How Will a New Donation Enhance Pet Therapy Programs and Boost Car Seat Safety?

The Franciscan Health Foundation has made a significant impact on mental health and wellbeing through its generous donation of £13,000 to the Pet Therapy Program. This initiative, which is entirely volunteer-run, aims to bring comfort and companionship to patients, families, and staff at various Franciscan Health facilities. The Circle of 1875, which supports community health initiatives, is behind this donation, highlighting the importance of community involvement in healthcare.

Last updated: 27 September 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• The Franciscan Health Foundation donated £13,000 to the Pet Therapy Program.
• The Pet Therapy Program is volunteer-operated and nearly 10 years old.
• Northwest Medical has welcomed Dr. Christos Deamont, a new pulmonologist.
• Franciscan Health will host a virtual diabetes prevention program starting 1 October.
• Purdue University Northwest's Magesh Chandramouli has been named a Fulbright Specialist.
• A free car seat safety event will take place at Franciscan Health Michigan City on 27 September.

Franciscan Health Pet Therapy Program Receives Boost

The Franciscan Health Pet Therapy Program has recently benefited from a generous donation of £13,000 from the Franciscan Health Foundation’s Circle of 1875. This initiative demonstrates the Foundation's commitment to enhancing patient care and wellbeing across its facilities. The Pet Therapy Program, which is nearly a decade old, relies entirely on volunteers and includes a dedicated group of 16 volunteers and 17 therapy dogs.

These therapy animals offer comfort and emotional support to patients, families, and staff across multiple locations, including the Crown Point, Dyer, and Munster hospitals, as well as the PACE program in Dyer. The impact of therapy pets on mental health and recovery is well-documented, making this donation particularly valuable.

The Circle of 1875: Empowering Women for Community Health

The Circle of 1875 was established to support the Franciscan Health mission and its various community health programmes. Named after the year the first Franciscan hospital opened in Lafayette, the Circle allows women to join together to make a significant difference in their local healthcare landscape. Each member pledges a minimum of £1,000 annually, which goes directly towards initiatives like the Pet Therapy Program.

For anyone interested in supporting these vital community health efforts or joining the Circle of 1875, further information can be obtained by calling the Franciscan Health Foundation at 219-661-3401.

New Additions at Northwest Medical

Northwest Health has expanded its team by welcoming Dr. Christos Deamont, a specialist in pulmonary and critical care medicine. Dr. Deamont brings extensive experience in diagnosing and treating a range of lung conditions, making him a valuable addition to the Northwest Medical Group.

Located at 813 Porter Campus Drive in Valparaiso, Dr. Deamont will focus on conditions such as respiratory failure, asthma, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). His expertise is crucial for patients requiring intensive care, and he aims to improve the health outcomes of those suffering from chronic lung diseases.

Patients looking to schedule appointments with Dr. Deamont can do so by calling 219-464-9054.

Franciscan Health’s Virtual Diabetes Prevention Programme

Franciscan Health is committed to addressing the rising incidence of type 2 diabetes through its virtual Diabetes Prevention Program. This initiative, which begins on 1 October, follows evidence-based guidelines from the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and is designed to prevent or delay the onset of diabetes.

The programme consists of 16 weekly sessions, followed by six monthly follow-up sessions, all conducted by trained lifestyle coaches. It is specifically targeted at individuals aged 18 and older who have been diagnosed with prediabetes, with eligibility criteria including a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25.

The programme costs £99 and requires registration, as spaces are limited. Interested individuals can complete the DPP Qualifying Questionnaire online to secure their spot.

Why Diabetes Prevention is Crucial

Diabetes is a significant public health issue in the UK, affecting millions and leading to serious health complications if not managed properly. Preventive measures, such as those offered by the Diabetes Prevention Program, are essential in combating this growing epidemic. By promoting lifestyle changes and offering support, the programme aims to reduce the number of individuals progressing to type 2 diabetes.

Purdue University Northwest’s Recognition

Purdue University Northwest (PNW) has announced that Magesh Chandramouli, a professor in the College of Technology, has been selected as a U.S. Fulbright Specialist. This prestigious appointment will see him collaborate with faculty at Politecnico di Torino in Italy to enhance training for aerospace engineers.

Chandramouli’s role will involve conducting workshops and developing training programmes while he is in Italy. His visit is part of a broader initiative to foster international educational exchanges, which are vital for advancing academic standards and professional skill development across disciplines.

In addition to his work in Italy, PNW will host two students from Politecnico di Torino for two months, allowing for collaborative research and knowledge exchange.

New Physician at Franciscan Health

Dr. Latifa Barti has recently joined the Franciscan Physician Network and is currently accepting new patients at the Winfield Health Center in Crown Point. Dr. Barti holds a medical degree from the American University of Antigua and completed her residency in family medicine in Chicago.

Her clinical interests encompass medical weight management and the treatment of alcohol and tobacco use disorders, as well as lifestyle medicine. Patients interested in scheduling an appointment with Dr. Barti can contact the centre at 219-662-9424.

Car Seat Safety Event at Franciscan Health

In its ongoing commitment to community safety, Franciscan Health is hosting a free car seat safety event on 27 September at the Michigan City Legacy Campus. This event, co-hosted by the Trauma Services Department and the Prenatal Assistance Program, will provide valuable guidance on the proper installation of car seats.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to attend, but it is essential that the child who will be using the car seat is present during the appointment. Reservations are required for this free service, and interested individuals can call 219-488-1380 to secure their spot.

Influential Women Awards Banquet

The 14th annual Influential Women of Northwest Indiana Awards Banquet is set to take place on 25 September at Avalon Manor in Merrillville. This prestigious event recognises outstanding women across various sectors in the region, highlighting their contributions to the community.

From over 500 nominations, finalists have been selected in 13 industry categories. Awards will include the Influential Woman of the Year, Up and Coming Woman of the Year, and special recognitions for Community Leader and Supporter of the Year. This event not only celebrates individual achievements but also underlines the importance of women’s leadership in fostering community development.

For further details on the event, ticket purchases, and a complete list of finalists, visit nwiiwa.org.

FAQs

What is the Franciscan Health Pet Therapy Program?

The Franciscan Health Pet Therapy Program is a volunteer-based initiative that brings therapy dogs to visit patients, families, and staff in various healthcare settings, providing emotional support and comfort.

How can I join the Circle of 1875?

To join the Circle of 1875, interested individuals can contact the Franciscan Health Foundation at 219-661-3401 for more information on membership and contributions.

What does the Diabetes Prevention Program involve?

The Diabetes Prevention Program includes weekly sessions focusing on lifestyle changes aimed at preventing or delaying type 2 diabetes, facilitated by trained lifestyle coaches.

Who can participate in the Diabetes Prevention Program?

The program is open to adults aged 18 and over who have been diagnosed with prediabetes or have a BMI greater than 25, along with specific eligibility criteria.

What is the significance of the Fulbright Specialist programme?

The Fulbright Specialist programme promotes international collaboration and educational exchange, allowing experts to share knowledge and improve academic standards globally.

How can I attend the car seat safety event?

To attend the car seat safety event, individuals must make a reservation by calling 219-488-1380, and the child using the seat must be present during the appointment.

As these initiatives unfold, they highlight the continuous commitment of local health organisations and educational institutions to improve community welfare and support. Engaging in such programmes not only enhances healthcare but also fosters a strong sense of community. #FranciscanHealth #CommunityCare #HealthcareInitiatives