ongoing support after the class.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000, or visit AHECTobacco.org.

Get the most out of insurance
Most health care plans must now cover a set of preventive services like shots and screening tests under the Affordable Care Act.

To better understand insurance coverage, Bayfront Health Dade City’s free physician referral service is offering information on how to get the most out of insurance.

Those in need of assistance can call (877) 362-5321, or visit BayfrontDadeCity.com.

AFO receives grant from Griswold Cares
The Griswold Cares Foundation recently awarded a $1,000 grant to The Alzheimer’s Family Organization of Pasco for its strong commitment to providing respite care and the impact that care has in the communities it serves.

The foundation was established in 2010 with the vision that all senior citizens, including those with limited financial means, have the opportunity to age with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.

Gulfside hospice programs
Gulfside Regional Hospice hosts a variety of bereavement groups throughout Pasco County. The following support groups are offered:

• Children Grief and Anticipatory Group, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, every Tuesday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 452-1592.
• Parents Support Group, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills, every Tuesday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• Newly Bereaved Group, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle on Dade City, every Wednesday, 2 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• West Winds Support Group, 37411 Eiland Blvd., in Zephyrhills, every Wednesday, 3:30 p.m., by appointment only.
• Youth Support Group, St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 14440 14th St., in Dade City, every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Call (813) 780-1235.
• Latino Parent Support Group, St. Rita’s Catholic Church, 14440 14th St., in Dade City, every Wednesday, 5:30 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• Children Support, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City, every Thursday, 5 p.m. Call (727) 992-8034.
• Alumni 2011 Social Group, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle in Dade City, every Friday, 1 p.m. Lunch is served. Call Joan Kolb at (813) 715-4163.

A grief and loss puppet show with presentations also is available to schools and organizations, and can be scheduled by calling Ashley Monteath at (727) 844-3946.

Volunteer for ombudsman program
Florida’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program needs volunteers to join its corps of advocates who protect the rights of elders living in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and adult family care homes.

Local councils need volunteers to identify, investigate and resolve residents’ concerns. Special training and certification is provided.

For information, call (888) 831-0404, or visit Ombudsman.MyFlorida.com.

Program launches seniors into healthy living
Bayfront Health Dade City has launched the Senior Circle program, formerly Senior Extra, for adults older than 50. The program will provide social opportunities, health education programs, exercise classes, volunteerism and entertainment. Other perks include in-hospital benefits when available, a magazine subscription, and planned monthly activities. Members recently gathered for the Senior Circle Sneak Peek event at the Dade City hospital. For information, visit SeniorCircle.com.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host a breast cancer support group meeting July 3 at 6 p.m., at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Depression, bipolar education
The National Alliance on Mental Illness Pasco County is offering a free education class called “Depression and Bipolar Awareness: From Diagnosis to Remission” July 7 at 7 p.m. at North Tampa Behavioral Health, 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel.

Guest speaker is Jason Tompkins, psychotherapist and chairman of the Tampa Bay chapter of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

To RSVP, visit NAMIPasco.org.

Chronic disease management
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting a chronic disease self-management program July 7 at 9 a.m. It will then meet weekly for the next six weeks.

Topics include fatigue, pain, isolation, exercise, medications, communication, nutrition and new treatments.

Class size is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts a monthly support group for those affected by multiple sclerosis.

The next meeting is July 8 at noon.

Caregivers and family members are invited.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Autism support monthly meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting Helping HANDs from Hope for Autism and Neurological Disorders, a support group for family members and friends impacted by autism.

The next monthly meeting is July 9 at 7 p.m.

For information, call Jonica Chittum at (813) 402-9442.

PAN meets at Sunset Bay
The Pasco Aging Network will meet July 9 beginning at 8 a.m., at Villas at Sunset Bay, 4331 Fiji Drive in New Port Richey.

Breakfast will be served, and admission is free.

Guest speaker is attorney Tatiana Melnik on “Protecting Your Client’s Confidential Information.”

To RSVP, visit PascoAgingNetwork.org. For information, call Jennifer Hess at (727) 539-7550, ext. 229.

Healthy eating at Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers the program “Healthy Eating Every Day” beginning July 9 at 9 a.m., for 14 weeks. Classes end Oct. 9.

The program is designed to help people improve the quality of their diets.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Summer blood drive
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, is hosting a summer blood drive July 10 from noon to 5 p.m.

All donors will receive a wellness checkup and a beach towel. Photo ID is required.

Those who donate twice before Aug. 31 can receive a free lunch offer from Outback Steakhouse.

To make an appointment online, visit OneBloodDonor.org, and use sponsor code “0B034.”

Gulfside orientations
Gulfside Hospice is hosting an orientation for new shop volunteers July 30 at 9 a.m., at the Lutz Thrift Shoppe, 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Volunteers must be at least 15 years old.

Space is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

Surviving cancer seminar
Dr. Roberto Diaz from the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute will speak on surviving cancer Sept. 25 at 7 p.m., at the Keystone Community Church, 21010 State Road 54, in Lutz.

The program is free, and will cover new treatments for cancer, and allow for a question-and-answer period.

For information, call Walt Bockmiller, chair of the Keystone Cancer Support Group, at (813) 527-8211, or call the Keystone Community Church at (813) 948-4522.

‘Safety first’ with Cpl. Wilkett
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care recently honored Cpl. Alan Wilkett of the Pasco County Sheriff’s Office with a plaque to thank him for his help in educating Gulfside staff on safety measures. At the presentation were, from left, Sheena Thompson, Wilkett, Gulfside president and chief executive Linda Ward, and Pasco Sheriff Chris Nocco.

Chatterboxes meeting
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, hosts bi-weekly Chatterboxes support group meetings to assist individuals suffering from communication deficits as a result of a cerebral vascular accident or other neurological disorder.

The next meeting is June 26 at 3 p.m.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Infant care program
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering an infant care class June 26 and July 3 at 6 p.m.

The class will provide parents with the knowledge and skills to make the transition into parenting smooth and comfortable.

For information or reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates is hosting a breast cancer support group meeting July 3 at 6 p.m., at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

For information, call (727) 505-6379.

Nutrition and diabetes
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting a class on nutrition and diabetes July 3 at 10 a.m.

The class will teach the basic principles of nutrition; meal timing; how carbohydrates, proteins and fats can affect blood sugar; and how to make better food choices.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Brenda Welcher is exceptional employee
Brenda Welcher reacts to being named Florida Hospital Zephyrhills’ 2013 Employee of the Year. She was selected for her high-quality performance, good attendance and consistent display of excellent with teamwork, patient and environment service standards. Hospital chief executive Randy Surber as well as marketing director Cheryl Kennison, right, were among those on hand to congratulate Welcher.

‘I Quit’ at Florida Hospital Zephyrhills
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., is offering the “I Quit” workshop July 17 at 5 p.m.

The workshop will provide education on nicotine addiction and withdrawal, strategies for handling cravings, a free four-week supply of nicotine replacement therapy, and a referral for ongoing support after the class.

To register, call Jihane Ambroise at (813) 929-1000, or visit AHECTobacco.org.

Get the most out of insurance
Most health care plans must now cover a set of preventive services like shots and screening tests under the Affordable Care Act.

To better understand insurance coverage, Bayfront Health Dade City’s free physician referral service is offering information on how to get the most out of insurance.

Those in need of assistance can call (877) 362-5321, or visit BayfrontDadeCity.com.

AFO receives grant from Griswold Cares
The Griswold Cares Foundation recently awarded a $1,000 grant to The Alzheimer’s Family Organization of Pasco for its strong commitment to providing respite care and the impact that care has in the communities it serves.

The foundation was established in 2010 with the vision that all seniors, including those with limited financial means, have the opportunity to age with dignity in the comfort of their own homes.