Valleywide health news, May 14-20, 2015
FREE CAREGIVER STRESS MANAGEMENT CLASS PLANNED
A gree stress management for the caregiver class is planned at 2 p.m. May 20 at the Clark County Library, 1401 E. Flamingo Road. Call 702-507-3458.
HEALTHINSIGHT NETWORK WORKING TO IMPROVE VACCINATION RATES
The HealthInsight Quality Innovation Network-Quality Improvement Organization has been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to begin work on reducing disparities and improving immunization rates and assessment of immunization status for Medicare beneficiaries.
As of April 17, the HealthInsight QIN-QIO began working with physicians and practitioners, home health agencies and critical access hospitals to improve influenza, pneumonia and shingles (zoster) vaccinations among Medicare beneficiaries across Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon and Utah. The HealthInsight QIN-QIO will also work with individual state immunization registries to support this work.
Visit healthinsight.org.
BLOODMOBILE DRIVES PLANNED ACROSS VALLEY
UBS Bloodmobile drives are planned at multiple times and locations around the valley. Call 702-233-9620. The locations include:
- From 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. May 14 at Centennial High School, 10200 Centennial Parkway. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code centennialhs.
- From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 16 at Whitney Ranch Recreation Center, 1575 Galleria Drive. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code Whitneyranch.
- From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 16 at Nehemiah Ministries, 3606 N. Rancho Drive. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code Nehemiah.
- From 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. May 17 at the Galleria at Sunset mall, 1300 W. Sunset Road. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code galleriamall
- From 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. May 17 at Holy Spirit Lutheran Church, 6670 W. Cheyenne Ave. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code holyspiritlutheran
- From 2 to 5 p.m. May 17 at Las Vegas Elks Helldorado Days Rodeo, 100 S. Grand Central Parkway. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code elkshelldorado
- From 9 a.m. to noon May 17 at Temple Sinai, 9001 Hillpointe Road. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code templesinai
- From noon to 6 p.m. May 18 at Fiesta Rancho, 2400 N. Rancho Drive. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code fiestarancho
- From 6 to 9 p.m. May 18 at LDS Redrock Stake YSA Ward, 10550 Alta Drive. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code redrocklds
- From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 20 at Clark County School District – McLeod Office, 4190 McLeod Drive. Visit unitedbloodservices.org and enter sponsor code ccsdmcleaod
BLOOD DRIVES PLANNED ACROSS LAS VEGAS VALLEY
The American Red Cross plans to host blood drives across the Las Vegas Valley. All blood types are needed, especially O negative, A negative and B negative. To schedule a donation appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767. Upcoming donation opportunities are:
Las Vegas
From noon to 5 p.m. May 14 at TitleMax, 4749 S. Maryland Parkway
From 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 15 at School of Massage Therapy, 2381 E. Windmill Lane
From 8 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. May 16 at Lowe’s, 851 S. Pavilion Center Drive
From 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. May 17 at Alex’s Lemonade Stand, Sunset Park, 2601 E. Sunset Road
From 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 18 at UPS, 7120 Amigo St.
From 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. May 19 at Wells Fargo Bank, 6325 S. Rainbow Blvd.
From 10 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. May 21 at Go Wireless Inc., 9970 W. Cheyenne Ave.
From 1 to 5:30 p.m. May 22 at TitleMax, 5871 E. Lake Mead Blvd.
Henderson
From noon to 5 p.m. May 19 at Ethel M, 1 Sunset Way
From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 20 at Art Institute of Las Vegas, 2350 Corporate Circle
North Las Vegas
From 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 6 at the College of Southern Nevada Cheyenne campus, 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave.
From 1:30 to 5:30 p.m. May 18 at Hacienda Hills Apartments, 2125 Las Vegas Blvd. North
CLEVELAND CLINIC PLANNING BRAIN CONFERENCE
The Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health is planning to host a conference titled SuperBrains: Exploring the Neuroscience of Extraordinary Abilities, May 15 at the Keep Memory Alive Event Center and May 16 at the Golden Nugget hotel. It is directed toward psychologists, neurologists, psychiatrists, social workers, educators and allied health professionals; however, anyone is welcome to register the evening of May 15.
Dr. Sarah Banks, head of the neuropsychology program at the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, coordinated the conference to highlight the human brain’s genius.
For the full schedule or to register, visit ccfcme.org/superbrains15.
BRAIN TUMOR RUN/WALK PLANNED AT SUNSET PARK
The Al Musella Foundation, a nonprofit organization devoted to brain tumor research, is scheduled to host an inaugural Brain Tumor 5K Walk/Run from 7 a.m. to noon May 16 at Sunset Park, 2601 E. Sunset Road.
Proceeds will go toward research to find a cure for this cancer that is often underfunded due to its rarity. Register at wizathon.com/walktoendbraintumors-nv.
AREA GROUPS ENCOURAGING RESIDENTS TO LOG 100,000 MILES
Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield in Nevada has teamed up with Beasley Broadcasting to promote the importance of staying active through the Southern Nevada Moves Miles program, which challenges valley residents to walk a collective 100,000 miles in eight weeks.
The challenge is set to end with a celebration at the Downtown Container Park on May 17. Participants who log their miles at southernnevadamovesmiles.com will be eligible to win weekly prizes. Every activity adds up: gardening, cleaning the house, walking the dog and biking.
Visit southernnevadamovesmiles.com.
SMITH’S FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN TO SUPPORT HEALTH FOUNDATION
Smith’s Food and Drug has begun its fourth annual fundraising campaign to benefit the St. Rose Dominican Health Foundation Charity Care Program. Through May 17, Smith’s customers are invited to join store associates in fundraising efforts throughout Southern Nevada by making a donation at the checkstands and in return be thanked with coupons. To learn more about Children’s Miracle Network’s partnership with St. Rose Dominican Hospitals, visit supportstrose.org.
SENIOR FITNESS FAIR PLANNED MAY 19
A Senior Fitness Fair is planned from noon to 2 p.m. May 19 at Southwest Medical Associates Lifestyle Center — East, 5820 S. Eastern Ave., Suite 100. It is an educational event focused on senior fitness, with demonstrations, healthy eating tips, information about emotional fitness and more. Dr. Samuel Bauzon is set to give a presentation about senior fitness from 2 to 3 p.m. To RSVP, call 855-606-1424.
COLLEGE STUDENTS ATTEMPT TO BREAK WORLD RECORD
In observance of National High Blood Pressure Education Month in May, Carrington College’s 18 campuses nationwide are attempting to earn a Guinness World Records title for the most blood pressure tests given in an eight-hour period from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. May 21 at the college, 5740 S Eastern Ave., Suite 14.
Carrington College’s Las Vegas campus encourages members of the community to get their blood pressure taken by students in the Medical Assisting program. No appointments are necessary for this complimentary test. Visit carrington.edu.
WE HEART MAGGIE TOURNAMENT SET
The seventh annual We Heart Maggie Golf Tournament supporting the Children’s Heart Foundation is planned May 23 at the Rio Secco Golf Club, 2851 Grand Hills Drive. Golfers and families from across the valley can come together for this family-friendly event. To register as a golfer or virtual golfer, sponsor or donate, visit weheartmaggie.com or call the Children’s Heart Foundation at 702-967-3522.
FREE WEIGHT LOSS SURGERY SEMINARS PLANNED
Free weight loss surgery informational seminars are planned at 6:30 p.m. May 21 and 10 a.m. May 30 at the Surgical Weight Control Center, 3802 Meadows Lane. Anyone considering weight loss surgery, including gastric sleeve, lap band or gastric bypass, or who would like to learn more about the various surgeries, is invited to attend an upcoming seminar presented by Dr. Jim Atkinson or Dr. Darren Soong. All surgeries are performed at Desert Springs Hospital. Registration is required by calling 702-313-8446.
STROKE AWARENESS OPEN HOUSE SET AT VALLEY HOSPITAL
A free Stroke Awareness Open House is planned from 9 to 11 a.m. May 28 at Valley Hospital, 620 Shadow Lane.
In honor of Stroke Awareness Month, the community is invited to an open house to learn about the many facets of stroke. Activities include blood pressure checks, stroke risk assessments, stroke education, healthy eating tips, and understanding the connection between diabetes and stroke.
CROHN’S AND COLITIS COMMUNITY WALK SCHEDULED
The Take Steps for Crohn’s & Colitis community walk is set from 9 a.m. to noon May 30 Exploration Peak Park, 9700 S. Buffalo Drive.
The event is the major fundraiser for the nonprofit Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America — Las Vegas Chapter. The walk and companion activities include live music, food, kids entertainment, vendor booths, educational materials and more. On-site registration begins at 9 a.m. with the walk at 9:30 a.m.
Each year, the local Crohn’s and Colitis group recognizes a child or teen with one of the conditions to act as the event’s Honored Hero to inspire and be an example to others with digestive diseases or IBD. This year’s Honored Hero is 18-year-old Brittany MacDonald, who has been struggling with Crohn’s disease for seven years.
The event is free and open to the public. A $25 per person donation is encouraged. Registered team members and attendees who donate will receive a wrist band for free food and other refreshments.
Visit cctakesteps.org/lasvegas.
SUMMER HEALTH FAIR SET AT CENTENNIAL HILLS HOSPITAL
A free Summer Health Fair is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. May 30 at Centennial Hills Hospital, 6900 N. Durango Drive.
In addition to dozens of vendors offering health and wellness information, free screenings will be available for blood pressure, glucose and cholesterol. Please note fasting is recommended for glucose and cholesterol screenings, and the line for cholesterol screenings is to end at 12:30 p.m.
Other activities include a Kids Corner with face painting and balloon fun, refreshments, giveaways, raffle prizes, a donation drive to benefit US Vets and a blood drive to benefit the American Red Cross from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To schedule a blood donation, visit redcross.org/blood.
MEDICAL SOCIETY ACCEPTING NOMINATIONS FOR WINGED HEART AWARD
The Clark County Medical Society announced that it is accepting public and peer-to-peer nominations for the Third Annual Winged Heart Award, through May 31. Established in 2013 by former CCMS President Dr. George Alexander, the honor recognizes outstanding nurses and nonprofit organizations that are dedicated to improving health care in Southern Nevada.
Nominations are accepted at clarkcountymedical.org/nominations.php, or a form can be downloaded and sent to janice.poblete@clarkcountymedical.org. Nominees will be invited to attend the 60th anniversary Presidential Installation Dinner & Awards Ceremony June 27 at the World Market Center, 495 S. Grand Central Parkway, Suite 223.
POWER OF LOVE GALA TO BENEFIT KEEP MEMORY ALIVE
Keep Memory Alive’s 19th annual Power of Love Gala is set for June 13 to raise funds for the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health, 888 W. Bonneville Ave. The event is set to feature Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and friends and include live auctions, wine and cocktails, and cuisine by celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck.
Tickets are on sale at keepmemoryalive.org/pol. Call 702-263-9797 or email events@keepmemoryalive.org.
HEALTH GROUP LOOKING FOR RESIDENTS’ INPUT
HealthInsight, a private nonprofit organization working to improve health care in Nevada hospitals, doctor’s offices and nursing homes, needs the public’s input to improve the health care experience.
The group is creating a Patient and Family Advisory Council to better understand the health care system from the patient’s viewpoint. Patients, families and caregivers participating in the council will share their personal stories and health care experiences.
People of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Contact Gina Pirozzi at gpirozzi@healthinsight.org or 702-933-7326.
BETTER BREATHERS CLUB MEETS MONTHLY
The Better Breathers Club is set to meet the second Tuesday of the month at Centennial Hills Hospital, 6900 N. Durango Drive. This educational and social support group is for people with lung disease, their loved ones and caregivers. A light lunch and snacks are planned.
Call Henry Clay at 702-835-9898.
FREE STD TESTING AVAILABLE
Free weekly STD screenings are available at the Gay and Lesbian Center of Southern Nevada and the Richard Steele Boxing Facility. Visit snhd.info/sexual-health-clinic.
STROKE SUPPORT GROUP PLANS MEETINGS
The Stroke Support Group is set to meet at various times monthly:
- From 3 to 4 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month at Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, 657 N. Town Center Drive, 702-233-7061.
- From 3 to 4 p.m. the second Tuesday of the month at Centennial Hills Hospital, 6900 N. Durango Drive, 702-629-1309.
- From 10 a.m. to noon the first Saturday of the month at the South Magna Conference Center, south of the Desert Springs Hospital main entrance, 2075 E. Flamingo Road, 702-369-7560. Recommended parking is off Bruce Street. Lunch is provided.
- From 10 to 11:30 a.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month on the fourth floor of Valley Hospital, 620 Shadow Lane. Call 702-388-8441 or 702-388-4619. Light refreshments will be served.
FREE BLOOD PRESSURE CHECKS TO BE OFFERED FRIDAYS
Free blood pressure checks are set to be available from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays at the Southern Nevada Health District’s main facility, 330 S. Valley View Blvd.
Visit southernnevadahealthdistrict.org.
SOUTHWEST MEDICAL ASSOCIATES TO HOST WEIGHT MANAGEMENT GROUP
The HEW/Weight Management Support Group is planned from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. Mondays at the Southwest Medical Associates Lifestyle Center-West, 8670 W. Cheyenne Ave., Suite 105. Discuss nutrition and exercise and get tips for weight loss.
To register, call 702-877-5356.
SUMMERLIN HOSPITAL TO HOST STROLLER STRIDES CLASS
A new Stroller Strides Fit4Mom class is planned from 4 to 5 p.m. Wednesdays on the campus of Summerlin Hospital Medical Center, 653 N. Town Center Drive.
Stroller Strides is a total fitness program that moms do with their babies. Activities include power walking/jogging and intervals of strength and body toning exercise using exercise tubing, a stroller and the environment. The class is taught by certified fitness instructors with specialty training in the pre- and postnatal woman. Instructors weave songs and activities into the routine designed to engage and entertain the babies.
Registration is required. To enroll, visit lasvegas.fit4mom.com.
