July Health Briefs

By: 
Press Staff Writer

Patrol releases July 4 statistics
        The Ohio State Highway Patrol reports 22 people lost their lives in 21 traffic crashes during the July Fourth reporting period, which began Thursday, July 2 and ended Sunday, July 5. Impairment was determined to be a factor in at least five of those crashes.
        Troopers made 425 arrests for impaired driving and 280 for drug-related charges. The Patrol responded to 631 crashes and made more than 22,494 traffic contacts in total, which included providing assistance to more than 2,900 motorists.
        “Driving impaired remains a significant problem,” said Colonel Richard S. Fambro, Patrol superintendent. “We need motorists to commit to keeping our roads safe. Designate a sober driver.”
        During last year’s Fourth of July reporting period, from July 3-7, there were a total of 16 fatal crashes that killed 17 people.
        Motorists are encouraged to call #677 to report impaired drivers or drug activity.
        For a complete breakdown and map of Patrol activity, visit www.statepatrol.ohio.gov/links/July4th2020.pdf.
 
Mud Hens blood drive
        To help meet demand for donations and to raise awareness about the need for new donors, the annual Mud Hens Blood Drive will be held Monday, July 13 from 2-7 p.m.
        The blood drive will be held in the Roost on the third floor of 406 Washington St. in downtown Toledo (use the doors right next to the Swamp Shop).
        Anyone who donates blood will receive 25% off all items in the Swamp Shop on July 13.
        To schedule an appointment, call 1-800-REDCROSS or visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code: MUDHENS.
 
New providers
        Wood County Community Health Center welcomed two new providers, Dr. John Coates, DO, and nurse practitioner Sally Royston.
        Dr. Coates, who has practiced in the Bowling Green area for almost 20 years, can be seen at the health center for primary care and chronic disease management. He is currently taking new patients for in-person visits and telehealth appointments.
        Royston joined the health center in June 2019. She was a registered nurse for more than 30 years and has been a nurse practitioner for over 10 years. She sees patients for primary care and chronic disease management. She is also part of the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) team that helps patients with addictions including smoking, alcohol and other drugs. She is currently taking new patients as well for in-person visits and telehealth appointments.
        Dr. Steven Dood, who has been with the health center since 2015, is no longer providing direct patient care but remains the Chief Medical Officer, providing oversight on medical functions.
        To schedule an appointment call 419-354-9049.
        To learn more about Wood County Community Health Center and the services it provides, visit WCHealthcenter.org or their Facebook page.
 
United Way announces community investments
        United Way of Greater Toledo (UWGT) recently announced that $8,272,323 would be invested in community-based programs after concluding its 2019-2020 annual campaign, which supports their primary focus areas of education, financial stability and health.
        “Every year, to start at zero and fundraise your way to $8 million is quite the undertaking, which is why I am so proud of my team here at United Way,” said Wendy Pestrue, president & CEO of UWGT. “Working in the health and human services sector is a round-the-clock job. Our staff’s commitment to ensuring that everyone across Lucas, Wood and Ottawa County has access to the services they need is incredibly admirable.”
        Historically, UWGT has conducted a yearly fundraising campaign, which garners support from hundreds of local companies and thousands of private donors. The organization also leverages grants from both private foundations and public agencies.
        “I often remind our staff that the gifts we’re receiving from donors are relatively small compared to some nonprofits. Many of our dollars come from working folks, and that, to me, speaks volumes,” said Pestrue. “Individuals who are striving to make ends meet themselves are choosing to give us a few dollars out of their paychecks, because I believe they can see the impact of the programs we provide, or fund, in their neighborhoods.”
        UWGT has also expressed that the COVID-19 pandemic has financially strained the organization, as community needs considerably grow. Since March, roughly $800,000 has been raised for the organization’s “Emergency Response Fund,” which provides monetary grants to support health and human service organizations struggling to provide resources to locals in need due to COVID-19.
        Already, nearly $230,000 has been invested in those working in the food-insecurity space, and a new focus area to fund is anticipated to be announced soon. These “Emergency Response Fund” grants are in addition to the millions of dollars UWGT provided in community investments after last year’s campaign.
        “We understand that this may be a financially tough time for individuals and families, so we are beyond thankful for whatever you can contribute to this year’s campaign. The pre-existing issues of our community have not gone away, which is why now, more than ever, donations to United Way are urgently needed,” said Pestrue. For a full list of UWGT program investments, visit www.unitedwaytoledo.org.
 
TOPS royalty
        TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), the nonprofit weight-loss support organization, has begun unveiling its top “royalty” from 2019 for 2020.
        TOPS royalty are men and women who, at the end of the year, have officially recorded the largest weight loss from their starting weight, regardless of the time taken to reach their goal. Lee Boulis of Portage, who lost 53.8 pounds, is the Ohio King.
        TOPS offers an individual approach to weight loss and overall wellness. Consistent group support, health education, and recognition are all key components to successful weight management.
        “With the support of TOPS, this year’s royalty, and countless others before them, have shown that personal transformation is possible through small, sustainable lifestyle changes,” said TOPS President Rick Danforth. “As someone who has maintained a 100-pound weight loss for 15 years, I know firsthand the dedication these folks have shown.”
        Weekly meetings are the heart of TOPS support, whether they are held online or in-person. Visitors are welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge, and are encouraged to try more than one chapter, since they’re all a little different, Danforth said. Membership is a $32 per year in the U.S., and there are nominal chapter fees.
        Locally, TOPS chapters are scheduled to meet at the East Toledo Senior Center Mondays at 7 p.m.; at Hope Lutheran Church in Bowling Green on Wednesdays at 5:15 p.m.; at the Oak Harbor Public Library Mondays at 3:30 p.m. and at Fremont Alliance Church Mondays at 6 p.m. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, some chapters may not be meeting now. Find updates at www.tops.org/tops/TOPS/FindAMeeting.aspx or call 800-932-8677.
 
Alzheimer’s Assn.virtual programs
        The Alzheimer’s Association Northwest Ohio Chapter will be presenting several virtual educational programs to help the community and families impacted by the disease.
        These presentations cover a variety of topics and occur at different times during the day via videoconferencing to allow individuals to participate in the convenience of their homes. They will discuss safety issues in the home, communication, COVID-19 challenges, long-distance caregiving and information on the disease itself. The programs run about an hour and are very helpful for anyone experiencing signs of memory loss or their family members who may be concerned.
        All programs are free and open to the public. Registration is required. To register, call 800-272-3900. The schedule includes:
        • July 13 – Activities at Home, 10 a.m.
        • July 14 – Effective Communication Strategies, 2 p.m.
        • July 14 – Safety at Home, 4:30 p.m.
        • July 15 – Simple Communication Tips for Caregivers, 11 a.m.
        • July 15 – 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s, 1 p.m.
        • July 16 – Understanding Alzheimer’s and Dementia, 3:30 p.m.
        • July 17 – Healthy Living for your Brain and Body: Tips from the Latest Research. 11:30 a.m.
        Virtual dementia discussion
        The Alzheimer’s Association will also present a virtual discussion on dementia with guest Sara Hunter, DNP, APRN-CNP Tuesday July 21 4:30-5:30 p.m.
        Dr. Hunter completed her Doctorate in Nursing Practice from The Ohio State University College of Nursing in May 2019. She completed her Masters of Science in Nursing through the University of Toledo where her thesis focused on helping caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer’s disease be connected with support and resources in the community.
        Since graduating nursing school, Dr. Hunter has spent her career focused in neurology—first for four years in the Toledo Hospital Neurological intensive care unit and the past five years in outpatient neurology practicing at ProMedica Physicians Adult Neurology with Dr. Loomus in Levis Commons in Perrysburg.
        During the live video conference, Dr. Hunter will discuss memory issues and what to expect in a neurology visit. She will also review self-care for caregivers. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.
        “One thing I talk about with families is making a plan for care of their loved one with dementia,” she said. “It is important not to wait to plan when in a crisis situation”.
        Those interested in attending may submit their questions in advance to Pam Myers, program director at pjmyers@alz.org.
        The discussion is free and open to the public. Registration is required. To register, call 800-272-3900.     
        Visit alz.org to learn more about the Alzheimer’s Association.
 
Veterans Park fitness trail
        The Oak Harbor Development Group (OHDG) is partnering with the Village of Oak Harbor and The Ohio Department of Natural Resources NatureWorks Grant to provide support and funding for the Fitness Trail throughout the Veterans Park.
        The Development Group has committed to the grant match funding of up to $48,000. According to Village Administrator Randy Genzman, “The project is intended to go forward at this point. The current timeline is design and bidding to be completed in July. Construction in late third quarter/early fourth quarter of 2020, with substantial completion in early December.”
        To date the OHDG has received funds from the following organizations and individuals.
        • St. John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church Endowment Trust Fund – $8,537.
        • The US Bank Foundation Community Possible Grant - $1,500.
        • Donations via Facebook’s Giving Tuesday/General Donations- $2,175.
        The Oak Harbor Development Group is still seeking funds to help offset the $48,000 grant match. To contribute, call Mike Shadoan at 419-706-6034.
 
Accelerated BSN program offered
        In an ongoing effort to meet the demand for nurses and the changing needs of individuals who want to pursue a career in healthcare, Mercy College will offer an Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing (ABSN) for those who have a bachelor’s degree or higher in a degree field other than nursing. This new program will begin in May 2021 and applications for the 15-month program are now being accepted. Space is limited, and prerequisite coursework may be required.
        “We are pleased to add this option for those who want to pursue a career in nursing. Mercy College has a high number of transfer students, some of whom already have degrees in other fields. This program provides them a faster path to become a nurse,” said Elizabeth Sprunk, PhD, MSN, RN, Professor and Dean of Nursing.
        Those not interested in the accelerated path can choose from a day or evening/weekend associate degree program or a bachelor’s degree program. Those who have an RN license can continue their education in RN-BSN and RN to MSN programs and for those who have a BSN, Mercy College offers a Master of Science in Nursing.
        New or transfer students interested in nursing careers or other healthcare fields may visit www.mercycollege.edu or contact Admissions at admissions@mercycollege.edu or 1-888-80-MERCY.
 
 

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