Joe's Health Calendar 8/24/12 Walk More Eat Less

Free Dental Clinic in Sacramento

Aug. 24 (today) and Aug. 25 (Saturday) 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.; clinic doors open at 5 a.m.: Cal Expo, 1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento.?When the clinic has reached the number of patients it can serve Friday, the rest of the people in line will be asked to come on Saturday and will be provided with information on local dental clinics and/or dentists. Patients are seen on a first-come, first-served basis. We strongly encourage you to come early. The event is a collaborative effort between the California Dental Association, the CDA Foundation and the national charitable organization Missions of Mercy.?Click here for more information.

CareVan Provides Daily Free Health Clinic

St. Joseph?s Medical Center CareVan presents a free, walk-in health clinic for low-income and no-insurance individuals or families, 16 years old and older. The hospital?s mobile health care services will be available to handle most minor urgent needs, such as minor burns, bumps, abrasions, sprains, sinus and urinary tract infections, cold and flu. No narcotics prescriptions will be offered. Diabetes screening and blood pressure screening are offered on special days only as noted. If you have questions, contact?(209) 461-3471. Clinic schedule is subject to change without notice:

• Aug. 24 (today) 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.:?Pittman School, 701 E. Park St., Stockton.
• Aug. 25 (Saturday) 1:30 to 5:30 p.m.:?Weber Point, 221 N. Center St., Stockton.?Diabetes and blood pressure screening will be offered at this clinic.
• Aug. 28 (Tuesday) 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.:?Spanos School, 536 S. California St., Stockton.?A representative will be available to screen patients for insurance eligibility. This clinic is brought to you by St. Joseph?s Spirit Club members.
• Aug. 29 (Wednesday) 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:?San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton.
• Aug. 30 (Thursday) 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:?San Joaquin County Fairgrounds, 1658 S. Airport Way, Stockton.?A representative will be available to screen patients for insurance eligibility.
• Aug. 31 (Friday) 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.:?Central United Methodist Church, 3700 Pacific Ave., Stockton.?Diabetes and blood pressure screening will be offered at this clinic.?A representative will be available to screen patients for insurance eligibility.

Free Prostate Screening in Tracy

Aug. 25 (Saturday) 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.:?Urologist Dr. Salman Razi will provide free prostate screenings at Sutter Tracy Community Hospital, 1420 N. Tracy Blvd., Tracy (surgical services entrance at corner of Bessie Avenue and Beverly Place) for walk-in patients. No appointments necessary.?Click here for more details on eligibility. Information:?(209) 832-6511?or?www.suttertracy.org

All-Day Childbirth Preparation Class

Aug. 25 (Saturday) 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (or Nov. 17):?This class covers all information listed in our evening series in a one-day condensed class.?Please bring three pillows, a blanket and/or exercise mat each night of class. You should attend this class during your?third trimester.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Classroom 1, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?orwww.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Childbirth Preparation in Lodi

Aug. 25 (Saturday) 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (or Sept. 22): Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi,?offers an all-day childbirth-preparation class. Cost is $45 per couple. For more information or to register, call?(209) 339-7520.? For information on other classes available at Lodi Memorial, visit its website at?www.lodihealth.org.

Cure SMA Walk-n-Roll Across America

Aug. 25 (Saturday) 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.:?Northern California Families of Spinal Muscular Atrophy host 10th annual Walk-n-Roll at?Golden Gate Park, San Francisco. Registration: $25 adult; $10 youth 12 and younger. Fee includes a Walk ballcap and lunch. Information:?www.smanorcal.org?or?info@smanorcal.org.

Swing Fore Health

Aug. 27 (Monday) 10:30 a.m. registration; 12:30 p.m. shotgun start:?Sutter Gould Medical Foundation Golf Classic to raise funds for the foundation. Event will be at?Stockton Golf and Country Club. Information:braleyki@sutterhealth.org?or?(209) 955-3050.

We Are Mothers Taking Action

?Aug. 29 (Wednesday) 5 to 7 p.m.:?Public Health Services Boardroom, 1601 E. Hazelton Ave., Stockton.?We are your neighbors, friends, sisters ? and your partners in the fight for a healthy future for our children and our communities.? We know moms can make a big difference ? but we need your help. Is it difficult for you to eat healthy? Is it difficult for you to exercise and stay active? Do you or your children struggle with diabetes or other chronic illnesses? Are you ready to take action??San Joaquin County mothers are coming together now. There will be free produce and cookbooks and a free raffle for gift cards. Information: San Joaquin County Public Health Services at?(209) 468-3868. Join one of our upcoming meetings to learn more and share your ideas.

2012 Promising Practices Exchange

Sept. 6 (Thursday) 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.:? Join the?Healthy Eating Active Living Collaborative??for a day of sharing promising practices, engaging discussion and recognition of the successes and commitments of those working to educate, engage and empower low-income communities to eat healthy and be active at the?Robert J. Cabral Agricultural Center, 2101 E. Earhart Ave., Stockton.

Breastfeeding: Getting Off to a Great Start

Sept. 6 (Thursday) 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.:?Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi,?offers ?Breastfeeding: Getting off to a Great Start,? a one-session class covering the advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy, the breastfeeding process, common problems and solutions. An additional breastfeeding class for working moms is held Sept. 18 (Tuesday), 6:30 to 8 p.m., and is available only to participants who have already attended ?Breastfeeding: Getting off to a Great Start.?? Call?(209) 339-7520?to register. For information on other classes available at Lodi Memorial, visit its website at?www.lodihealth.org.

Let?s Get Healthy California Task Force

Earlier this year, Gov. Brown established the ?Let?s Get Healthy California? Task Force, which is charged with developing a 10-year strategic plan to improve the health of Californians, control health care costs, advance health equity and promote personal responsibility. Members of the task force and an expert advisory committee were appointed by Health Secretary Diana Dooley and will be meeting via webinar over the next few months to develop priorities and recommendations in the following areas:

• Prevention and Population Health
• Delivery System Quality Improvement
• Coverage and Access
• Affordability and Costs

To get email notices and more information please visit?www.chhs.ca.gov/Pages/HealthCalTaskforce.aspx. If you have any questions, contact Sarah Mercer at?smercer@cpehn.org. Here?s the 2012 Let?s Get Healthy California Taskforce meeting and webinar schedule:

• Sept. 12 (Wednesday) 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.:?Target Setting for Priority Areas.
• Sept. 20 (Thursday) 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.:?Stakeholder teleconference with Health Secretary Diana Dooley.
• Sept. 28 (Friday) 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.:?Second task force meeting (Garfield Innovation Center in San Leandro); adopt priorities, targets and begin to discuss evidence-based solutions/best practices.
• Oct. 16 (Tuesday) 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.:?Evidence-based solutions/best practices.
• Oct. 23 (Tuesday) 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.:?Evidence-based solutions/best practices.
• Nov. 13 (Tuesday) 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.:?Third task force meeting (East End Complex Auditorium in Sacramento); review draft report.
• Dec. 19 (Wednesday):?Report released.

Childbirth Preparation Series

Sept. 12 (Wednesday) 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. (also Sept. 19, 26, Oct. 3):?Class One: Understanding Pregnancy. Class Two: Understanding Labor and Birth. Class Three: Understanding Medical Procedures and Cesarean Birth. Class Four: Understanding Postpartum. Are you ready for labor and birth? This four-class series prepares mom and her coach for the emotional and physical changes of labor and birth. The series includes relaxation and breathing techniques to increase comfort during labor.?Please bring three pillows, a blanket and/or exercise mat each night of class. You should attend this series during your?third trimester.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Classroom 1, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?or?www.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Coach for Life?s Champions Awards Dinner and Nominations

Sept. 15 (Saturday) 5 to 9 p.m.:??San Joaquin Stay-Cation, Island Style? is the theme for this year?s fifth annual Coach for Life?s Champions Awards Dinner sponsored by stroke support nonprofit Healings in Motion. The event will be held atVariety?s Banquet Hall & Terrace, 6111 West Lane, Stockton.?Click here?for early bird tickets on sale now. Nominations are open for awards.?Click here?for nomination form.?Information:?www.healingsinmotion.org. Sponsorships help Champions experience this event and provide great exposure. To inquire about being a sponsor, contact Mary Nicholson at?(877) 672-4480 ext. 5. Donations for door prizes and silent auction items can be made by contacting Sandy Jemison at?(877) 672-4480 ext. 2.

Welcome to Life Tour

Sept. 17 (Monday) 7 to 9 p.m. (or Oct. 15, Nov. 5 or Dec. 10):?This class gives you specific information about where to go and what to do when it comes time to have your baby, including pre-admission registration. Includes a tour of the maternity area and birthing options tailored to individual needs.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Auditorium, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213or?www.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Big Brother ? Big Sister in Stockton

Sept. 18 (Tuesday) 6 to 7 p.m. (or Nov. 13):?This class helps siblings learn about new babies, how it will feel to be a big brother or sister, and see new babies and where they are born in our birthing area. Families are welcome.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Pavilion Conference Room (1st?floor), 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?or?www.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Big-Brother/Big-Sister Class for Kids 3-8 in Lodi

Sept. 19 (Wednesday) 3 to 4:30 p.m.: Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi,?offers a big-brother/big-sister preparation class. This class, for children ages 3 to 8, will help youngsters adjust to the arrival of the new baby. The cost is $10 for the first child and $3 for each additional child. Call?(209) 339-7520?to register.?For more information, visit the LMH website at?www.lodihealth.org.

Stork Tours for Parents-To-Be

Sept. 19 (Wednesday) 6 to 7:30 p.m.:?Parents-to-be are invited to attend a free stork tour at?Lodi Memorial Hospital, 975 S. Fairmont Ave., Lodi.?Prospective parents may view the labor, delivery, recovery and nursery areas of the hospital and ask questions of the nursing staff. Call?(209) 339-7520?to register.?For more information on other classes available at Lodi Memorial, visit its website at?www.lodihealth.org.

Nurturing Parenting 3-Day Seminar in Stockton

Sept. 25-27 (Tuesday through Thursday):?Click here for all the details.

Healthy San Joaquin Recognition Awards Breakfast

Sept. 26 (Wednesday) 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. (reservations required):?The Healthy San Joaquin Collaborative will present awards to individuals and organizations that exhibit actions contributing to changes promoting and encouraging nutrition and/or physical activity in San Joaquin County.?The Awards & Recognition Breakfast will be held at the?Robert J. Cabral Agricultural Center, 2101 E. Earhart Ave., Stockton. RSVP required at ?http://ucce.ucdavis.edu/survey/survey.cfm?surveynumber=8638.

Veterans Stand Down in Stockton

Sept. 28 (Friday) 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.:?This biannual event is geared toward homeless veterans, who will be able to see a doctor, have dental work done, take a shower, get a haircut, learn about resources available to them and pick up free giveaways such as a backpack, ground pad, clothes, wipes, can opener, eyeglasses, etc. There will be a barbecue at noon at the main event,?Stockton WorkNet Building, 56 S. Lincoln St., while?St. Mary?s Dining Hall, 545 W. Sonora St.,?will by the site for health services. This all-volunteer event is being coordinated by Jason Lebeouf at?(209) 954-3920. Donations still being accepted.

Hydrocephalus Awareness & Family Fun Day

Oct. 6 (Saturday) 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.:?The third annual Northern California Hydrocephalus Awareness & Family Fun Day will be held in Mountain House, just north of Tracy. Last year?s Family Fun Day was a huge success as our families and community came together to share and join in an inspirational day that helped raise close to $16,000 for research. This year we expect more fun, food, music, great raffle prizes and inspiration as we? continue to march on with the C.H.A.N.G.E. Hydrocephalus campaign that will:

• Increase support in local communities by holding monthly ?meet-ups? designed to empower individuals and families in dealing with the condition known as hydrocephalus and some of its challenges.
• Increase education in local schools, hospitals and other facilities that are linked to the Hydrocephalus Community by providing informational talks and/or providing educational and supportive materials.
• Work closely with neurosurgeon Dr. Peter Sun, his staff and Children?s Hospital & Research Center Oakland, to ensure the most up-to-date information and treatment for hydrocephalus is distributed to the community, schools and medical facilities.
• Increase funding for local communities here in California and across the United States, eventually spreading the C.H.A.N.G.E. campaign globally.
• Hold annual Hydrocephalus Community Awareness Family Fun Days uniting community, families, friends and anyone who wishes to join in on the inspirational fun!

A Pocketful of Change and the C.H.A.N.G.E. Hydrocephalus campaign continues with the dream it has had since it was founded in August 2010 ? continued support, awareness, education, funding and advancement toward the care and treatment of hydrocephalus and continuing to hold the Family Fun Day for the third year in a row. APC is dedicated to you, your children and our communities. Information or to volunteer:?kimruiz.apocketfulofchange@gmail.com.

Prenatal Nutrition and Exercise

Oct. 10 (Wednesday) 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. (or Dec. 5):?Nurturing your baby starts by taking good care of yourself during pregnancy. Come learn about healthy weight gain guidelines, good nutrition, how to manage common pregnancy discomforts, and more. This class will give you an introduction to exercise during pregnancy including body mechanics, posture and basic back care. Please wear comfortable clothing to allow for movement.Please bring three pillows, a blanket and/or exercise mat to class.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Classroom 1, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?orwww.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Breastfeeding Class

Oct. 10 (Wednesday) 7 to 9:30 p.m. (or Dec. 5):?This class offers mothers and their partners information on the benefits of breastfeeding, the importance of exclusive breastfeeding and the basics of breastfeeding management. Topics include latching, the effect of analgesia/anesthesia on infant behavior, and the rationales of care practices such as early skin-to-skin contact, rooming-in and feeding on cue. Expressing breast milk, and helpful hints for your family.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Auditorium, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?or?www.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Having a Cesarean Birth

Oct. 17 (Thursday) 5 to 6:30 p.m. (or Dec. 12):?This class is designed to prepare a mother and her partner who are having a planned cesarean birth or may need a cesarean birth. Learn about the cesarean procedure including anesthesia options, what to expect, how to take care of yourself during recovery and also special techniques to ensure successful breastfeeding.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Pavilion Conference Room (1st?floor), 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?orwww.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

The Newborn

Oct. 17 (Thursday) 7 to 9:30 p.m. (or Dec. 12):?Parents-to-be, come learn about life with a newborn, the baby?s needs and changing development. Discussion includes baby care basics such as feeding, diapering and bathing, as well as the physical appearances of newborns and practical tips for parents.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Auditorium, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 461-5213?orwww.StJosephsCares.org/Baby. Preregistration is not required for this free class.

Caring for the Caregiver Symposium Advance Notice

Nov. 10 (Saturday):??A Mindset to Care? is?the theme of this year?s fifth annual Caring for the Caregiver Symposium in Stockton, sponsored by nonprofit stroke support group Healings in Motion. Keynote speaker will be Dr. Gary Small, author of?The Alzheimer?s Prevention Plan,?The Memory Bible?and other best-selling books. Exhibitors should contact Corie Moyers, committee chair and director of client services at Arcadia Home Care & Staffing,coriem@arcadiacare.com;?Stockton at?(209) 477-9480?or Modesto at?(209) 572-7650. For sponsorships, contact Jim Chong, committee chair, at?(209) 534-8000?or Mary Nicholson at?(877) 672-4480 ext.5.?Information:www.healingsinmotion.org.

Safeway Shoppers ?Make a Muscle? for MDA

Now through Sept. 3:?Safeway Inc.?s annual fundraising campaign for the?Muscular Dystrophy Associationsupports health care services for those living with neuromuscular diseases and global MDA research initiatives. The nationwide campaign gives customers the opportunity to help fight muscle disease by contributing at the register to MDA?s ?Make a Muscle, Make a Difference?? program. Safeway has raised more than $68.7 million for MDA, contributing to the search for better treatments and cures for the more than 40 neuromuscular diseases in MDA?s program. ?We?re so grateful to the generous Safeway customers and employees who have truly made a difference in helping us fight muscle disease,? said Dr. Valerie Cwik, MDA?s interim president and medical director.? ?Important clinical trials are under way that we hope will lead to effective treatments of diseases such as Duchenne muscular dystrophy and spinal muscular atrophy ? and this wouldn?t be possible without Safeway.? ?MDA funds some 300 neuromuscular disease research projects around the world from basic science to clinical trials.?In addition to funding research, Safeway?s annual MDA campaign raises public awareness for many of the muscle diseases covered in the association?s program.

Healthy Families: What Parents Should Know NOW

The final California state budget eliminated Healthy Families, a program providing affordable health, dental and vision coverage to nearly 900,000 California children. These children will be moved into the state?s Medi-Cal insurance program eventually and will continue to be covered by Healthy Families until then. The state?s plan for moving those covered by Healthy Families into Medi-Cal will be presented to the Legislature in October 2012. In the meantime, parents with children in Healthy Families need to understand they still have coverage and are aware of the upcoming changes. The following fliers may help:

1 in 40 ? SMA Could Affect You

The statistic is: 1 in 40 people carry the gene that causes SMA ? Spinal Muscular Atrophy. That means that more than 7 million Americans are carriers of a disease that most people have never heard about.?I learned about SMA when I lost two daughters, Jessica & Jaylin Gayle to SMA in 2001 & 2002. (Click here for the story.)?Here are a few quick facts. SMA is the leading genetic killer of children under the age of 2. SMA is a degenerative disease that affects the voluntary muscles. Those that survive face a life watching as their muscles slowly fail, leaving them unable to walk, crawl, sit up or even swallow. It is a recessive disease ? two parents who are both carriers of the gene that causes SMA have a one in four chance of passing the disease on to a child. SMA crosses all racial, ethnic, religious and gender boundaries and while it is primarily diagnosed in children it can affect people of any age.?August is SMA awareness month and there is hope. Families of SMA, a grassroots organization of which I am a member, is funding drug development programs and clinical trials which may mean a treatment is on the horizon. The federal government is considering the addition of SMA as one of the recommended diseases for newborn screening. You are reading this article so that one more person knows about SMA. Awareness is the beginning. Sometimes it takes celebrities to bring a disease from the shadows out into the light. Sometimes it just takes the dedication of individuals to make a difference. To learn more about how you can help contact Families of SMA, call?(800) 886-1762?or visit?www.curesma.org. We are working to help raise awareness and funding for research, education, advocacy and patient services. By increasing funding, we can help to unravel the mysteries of this disease and continue working toward effective treatments. By participating and donating, you can make a difference in a life. Together we will find a cure! One in 40 may seem like a big number, but it become very small when it touched our family.?- Nina?Gutierrez Gayle

$5,000 Grants Help Pay for Children?s Medical Expenses

UnitedHealthcare Children?s Foundation (UHCCF)?is seeking grant applications from families in need of financial assistance to help pay for their child?s health care treatments, services or equipment not covered, or not fully covered, by their commercial health insurance plan. Qualifying families can receive up to $5,000 to help pay for medical services and equipment such as physical, occupational and speech therapy, counseling services, surgeries, prescriptions, wheelchairs, orthotics, eyeglasses and hearing aids. To be eligible for a grant, children must be 16 years of age or younger. Families must meet economic guidelines, reside in the United States and have a commercial health insurance plan. Grants are available for medical expenses families have incurred 60 days prior to the date of application as well as for ongoing and future medical needs. Parents or legal guardians may apply for grants at?www.uhccf.org, and there is no application deadline. Organizations or private donors can make tax-deductible donations to the foundation at this website. In 2011, UHCCF awarded more than 1,200 grants to families across the United States for treatments associated with medical conditions such as cancer, spina bifida, muscular dystrophy, diabetes, hearing loss, autism, cystic fibrosis, Down syndrome, ADHD and cerebral palsy.

Medicare Updates Hospital, Nursing Home Compare Sites

Two websites that help Americans make informed choices about hospitals and nursing homes have been redesigned and will make more information available to the public, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced. The two sites ??Hospital Compare?and?Nursing Home Compare?? have been enhanced to make navigation easier by users and have added important new comparison tools like findings from nursing home inspections. ?These enhanced tools give patients, their families and caregivers the ability to make an informed decision on where to seek care by looking at how well hospitals and nursing homes are performing on important quality measures,? acting CMS Administrator Marilyn Tavenner said.??Anyone looking to compare hospitals or nursing homes ? not just those on Medicare ? can take advantage of these websites.? Both sites contain important data on how well these facilities perform on quality measures ? such as the frequency of infections that develop in the hospital, how often patients have to be readmitted to the hospital, and the percentage of nursing residents who report having moderate to severe pain while staying in the nursing homes. Researchers will now be able to access the data on both of these sites through mobile-ready applications.

How to Implement ?Rethink Your Drink? in Suffering Community

First 5 San Joaquin invites you to partner with them to promote the Rethink Your Drink (RYD) campaign in San Joaquin County. Our community is facing an unprecedented health crisis. Not only do extra calories from added sugar in drinks (such as sodas, sports drinks, juice blends and punch) contribute significantly to obesity, but they also contribute to the rise of related chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The RYD campaign aims to address this crisis by educating families about the link between consumption of these sugary drinks and the health risks. From July through September, this quarter?s health messaging efforts from First 5 San Joaquin will focus on equipping educators and advocates with resources to empower families to make healthier drink choices.?Click here for more information and resources?to assist you in your efforts.? Join the movement to help families make the change!

UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center and?Yoursphere.com?have teamed up to create the first of its kind interactive web community that allows young cancer patients and survivors to connect with peers all over the world.?Kids? Cancer Corner?provides children who have been diagnosed with cancer and their support groups a rich social networking experience that is content- and age-appropriate and complies with the Children?s Online Privacy and Protection Act (COPPA). The UC Davis Comprehensive Cancer Center?s Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) Cancer Advisory Board helped develop the?Kids? Cancer Corner, offering ideas for content, games and video clips. The board will maintain the site and keep it interesting with frequent updates and new offerings. The?Kids? Cancer Corner?is a unique destination for young oncology patients, family members, supporters and friends by:

• Extending the in-person friendships made among children in the hospital or infusion center via this network.
• Enabling kids to learn and share with friends and family in a safe, like-minded, nurturing environment.
• Connecting young people with peers going through similar experiences.
• Letting kids share stories, offer words of inspiration and support.
• Offering the broader Yoursphere experience beyond the Kids Cancer Corner including games, personal web page creation (spheres), contests, philanthropy, etc.

Prevention of Heat-Related Illness

The Calaveras County Public Health Department has issued recommendations to prevent heat- related illness. As temperatures hit the century mark, Calaveras County Health Officer Dr. Dean Kelaita urges residents to take actions to prevent heat-related illnesses. People at higher risk of heat illness have health conditions such as obesity, fever, dehydration, heart disease, poor circulation, or use drugs or alcohol. These conditions can make it harder for the body to stay cool in hot weather.

During this heat wave, be sure to:

Get plenty to drink

• Have water available for yourself, those with you when you leave your home
• Drink more water, juice & sports drinks
• Avoid drinks with caffeine [tea, coffee and cola] & alcohol
• Provide water for pets

Stay cool, stay indoors

• Stay in an air conditioned area if possible
• If you do not have air conditioning, go to a building with air conditioning
• Take a cool shower or bath

Wear light clothing and sunscreen when outdoors

• Choose lightweight, light-colored & loose-fitting clothing
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat to keep your head cool
• Be sure to use sun-screen when outside for sun protection [SPF 15 or higher] & reapply every two hours when in the sun

Plan outdoor activities

• Avoid being out during the hottest part of the day
• Rest often in a shady area
• Never leave children or pets in a parked car

Pace yourself when active

• Take frequent, regularly scheduled breaks
• If your heart pounds, you become out of breath, lightheaded, confused, weak or faint, stop your activity and rest in a cool or shady area

Use a buddy system during a heat wave

• Check on friends and family, especially the elderly or those with health conditions twice a day
• Have others check on you

?The warning signs of heat illness include heavy sweating, cramps, headache, nausea or vomiting, tiredness, weakness, dizziness and fainting,? ?Kelaita said. Residents should seek medical attention if they have these signs of illness. For more information about prevention and signs of heat-related illness, visit?www.calaveraspublichealth.com?or call Calaveras Public Health at?(209) 754-6460.

Free Meals for Disadvantaged Families

Disadvantaged families may access an interactive?2012 Summer Meal Service Sites?web page to find out where to take their children for free, nutritious meals during the summer recess. The Summer Food Service Program serves free meals to children in geographic areas where at least 50 percent of students are eligible to receive free or reduced-price school meals. The programs may also operate activities for children.

Facts About Fruits and Vegetables

Click here?for lots of great information about fruits and vegetables.

We?re FAT!

Here are the latest statistics?on Stockton and surrounding cities on overweight and obesity.

Institute of Medicine Aims to Accelerate Progress in Preventing Obesity

Report Recommends Strategies, Calls On All Sectors of Society to Take Action Now?The Institute of Medicine (IOM) has released a report that outlines comprehensive strategies for addressing the nation?s obesity epidemic and calls on leaders in all sectors to accelerate action to advance those strategies. The release was a highlight of the second day of the 2012 Weight of the Nation conference, hosted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

• Make physical activity an integral and routine part of life.
• Create food and beverage environments that ensure healthy food and beverage options are the routine, easy choice.
• Transform messages about physical activity and nutrition.
• Expand the role of health care providers, insurers and employers in obesity prevention.
• Make schools a national focal point for obesity prevention.

The full report, a summary, practical guides for taking action and other materials are available for free on the IOM website.

Sugary drink consumption is a major contributor to the obesity epidemic. Serving healthy beverages is essential for a child?s nutritious diet, and child care settings can play an important role in helping children develop healthy nutrition habits.?Learn what you need to know about new state and federal standards?for beverages served in child care settings.?Healthy Beverages in Child Care?is a project of California Food Policy Advocates (CFPA). CFPA, founded in 1992, is a statewide public policy and advocacy organization dedicated to improving the health and well being of low-income Californians by increasing their access to nutritious and affordable food.

Incoming 7th Graders Need Whooping Cough Vaccine

A California law that took effect last summer requires all students entering seventh grade each year to provide proof of having immunization against pertussis, more commonly known as whooping cough, before starting school.?The new rule follows the state?s worst outbreak of whooping cough in more than 50 years.??Immunity gained from childhood pertussis vaccine wanes over time, so a Tdap booster shot is needed,? San Joaquin County Health Officer Dr. Karen Furst said.?The Tdap booster vaccine protects against three dangerous diseases: tetanus, diphtheria and?pertussis. Pertussis is a highly contagious bacterial illness spread by coughs and sneezes. Furst recommended parents contact their child?s health care provider now to ensure their child is up to date on all immunization recommendations.?Furst urged parents of current sixth-grade students to get their child?s Tdap vaccine before school ends this year and take a copy of the child?s shot record or other documentation to school as soon as possible.?Because a large number of students need a Tdap shot between now and the start of the next school year, parents should make an appointment now with their child?s doctor or clinic to avoid the back-to-school rush.?School health officials want all students to be protected against disease and able to attend school on the first day without any disruptions. To achieve this, parents should take note of several important factors regarding the state immunization law for school entry in the 2012-13 school year:

• Seventh-grade students without proof of a Tdap vaccination will not be allowed to register for classes or attend school.
• If a child has received one dose of Tdap vaccine on or after their 7th birthday, the requirement is met.
• It is not too early to get the Tdap booster.
• It is not too early to get the documentation in to the school.
• There will be no Tdap immunization clinics at the schools.
• There will be no extension or grace period.

For those who do not have a health care provider or health insurance, Tdap vaccinations are available at many pharmacies and clinics. Public Health Services Immunization Clinic schedules are available?online?or you may call?(209) 468-3830. Personal stories about pertussis and other vaccine preventable diseases can be found on the?Shot by Shot website. ?For more details about the new school vaccination requirement and general information on pertussis,click here. For information about specific school district health services, phone:

• Escalon Unified:?(209) 838-3591 ext. 5.
• Jefferson:?(209) 468-9296.
• Lincoln Unified:?(209) 953-8712.
• Linden Unified:?(209) 887-3608.
• Lodi Unified:?(209) 331-7075.
• Manteca Unified:?(209) 858-0782.
• New Hope:?(209) 468-9296.
• New Jerusalem:?(209) 468-9296.
• Ripon Unified:?(209) 652-8058.
• Stockton Unified:?(209) 933-7060 ext. 2390.
• Tracy Unified:?(209) 830-3241 ext. 2.

Questions About Health Reform Law?

• How are small businesses affected by health reform?
• Will everyone have to buy health insurance?
• How will the new provision allowing young adults to remain on a parent?s insurance work?

The FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions) section of the Kaiser Family Foundation?s new Health Reform Source provides concise answers to common questions about the health reform law. You can search for your question or submit a new question if yours is not addressed.?http://healthreform.kff.org/faq.aspx. Additional questions addressing the affordability of health insurance, how programs like Medicare and Medicaid (Medi-Cal in California) will be financed under health reform and others are addressed in a series of Video Explainer clips featuring foundation experts answering specific questions about the law on a variety of health policy topics.http://healthreform.kff.org/video-explainers.aspx. Kaiser?s Health Reform Source,?http://healthreform.kff.org, an online gateway providing easy access to new and comprehensive resources on the health reform law, provides these and other new features and tools including an interactive timeline showing when health-reform provisions take effect, all the latest polling data, links to other information resources, and the latest health-reform headlines from Kaiser Health News.

Yoga for People Dealing with Cancer

Mondays 5:30 to 7 p.m.:?This free weekly Yoga & Breathing class for cancer patients will help individuals sleep better and reduce pain. This class is led by yoga instructor Chinu Mehdi in Classrooms 1 and 2, St. Joseph?s Medical Center, 1800 N. California St., Stockton. Information:?(209) 467-6550?or?SJCancerInfo@dignityhealth.org.

Respiratory Support Group for Better Breathing

First Tuesday of month 10 to 11 a.m.:?Lodi Memorial Hospital West, 800 S. Lower Sacramento Road, Lodi,? and the American Lung Association of California Valley Lode offer a free ?Better Breathers?? respiratory-support group for people and their family members with breathing problems including asthma, bronchitis and emphysema. Participants will learn how to cope with chronic lung disease, understand lungs and how they work and use medications and oxygen properly. Pre-registration is recommended by calling?(209) 339-7445. For information on other classes available at Lodi Memorial, visit its website at?www.lodihealth.org.

The Beat Goes On Cardiac Support Group

First Tuesday of month 11 a.m. to noon:?Lodi Memorial Hospital offers a free cardiac support group at?Lodi Memorial Hospital West, 800 S. Lower Sacramento Road, Lodi. ?The Beat Goes On? cardiac support group is a community-based nonprofit group that offers practical tools for healthy living to heart disease patients, their families and caregivers. Its mission is to provide community awareness that those with heart disease can live well through support meetings and educational forums. Upcoming topics include exercise, stress management and nutrition counseling services. All are welcomed to attend. Information:?(209) 339-7664.

Planned Childbirth Services

Tuesdays 6 to 8 p.m.:?Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton,?hosts a four-class series which answers questions and prepares mom and her partner for labor and birth. Bring two pillows and a comfortable blanket or exercise mat to each class. These classes are requested during expecting mother?s third trimester. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN?(209) 461-3136?or?www.Dameronhospital.org.

Say Yes to Breastfeeding

Tuesdays 6 to 8 p.m.:?Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton,?offers a class that outlines the information and basic benefits and risk management of breastfeeding. Topics include latching, early skin-to-skin on cue, expressing milk and helpful hints on early infant feeding. In addition, the hospital offers a monthly Mommy and Me-Breastfeeding support group where mothers, babies and hospital clerical staff meet the second Monday of each month. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN?(209) 461-3136?or?www.Dameronhospital.org.

Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous

Are you having trouble controlling the way you eat? Food Addicts in Recovery Anonymous (FA) is a free Twelve Step recovery program for anyone suffering from food obsession, overeating, undereating or bulimia. For more information or a list of additional meetings throughout the U.S. and the world, call?(781) 932-6300?or visit?www.foodaddicts.org.

• Tuesdays 7 p.m.:?Modesto Unity Church, 2547 Veneman Ave., Modesto.
• Wednesdays 9 a.m.:?The Episcopal Church of Saint Anne, 1020 W. Lincoln Road, Stockton.
• Saturdays 9 a.m.:?Tracy Community Church, 1790 Sequoia Blvd. at Corral Hollow, Tracy.

Break From Stress

Wednesdays 6 to 7 p.m.:?St. Joseph?s Medical Center offers the community a break from their stressful lives with Break from Stress sessions. These sessions are free, open to the public, with no pre-registration necessary. Just drop in, take a deep breath and relax through a variety of techniques. Break from Stress sessions are held in St. Joseph?s Cleveland Classroom (behind HealthCare Clinical Lab on California Street just north of the medical center. Information:SJCancerInfo@DignityHealth.org?or?(209) 467-6550.

Mother-Baby Breast Connection

Wednesdays 1 to 3 p.m.:?Join a lactation consultant for support and advice on the challenges of early breastfeeding. Come meet other families and attend as often as you like. A different topic of interest will be offered each week with time for breastfeeding assistance and questions.?Pre-registration is required. Call?(209) 467-6331. St. Joseph?s Medical Center, Pavilion Conference Room (1st?floor), 1800 N. California St., Stockton.

Adult Children With Aging Relatives

Second Wednesday of month 4:30 p.m.:?Lodi Memorial Hospital offers an Adult Children with Aging Relatives support group at the?Hutchins Street Square Senior Center. For information, call?(209) 369-4443?or?(209) 369-6921.

Individual Stork Tours At Dameron

Wednesdays 5 to 7 p.m.: Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton,?offers 30 minute guided tours that provide expecting parents with a tour of Labor/Delivery, the Mother-Baby Unit and an overview of the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. New mothers are provided information on delivery services, where to go and what to do once delivery has arrived, and each mother can create an individual birthing plan. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN?(209) 461-3136?or?www.Dameronhospital.org.

Brain Builders Weekly Program

Thursdays 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.:?Lodi Memorial Hospital and the?Hutchins Street Square Senior Center?offer ?Brain Builders,? a weekly program for people in the early stages of memory loss. There is a weekly fee of $25. Registration is required. Information or to register, call?(209) 369-4443?or?(209) 369-6921.

Infant CPR and Safety

Second Thursday of month 5 to 7 p.m.:?Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton,?offers a class to family members to safely take care of their newborn.? Family members are taught infant CPR and relief of choking, safe sleep and car seat safety.? Regarding infant safety, the hospital offers on the fourth Thursday of each month from 5 to 7 p.m. a NICU/SCN family support group. This group is facilitated by a Master Prepared Clinical Social Worker and the Dameron NICU staff with visits from the hospital?s neonatologist. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN?(209) 461-3136?or?www.Dameronhospital.org.

Group Meetings for Alzheimer?s Patients, Caregivers

Thursdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.:?The Alzheimer?s Aid Society of Northern California in conjunction with Villa Marche residential care facility conducts a simultaneous Caregiver?s Support Group and Patient?s Support Group at?Villa Marche, 1119 Rosemarie Lane, Stockton. Caregivers, support people or family members of anyone with dementia are welcome to attend the caregiver?s group, led by Rita Vasquez. It?s a place to listen, learn and share. At the same time, Alzheimer?s and dementia patients can attend the patient?s group led by Sheryl Ashby. Participants will learn more about dementia and how to keep and enjoy the skills that each individual possesses. There will be brain exercises and reminiscence. The meeting is appropriate for anyone who enjoys socialization and is able to attend with moderate supervision. Information:?(209) 477-4858.

Clase Gratuita de Diabetes en Espa?ol

Cada segundo Viernes del mes:?Participantes aprender?n los fundamentos sobre la?observaci?n de az?car de sangre, comida saludable, tama?os de porci?n y medicaciones. Un educador con certificado del control de diabetes dar? instruccion sobre la autodirecci?n durante de esta clase. Para mas informaci?n y registraci?n:?(209) 461-3251. Aprenda m?s de los programas de diabetes en el sitio electronico de St. Joseph?s:www.StJosephsCares.org/Diabetes

Nutrition on the Move Class

Fridays 11 a.m. to noon: Nutrition Education Center at Emergency Food Bank, 7 W. Scotts Ave., Stockton.? Free classes are general nutrition classes where you?ll learn about the new My Plate standards, food label reading, nutrition and exercise, eating more fruits and vegetables, and other tips. Information:?(209) 464-7369?or?www.stocktonfoodbank.org.

Free Diabetes Class in Spanish

Second Friday of every month:?Participants will learn the basics about blood sugar monitoring, healthy foods, portion sizes, medications and self-management skills from a certified diabetic educator during this free class.?St. Joseph?s Medical Center, 1800 N. California St., Stockton.?Information and registration:?(209) 461-3251.Learn more on St. Joseph?s diabetes programs at?www.StJosephsCares.org/Diabetes.

All Day Prepared Childbirth Class

Third Saturday of month 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.:?Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton,?offers community service educational class of prebirth education and mentoring. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN?(209) 461-3136?or?www.Dameronhospital.org.

Big Brother/Big Sister

Second Sunday of month:?Dameron Hospital, 525 W. Acacia St., Stockton,?has a one-hour class meeting designed specifically for newborn?s siblings. Topics include family role, a labor/delivery tour and a video presentation which explains hand washing/germ control and other household hygiene activities. This community service class ends with a Certification of Completion certificate. Information/registration: Carolyn Sanders, RN(209) 461-3136?or?www.Dameronhospital.org.

Outpatient Program Aimed at Teens

Two programs:?Adolescents face a number of challenging issues while trying to master their developmental milestones. Mental health issues (including depression), substance abuse and family issues can hinder them from mastering the developmental milestones that guide them into adulthood. The Adolescent Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) offered by?St. Joseph?s Behavioral Health Center, 2510 N. California St., Stockton, is designed for those individuals who need comprehensive treatment for their mental, emotional or chemical dependency problems. This program uses Dialectical Behavioral Therapy to present skills for effective living. Patients learn how to identify and change distorted thinking, communicate effectively in relationships and regain control of their lives. The therapists work collaboratively with parents, doctors and schools. They also put together a discharge plan so the patient continues to get the help they need to thrive into adulthood.

• Psychiatric Adolescent IOP meets Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 4 to 7:30 p.m.
• Chemical Recovery Adolescent IOP meets Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 4 to 7 p.m.

For more information about this and other groups,?(209) 461-2000?and ask to speak with a behavioral evaluator or visit?www.StJosephsCanHelp.org.

Click here?for Community Medical Centers (Channel Medical Clinic, San Joaquin Valley Dental Group, etc.) website.

Click here?for Dameron Hospital?s?Event Calendar.

Click here?for Doctors Hospital of Manteca?Events finder.

Click here?for Hill Physicians website.

Click here?for Kaiser Central Valley News and Events

Click here?for Lodi Memorial Hospital?Event Calendar.

Click here?for Mark Twain St. Joseph?s Hospital?Classes and Events.

Click here?for San Joaquin General Hospital?website.

Click here?for St. Joseph?s Medical Center?s?Classes and Events.

Click here?for Sutter Gould news.?Click here?for Sutter Gould calendar of events.

Click here?for Sutter Tracy Community Hospital?events, classes and support groups.

San Joaquin County Public Health Services General Information

Ongoing resources for vaccinations and clinic information are:

1. Public Health Services Influenza website,?www.sjcphs.org
2. Recorded message line at?(209) 469-8200, extension 2# for English and 3# for Spanish.
3. For further information, individuals may call the following numbers at Public Health Services:

• For general vaccine and clinic questions, call?(209) 468-3862;
• For medical questions, call?(209) 468-3822.

Health officials continue to recommend these precautionary measures to help protect against acquiring influenza viruses:

1. Wash your hands often with soap and water or use alcohol based sanitizers.
2. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve, when you cough or sneeze.
3. Stay home if you are sick until you are free of a fever for 24 hours.
4. Get vaccinated.

Public Health Services Clinic Schedules (Adults and Children)

Immunization clinic hours are subject to change depending on volume of patients or staffing. Check the Public Health Services website for additional evening clinics or special clinics at?www.sjcphs.org. Clinics with an asterisk?(*)?require patients to call for an appointment.

Stockton Health Center: 1601 E. Hazelton Ave.; (209) 468-3830.

• Immunizations: Monday 8 a.m.-4 p.m.; Tuesday 1-4 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Thursday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.; Friday 8-11 a.m.
• Travel clinic*: Thursday 8-11 a.m. and 1 to 4 p.m.
• Health exams*: Tuesday 1-4 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; Friday 8-11 a.m.
• Sexually transmitted disease clinic: Wednesday 3-6 p.m. and Friday 1-4 p.m., walk-in and by appointment.
• Tuberculosis clinic*: Tuesday; second and fourth Wednesday of the month.
• HIV testing: Tuesday 1-4 p.m.; Thursday 1-4 p.m.

Manteca Health Center: 124 Sycamore Ave.; (209) 823-7104 or (800) 839-4949.

• Immunizations: Monday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.; Wednesday 10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 3-6 p.m.
• Tuberculosis clinic*: first and third Wednesday 3-6 p.m.
• HIV testing: first Wednesday 1:30-4 p.m.

Lodi Health Center: 300 W. Oak St.; (209) 331-7303 or (800) 839-4949.

• Immunizations: Monday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.; Friday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.
• Tuberculosis clinic*: Friday 8-11 a.m. and 1-4 p.m.
• HIV testing: second and fourth Friday 1:30-4 p.m.

WIC (Women, Infants & Children) Program

Does your food budget need a boost? The WIC Program can help you stretch your food dollars. This special supplemental food program for women, infants and children serves low-income women who are currently pregnant or have recently delivered, breastfeeding moms, infants, and children up to age 5. Eligible applicants receive monthly checks to use at any authorized grocery store for wholesome foods such as fruits and vegetables, milk and cheese, whole-grain breads and cereals, and more. WIC shows you how to feed your family to make them healthier and brings moms and babies closer together by helping with breastfeeding. WIC offers referrals to low-cost or free health care and other community services depending on your needs. WIC services may be obtained at a variety of locations throughout San Joaquin County:

Stockton?(209) 468-3280

• Public Health Services WIC Main Office, 1145 N. Hunter St.: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; open two Saturdays a month.
• Family Health Center, 1414 N. California St.: Wednesday 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m.
• CUFF (Coalition United for Families), 2044 Fair St.: Thursday 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m.
• Taylor Family Center, 1101 Lever Blvd.: Wednesday 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 4 p.m.
• Transcultural Clinic, 4422 N. Pershing Ave. Suite D-5: Tuesday 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m.

?Manteca??(209) 823-7104

• Public Health Services, 124 Sycamore Lane: Tuesday, Thursday, Friday 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m.

?Tracy?(209) 831-5930

• Public Health Services, 205 W. Ninth St.: Monday, Wednesday 8 a.m. to noon, 1 to 5 p.m.

Protect Your Preteen from Serious Diseases

The?Calaveras County Public Health Department?reminds families of preteens about recommended and required immunizations for 11-and 12-year olds. Dr. Dean Kelaita, county health officer, encouraged families of preteens to schedule a doctor visit and get vaccines they need to stay healthy and meet the Tdap school entry requirement for incoming seventh-graders. During 2010, California experienced a whooping cough (also known as pertussis) epidemic that resulted in 10 infant deaths. Incoming seventh-graders for the 2012-13 school year must provide proof of having immunization against whooping cough (Tdap) before starting school. Students who have not met the requirement will not be allowed to start school. Immunity from childhood vaccines wears off over time, exposing a child to serious diseases that can lead to missed weeks of school or serious illness. Besides the Tdap shot, there are other immunizations that are now recommended for this age group, including the meningococcal vaccine, a second chickenpox shot (if they never had chickenpox disease), and the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine series. Also, everyone older than 6 months is recommended to receive flu vaccine. The Calaveras County Public Health Department offers no- or low-cost vaccines to children without health insurance or whose insurance does not cover immunizations. No one is turned away for inability to pay. Information:?(209) 754-6460?orwww.calaveraspublichealth.com.

Calaveras County Public Health Community Immunization Clinics

• San Andreas: weekly at Public Health Department, 700 Mountain Ranch Road, Suite C-2. Mondays 3 to 5 p.m. and Thursdays 8 a.m. to noon.
• Valley Springs: monthly at United Methodist Church, 135 Laurel St. Third Tuesday 3 to 5:30 p.m.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

What You Need to Know About Joe?s Health Calendar

Have a health-oriented event the public in San Joaquin County should know about? Let me know at?jgoldeen@recordnet.com?and I?ll get it into my Health Calendar. I?m not interested in promoting commercial enterprises here, but I am interested in helping out nonprofit and/or community groups, hospitals, clinics, physicians and other health-care providers. Look for five categories: Community Events, News, Ongoing, Hospitals & Medical Groups, and Public Health.?TO THE PUBLIC:?I won?t list an item here from a source that I don?t know or trust. So I believe you can count on what you read here. If there is a problem, please don?t hesitate to let me know at?(209) 546-8278?or?jgoldeen@recordnet.com.?Thanks, Joe

Source: http://blogs.esanjoaquin.com/stockton-health-care/2012/08/24/joes-health-calendar-82412-walk-more-eat-less/

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