Mary Rathman

Asaro and D’Amario are volunteers of the year
Dominc Asaro and Collen D’Amario have been named the Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point’s 2013 Volunteers of the Year. Asaro has more than 10 years of service and 12,750 hours of dedication. D’Amario joined the volunteers in 2009 and has more than 16,000 hours of service.

Health insurance services
Premier Community HealthCare is offering outreach and enrollment services for those that need help with Access, Medicaid or Children’s Health Insurance Plan applications.

There will be an information table at the Land O’ Lakes Library, 2818 Collier Parkway, on Thursdays in May from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The information also is available at the Land O’ Lakes Recreation Complex, 3032 Collier Parkway, Mondays and Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

For information, call (352) 518-2000, ext. 9238.

Walk for mental health
Dressing Angels Inc., is hosting its Walk for Mental Health Awareness at The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel, May 17 beginning at 9 a.m.

The Dressing Angels charity provides clothing and shoes to mentally ill and homeless children and adults.

Registration begins at 8 a.m., near the Dillard’s parking lot. There will be refreshments and snacks.

Registration is $10 for ages 14 and older, and $5 for children ages 5 through 13.

For information, call Phyllis Lise at (813) 498-7967, or email .

Gulfside memorial services
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a memorial service May 19 at 3 p.m., at Trinity Presbyterian Church of Seven Springs, 4651 Little Road in New Port Richey.

The service is for anyone to remember loved ones who have passed away.

There will be refreshments after the service.

For information, call Gulfside’s bereavement department at (727) 844-3946.

Diabetic travel tips
Access Health Care, 4270 Lake in the Woods Drive in Spring Hill, is offering a lecture called “Travel Tips for Diabetics” May 19 at 1 p.m.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (352) 597-7249.

Parkinson’s support
The Tampa area Parkinson’s Disease Support Group will meet May 21 at the Church of the Nazarene, 5902 N. Himes Ave., in Tampa.

There will be a general meeting at 1 p.m., and those with Parkinson’s will meet separate from caregivers at 2 p.m.

Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call  Jane Lowry at (813) 932-6902.

Gulfside Hospice honors its volunteers
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care’s volunteer department showed its appreciation for its volunteers at three picnics during National Volunteer Week. Gisele Connor, left, and Jeanette Tatro were among the Gulfside Hospice volunteers who were celebrated at the East Pasco Volunteer Appreciation picnic at Zephyr Park during National Volunteer’s Week April 6-12. (Courtesy of Kirsty Churchill)

Free support groups at Florida Hospital
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., offers the following monthly support groups:

• Depression/Bipolar Support Group: every Monday, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.
• Stroke Support Group: every third Thursday, 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
• Diabetes Support Group: every first Tuesday, 3:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
• Parkinson’s Support Group: every second Wednesday, 2 p.m. to 3 p.m.

No registration is required.

For information, call (877) 534-3108.

Silver award for Bayfront Health Dade City
Bayfront Health Dade City has received the Get With the Guidelines – Stroke Silver Quality Achievement Award for implementing specific quality improvement measures outlined by the American Heart/Stroke Association for the treatment of stroke patients.

The hospital earned the award by meeting specific quality achievement measures for the rapid diagnosis and treatment of stroke patients at a set level for a designated period.

These measures include proper use of medications and aggressive risk-reduction therapies aimed at reducing death and disability, and improving the lives of stroke patients.

Men’s health seminar
The Wellness Plaza at Florida Hospital Wesley Chapel, 2600 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., will host a free men’s health seminar June 10 at 10 a.m.

There will be a heart health lecture at 10 a.m., a lecture on low testosterone at 11:15 a.m., and a lecture on erectile dysfunction at 12:30 p.m.

Registration is required. Lunch will be provided.

For information, call (813) 929-5432.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, 6851 Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

Fashion show fundraiser
The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will host its annual Alberta’s Fashion Show at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity, June 17 at noon.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person, with discounts for table purchases. Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit tinyurl.com/AlbertaFashion.

CARES programs
CARES Enrichment Center, 13906 Fifth St., in Dade City, offers these activities:

• Adult Day Care: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants receive breakfast, lunch and a snack, along with organized activities. The program provides social and health services to adults who need supervision in a safe place outside the home. Reservations are required, and veterans are accepted. For costs and available funding, call (352) 519-9300.
• Senior Moments Early Memory Loss Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For reservations or information, call (352) 518-9300.

Hospital needs volunteers
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including transporting patients to and from tests, driving the shuttle, distributing mail, cafeteria, clerical and administrative, and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

Support for stroke patients
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills has a stroke support group that meets the third Thursday of every month at 3 p.m. The group offers support to stroke patients and their caregivers.

The meetings are in the hospital’s wellness conference room at the hospital, 7050 U.S. 301, in Zephyrhills.

For information, visit FHZeph.org.

Volunteer at Bayfront Health
Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road in Dade City, is looking for energetic men and women to join its volunteer team, including junior volunteers between the ages of 14 and 18.

Opportunities are available in both clinical and nonclinical areas of the hospital.

To learn more about the program, call Amy Fort at (352) 521-1195.

Diane Ricca recipient of humanitarian award
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point recently presented Diane Ricca with the 2013 Frist Volunteer Humanitarian Award.

Ricca has volunteered at Bayonet Point since July 2006, accumulating more than 20,000 merit hours. Her work includes the gift shop as well as the volunteer board of directors at large.

Ricca also volunteers with the Sun Coast Health and Education Foundation, All Around Kids Foundation, and various other charities.

 

CoDA meets in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity hosts the Co-Dependence Anonymous group every Thursday at 7 p.m., at 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are May 8, May 15, May 22 and May 29.

This group focuses on the common purpose of developing healthy relationships.

For information, call (727) 816-8678 or (727) 858-3013.

Breast cancer support
Florida Cancer Affiliates is offering a bi-weekly breast cancer support group every other Thursday at the New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is May 8 at 6 p.m.

The group will offer open discussion on a variety of topics. Light refreshments will be served.

For information, call (727) 372-9159.

Health care professionals & Alzheimer’s
The University of South Florida Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute, 4001 E. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa, will host “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Health Care Professionals Need to Know” May 9 at 8 a.m.

The program will award three hours of credit for health care professionals. Topics include driving and dementia, creating a safe environment, and medication safety issues.

Cost is $40 per person. Space is limited, and registration is required.

For information, call Mady Ernst at (813) 974-4357.

Hospice’s Grief’s Journey
HPH Hospice will offer an eight-week Grief’s Journey group Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m., starting May 13 at the Marliere Hospice Care Center, 6801 Rowan Road in New Port Richey.

The program is free, however registration is required.

For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Heart healthy nutrition
The Heart Institute at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point will offer the class “Heart Healthy Nutrition: Eating for a Healthy Heart” May 13 at 1 p.m., at the Rao Musunuru Conference Center, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson.

Participants can learn eating habits to help prevent and treat heart disease, food label reading, recipe modification and more.

Seating is limited, and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 869-5498.

MS support group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, offers a monthly support group on the second Tuesday of each month at noon, for those affected by multiple sclerosis.

The next meeting is May 13. Caregivers and family members are invited.

For information, call (727) 372-1568.

Medical Center of Trinity one of best for ER care
The Medical Center of Trinity has received the Women’s Choice Award as one of America’s best hospitals in emergency care.

The award identifies the nation’s best health care institutions and signifies the center’s commitment for creating an extraordinary health care experience for women and all patients, according to a release.

The award is based on patient satisfaction, clinical excellence, and women’s needs when it comes to treatment and quality hospital experience, said Delia Passi, chief executive and founder of WomenCertified, home of the Women’s Choice Award.

Childbirth course
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a six-week prepared childbirth class beginning May 14.

The class will meet one night per week at 7 p.m.

Cost is $70.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Autism group meeting
The autism group Helping HANDs will meet at the Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, May 14 at 7 p.m.

The group is for anyone impacted by autism and related neurological disorders.

For information, call Jonica Chittum at (813) 402-9442 or (727) 534-8230.

Health care organizations award scholarships
The Pasco-Hernando State College Foundation received a $7,000 gift from HCA hospitals — Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point and Medical Center of Trinity — as well as a gift of $11,256 from Florida Blue and the Florida College System Foundation. The funds will provide scholarships to help health care PHSC students cover tuition. Students enrolled in PHSC health programs are shown with, in center from left, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point president and chief executive Shayne George, Medical Center of Trinity chief executive Leigh Massengill, and PHSC president Katherine Johnson. (Courtesy of Pasc0-Hernando State College)

New format for bereavement group
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department offers bereavement groups with a set beginning and ending date so that participants can get to know each other and feel more comfortable sharing their feelings during the group sessions. Each new group will last approximately 10 weeks.

The next session in Land O’ Lakes is May 1 to June 26 at 2 p.m., at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway.

For information, call (800) 561-4883.

CoDA meets in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity hosts the Co-Dependence Anonymous group every Thursday at 7 p.m., at 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are May 1, May 8, May 15, May 22 and May 29.

This group focuses on the common purpose of developing healthy relationships.

For information, call (727) 816-8678 or (727) 858-3013.

Alzheimer’s caregiver program
The University of South Florida Byrd Alzheimer’s Institute and Arden Courts Memory Care Community are sponsoring the free program “Alzheimer’s Disease: What Family Caregivers Need to Know” May 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 4001 E. Fletcher Ave., in Tampa.

Topics will include understanding the disease, progress in treatment, communication strategies, managing troublesome behaviors, home and driving safety, and the benefits of clinical trials.

Lunch will be provided. Registration is required.

To reserve a seat, call (813) 974-4357.

Tobacco cessation
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will host its Tools to Quit class May 2 at 1 p.m.

The class is free and includes nicotine replacement patches, gum and lozenges —while supplies last — and community, website and clinic groups.

Registration is required. For information, call (813) 929-1000, ext. 213, or email .

Nutrition and diabetes
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a community education class “Nutrition & Diabetes” May 6 at 10 a.m.

The class will teach basic principles of nutrition, meal timing, and how carbohydrates, proteins and fats can affect blood sugar.

Seating is limited, and registration is required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Day
Alzheimer’s Family Organization is hosting its Caregiver Day May 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road.

The event includes refreshments, lunch, certificate of attendance and guest speakers. Topics include research updates, Medicare fraud and elder law issues.

Cost is $10 for AFO members, and $25 for non-members.

Registration is required.

For information, call (727) 848-8888 or (888) 496-8004.

Stress reduction break
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is hosting the lecture “Take This Stress Reduction Break” for its diabetes support group May 6 at 3:30 p.m., at the hospital’s Wellness Center conference room, 7050 Gall Blvd.

Those attending will learn techniques of stress management and its benefits for improved health and well-being, memory and cognitive function.

Guest speaker is life coach Veronique Polo.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

HPH Hospice’s Grief’s Journey
HPH Hospice will host an eight-week Grief’s Journey group for newly bereaved adults.

The group will meet at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays beginning May 7 at HPH’s Resource Center, 37441 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.

The group is free, and individuals who haven’t used hospice services are invited.

Preregistration is required.

For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Head trauma lecture
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will host “A Bang to the Brain” May 8 at 2 p.m., at the hospital’s Wellness Center, 7050 Gall Blvd.

The lecture will cover concussions and head trauma caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents or sports injuries. Participants will learn the latest facts and treatments.

Guest speaker is Sara Jagger.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

Women’s health session
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills will present “Nursing & Midwifery: A Holistic Approach to Women’s Health” May 8 at 6 p.m., in the hospital’s Wellness Center, 7050 Gall Blvd.

Join the session to learn how nurses and midwives can help achieve health goals.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

New format for bereavement group
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department offers bereavement groups with a set beginning and ending date so that participants can get to know each other and feel more comfortable sharing their feelings during the group sessions. Each new group will last approximately 10 weeks.

The next session in Dade City is May 14 to July 16 at 4 p.m., at Gulfside’s East Clinical Office and Bereavement Center, 37826 Sky Ridge Circle.

For information, call (800) 561-4883.

Tools to Quit
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills Wellness Center, 7050 Gall Blvd., will offer the Tools to Quit Tobacco Cessation Program May 15 at 5 p.m.

Registration is required.

For information, call (813) 929-1000.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank, and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

Fashion show fundraiser
The Alzheimer’s Family Organization will host its annual Alberta’s Fashion Show at Heritage Springs Country Club, 11345 Robert Trent Jones Parkway in Trinity, June 17 at noon.

The event includes lunch, a Chinese auction, door prizes, vendor tables and raffles.

Cost is $30 per person. Purchase of a table of 10 and only pay for nine tickets.

Sponsorships are available starting at $75.

All proceeds benefit the Alzheimer’s Family Organization.

For information, visit bit.ly/N3bHU0.

CARES programs
CARES Enrichment Center, 13906 Fifth St., in Dade City, offers these activities:

• Adult Day Care: Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Participants receive breakfast, lunch and a snack, along with organized activities. The program provides social and health services to adults who need supervision in a safe place outside the home. Reservations are required, and veterans are accepted. For costs and available funding, call (352) 519-9300.

• Senior Moments Early Memory Loss Program: Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For reservations or information, call (352) 518-9300.

Hospital needs volunteers
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills is looking for volunteers to help with a variety of tasks including transporting patients to and from tests, driving the shuttle, distributing mail, cafeteria, clerical and administrative, and more. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old.

There is a minimum requirement of four volunteer hours per week.

Volunteers receive a complimentary meal in the café on the days they work, and recognition at the annual volunteer banquet. Orientation sessions are twice a month.

If interested, applications are available online at FloridaHospital.com/Zephyrhills, or by calling (813) 779-6256.

 

Foundation of Caring fundraiser
The Florida Medical Clinic Foundation of Caring is hosting “Night at the Copa” April 26 from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., at TPepin’s Hospitality Centre, 4121 N. 50th St., in Tampa.

Freddy Montes y Su Son will provide Cuban music in the atmosphere of Old Havana.

The fundraiser will support needy children and families in Hillsborough and Pasco counties.

For information and registration, call (813) 783-9932, or email .

Food addicts program
Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous meets at Seventh-day Adventist Church, 33420 State Road 54 in Wesley Chapel, Thursdays at 7 p.m.

The program is based on the 12-step program of Alcoholics Anonymous.

For information, visit FoodAddicts.org.

NAMI offers support
The Pasco County Chapter of National Alliance on Mental Illness offers two monthly support group meetings at 7 p.m.

• Family & Friends Support Meetings: North Tampa Behavioral Health, 29910 State Road 56 in Wesley Chapel, first and third Tuesday of each month. This group is for family and friends of those with mental illness.

• NAMI Connections: NAMI Pasco Office, 6480 Jallo Plaza, 6480 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes, every Tuesday. This group is for those living with mental illness.

For information, call (727) 992-9653.

Moffitt hosts caregivers
H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute is hosting its Caring for the Caregiver program April 26 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., in the Vincent A. Stabile Research Building, 12902 Magnolia Drive in Tampa.

This is a free program to provide educational sessions and peer support for caregivers of cancer patients.

A light breakfast and catered lunch will be provided. Free valet parking is available.

To register, call (813) 745-8407, or visit tinyurl.com/CFCG2014.

Give blood, get gift card
OneBlood and Walgreens are teaming up for a blood drive April 28 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. at these Walgreens locations.

• 20741 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa
• 22829 State Road 54, Land O’ Lakes

Donors must be 16 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.

Each donor will receive a wellness checkup and a free $10 Walgreens gift card.

For information, visit OneBlood.org.

Dementia care seminar
Senior Helpers of Spring Hill will host two seminars on dementia care education April 29 at 9 a.m., and at 1 p.m., at The Residence at Timber Pines, 3140 Forest Road in Spring Hill.

Guest speakers are Glen Scharfeld of Senior Helpers, and Teepa Snow, a dementia care and education specialist.

The seminars are free.

To register, call (352) 683-9009.

His and hers health seminar
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host the seminar “His and Hers: Vaccines, Screenings & Vitamins for Your Health” April 30 at noon.

Guests speakers will be Dr. Stephanie Eldridge and Dr. Amir Shirmohammad, both in family medicine.

Admission is free. A light complimentary lunch will be served. Seating is limited.

For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Gulfside volunteer orientation
Gulfside Hospice is hosting a volunteer orientation for new shop volunteers in Central Pasco April 30 from 9 a.m. to noon at the Lutz Thrift Shoppe, 1930 Land O’ Lakes Blvd.

Volunteers must be at least 16 years old. Space is limited.

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

Cancer support group
Florida Cancer Affiliates offers a biweekly support group at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The next meeting is April 30 at 6 p.m.

Refreshments will be served. Reservations are advised.

For information, call (727) 808-4818.

New format for bereavement group
Gulfside Hospice’s bereavement department offers bereavement groups with a set beginning and ending date so that participants can get to know each other and feel more comfortable sharing their feelings during the group sessions. Each new group will last approximately 10 weeks.

The next session in Land O’ Lakes is May 1 to June 26 at 2 p.m., at Harvester United Methodist Church, 2432 Collier Parkway.

For information, call (800) 561-4883.

CoDA meets in Trinity
The Medical Center of Trinity will host the Co-Dependence Anonymous group every Thursday at 7 p.m., at 5637 Marine Parkway in New Port Richey.

Upcoming meetings are May 1, May 8, May 15, May 22 and May 29.

This group focuses on the common purpose of developing healthy relationships.

For information, call (727) 816-8678 or (727) 858-3013.

OLOR cancer network
Our Lady of the Rosary Catholic Church Family Cancer Network meets the second and fourth Thursday of the month in Rosary Hall at the church, 2348 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, beginning at 7 p.m.

Cancer survivors and caregivers are welcome to attend.

For information, call (813) 949-4565.

Pasco Challenge a success
More than 400 participants ran, walked and biked to support the Alzheimer’s Family Organization at the 2014 Pasco Challenge at Jay B. Starkey Wilderness Park in New Port Richey. They raised more than $7,000 to support the organization’s programs and services.

For information on the Alzheimer’s Family Organization, call (727) 848-8888.

Back pain presentation
The Spine Care Centers of West Florida at Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will present a lecture on lumbar spinal stenosis April 17 at 3 p.m. Guest speaker is neurosurgeon Dr. George Giannakopoulos.

The lecture is free, but reservations are required. Refreshments will be served.

For information, call (727) 869-5498.

Man to Man support
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host a Man to Man prostate cancer support group at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road, April 17 at 5 p.m.

Discussions include early detection, signs and symptoms, prognosis, disease stages, and various therapies and medications.

For information, call (727) 372-9159.

Huntington’s Disease group
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting a support group for anyone whose life is affected by Huntington’s disease.

The group will meet April 17 at 6:30 p.m.

For information, call Nina Qualters at (727) 236-3578, or email .

Pediatric CPR course
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a pediatric/infant CPR course April 19 at 9 a.m.

Participants can learn the skills of the American Heart Association course “CPR for Family and Friends.”

Cost is $15 per person, or $25 for two.

For reservations, call (727) 834-5630.

Hospitals offer recycling
In commemoration of Earth Day, Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson; and Oak Hill Hospital, 11375 Cortez Blvd., in Spring Hill, are offering a recycling opportunity for staff and the public April 22.

Small electronics can be dropped off at Bayonet Point from 9 a.m. to noon, and at Oak Hill from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.

In addition, documents will be accepted for shredding by Cintas Corp.

For information, call (727) 869-5413 or (703) 297-7467.

Arthritis seminar for seniors
Hillsborough County Aging Services will present “Experts in Arthritis” from the U.S. Bone and Joint Initiative April 23 at 11:15 a.m., at the Lutz Senior Center, 112 First Ave., N.W.

For information, call (813) 264-3803.

Stem cells and back pain
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host the seminar “Your Stem Cells for Back Pain” April 23 at noon.

Discussions will include stem cell therapy, degeneration and pain.

Admission is free, but reservations are required. A complimentary light lunch will be served.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Sibling classes
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a sibling class for children ages 7 years and older April 23 at 5 p.m.

The class will help prepare children for the arrival of a new baby.

Cost is $10 per child.

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

Caregiver support group
Florida Cancer Affiliates will host a caregiver support group meeting April 23 at 6 p.m., at its New Port Richey center, 5500 Little Road.

The group is open to anyone who is looking after a sick loved one, watching over an elderly parent, raising a grandchild, caring for a child with a mental or physical disability or mental illness, or simply helping out another.

For information, call (727) 372-9159.

FHZH selects director of marketing
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills has named Cheryl Kennison as its new director of marketing. Kennison served as marketing manager at Florida Hospital Tampa before coming to Zephyrhills.

She also has served as marketing and foundation director for Bert Fish Medical Çenter in New Smyrna Beach.

Kennison is a graduate of Union College in Nebraska.

Kennison resides in Wesley Chapel with her family.

Get copy of advance directives
National Health Care Decision Day is April 16, and HPH Hospice is offering a download of an advance directive form on its homepage at HPH-Hospice.org.

Those interested also can have a packet mailed to them by calling (866) 940-0962.

HPH representatives also are available to meet one-on-one for guidance through the preparation of an advance directive.

For information, call Jane Freeman at (727) 863-7971 or (800) 486-8784.

Living Will distribution
The Hook Law Group is providing free living wills April 16 at Gulfside Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road in Zephyrhills from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.

For information, call (727) 842-1001.

Medicare training
The Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas Inc. and the Florida Department of Elder Affairs are offering comprehensive training on the basics of Medicare in a three-day program for those interested in volunteering with the Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders Program.

The training begins April 22.

For information, call Susan Samson at (727) 570-9696, ext. 234, or visit FloridaShine.org.

Women and menopause
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., will host the seminar “Straight Talk for Women: The Big Change” April 24 at 6 p.m.

Women between the ages of 35 and 55 can learn more about the expected changes and creative survival strategies for dealing with menopause.

Guest speaker is Delrose Brown.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

Gulfside hospice orientation
Gulfside Hospice is hosting an orientation for new volunteers in East Pasco County April 24 and April 25 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 16 years old. Space is limited.

To reserve a spot, call Jennifer Ball or Tracey Thompson at (813) 780-1235.

Alzheimer’s Caregiver Day
Alzheimer’s Family Organization is hosting its Caregiver Day May 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at Bayfront Health Dade City, 13100 Fort King Road.

The event includes refreshments, lunch, certificate of attendance, and guest speakers.  Topics include research updates, Medicare fraud and elder law issues.

Cost is $10 for AFO members, and $25 for non-members.

Registration is required.

For information, call (727) 848-8888 or (888) 496-8004.

HPH Hospice’s Grief’s Journey
HPH Hospice will host an eight-week Grief’s Journey group for newly bereaved adults.

The group will meet beginning at 2 p.m. on Wednesdays beginning May 7 at HPH’s Resource Center, 37441 Clinton Ave., in Dade City.

The group is free, and individuals who haven’t used hospice services are invited.

Preregistration is required.

For information, call (800) 486-8784.

Community Health Fair
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, C1 Bank, and Elks USA will host their Community Health Fair June 11 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., at Elks Lodge 2731, Wire Road in Zephyrhills.

The event will feature free health screenings, health and wellness education, door prizes, and a low-cost lunch.

 

Blankenship is employee of the month
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point has recognized Mark Blankenship, registered respiratory therapist and member of the respiratory care team, as its February Employee of the Month. Celebrating the honor are, from left, Chief Medical Officer Joseph Pino, Chief Executive Officer Shayne George, Mark Blankenship, Respiratory Therapy Director Melanie Schmitt, Chief Nursing Officer Tanya Simpson, Human Resources Vice President Geoff Washburn, and Chief Operating Officer Shalin Shah.

Give blood, get gift card
OneBlood will host blood drives at the following Walgreens locations April 12 from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m.:
• 7925 Gunn Highway, Tampa
• 17511 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., Tampa
• 22829 State Road 54, Land O’ Lakes
There will also be a blood drive on April 14 at 18511 U.S. 41 in Lutz.

All donors receive a wellness checkup, a cholesterol screening and a $10 Walgreens gift card. Donors must be at least 16 years old and weigh 110 pounds.

For information, visit OneBlood.org.

Heart healthy nutrition
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a class called Heart Healthy Nutrition: Eating for a Healthy Lifestyle April 15 at 10 a.m.

The class will review heart healthy eating to control blood pressure, weight and protect the heart. Participants will learn dietary balance, good and bad fats, controlling sodium intake, calorie balance, and the importance of dietary fiber.

Seating is limited.

To make a reservation, call (727) 834-5630.

Female pelvic seminar
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is hosting a seminar entitled “Common Female Pelvic Problems: Essential Knowledge to Restore Your Lifestyle” April 16 at noon.

Guest speaker is Dr. Mona McCullough to discuss common pelvic issues facing women and the treatment options available.

Admission is free. A complimentary lunch will be served. Seating is limited and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Get copy of advance directive
National Health Care Decision Day is April 16 and HPH Hospice is offering a download of an advance directive at its homepage at HPH-Hospice.org.

Those interested can also have a packet mailed to them by calling (866) 940-0962.

An HPH staff representative also is available to meet one-on-one for guidance through the preparation of an advance directive.

Call Jane Freeman at (727) 863-7971 or (800) 486-8784.

Living will distribution
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care and Hook Law Group are partnering to provide free living wills April 16 at these locations:

• Gulfside’s Corporate Resource Center office, 2061 Collier Parkway in Land O’ Lakes, from 9 a.m. to noon

• Hook Law Group offices, 4918 Floramar Terrace in New Port Richey, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For information, call (727) 842-1001.

Parkinson’s support group
The Parkinson’s Support Group will meet April 16 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m., at Church of the Nazarene, 5902 Himes Ave., in Tampa.

Guest speaker is Emily Wilson of the Florida Alliance for Assistive Services.

Light refreshments will be provided.

For information, call Jane Lowry at (813) 908-6685, or Adele Ida Walter at (813) 932-6902.

Oak Hill fills residency program
Oak Hill Hospital in Spring Hill has filled all 10 of its internal medicine residency positions through its association with the National Resident Matching Program.

The program is accredited for 30 residents, with 10 residents starting July 2014.

This is a three-year training program, and an additional 10 residents will be added each year to total 30 residents at Oak Hill Hospital over the next three years.

Sibling classes
The obstetrics program at Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a sibling class for children ages 2 to 6 years old April 16 at 5 p.m.

Topics include what a new baby looks like, how to become a big helper, and how to make friends with the new baby.

Cost is $10 per child.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Lymphedema support
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host its monthly lymphedema support group April 17 at 3 p.m.

Lymphedema is a persistent swelling, usually an arm or leg, which can occur as a side effect of cancer treatment.

Seating is limited and reservations are required.

For information, call (727) 834-5630.

Gulfside appoints Suggs
Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care has appointed Dr. Charles L. Suggs III as its new chief medical officer.

Suggs started at Gulfside Regional Hospice, now Gulfside Hospice, in August 2006 as a team physician. He also has served as the medical director for both Gulfside Regional Hospice and Pasco Palliative Care.

He has more than 30 years experience practicing medicine, and is board certified in hospice and palliative care medicine, as well as in obstetrics and gynecology.

Chatterboxes meeting
Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host a Chatterboxes meeting April 3 at 3 p.m.

The support group assists people suffering from communication deficits as a result of a cerebral vascular accident or other neurological disorder.

Caregivers and spouses are encouraged to attend.

For information, call (727) 834-4445.

Chronic disease program
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, will offer the chronic disease self-management program Living Healthy beginning April 3 at 1:30 p.m., and continuing on April 10, April 17, April 24, May 1 and May 8.

Topics include dealing with fatigue, appropriate exercise, use of medications, new treatments, and communicating with family.

The workshop is free, but class size is limited.

For reservations, call (727) 869-5498.

Celiac support group
Regional Medical Center Bayonet Point, 14000 Fivay Road in Hudson, hosts the West Pasco celiac support group the first Saturday of every month at 10 a.m. The next meeting is April 5.

Meetings are open to the public and include recipe demonstrations of a gluten-free diet. For information, visit RMCHealth.com.

Give blood, get gift card
OneBlood will host blood drives April 7 at two Walgreens locations, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. Each donor will receive a $10 gift card to Walgreens. Donors must be at least 16 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds. The stores are:
• 22829 State Road 54 in Land O’ Lakes
• 20741 Bruce B. Downs Blvd., in Tampa

For information, visit OneBlood.org.

Helping HANDs
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, will host Helping HANDs, a support group for family members and friends impacted by autism, April 9 at 7 p.m.

There will be a guest presenter from the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at the University of South Florida.

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

Heart healthy nutrition
The Medical Center of Trinity, 9330 State Road 54, is offering a class called Heart Healthy Nutrition: Eating for a Healthy Lifestyle April 15 at 10 a.m.

The class will review heart healthy eating to control blood pressure, weight and protect the heart. Participants will learn dietary balance, good and bad fats, controlling sodium intake, calorie balance, and the importance of dietary fiber.

Seating is limited.

To make a reservation, call (727) 834-5630.

Carpal tunnel presentation
Florida Hospital Zephyrhills, 7050 Gall Blvd., will present a treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome seminar hosted by Dr. Randolph Knight April 3 at 6 p.m., in the hospital’s Wellness Center Conference Room.

To register, call (877) 534-3108.

Give blood in ZH
OneBlood will have blood drives April 5 and April 12 at Walgreens,12807 U.S. 301 in Dade City, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m., both days. Each donor will receive a $10 gift card to Walgreens. Donors must be at least 16 years old and weigh at least 110 pounds.

For information, visit OneBlood.org.

Get copy of advance directives
National Health Care Decision Day is April 16 and HPH Hospice is offering a download of an advance directive form on its homepage at HPH-Hospice.org.

Those interested also can have a packet mailed to them by calling (866) 940-0962.

HPH representatives also are available to meet one-on-one for guidance through the preparation of an advance directive.

For information, call Jane Freeman at (727) 863-7971 or (800) 486-8784.

Caregiver luncheon
The Hook Law Group and Gulfside Hospice & Pasco Palliative Care will host a caregiver luncheon called Life Planning and Healthcare Decisions April 16 at 11:30 a.m., at Tampa Bay Golf & Country Club in San Antonio.

Panelists include Joan Nelson Hook and Dr. Charles Suggs III. They will speak on advance directives, life planning and more.

For information, call (727) 484-7933.

Living Will distribution
The Hook Law Group is providing free living wills April 16 at three locations:
• Gulfside Center for Hospice Care, 5760 Dean Dairy Road, Zephyrhills from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m.
• Gulfside’s Corporate Resource Center, 2061 Collier Parkway, Land O’ Lakes, from 9 a.m. to noon
• Hook Law Group, 4918 Floramar Terrace, New Port Richey, from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

For information, call (727) 842-1001.