Caregiver briefs: Victory Center & Baskets of Care to present “Intimacy & Cancer”

 
        The Victory Center and Baskets of Care are collaborating to present “Intimacy & Cancer - A Frank Discussion of Sexuality for Women Survivors,” on Wednesday, Aug. 30 from 6-7:30 p.m. at The Victory Center, located at 3166 N. Republic Boulevard, Toledo.
        The event promises to provide a safe and supportive space for women survivors of cancer to openly discuss and explore the topic of intimacy and sexuality during and after their cancer journey. Women of all backgrounds and ages are invited to the evening of empowering conversations, shared experiences and expert insights. All women who have been diagnosed with any type of cancer, whether in treatment or post treatment, are eligible to attend.
        The featured speakers at the event include:
        • Danae Hamouda, MD., a renowned oncologist specializing in women’s health and survivorship. With her expertise and compassion, she has helped numerous cancer survivors reclaim their lives and rediscover intimacy.
        • Brithany Pawloski, MD, a clinical psychologist and sexual health expert who has dedicated her career to assisting women in navigating the complex relationship among cancer, treatment and sexuality.
        • Tina Kerr, BSN, RN, a registered nurse and breast cancer survivor. Through her compassionate care and guidance, she has supported countless women in their journey toward reclaiming their sexual well-being.
        Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., allowing attendees to find their seats and connect with fellow participants. From 6-7:30 p.m., the panel of speakers will lead a frank and informative discussion on the challenges and strategies for rebuilding intimacy and embracing sexuality after cancer.
        A question-and-answer session will follow the panel discussion, providing an opportunity for attendees to engage directly with the experts and gain further understanding.
        Space for this event is limited, early registration is encouraged. To register, call The Victory Center at 419-531-7600.
        “We are excited to host ‘Intimacy & Cancer’ in collaboration with Baskets of Care, offering a compassionate and open platform for women survivors to address an important aspect of their lives often overlooked,” said TVC Program Director, Hattie Lykowski. “Our aim is to provide a safe environment where survivors can find support, learn from experts, and connect with others who have similar experiences.”
        The Victory Center and Baskets of Care are committed to promoting the overall well-being and quality of life for individuals facing a cancer diagnosis. Learn more at thevictorycenter.org and basketsofcare.org.
 
Life Line screenings set
        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 planned for Wednesday, July 12  at St John’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, 122 W. Ottawa St.
        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.
        Special package pricing starts at $159, but consultants will work with clients to create a package that is right for them based on age and risk factors. Call 1-877-237-1287 or visit lifelinescreening.com for more details. Pre-registration is required. Free parking is available at the church.
        Genoa screenings planned
        Life Line will also offer their various screenings Thursday, Aug. 10 at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, 204 Main St. Call the above number or visit the website to schedule.
 
 
‘Walking Through Grief’
        Community members are invited to attend an interactive support group aimed at helping adults adjust to the loss of any loved one.
        “Walking through Grief” will be held Fridays, July 7, Aug. 4, Sept. 1 and Oct. 4 from 10-11 a.m. at the Perrysburg Hospice Center, 30000 East River Rd.
        The walking route will include the hospice grounds and path to the W.W. Knight Nature Preserve. The distance is less than one mile.
        Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy nature, express and receive support, adapt to their life-changing event, discover healthy coping skills and gain support in understanding grief.
        The sessions are free and open to anyone in the community, whether or not they have had a prior relationship with Hospice of Northwest Ohio, however, advance registration is required. Attendees should wear comfortable shoes.
        For more information or to register, contact the Hospice Bereavement Department at 419-661-4001.
        Hospice group offerings
        Hospice of Northwest Ohio also offers in-person bereavement groups and private counseling sessions at no charge to anyone in the community who is grieving. Masks are required inside the Hospice facilities.
        Current offerings include:
        • Coping with Loss – A twice-monthly interactive support group for adults. Participants will learn about grief and have the opportunity to express and receive support, develop an understanding of one’s loss, learn realistic expectations for one’s self and discover healthy coping skills.
        The group meets the first and third Tuesdays of the month from 4-5:30 p.m. at the Perrysburg Center and the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Toledo Center, 800 S. Detroit Ave.
        • Spousal or Partner Loss – A twice-monthly support group for those who have experienced the death of a spouse or partner. Participants will learn ways to adapt to the loss, set realistic expectations for one’s self, learn to take care of themselves, gain support in understanding of grief and live with/manage the loneliness after loss.
        The group meets the first and third Wednesdays of the month from 5:30-7 p.m. at the Toledo Center and the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 3-4:30 p.m. at the Perrysburg Center
        To ensure the best possible group experience, anyone interested in attending must first speak to a member of the Hospice Bereavement Team by phone to learn about the options and determine which group would be the most beneficial.
        All bereavement services are provided free of charge and are available to anyone in the community, whether or not they have had previous involvement with Hospice of Northwest Ohio. All sessions are conducted by our licensed counselors.
        Contact the Hospice of Northwest Ohio Bereavement Department at 419-661-4001. To learn more about grief and loss, visit hospicenwo.org.
 
Stroke support group
        ProMedica’s Stroke Support Group will host an Aphasia Awareness Movie Night June 29 at the Maumee Indoor Theater, 601 Conant St.
        Doors will open at 6 p.m. and the movie will begin at 7 p.m. Free popcorn and soda will be provided for the first 50 guests. Registration is not required to attend.
 
Mobile Meals seeks volunteers
        Mobile Meals of Toledo, local community non-profit, is seeking volunteers to help deliver meals as their schedules permit.
        The local pickup site for the meals is Mercy Health – St. Charles Hospital in Oregon. For more information or to sign up, contact Rochelle Rodgers at 419-255-7806 or rrodgers@mobilemeals.org.
 
Ability Center seeking donations
        The Ability Center seeks wheelchairs and transport chairs to assist people in need. Donations of gently used or financial contributions are welcomed.
        Help empower individuals with mobility challenges by dropping off items or donations at 5605 Monroe St., Toledo, or call ahead to 419-885-5733.
 
Diabetes Empowerment
Education Program (DEEP)
        Do you or someone you love have diabetes?
        Sandusky County Senior Services will present DEEP, an evidence-based educational program developed by the University of Illinois-Chicago, at the Fremont Senior Center, 1101 Castalia St., on July 10, 17, 24 and 31 and Aug. 7, and 14 from 9-11 a.m.
        The program encourages small lifestyle changes while learning about diabetes and the way it affects health. Participants will have fun with friends and family while learning how to manage diabetes through no-cost educational workshops.
        Workshop topics include Monitoring your Body, Health Management Through Meal Planning, Living with Diabetes and Get Up and Move! Classes are taught by a certified peer educator.
        Individuals who are 60 or older and who have diabetes or pre-diabetes are invited to attend. For more information or to sign up, call Alexis Massie at 419-333-1402 and press option 1.
        Please note: this program is not a replacement for medical care. Participants should keep all medical appointments and follow the directions of healthcare providers.