OSU, Michigan facing off in annual Blood Battle
Students, alumni and fans of Ohio State University and the University of Michigan are gearing up for the annual Blood Battle.

The archrivals have partnered with the Red Cross since 1981 to see which university’s supporters can bring in the most blood donations. If you bleed scarlet and gray, or maize and blue, show it by donating blood through the American Red Cross.

Donors who give blood at any blood drive in the Western Lake Erie Region through Nov. 21 can enter to win a pair of tickets to the OSU vs. UM football game on Nov. 27.

The Blood Battle generates thousands of pints of donated blood for the American Red Cross every year, which provides vital support for patients who need blood transfusions to help them through injury and illness.

“This promotion provides an important boost for the blood supply as the Thanksgiving holiday approaches. And during the busy holiday season it’s important not to forget the constant need for volunteer blood donors,” said Annie Marckel, communications manager for the American Red Cross Western Lake Erie Blood Services Region.

When donors come to give blood they can vote for their favorite team. To schedule an appointment to donate, call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or visit redcrossblood.org. Donors are asked to bring their Red Cross blood donor cards or other form of valid ID at the time of donation.

Last October, the Wood County Health Department began working with the University of Findlay School of Pharmacy to try to help health department patients whose diabetes was not well managed. Patients were invited into the program if their A1C levels were high and they had other compounding health conditions. Participants met regularly with various health professionals throughout the program time period. There was no cost to the participant.

Over the last 12 months, 22 patients worked with health department clinic staff and University of Findlay pharmacists to improve eating habits, track their food choices and monitor their blood sugar.

Because almost all of the participants had improved A1C levels during the program, the university and health department received an award for their efforts. Accepting the award for the health department was Diane Krill, assistant director of nursing, and Katie Barricklow, nurse practitioner. Pharmacists Tonya Dauterman and Lori Ernsthausen were on hand representing the University of Findlay.

The program was supported by the Health Resources and Service Administration (HRSA), a federal agency tasked with improving access to health care. The health department and the pharmacists plan to continue the program with clinic patients.

The Wood County Health Department provides over 100 services to the community, including medical services for uninsured and underinsured men, women and children. Located at 1840 E. Gypsy Lane Rd. in Bowling Green, department hours are 8:30 am to 4:30 pm, with some late hours available and several satellite clinics each month.

Holidays and Memory Loss
The Alzheimer’s Association, Northwest Ohio Chapter will present, “Holidays and Memory Loss: Prepare to Enjoy” Tuesday, Nov. 23 from 3 to 4:30 p.m. at the Oregon Branch Library, 3340 Dustin Rd. The program will provide helpful tips, strategies and insights for creating the best possible holiday experience for those experiencing Alzheimer’s or memory loss disorders along with their caregivers and family members.

For more information about the program, to register or to obtain information about programs offered by the Alzheimer’s Association, Northwest Ohio Chapter, call 1-800-272-3900.

Caregiver webinar set
The non-profit National Private Duty Association (NPDA), along with the Ohio Chapter, has announced that it will host a family caregiver education web conference entitled, “Caring for Someone with Alzheimer’s at Home” on Nov. 16 at 8 p.m.

The free live and interactive web conference will provide families with advice on steps to help them provide the necessary care.

“November is recognized as National Family Caregivers Month,” said Sheila McMackin, president of NPDA. “NPDA is hosting this valuable event to raise awareness of family caregiver issues during this important month. Our goal is to provide education to families dealing with the special needs of Alzheimer’s patients. Keeping someone with Alzheimer’s at home can be challenging, but very positive. Our experts will provide insight and education to support caregivers facing this situation.”

The web conference topics will address issues relating to patient assessment, care plans, caregiver education, safety, and other care issues related specifically to Alzheimer's patients and the disease itself.

Pre-registration for the event is required. Visit www.privatedutyhomecare.org to sign up or obtain more information.

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