Have any health notes to submit to the paper? New class? New or ongoing support group? Blood drive? Fax a brief write-up to 703-917-0991 or e-mail maweber@connectionnewspapers.com
Donate Blood. There is an urgent need for donors with all blood types. Inova Blood Donor Services is open weekdays, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., and Saturdays, 8 a.m.-4 p.m., at its main location at 3289 Woodburn Road in Annandale. To inquire about appointments at a convenient donor center or blood drive, call 1-866-BLOOD SAVES (1-866-256-6372) or visit www.inova.org/donateblood.
Other Inova blood donation sites are Inova Alexandria Hospital, 4320 Seminary Road, Alexandria, 703-504-3500; Inova Mount Vernon Hospital, 2501 Parker's Lane, Alexandria, 703-664-7229; CentreMed, Centreville, 703-322-1970.
Blood Drives. There are blood drives on the following dates at the following locations:
* Saturday, Nov. 6, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., at Great Falls United Methodist Church, 10100 Georgetown Pike, Great Falls. Call 703-757-0425 to make an appointment.
* Friday, Nov. 12, 8 a.m.-1:30 p.m., at George Mason High School, 7124 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. Call 703-248-5500 to make an appointment.
Through a partnership with the AlzheimerÕs Association of the National Capital Area, Vinson Hall Corp. will host a holiday series at The Sylvestery, its assisted living facility for the memory-impaired. This will be a four-part series to prepare caregivers and family members of Alzheimer's patients for the holiday season. Attend any or all of the programs, depending on need.
A fee of $10 per program will be donated to both organizations' missions. A light supper will be provided. Space is limited, so R.S.V.P. at 703-970-2700. The Sylvestery is located at 1728 Kirby Road, McLean.
* "Is Memory Loss a Problem?" takes place Nov. 10, 6:30-8 p.m. During the holiday season, visits with family and friends not frequently seen can make individual problems with memory loss, impaired judgment and word-finding more readily apparent. This session helps family members determine what is normal aging and what are the warning signs of dementia. Attendees learn about diagnosis and treatment of AlzheimerÕs disease and related dementias, as well as much-needed resources available to caregivers.
* "Grandpa Can't Remember My Name" takes place Nov. 18, 6:30-8 p.m. Children may spend lots of time with their relatives during the holidays. This interactive session helps school-age children better understand their relative with Alzheimer's disease and provides helpful suggestions for joint activities. The program is offered to children 6-12 and their parents.
* "Family Dynamics and Dementia" takes place Dec. 2, 6:30-8 p.m. Families that see relatives who have significant memory impairment may disagree over the type of care needed. This session helps individuals understand the process of Alzheimer's disease and will explore effective communication strategies for interacting with those who experience dementia. Community resources to help caregivers will also be discussed
* "Holiday Hoopla and Your Loved One with Dementia" takes place Dec. 16, 6:30-8 p.m. Those with dementia may have difficulty participating in holiday festivities. This session will discuss how to adjust expectations and make the holiday season an enjoyable time for both the caregiver and the individual with dementia. Suggestions for gift-giving will also be presented.
Coalesce I: Metastatic Breast Cancer Support Group. Meets Fridays in the late morning at Inova Fairfax WomenÕs Center, Radiation Oncology Conference Room, 3300 Gallows Road in Falls Church. Registration is required. Call Sage Bolte, M.S.W., breast cancer counselor, for time, information and to register at 703-208-5620.
Teens' Meet and Eat. On Wednesday, Nov. 3, 6:30-8:30 p.m., hang out and have dinner with other teenagers who have a family member with cancer. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. To register, call Jenny Eckert at 703-208-5623.
Children's Educational Support Program. Wednesdays, Nov. 3-Dec. 1, 5:15-6:15 p.m. Continuation of the eight-week discussion and activities group for children 5-12 who are learning to cope with someone in the family having cancer. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. To register, call Jenny Eckert at 703-208-5623.
Caregivers Meeting. On Wednesdays, Nov. 3, 10 and 17, 7:30-8:30 p.m., family members can discuss and explore topics of concern including coping strategies, support, information related to cancer and more. At Inova Fairfax Women's Center, Radiation Oncology Conference Room, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church. Use the Blue parking garage. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
"A Tour of Care: Pre-op Breast Cancer Surgery Classes." Two sessions, Wednesdays, Nov. 3 and 17, or Wednesdays, Nov. 10 and 24, 12:30-2 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room 1B. Information and support for women who have scheduled a lumpectomy and/or nodal biopsy. Learn what to expect during the hospital stay, see samples of implants, prostheses, drains and comfortable undergarments. A breast-cancer nurse educator teaches the class. Registration required; call 703-204-3380.
Breast Cancer Group. On Wednesdays, Nov. 3 and 17, 5:30-7 p.m., this semi-monthly support group for women with early-stage breast cancer convenes. At Inova Fairfax Women's Center, Radiation Oncology Conference Room, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church. Use the Blue parking garage. Visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
CanSurvive. Thursdays, Nov. 4, 11 and 18, noon-1:30 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1B. Lunch-time support group for those dealing with any type of cancer. 301-610-9146.
Melanoma Group Meeting. On Thursday, Nov. 4, 7-8:30 p.m., meet with others to share information, discuss and explore ways to meet the challenges of living with melanoma. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
All about Wigs. Friday, Nov. 5, 1-2 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room B, 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org. Register by the day before class.
Advanced Relaxation and Imagery Techniques. Fridays, Nov. 5 and 19, 10:30 a.m.-noon, at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. Registration appreciated. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Thyroid Cancer Support Group. Saturday, Nov. 6, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. Thyroid cancer survivors and their adult loved ones are invited to share information and support at this monthly meeting. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. Call the Thyroid Cancer Survivors' Association, 1-877-588-7904.
United Ostomy Association, Northern Virginia Chapter, meets Sunday, Nov. 7, 1:30-3 p.m., at Inova Fairfax Hospital in Conference Rooms D-E-F. Free. For information, call UOA at 703-802-3457.
On My Own. On Monday, Nov. 8, 5:30-6:30 p.m., meet other singles in their 40s and beyond to discuss the challenges and coping strategies of having cancer and living alone. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 2C. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
"Look Good, Feel Better." A professional cosmetologist shares skin, hair and cosmetic tips to help look good before, during and after cancer treatment, on Tuesday, Nov. 9, 7-9 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. Reserve a space by Thursday, Nov. 4.
Spirituality Quest: Walking the Labyrinth. Tuesday, Nov. 9, 10:30 a.m.-noon, at the King of Kings Church, 4025 Kings Way, Fairfax. Walk the labyrinth as a means of meditation or spiritual connection. For directions, call 703-776-2841 or visit www.kofk.org.
Prostate Cancer Support Group, an "Us Too" and "Man to Man" affiliate, meets Tuesday, Nov. 9, 7:30-9 p.m., at Inova Fairfax Hospital's Physicians Conference Center, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church. Use the Blue parking garage. The subject is "Sexuality, Libido and Impotency." 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Crate & Barrel Private Shopping Event. On Wednesday, Nov. 10, 6-9 p.m., the Crate & Barrel located at 1800 International Drive, McLean, hosts private shopping including door, prizes and music, with ticket prices and 10 percent of purchases going to benefit Life with Cancer. Tickets are $25. Visit www.crateandbarrel.com/lifewithcancer to make purchases, 10 percent of which will also benefit Life with Cancer. Call 703-776-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
GYN Cancer Group. On Wednesday, Nov. 10, 5:30-7 p.m., women diagnosed with ovarian, cervical and endometrial cancers are invited to drop in for this monthly meeting. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Heads Up! On Wednesday, Nov. 10, 5:30-7 p.m., this educational support group for current and former head and neck cancer patients and significant others meets at Inova Fairfax Women's Center, Radiation Oncology Conference Room, 3300 Gallows Road, Falls Church. Use the Blue parking garage.
Moving On. Mondays and Wednesdays, Nov. 10-Dec. 15, 3-4 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1D. Get moving with this eight-week exercise class designed to increase muscle strength, flexibility, endurance and overall well-being. A fitness instructor tailors exercise to the needs of cancer survivors in treatment or remission. Registration for new participants by Wednesday, Nov. 3. No new registrants after Nov. 22. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Expressive Arts: Spiritbeads. Thursday, Nov. 11, 10:30 a.m.-noon, or Monday, Dec. 15, 7:15-8:45 p.m. Use color symbolism to string beads that reflect personal purpose. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. Register by Nov. 8 or Dec. 10. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Gentle Yoga for Cancer Survivors. Thursdays, Nov. 11 and 18, Dec. 2 and 9, 1:15-2:30 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. Register by Nov. 8. Dress comfortably. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Young Adult Group. Thursday, Nov. 11, 7:30-9 p.m., meet with others ages 18 to 30-something to discuss issues such as sexuality, dating, body image, work and health insurance concerns, treatment side effects, fears of recurrence, and sustaining a normal lifestyle after a cancer diagnosis. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room A. Call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Colorectal Cancer Group. On Thursday, Nov. 11, 6:30-8 p.m., meet with others affected by colorectal cancer to address issues and concerns. Facilitated by an oncology nurse and a social worker. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room 1E. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Leukemia Support Group. Co-sponsored with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Thursday, Nov. 11, 7-9 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Couples Workshop. Saturday, Nov. 13, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. This monthly support group includes discussion, exercises and support to help couples through the difficult times after a cancer diagnosis. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org. Register by Nov. 5.
A free conference for parents and school personnel on cancer in the classroom. "From Clinic to Classroom: Educating Children with Cancer," takes place Saturday, Nov. 13, 8 a.m.-noon, at George Marshall High School, 7731 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church. Register by Nov. 9, by calling 703-960-1100 Ext. 231 or e-mailing singers@dc-cap.leukemia-lymphoma.org. Sponsored by the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Children's National Medical Center, Georgetown University Hospital and Growing Hope.
Lymphoma Group: Diagnostic and Prognostic Indicators for Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. Monday, Nov. 15, 6:30-8 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1B. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Multiple Myeloma Group. Tuesday, Nov. 16, 11:45 a.m.-1:15 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1B. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Individual Reiki Appointments. Experience the benefits of this ancient healing practice. Dress comfortably. Wednesday, Nov. 17, 12:30-2 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. Register by Nov. 15. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Lymphedema Group Meeting. On Wednesday, Nov. 17, 7-8:30 p.m., meet with others who have hereditary or secondary lymphedema resulting from surgery, radiation or trauma to the lymphatic system. A certified lymphedema therapist and an oncology counselor will facilitate discussion about physical and emotional concerns. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1E. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Lung Cancer Group: Ask the Pharmacist. Wednesday, Nov. 17, 5:30-7 p.m. Pharmacist Robert Bretzel of Fairfax-Northern Virginia Hematology-Oncology, PC, provides an update on current and upcoming medications to treat lung cancer. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1B. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org. Register by Nov. 15.
Good Grief Dinner for Teens. Wednesday, Nov. 17, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Dinner for teens who have lost a family member to cancer. Share thoughts and feelings and learn about the grief process. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. To register, call Jenny Eckert at 703-208-5623.
BMT/Stem Cell Support Group. Thursday, Nov. 18, 12:30-1:30 p.m., at Fairfax-Northern Virginia Hem-Onc, 8503 Arlington Blvd., #320, Fairfax. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Expressive Arts: Thankful Placemats. Thursday, Nov. 18, 10:30 a.m.-noon, at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. Register by Nov. 15. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org.
Handling the Holidays after the Death of a Loved One. Thursday, Nov. 18, 7-8:30 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org. Register by Nov. 15.
Movement with Meaning. Thursday, Nov. 18, 5:30-5:30 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield. Roxanne Morgan, completing her MFA in dance and movement, offers an opportunity for children 5-16 to explore movement as a way to express themselves. To register, call Jenny Eckert at 703-208-5623.
"Ethical Wills: Reflections and Hopes." Learn about ethical wills and participate in exercises to get the ball rolling. Thursday, Nov. 18, 7:15-8:45 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. To register, call 703-698-2841 or visit www.lifewithcancer.org. Register by Nov. 15. Bring a paper and pen.
Partners of Women with Metastatic Breast Cancer Partners Breakfast. Friday, Nov. 19, 7 a.m. Meet at a Silver Diner to address personal, health and relationship concerns, issues and needs as they relate to the disease. Call Sage Bolte, MSW, breast cancer counselor, at 703-208-5620.
Carcinoid Cancer Group. Saturday, Nov. 20, 10 a.m.-noon, meet with other carcinoid cancer patients and their adult loved ones to share experiences and learn from one another in this monthly group meeting. At the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Room 1B. 703-698-2841, www.lifewithcancer.org.
Good Grief for Children 5-12. Mondays, beginning Nov. 22, 5-6 p.m., at the Life with Cancer Family Center, 2832 Juniper St., Merrifield, Suite 203, Room B. Eight-week program of group activities and art therapy for children going through the grief process. To register, call Jenny Eckert at 703-208-5623.
Effective Strategies for Helping AD/HD Children. On Monday, Dec. 6, 7-9 p.m., at 12801 Worldgate Drive, Fifth Floor Conference Room, Herndon, learn about the latest and most effective practices used to help children with AD/HD Ñfresh from the 2004 CHADD (Children and Adults with Attention Deficits/Hyperactivity Disorder) National Conference in Nashville, Tenn. This workshop focuses on the implications of AD/HD at home and in the classroom, and how parents can help their children become more successful and independent learners. The presenter is Ann Dolin, M.Ed. Educational Connections Inc. Cost is $20 for materials and refreshments. R.S.V.P. by calling 703-264-7400 or by sending an e-mail to ann@educational-connections.com.