NewburyportNews.com, Newburyport, MA

September 18, 2009

Health Beat


Mike Donohoe Run/Walk for Melanoma set for Oct. 4

The third annual Mike Donohoe Run/Walk for Melanoma takes place Sunday, Oct. 4, at noon at Perley Elementary School in Georgetown.

The event, which benefits the Melanoma Foundation of New England and the Michael J. Donohoe Scholarship Fund, will feature cash prizes, free raffles, refreshments and special giveaways, including two Southwest Airlines tickets. A free Kids Fun Run for ages 8 and under will go off at 11:30 a.m.

Register online at www.coolrunning.com/major/09/mikedonohoe or www.active.com, Those who sign up by Sunday receive a free long-sleeved T-shirt. Race numbers may be picked up Saturday, Oct. 3, from 9 a.m. to noon at Georgetown Middle/High School or on race day starting at 10 a.m. at Perley School. Race day parking will be at the middle/high school.

For more, e-mail mikedonohoe5kroadrace@comcast.net or call race directors Rich Laflamme at 978-500-9023 or Deb Johnson at 978-270-4138.

'Preparing Your Body for Cold and Flu Season' discussion

The YWCA Greater Newburyport Seminar Series presents a discussion on "Preparing Your Body for the Cold and Flu Season" by Dr. Jennah Dieter of Healthcare Complete PC on Tuesday from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the Community Room at the YWCA Greater Newburyport, 13 Market St., Newburyport.

This discussion will focus on natural ways for people to boost their immunity and keep their body healthy. The idea that "germs make you sick" will be debunked, and participants will be motivated to take control of your health. Natural remedies to boost the body's natural defenses during immune system challenges will also be presented.

The cost is $10, $8 for YWCA members. To register, call the YWCA Greater Newburyport at 978-465-9922 or stop by the membership desk.

Ash-scattering ceremony takes to the seas out of Newburyport

West Newbury's Jesse Kalfel, author of "So You're Cremated ... Now What," is leading an ash-scattering ceremony aboard the Yankee Clipper out of Newburyport waterfront on Saturday, Sept. 26, at 10:30 a.m.

Kalfel was inspired to research the options for handling cremated remains and write his book after his 97-year-old mother asked to be cremated. His book presents information and ideas in a way that makes a serious topic approachable for many families.

The cruise will provide a way for people to memorialize their loved ones, including pets, as well as an opportunity for people to dispose of ashes they have been left with no instructions. Participants are encouraged to bring photos to share with others on board.

The cruise will leave from the west end of the Newburyport boardwalk near the Black Cow restaurant. Seating is limited to 40 people. The cost is $25, which will cover the cost of the boat. To learn more or reserve a spot, e-mail Kalfel at events@crematednowwhat.com. For more on Kalfel's book, visit www.crematednowwhat.com.

Crafters Quarters making Sewing for Smiles pillowcases

Crafters Quarters at 36 Main St. in Amesbury is sewing creative pillowcases for young people ages 2 to 17 with life-changing illnesses and injuries on Sunday, Sept. 27, from noon to 6 p.m.

The effort is part of Sewing for Smiles, which believes a warm, colorful place for patients to rest their heads can be a bright spot for people with an extended illness. The pillowcases are donated to Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center in Lebanon, N.H.

Sewing Smiles was developed in conjunction with ConKerr Cancer, a foundation started by a mother whose son had to undergo uncomfortable chemotherapy stays at Philadelphia-area hospitals.

Sewing machines, fabric and thread will be donated by Crafters Quarters. The public is invited to join in. Cutters, sewers and people to package and iron are needed. While fabric will be available, people are invited to bring their own as well.

Crafters Quarters is taking reservations to prepare for the number of people who will attend. Call 978-388-8000 or visit www.CraftersQuarters.com.

'Passport to the World' fundraiser for hospice care

Merrimack Valley Hospice serves its "Passport to the World: International Food, Wine and Beer" fundraiser Thursday, Sept. 24, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Haverhill Country Club, 58 Brickett Lane, Haverhill.

Guests will experience a virtual trip to Spain, France, Germany, Argentina, Japan and Morocco as they sample a tasting menu of each country's foods and drinks.

The event will also include a silent auction for such items as Red Sox tickets, a weeklong stay for 10 in Penobscot Bay, Maine; tickets to a Pink Floyd concert and more. There will also be a drawing for a Nintendo Wii.

Haverhill authors Chris and Nancy Obert will be on hand to showcase their book, "The Next Harvest ... Vineyards and Wineries in New England." Half of the proceeds from sales of their book during the evening will be donated to Merrimack Valley Hospice to support hospice care services.

Tickets are $50 and available by calling 978-552-4003 or e-mailing ktownshend@homehealthfoundation.org. Visit www.merrimackvalleyhospice.org for more.

Locals gear for Making Strides Against Breast Cancer

The North Essex Unit of the American Cancer Society is once again participating in the 17th annual Making Strides Against Breast Cancer walk on Sunday, Oct. 4, at the Charles River Esplanade in Boston.

Transportation to and from the walk will be provided by bus from the Rupert A. Nock Middle School on Low Street in Newburyport. Registration will begin at 7 a.m., and the buses will leave promptly at 7:45. After the walk, buses will depart Boston at 12:45 p.m. for the return ride to Newburyport. The transportation fee is $5. Registration is not required, although large groups are asked to reserve their seats.

For more, contact Sandra Kalenik at 978-499-9297 or e-mail skalenik@yahoo.com.

Anna Jaques recognized for Diabetes Education Clinic

The American Diabetes Association has recognized the Anna Jaques Hospital in Newburyport's Diabetes Education Clinic for its diabetes self-management education program.

The association's Education Recognition Certificate identifies educational programs that meet the national standards for diabetes self-management education programs.

In receiving the certificate, the association said the Anna Jaques program delivers "high quality education that is an essential component of effective diabetes treatment."

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If you have an item for Health Beat, contact Sonya Vartabedian at 978-462-6666 or svartabedian@newburyportnews.com.