Grant to cancer foundation
AREA — The Aliza Jean Family Cancer Foundation announced recently that it received a $2,500 grant from the Bangor Savings Bank Foundation to help provide financial support for local families who have a child fighting cancer.
The Aliza Jean Family Cancer Foundation was formed in 2013 by Craig and Karen Stutzman of Harmony after their daughter Aliza lost her battle with brain cancer in January 2013.
To learn more about the Aliza Jean Family Cancer Foundation, visit alizajeanjustone.org.
Blood Donor Month
BANGOR — The American Red Cross asks eligible blood donors to make a resolution to give blood regularly in 2015, beginning with National Blood Donor Month in January.
Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with O negative, A negative and B negative. With a shelf life of 42 days, red blood cells must be constantly replenished to maintain an adequate supply for patients. To learn more about donating blood and to schedule an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit redcrossblood.org or call 800-733-2767.
Blood Drives will be held 1-6 p.m. Monday, Jan. 19, at Orchard Trails, 4 Empire Drive, Orono; 1-7 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 20, at Maine Maritime Academy, 5 Pleasant St., Castine; and 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 21, at Hollywood Slots Casino, 500 Main St.
Top honors
BANGOR — Dr. Craig Curtis of St. Joseph Healthcare was named recently to Down East magazine’s annual list of Top Doctors for 2015. The fourth annual “Top Docs” peer survey is based on voting by physicians state-wide. The listing of winners is published in the January issue of the magazine.
The survey lists top Maine physicians by specialty, based on the survey question: “If you or a family member had a problem in the following areas, who would you select as the best specialist in Maine?”
Curtis is medical director of St. Joseph WorkWell, an occupational medicine practice.
Down East magazine will host a reception in January in Scarborough to honor its 2105 “Top Docs.”
Hospice volunteer training
BANGOR — Beacon Hospice will conduct its 21-hour training program for volunteers will 5:30-8:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 5, to Thursday, March 18. The weekly class will prepare volunteers to serve patients and their families.
Potential candidates must complete an application and interview before the class start date. The free training consists of the hospice team under the facilitation of the volunteer coordinator covering topics such as an orientation to the history and philosophy of hospice, the medical aspects of hospice care, the hospice family, communication, grief, spirituality and hospice, and the rights and responsibilities of being a hospice volunteer. An on-site supervisory visit with the volunteer’s first patient will complete the training.
For information please contact Roanne Austin, volunteer coordinator, at 942-2920 or
roanne.austin@beaconhospice.com.
BARN program
BREWER — The Bangor Area Recovery Network is beginning a series of recovery education and support 6-7 p.m. Wednesdays at the BARN Community Recovery Center, 142 Center St. On the first and third Wednesdays of each month, the Family Education and Support group will be facilitated by Robin Hamilton. There is no charge to attend the group. For information, call 561-9444 or email bangorrecovery@gmail.com.
Flu season
HAMPDEN — The Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention is reporting influenza activity in Maine is widespread with confirmed cases in all counties. However, there are several steps Mainers can take to protect themselves against the flu, including knowing which symptoms indicate a need to contact their primary care provider.
“We are still urging people six months and older to get vaccinated against the flu,” said Dr. Kristopher O’Connell, a primary care physician at EMMC Family Medicine in Hampden, in a press release. “In addition, there are some basic steps you can take to prevent the spread of the flu, such as washing your hands, covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve, and staying home if you’re sick.”
Dr. O’Connell said that those who are around people are at a higher risk of complication from influenza, such as seniors and young children, and reminds them to be even more mindful of taking precautions.
Managing arthritis
OLD TOWN — Sadie Marsh, community liaison specialist, and Nurse Amanda Stewart, both with Amedisys, will discuss how to manage arthritis 2-3 p.m. Thursday, Jan., 22, at Old Town Public LIbrary. The event is free and co-sponsored by Gateway Seniors. Register at the Old Town Public Library by calling 827-3972.