The Breast Cancer Support Group, “Rebound,” of St. Margaret’s Hospital, is open to all persons affected by breast cancer.  Interested parties may call (815) 339-6480 for details.

St. Margaret’s Health Provides Haven During Extreme Temperatures

St. Margaret’s Health has instituted an emergency shelter program to provide an environment for those people who are unable to tolerate extreme weather conditions such as power outages in extreme heat or no air conditioning.  Those people who qualify must be capable of independent living and be able to care for themselves.    St. Margaret’s Para Transit will provide services for those participants who require transportation.  These services will be provided during the normal business hours of the Para Transit Department. 

There are some common sense guidelines to assist you during extreme temperatures:

• Spend some time in air conditioning, if possible.  Even just two hours a day in air conditioning can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illness.
• Drink plenty of water and natural juices, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
• Slow down.  Avoid strenuous activity.
• Wear loose-fitting, lightweight, light-colored clothing.
• Avoid going out in the blazing heat, if you can.
• If you must be out in the sun, use sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat.
• Keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but windows open slightly.
• Keep lights down low or turned off.
• Take cool baths or showers periodically, use cool wet towels.
• Eat small meals and eat more often.  Avoid foods that are high in protein, which increase metabolic heat.
• Avoid using the oven.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages and beverages with caffeine such as coffee, tea and cola.
• Avoid using salt tablets unless directed to do so by a physician.
• Do not leave children or pets in a closed vehicle, even for a few minutes.  Temperatures inside a closed vehicle can reach 140 to 190 within 30 minutes on a hot day.
• Schools should restrict strenuous outdoor athletic activity when a heat advisory is in effect.  All physical education and athletic activity should be canceled when a heat warning is in effect.
• Stay informed about the heat wave by listening to NOAA Weather Radio, or commercial radio and television for the latest heat warnings and advisories.

More information may be obtained by calling 815-664-5311 or 815-223-5346.

St. Margaret’s Offers Free Prenatal Classes

St. Margaret’s Prenatal/Lamaze classes for expectant mothers, called “1-2-3-4 What To Expect From Labor/Delivery and More,” will begin Monday, August 30, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the First Floor Presentation Room at St. Margaret’s Hospital.

The four-week series of classes will consist of lectures on all aspects of pregnancy, including: stages of labor and delivery, techniques for pain relief, caesarian sections, medical interventions, Lamaze breathing techniques, conditioning and relaxation exercises, newborn care, breast and bottle-feeding and infant CPR.  Films on childbirth, car seat safety, infant care and infant safety are shown, and a tour of St. Margaret’s Family Birthing Centre is provided.

Participants are asked to bring a blanket, two pillows, and a labor coach (support person).  Expectant fathers are welcome and encouraged to attend.

There is no charge for the classes.  To register, call St. Margaret’s Family Birthing Centre at (815) 664-1345 or (815) 223-5346, ext. 1345.

Diabetic Education Classes

A Free Diabetes Education Class Series will be held at St. Margaret’s Hospital beginning on Monday, Aug. 30 from 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. in the First Floor Presentation Room.  The class will continue on the following three consecutive Mondays, excluding Labor Day. 

The class will cover an overview of diabetes, complications and monitoring, nutrition and diet, medications, stress management and social assistance, exercise and activity, and foot, skin and oral care.  Participants will also receive a free glucometer. 

The class is coordinated by Pat Schummer, RN, Patient Education Nurse and Certified Diabetic Educator at St. Margaret’s Hospital. 

To register, call St. Margaret’s Patient Education at (815) 664-1616 or 223-5346, ext. 1616.

St. Margaret's Offers CPR Class

St. Margaret's Hospital and the American Heart Association will offer a CPR class on Tuesday, Sept. 7, at 6:00 p.m., in the First Floor Presentation Room.  The Family and Friends course is an adult and infant community CPR course and does not meet CPR certification requirements of employment or required professional credentials.  The class cost is $20.

Pre-registration is required by calling St. Margaret’s Hospital Occupational Health Department, at 815-664-1613 or 815-223-5346, ext. 1613.

St. Margaret’s Health Offers Lipid Profile and Glucose Screening

St. Margaret’s Hospital will offer a Lipid Profile and Glucose Screening on Wed., Sept. 8, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. in the DeAngelo Resource Room (rooms 104/105) located on the hospital’s first floor.  The $20 fee includes a check of cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL and LDL.  A twelve-hour food and beverage fast is recommended for more accurate results.  Registration is requested by calling St. Margaret’s Occupational Health and Wellness Department at (815) 664-1613 or (815) 223-5346, ext. 1613.

Spirituality and Prayer Group Held at St. Margaret’s

A discussion group for anyone interested in learning about contemplative prayer and spiritual growth will be Saturday, September 11, from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. in the First Floor Presentation Room at St. Margaret’s Hospital.

The group will meet once a month and is open to all faith traditions. It does not matter if you are attempting to initiate a spiritual life, recover a neglected one, or deepen an already developed spirituality. Selected passages from ancient and contemporary writers will be used to explore various aspects of a growing prayer life. For more information about the program, please contact Jeri at St. Margaret’s Pastoral Care Department at (815) 664-1348.