There was also a large turnout from the Husky Heroes team at Relay For Life Farmington Valley this past weekend. The team raised $3,965 and Dr. Upendre Hegde, our chief medical oncologist, spoke about the importance of prevention and detection during opening ceremonies.
Both events were sponsored by our Carole and Ray Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center and a big thank you to all of those who donated and volunteered their time to make them a great success. View the photo gallery.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for June and early July 2018. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes.
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, June 2, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor large conference room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, June 2, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
Breastfeeding Class
Thursday, June 7, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor medium conference room S3030
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breastfeeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breastfeeding mother as well as how to continue breastfeeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, June 13, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor large conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.
Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Tuesday, June 19, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 4th floor
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetic and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Please call 860-679-7820 to register (required).
Living With Heart Disease Meeting
Thursday, June 21, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Men and women affected by heart disease meet on the third Thursday of every other month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heart-healthy recipes, coping strategies and resources. Significant others and caregivers are also welcome to attend. Please call Sue at 860-679-3633 for more information.
Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, June 21, 7 to 8 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, June 21, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.
Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, June 25, 5 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
The UConn Health Human Subjects Protection Office offers an educational session about the rights and responsibilities of participants in research projects on the last Monday of the month. Registration is required: 860-679-8802 or cagganello@uchc.edu.
Canceled 6/15
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, June 27, noon to 1 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor
The UConn Health Stroke Center invites stroke survivors, families and caregivers to a monthly group meeting to discuss topics such as prevention, coping methods, support systems, rehabilitation tips, resources, and promoting independence. The Stroke Survivor Group generally meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 860-679-4846 for more information.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, June 30, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, July 7, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor large conference room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, July 7, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
Breastfeeding Class
Wednesday, July 11, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor medium conference room S3301
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breastfeeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breastfeeding mother as well as how to continue breastfeeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Directions to UConn Health are available at health.uconn.edu/locations.
By Brittany Knight, Ph.D. candidate in Biomedical Sciences
The Connecticut Area Health Education Center (CT AHEC) Biomedical Education Discovery Saturday Program at UConn Health teaches middle- and high-school students about the use of biomedical engineering (BME) in health care.
Through the use of problem solving, team development, and hands-on application, students and coaches use recycled materials to design and build biomedical prototypes such as hydraulic arms, heart valves, and prosthetic legs, all the while considering the possibility of careers in health and BME.
Urban Service Track/AHEC scholars (a select group of students enrolled in UConn Schools of Dental Medicine, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Social Work, and Quinnipiac University’s Physician Assistant Program) serve as BME activity coaches.
On a recent weekend, the BME activity was heart valve engineering. After teaching 24 learners about heart valves and blood pressure, the UST/AHEC scholars guided them to design and construct a heart valve facsimile.
During the competition portion of the activity, Rajamani Selvam, fourth-year Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. student, served as a “shark”- just like on the show Shark Tank where inventors pitch their ideas to potential investors. Rajamani used her critical thinking skills to assess the quality of projects. She asked the teams questions about their heart valve: What materials did they use to make the valves? How long will a surgeon require to implant the valve? How durable is the valve? Can the valve withstand any strenuous activity? Learners often replied with a combination of factual and intentionally comical responses, considering their heart valves were constructed from recycled materials.
Rajamani said, “Some students get very creative in their pitch. For instance, one group proposed that they are a foundation of people working to address heart problems and this valve is affordable for all sectors of people, saying: ‘We are motivated to form this foundation to help other people who suffer from this ailment.’ I saw valves made of balloons, cardboard and clear tape.”
At the end of the competition the teams are scored based on the design of their valve as well as the effectiveness of their valve.
The final BME activity for the academic year—on the topic of prosthetic legs—will be held on June 2.
In observance of National Volunteer Day and UConn Cares, UConn alumni gathered at the food court last Saturday to assemble blankets for patients at the Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center. They assembled 40 cozy fleece, no-sew blankets. It was organized by Josh Proulx from the alumni group and Liz Krueger from the UConn Foundation. Around 50 alumni volunteers and their families put together the blankets with short inspirational message cards tucked inside. Patient navigator Amber Tillinghast will distribute the blankets to patients, specifically breast cancer patients getting the Dignicap scalp-cooling treatment to reduce hair loss during chemotherapy.
By Feria Ladha and Maria Xu, UConn MD/PhD students and APSA Institutional Representatives
Sponsored by the Office of Physician-Scientist Career Development, seven UConn MD/PhD students recently attended the national meeting for physician-scientists, which was held in Chicago. This annual joint meeting brings together some of the nation’s most illustrious physician-scientists from the Association of American Physicians (AAP) and American Society for Clinical Investigation (ASCI), as well as early-career trainees from the American Physician-Scientists Association (APSA), to celebrate advances in science and medicine.
It was an incredible opportunity for the students to present their research, hear talks from leaders in their field, network, and attend mentoring events. Anthony Pettinato, a third-year MD/PhD student, said, “I had a great time presenting and getting feedback regarding my work, connecting with others in the medical field, and gained invaluable insight into the research being conducted throughout the country by fellow students.”
This year, the meeting focused on aging, human genetics, and health longevity, with researchers and clinical investigators providing insights into their basic and clinical research. Students had the opportunity to listen to talks ranging from neurodegeneration to aging in the clinic. Michael Chung, a fourth-year MD/PhD student, said, “These talks really helped put my research, which involves neurology and human genetics, into a translational and clinical perspective. It’s great to see how innovative investigators can bring basic science research to the forefront of clinical care.”
There were also numerous mentoring sessions, where students had the opportunity to receive beneficial career advice directly from residency directors and established investigators. Jennifer Chung, a third-year MD/PhD student, said, “The mentoring events were extremely helpful, as they provided firsthand information from residency directors that you wouldn’t have the opportunity to hear elsewhere.” These sessions were multidisciplinary, enabling students to gather information regarding different specialties via the unique perspectives provided by physician-scientists of varying career backgrounds. Timofey Karginov, a first-year MD/PhD student, said, “Meeting residency directors and professors at other institutions allowed me to get a better idea of the steps I could be taking early on in my time as an MD/PhD in order to support my interests and my career goals.”
In addition to APSA-sponsored events, all seven UConn MD/PhD students attended the annual ASCI dinner and new member induction ceremony with Andrew Arnold, MD, an ASCI/AAP member and director of the UConn Office of Physician-Scientist Career Development. This prestigious dinner recognized the novel scientific contributions of new ASCI inductees, and attendees heard powerful career advice and perspective from George Q. Daley, MD, PhD, dean of Harvard Medical School and a renowned stem cell and cancer biology expert. Dr. Arnold noted that “exposing our aspiring physician-scientists to the Joint Meeting’s diverse array of role models and exciting clinically-relevant science has long been a major priority for our office and the UConn School of Medicine, and the continuous enthusiasm and participation from our students makes it all worthwhile.”
This year’s meeting was also notable as being the final one for Alexander Adami as a student, as he is nearing the end of his eighth and final year in the UConn MD/PhD program, after which he will begin an internal medicine residency at the University of Washington. Alex served as the national APSA President and played a crucial role in organizing these meetings. He has been an incredible liaison for UConn students to APSA and he will be greatly missed.
Whatever the stage of training, MD/PhD students all derived inspiration and excitement from their interactions at the Joint Meeting and look forward to returning.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for May and early June 2018. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 5/4)
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, May 5, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor, large conference Room S3301
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, May 5, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
(Date changed 4/27)
Breastfeeding Class
Wednesday, May 9
Thursday, May 10, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st floor conference room S1501
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breastfeeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breastfeeding mother as well as how to continue breastfeeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
(Removed 4/20)
Living With Heart Disease Meeting
Thursday, May 17, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Men and women affected by heart disease meet on the third Thursday of every other month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heart-healthy recipes, coping strategies and resources. Significant others and caregivers are also welcome to attend. Please call Sue at 860-679-3633 for more information.
Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, May 17, 7 to 8 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, May 17, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, May 19, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, May 23, noon to 1 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor
The UConn Health Stroke Center invites stroke survivors, families and caregivers to a monthly group meeting to discuss topics such as prevention, coping methods, support systems, rehabilitation tips, resources, and promoting independence. The Stroke Survivor Group generally meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 860-679-4846 for more information.
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, June 2, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor, large conference Room S2010
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, June 2, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
(Updated 5/4)
Breastfeeding Class
Wednesday, June 6
Thursday, June 7, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st floor conference room S1501
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breastfeeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breastfeeding mother as well as how to continue breastfeeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, June 13, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor large conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.
Directions to UConn Health are available at health.uconn.edu/locations.
Eighty-nine exceptional UConn Health employees were honored at the spring PAWS ceremony in Keller Auditorium Thursday. The employees were recognized for exhibiting the following qualities: being Part of a team, an Awesome attitude, a Wonderful Work Ethic, and Superior Service. In addition to the individual awards, two TEAM awards were also highlighted. Prior to recognizing each of the honorees, UConn Health CEO and Executive Vice President for Health Affairs, Dr. Andy Agwunobi welcomed and thanked them for their commitment and dedication which is deeply rooted in the overall success of our organization.
Among those recognized was an unsung hero Brenda Ortiz, a clinical office assistant in our General Medicine clinic. A patient, who has been coming to UConn Health for years, requested that Brenda be recognized for her outstanding service. The patient stated that Brenda always treats him like family. Every time he comes to UConn Health, Brenda offers him a big smile and greets him by name. He went on to say that he has seen her interact with other patients in the same manner, consistently. He is sure that she must have a bad day from time to time but it never affects her relationship with her patients. Brenda’s supervisor also noted that Brenda recently has started encouraging other employees to lead healthy lives by walking and exercising with them during lunch using our gym. Every day, Brenda focuses on making someone’s life better.
Here’s a complete list of the honorees:
Savitri Appiah…………………………………………………….. Patient Services
Noreen Allsop…………………………………………………….. Pulmonary Clinic
Tina Ammerman…………………………………………………. Dermatology Clinic – Canton
Michelle Cyr……………………………………………………….. CMHC – Osborn Medical
Tiffany Dyke………………………………………………………. CMHC – Osborn Medical
Patricia Fagan…………………………………………………….. Cardiac Cath. Lab
Heather Gaw……………………………………………………… CMHC – Osborn Medical
Aaron Greenblatt………………………………………………… Customer Service Support
Cesar Jerez………………………………………………………… CMHC – Osborn Medical
Sharon Kleinhen…………………………………………………. Parking & Transportation Services
Patricia Pavelchak……………………………………………….. RN Float Unit
Amanda Darcey………………………………………………….. JDH – Organization & Staff Development
Arlene Morin………………………………………………………. JDH – Organization & Staff Development
Donna Levesque…………………………………………………. Dental Financial Services
Rhonda Motley…………………………………………………… Dermatology Clinic – Canton
Brenda Ortiz………………………………………………………. UMG – General Medicine
Jessica Santos-Martinez……………………………………….. Neag Cancer Center Unit
Alka Sharma………………………………………………………. UConn HealthONE
Renata Szczepaniak…………………………………………….. Molecular Biology & Biophysics
Angela Thompson………………………………………………. Periodontology
Noreen Allsop…………………………………………………….. Pulmonary Clinic
Devon Bandouveres……………………………………………. JDH – Organization and Staff Development
Diana Campbell………………………………………………….. CMHC-Hartford-MED
Susan M. DelaCruz………………………………………………. CMHC-York-MED
Michael C. Desena………………………………………………. CMHC-Garner-MED
Diane Flanigan……………………………………………………. Clinical Nursing Units
Raymond Foster…………………………………………………. UMG-General Medicine
Sue Ellen Goodrich………………………………………………. Hospital-Admin
Kelly A. Quijano………………………………………………….. CMHC-Administration
Pulmonary Medicine Outpatient Nurse Team
Noreen Allsop Jilly Kelly Annette Wright
Grace Howard Joan Sellek Mary-Margaret Taylor
Labor & Delivery, OB/GYN Team
Patty DosSantos Almeida Carrie Ferrindino Jessica Pena
Robin Anderson Diane Fillion Jessica Perkins
Michelle Baker Lina Godfrey Karen Piazza
Christine Biolo Rocio Goyzueta Lauren Piro
Irene Bonati Sarah Hill Jacki Pond
Patricia Bowen Laura Jaggon Millicent Reynolds
Maryanne Calderoni Deb Junkins Doreen Rinaldo
Karen Callahan Suzanne Karelus Lauren Rocco
Jenny Caroon Danielle Kinney Jenny Serrambama
Marianne Chapman Joanna Kuszaj Danielle Shweky
Jen Charette Toni Leers Valerie Sokoloski
Melanie Cherubino Eileen Lopez Deb Stelick
Joann Cipriano Susan MacDonell Teri Stratton
Crose. Amy AnnMarie Marolda Courtney Tobin
Tara Distasio Karin McCormick Kimberly Tripputi
Mia DiTamasso Marisa A. Merlo Kathy Whitehead
Becky Fang Heather Messier Nicole Worrell
Kristen Festa Diane Morgan
By Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. candidate Brittany Knight and JSHS event organizer
For the second year in a row, UConn Health hosted the statewide competition of the Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS). This year around 200 students, teachers, and parents representing 40 schools took part in the all-day conference. It’s designed to provide high schools students with a forum to share ideas about how to solve real world problems with STEM education. STEM stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics which are all essential to the future of our technology-driven world.
In preparation for the competition, students submitted research proposals several months in advance that recognized a significant problem pertaining to human affairs. About 80 proposals were then rated by a panel of professionals in STEM science to be presented as oral or poster presentations. Needless to say, the scientific merit and rigor that went into these projects exceeded expectations and it was challenging to decide which projects were to be a part of the competition.
The symposium included a keynote presentation by Stormy Chamberlain, an associate professor in genetics and associate director of the Genetics and Developmental Biology Graduate Program at UConn Health. Her talk focused on her research using induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from patients with Angelman syndrome, Prader-willi syndrome, and 15q duplication syndrome.
Following the keynote, students were divided into groups to present or attend the poster and oral presentations. Students were also given the opportunity to attend a career panel session with young professionals in social work, nursing, pharmaceutical science, medical science, research, public health, and dentistry. Students asked the panel questions pertaining to career motivations, challenges with career decisions, college or high school course preparation, internships, college planning, loans, etc.
Another option for students was touring some of our research labs, including the virtual anatomy lab, to participate in hands-on activities and learn about the exciting research being done here. Graduate students in the Biomedical Sciences Ph.D. program, including Matthew Sticco (Neuroscience), Nicholas Wasko (Immunology), Rajamani Selvam (Neuroscience), and Shubham Khetan (Genetics) led the tours. They each created a short module that consisted of hands-on activities as well as career advice for students interested in pursuing a career in research.
At the end of the event, top presentations were announced. The effort and scientific merit that went into this year’s projects was nothing short of amazing. It’s important to note that last year’s first place national winner was one of Connecticut’s JSHS winners last March.
JSHS is nationally organized by the Academy of Applied Sciences with sponsorship from the U.S. Army, Naval, and Air Force. Connecticut’s program would not have been made possible without the dedication of Connecticut Area Health Education Center Network (AHEC) and the staff at UConn Health. We wish the best of luck to the five Connecticut representatives at the national competition in May.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for April and early May 2018. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 3/16)
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, April 7, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor, large conference Room S3301
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, April 7, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, April 9, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 4th floor
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetic and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Please call 860-679-7820 to register (required).
New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, April 10, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor east, patient lobby
The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, May 15, that include a weigh-in, discussion of progress, and a timely nutrition topic such as eating out strategies, cooking light and right, emotional eating, exercise and activity, and smart shopping. Registration fee is $70, $50 for past participants. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 for more information.
Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, April 11, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st floor conference room S1501
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, April 19, 7 to 8 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, April 19, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.
Living With Heart Disease Meeting
Thursday, April 19, 11 a.m. to noon, UConn Health, University Tower, 2nd floor conference room
Men and women affected by heart disease meet on the third Thursday of every other month to discuss post-diagnosis topics such as prevention and wellness, social and emotional support, heart-healthy recipes, coping strategies and resources. Significant others and caregivers are also welcome to attend. Please call Sue at 860-679-3633 for more information.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, April 21, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, April 25, noon to 1 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor
The UConn Health Stroke Center invites stroke survivors, families and caregivers to a monthly group meeting to discuss topics such as prevention, coping methods, support systems, rehabilitation tips, resources, and promoting independence. The Stroke Survivor Group generally meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 860-679-4846 for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Class
Wednesday, April 25, 6 to 10 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor large conference room S3301
This one-day class covers anatomy and physiology of pregnancy and labor, emotions of pregnancy, nutrition, fetal growth and development, comfort measures for labor, working with unexpected events in labor, cesarean delivery, and practice of relaxation and breathing techniques for labor. Class size is limited to eight couples. Remember to bring two pillows and wear comfortable clothing. Light snack is provided. Fee is $100. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 to register or for more information.
(Added 3/16)
UConn Health Auxiliary’s Spring Market
Friday, April 27, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., UConn Health, Main Building
The UConn Health Auxiliary’s annual spring shopping event features vendors in the main and Keller lobbies. Money raised goes toward the Auxiliary’s free mammogram programs, its patient assistance program, and its patient education program in the Outpatient Pavilion. For more information please call 860-679-2963.
Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, April 30, 5 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
The UConn Health Human Subjects Protection Office offers an educational session about the rights and responsibilities of participants in research projects on the last Monday of the month. Registration is required: 860-679-8802 or cagganello@uchc.edu.
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, May 5, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor, large conference Room S3301
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, May 5, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, May 9, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st floor conference room S1501
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Directions to UConn Health are available at health.uconn.edu/locations.
Here is a list of UConn Health programs scheduled for March and early April 2018. This information will be updated with any additions or other schedule changes. (Updated 3/6)
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, March 3, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor, large conference Room S3301
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, March 3, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
(Rescheduled 3/6)
Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, March 7
Thursday, March 15, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st floor conference room S1501
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Breast Cancer Support Group
Thursday, March 15, 7 to 8 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
This is a support group intended for women under the age of 45 who’ve been diagnosed with non-metastatic breast cancer. Women at any point in their cancer survivorship journey are welcome. Meetings are the third Thursday of the month. To register or more information, call 860-679-7820 or email tillinghast@uchc.edu.
Infertility Peer Support Group
Thursday, March 15, 7 to 8:30 p.m., Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, 2 Batterson Park Road, Farmington.
The Greater Hartford chapter of RESOLVE, a national nonprofit resource for those facing the challenges of infertility, offers support, information and confidential, informal, peer-led discussions on the third Thursday of the month. To learn more or to check for weather-related cancellation, call 860-523-8337.
Free Hospital Maternity Tours
Saturday, March 17, 2 p.m., UConn Health, University Tower lobby
A representative will guide you through labor and delivery, postpartum, and the nursery at the UConn John Dempsey Hospital. Children and grandparents are welcome. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Free Workshop: “Things to Consider Before Joining a Research Study”
Monday, March 26, 5 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
The UConn Health Human Subjects Protection Office offers an educational session about the rights and responsibilities of participants in research projects on the last Monday of the month. Registration is required: 860-679-8802 or cagganello@uchc.edu.
Stroke Survivor Group
Wednesday, March 28, noon to 1 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor
The UConn Health Stroke Center invites stroke survivors, families and caregivers to a monthly group meeting to discuss topics such as prevention, coping methods, support systems, rehabilitation tips, resources, and promoting independence. The Stroke Survivor Group generally meets on the fourth Wednesday of the month. Call 860-679-4846 for more information.
Living Well With Epilepsy: A Support Group for Young Adults
Saturday, April 7, noon to 1:30 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 3rd floor, large conference Room S3301
The Epilepsy Foundation of Connecticut, in partnership with the UConn Health Department of Neurology, offers a support group for young adults who live with epilepsy. This group is open to those aged 18 to 30 who would like to join others to share experience, gain peer support, and learn together about epilepsy and overcoming its challenges to live well. The group generally meets on the first Saturday of the month. Please call 860-346-1924 or email manzelone.efct@sbcglobal.net for more information.
Bladder Cancer Support Group
Saturday, April 7, 2 to 3 p.m., UConn Health, Onyiuke Dining Room
Patients, family members and caregivers (not limited to UConn Health patients) are invited to join others whose lives have been touched by bladder cancer. This support group, established in partnership with the Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network, usually meets on the first Saturday of the month and is the only group of its kind in New England. Call 888-901-BCAN for more information.
Free Cosmetology Services for Cancer Survivors
Monday, April 9, 1 to 3 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 4th floor
“Look Good…Feel Better” is a free program to help improve the self-image and self-esteem of women experiencing appearance-related side effects from cancer treatment. During this hands-on workshop, a trained volunteer certified cosmetologist will teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetic and skin care products donated by the cosmetic industry. Classes are offered every other month and are not limited to UConn Health patients. Please call 860-679-7820 to register (required).
New 6-week “Ready to Lose” Weight Management Program Starts
Tuesday, April 10, 5 to 6 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 2nd floor east
The introductory session is followed by five weekly sessions through Tuesday, May 15, that include a weigh-in, discussion of progress, and a timely nutrition topic such as eating out strategies, cooking light and right, emotional eating, exercise and activity, and smart shopping. Registration fee is $70, $50 for past participants. Call 800-535-6232 or 860-679-7692 for more information.
Breast-feeding Class
Wednesday, April 11, 6 to 8 p.m., UConn Health Outpatient Pavilion, 1st floor conference room S1501
A certified lactation consultant leads a discussion of topics including the benefits of breast-feeding, how to get started, and how the rest of the family can help the breast-feeding mother as well as how to continue breast-feeding and working. Fee is $25 per couple. Call 800-535-6232 to register or for more information.
Directions to UConn Health are available at bit.ly/GetToUCH.