Mercy continues MS support group; new location announced

        Mercy Health announced it will continue a monthly support group for those living with multiple sclerosis and their families, caregivers and partners at a new location.
        Due to the success of the first event, Mercy Health has changed the location of the monthly meeting to the Mercy Health Activity Center at the Way Public Library, 101 E. Indiana Ave., Perrysburg.
        The group meets the first Tuesday of the month at 5:30 p.m. and features different experts talking about a variety of topics related to MS and symptoms. Upcoming topics and speakers include:
        • April 2: “What are the different types of MS?” with Dr. Anna Bite, multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology specialist.
        • May 7: “Treatment of Spasticity – Principals of Postural Alignment and Control,” with Lynne Chapman, MS, OTR/L, LICDC, certified driver rehabilitation specialist.
        • June 4: “How do I know if My MS Drug is Working and DMTs,” with Dr. Bite.
        The support group is open to the community. Registration is appreciated but not required.
        “We were very pleased to see the numbers at our first MS Support Group meeting in February – in fact so many that it required us to find a larger location,” said Dr. Bite, the region’s only fellowship-trained physician in multiple sclerosis. “This is an indication that a place where participants are welcome to share their unique stories in a supportive and uplifting environment was a needed resource in our community,”
        Multiple sclerosis, also known as MS, is a chronic neurological condition that affects the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord). Multiple sclerosis occurs when the body’s immune system attacks and damages myelin. Myelin is a protective sheath that surrounds the body’s nerve fibers. As the disease progresses, the nerves may also deteriorate.              Dr. Bite recently joined the Mercy Health team. She has completed a fellowship in multiple sclerosis and neuroimmunology at Ohio Health. A partner in MS care through the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, she is passionate about providing care, education and support to patients and their families.
        For more information, visit mercy.com or contact Abigail Myers at amathias@mercy.com or 419-619-8250.
       
Life Line Screening
        Residents living in and around the Oak Harbor area can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with Life Line Screenings. Shoreline Church, 769 N. Locust St., Oak Harbor, will host this community event on Tuesday, March 19. Free parking will be available.
        Screenings can check for:
        • The level of plaque buildup in arteries, related to risk for cardiovascular disease, stroke and overall vascular health.
        • HDL and LDL cholesterol levels.
        • Diabetes risk.
        • Kidney and thyroid function and more.
        Package pricing starts at $159. Consultants will work with clients to create a package based on age and risk factors.
        Pre-registration is required. Call 1-877-237-1287 or visit lifelinescreening.com to schedule or for more information.
 
Mobile mammogram van
        Mercy Health’s mobile mammography unit has visits scheduled throughout the region in March.
        Customized for patient convenience, the unit delivers mammograms to women age 40 and older. It is equipped with 3D technology and offers patients the option of self-compression, meaning she will have the ability to control the compression once she is in position.
        Scheduled stops include:
        • Wednesday, March 13, Old West End Community Health, 2244 Collingwood Blvd.
        • Monday, March 18, Mercy Health – Perrysburg Primary Care, 1103 Village Square.
        • Wednesday, March 20, Mercy Health – St. Luke’s Campus, 5757 Monclova Rd., Maumee.
        • Thursday, March 21, Mercy Health – Perrysburg Primary Care, 1103 Village Square.
        • Monday, March 25, Mercy Health – Sylvania Medical Center, 3100 King Rd., Sylvania.
        • Tuesday, March 26, Dana Inc., 3939 Technology Drive, Maumee.
• Wednesday, March 27, Mercy Health – Maumee Primary Care, 1657 Holland Rd., Maumee.
        • Friday, March 29, Mercy Health – St. Luke’s Campus, 5757 Monclova Rd, Maumee.
        To view the full list of dates and locations, visit mercy.com/toledomobilemamm.
        While mammogram screenings may be covered by insurance, for best coverage, patients should verify if Mercy Health – St. Charles Hospital is an in-network provider with their insurance carrier. Financial assistance programs are available for patients who are uninsured or underinsured (have high deductibles. Call 1-800-929-6626 for more information.
        Mobile mammogram screenings are by appointment only. Call 833-MAMM- VAN to schedule.
        Certified radiologists read all mammograms and because a second look can mean a second chance, all mammograms are double-checked with a computer-aided detection system that detects more breast cancer than mammography alone. The patient and her physician receive a copy of the results.
 
WTOL, Red Cross to host blood drive
        WTOL 11 is partnering with the American Red Cross for their annual #11Together Toledo blood drive, Friday, March 22 from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. The blood drive will be held at Maumee United Methodist Church, 405 Sackett St. in Maumee.
        WTOL 11 has been hosting their annual blood drive for more than 10 years and has helped collect nearly 1,500 pints of blood.
        During Red Cross Month in March, the organization celebrates the community heroes who give blood and make a lifesaving difference. Donors are needed to give blood and continue to strengthen the national blood supply as spring approaches. People of all blood types – especially those with type O blood – are critical to ensuring patients in need receive care.
        In thanks for making a positive impact this month, those who come to give through March 24 will receive a $10 e-gift card to a pet supply merchant of choice and have a chance to win a $3,000 gift card. There will be five lucky winners. Details are available at RedCrossBlood.org/Pets.
        To make an appointment for the #11Together Toledo blood drive, visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter sponsor code WTOLELEVEN, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App or call 1-800-RED CROSS. When scheduling online, the blood drive will be listed as Maumee United Methodist Church.
        A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age or 16 with parental consent in Ohio, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.
        Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass or use the Blood Donor App.
 
Parkinson’s Exercise Group
        The Eastern Community YMCA, 2960 Pickle Rd., Oregon, offers a free, ongoing Parkinson’s Exercise Group.
        The 60-minute class is for those with Parkinson’s that do not use a cane or walker.
        The class, which meets at 12 p.m. Mondays and Wednesdays, helps participants improve motor skills with gait, strength and dexterity exercises.
        Call 419-725-7844 to get started.
 
Danberry Treasure Chest Auction & Gala
        Danberry’s 29th annual Treasure Chest Auction and Gala will be held Thursday, March 21 from 6-9 p.m. at Glass City Center. Doors open at 5 p.m.
        The proceeds raised will go to the ProMedica Russell J. Ebeid Children’s Hospital to increase access to care and expand capacity for specialty pediatric behavioral health care. Funds will help ProMedica to build a fully integrated, comprehensive pediatric mental health infrastructure that addresses not only the immediate mental and behavioral health needs of the youth they serve, but also impact the long-term health of children and the social and economic health of our communities.
        This event is open to the public. There will be a wide range of auction items from local businesses and community members, a cocktail hour, dinner and entertainment. Purchase tickets, donate and learn more about the event at danberry.ticket.qtego.us/tickets.
 
Health fair planned
        The East Toledo Senior Center will hold a Health Fair Monday, April 15 from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The center is located at 1001 White St., Toledo.
        Organizations scheduled to attend include Neighborhood Health, Mercy Health, Lucas County Health Department, Majestic Care, First Health, Landings of Oregon, Gardens of St. Francis, Area Office on Aging, First Health, Great Lakes Research, Toledo Police RSVP Program and more.
        The event is open to the community. For more information, call Patty at  419-691-2254.
 
Cholesterol clinics set
        The Wood County Committee on Aging, Inc. is currently scheduling cholesterol screening clinics for March. Screenings are open to Wood County residents who are 25 years of age and older.
        The cost is $20 for those 60 and over and $25 for those 25-59. Screenings require an appointment and pretest instructions.
        The screening panel includes  total cholesterol, HDL (good cholesterol), LDL (bad cholesterol), triglycerides, total cholesterol/HDL ratio and a blood glucose level. Results will be immediately available and discussed with clients by a registered nurse.
        Screenings will be offered at the Wood County Senior Center, 140 S. Grove St., Bowling Green, from 9-11 a.m. on Tuesday, March 12 and Friday, March 22.
        The Perrysburg Area Senior Center, 101 W. Indiana Ave., will host screenings on Wednesday, March 13 from 9-11 a.m.
        To schedule an appointment, call the WCCOA Social Services Department at 1-800-367-4935 or 419-353-5661.
       
Gentle Yoga for Grief
        Community members are invited to a free, four-week yoga workshop aimed at connecting the mind, body and heart of those who have experienced the loss of a loved one.
        Gentle Yoga for Grief workshop sessions will be meet Fridays from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the Toledo Hospice Center, 800 South Detroit Avenue April  5, 12, 19, and 26 and May  3, 10, 17 and 24.
        A certified yoga instructor leads the group to help participants work through the energetic and emotional blocks of grief to find peace. The class offers yoga for all bodies and abilities and everyone, regardless of fitness level and age, is encouraged to attend.
        Attendees should wear comfortable clothing; bring water, a mat and small towel or pillow.
        Classes are free and open to anyone in the community, whether or not they have had a prior relationship with Hospice of Northwest Ohio. Advance registration is required.
        For more information or to register, call the Hospice Bereavement Department at 419-661-4001.
        To learn more about grief and loss or Hospice of Northwest Ohio, visit hospicenwo.org or find Hospice of Northwest Ohio on Facebook and Twitter.
 
Magruder Hospital announces lab clinic, MS support group, yoga
        Magruder’s next monthly community lab screening will be offered Thursday, March 14 between 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. at the Magruder Community Clinic, 730 Jefferson St., Port Clinton.
        The main lab test is a CBC, CMP and lipid profile, which includes liver and kidney function, fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, HDL/LDL, triglycerides and a complete blood count (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets in the blood) for $50.
        Add-on test are available at additional cost, including:
        • Lipid profile: $20
        • Hemoglobin A1C: $20
        • PSA (prostate specific antigen): $30
        • TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone): $25
        • Vitamin D: $35
        This lab screening is held on the second Thursday each month. Appointments are required and may be made by calling 419-301-4304. Participants are asked to fast for 12 hours prior to their appointment time but can have water. No insurance is accepted – payment may be made by cash, check or credit card (no American Express).
        MS Support Group
        A Multiple Sclerosis Support Group meets in the Magruder Conference Center on the second Tuesday each month at 6 p.m. The next meeting will be March 12, For more information, call 419-607-6021.
        Yoga classes return
        Yoga classes will once again be offered in the Magruder Conference Center on Wednesday evenings from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The classes will be for all levels, including Gentle Yoga, Restorative Yoga, Yin Yoga and Slow Flow. These classes will be suitable for the beginner to the seasoned yoga student.
        The cost per class is $15. Class passes are available for $65 for five classes, $120 for 10 classes and $165 for 15 classes. Class passes will never expire.
        During each session, instruction will be given for yoga postures, breathing techniques, relaxation, stretching, positive thinking, and meditation.
        Attendees should wear layered, comfortable clothing and bring a yoga mat and any props they would like such as a block and/or blanket. For more information call 419-967-3030 or 419-732-4061.
 
Wood Co. Hospital offers eclipse safety tips
        By now, most everyone has heard – on Monday, April 8, a partial eclipse will begin around 1:30 p.m. Following the total eclipse phase, there will be an additional 1.5 hours of partial eclipse to captivate sky gazers.
        Did you know?
        • Ohio last witnessed a total solar eclipse in 1806.
        • Since 1867, only 15 solar eclipses have been visible in the United States.
        • Kentucky experienced its most recent solar eclipse in 2017.
        • This marks the final solar eclipse in North America until 2044.
        When it comes to witnessing a solar or lunar eclipse, safeguarding your eyes is the most important thing you can do for a safe and enjoyable experience. Wood County Hospital offers  a brief guide on eclipse safety, ensuring you don’t miss the celestial spectacle while prioritizing your vision.
        • Use certified solar viewing glasses: Directly looking at the sun without proper eyewear can harm your eyes. Ensure you have certified solar viewing glasses for protection.
        • Avoid DIY solutions: Homemade filters, regular sunglasses, or improvised devices do not offer sufficient protection. Stick to approved solar viewing glasses from reliable sources.
        • Monitor time of totality: During a total solar eclipse, it’s safe to briefly remove your solar viewing glasses. However, be vigilant and put them back on as soon as the sun reappears.
        The Wood County Emergency Management Department offers essential resources and information on eclipse safety. Visit woodcountyema.org for guidelines, updates and emergency procedures related to astronomical events.
 
Summer day camp for grieving kids, teens
        Hospice of Northwest Ohio is hosting a summer day camp for grieving kids and teens ages 6-15. The four-day camp, provided at no charge to participants, will be held July 23-26 at Camp Miakonda in Toledo.
        Path Finders Camp will provide opportunities for grieving kids and teens to interact with others who have experienced similar losses in a safe, fun and supportive environment. Licensed counselors/social workers and trained volunteers will lead groups.
        Through a variety of camp activities, campers will honor the memory of the person who died, normalize feelings and learn coping skills, participate in fun, outdoor games and activities and make new friends!
        Thanks to the generosity of donors, the camp will be offered at no cost to participants. Registration is required by completing an online application at www.hospicenwo.org no later than June 12. Space is limited.
        Anyone interested in learning more about attending or volunteering at the camp can call 419-931-5623 or email pathfinderscamp@hospicenwo.org.
 
Myerholtz named Lucas DD superintendent
        At its Feb. 26 meeting, the Board of Directors of the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities voted to select Michele Myerholtz as the agency’s next Superintendent, effective March 1.
        Myerholtz has served as the interim superintendent since August 2022.
        “Michele has done an exemplary job as the interim superintendent,” said Board President Ron Volk. “We are delighted that she has accepted this role for the long term and look forward to supporting her leadership and continued growth and evolution of the Board.”
        Myerholtz joined Lucas DD in 2003 as a service and support specialist working mostly with children served by the board. After several promotions within the Service and Support Administration Department, she was named assistant superintendent in January 2020.
        “I am so grateful for this incredible opportunity,” Myerholtz said. “I have dedicated my entire professional career to the developmental disabilities system and look forward to leading and building on the storied history of this agency.”
        Lucas DD employs almost 300 people at its South Toledo headquarters. It works with nearly 700 providers across Lucas County to provide services and support to more than 4,000 individuals served by the board. It is the state’s seventh-largest county based on number of individuals served.