Upcoming classes and programs
Looking for health or family information? Valley West Community Hospital offers a variety of classes and programs:
Sibling Class
Three to five-year-olds can learn how babies look and behave. Course includes a "Sibling Silly" video, tour of the Valley West Maternity Suites, family activity book, instructions on helping with baby, and Super Sibling Certificate. Please bring a doll to class. Instructed by certified childbirth educator.
The free class is Oct. 8, from 6 to 7 p.m. in the Valley West Medical Office Building. Registration is required for this program and closes three days before the program date. A minimum number of participants also is required. Call 815.786.3962 or visit www.valleywest.org/programs.
New Baby Care
A special class for parents, grandparents and other caregivers that covers all of the basics of newborn care. Instructed by a certified childbirth educator. The class is $15 per couple. The class meets on Oct. 8, 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Valley West Medical Office Building. Registration is required for this program and closes three days before the program date. A minimum number of participants also is required. Call 815.786.3962 or visit www.valleywest.org/programs.
Tour the Valley West Maternity Suites
Expectant parents and those considering parenthood are encouraged to join Valley West for a walking tour of the beautiful and spacious Maternity Suites every Monday, at 7 p.m. and by appointment. The tour is free, no registration is required. This tour is also given as a part of Prepared Childbirth classes. For more information, call 815.786.3962 or visit www.valleywest.org/programs.
Breastfeeding Class
The Breastfeeding Class is intended for all first-time moms or for any mother wanting to learn more about breastfeeding. Family and friends are welcome. The free class meets on Oct. 9, from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Valley West Medical Office Building. Registration is required for this program and closes three days before the program date. A minimum number of participants also is required. Call 815.786.3962 or visit www.valleywest.org/programs.
General Cancer Support Group
The general cancer support group is open to anyone impacted by the disease of cancer. This monthly group provides an opportunity to learn more about cancer from fellow patients, caregivers and trained staff in a safe and encouraging environment. The group is open to patients, caregivers and community members. The group meets on Oct. 10, and the second Wednesday of every month, from 8:30 - 9:30 am, in the Valley West Medical Office Building. Free. Registration required. For more information call 815.786.9198 or visit www.valleywest.org/cancer.
Immunization Clinic
Children's immunizations are available Oct. 1, and normally on the second Monday of every month from 2 to 4 p.m. at Valley West Community Hospital. IPA medical card accepted or $15 per vaccine. Call the DeKalb County Health Department for an appointment, 815.748.2460.
Blood Pressure Clinic
Valley West nurse volunteers offer free weekly blood pressure checks at Valley West Community Hospital every Wednesday from 9 to 11 a.m. Just walk in, no registration is required.
What is Mindfulness?
Mindfulness is an awareness tool that can have positive effects on your overall wellbeing. Join KishHealth System Therapist, Lynette Swedberg, advanced practice nurse, certified nurse specialist, to learn more about what mindfulness is (and isn't), participate in mindfulness exercises and learn how it can help you cope with everyday stress, depression, anxiety and chronic illness. This free class is Oct. 11, from 5:30 - 6:30 pm in the Valley West Medical Office Building. Registration is required for this program and closes five days before the program date. Please register early. A minimum number of participants also is required. Call 815.786.3962 or visit www.valleywest.org/programs.
