Upcoming Wellness Events

Bariatric Surgeons to Discuss Weight Loss Options

(ST. JOSEPH)—The Lakeland Weight Loss Center is offering a series of free seminars titled “Lose Weight…Find Health.” The first seminar will take place on Wednesday, Dec. 4, in the Community Conference Room at Lakeland Medical Suites, located at 41 N. St. Joseph Avenue in Niles. A second seminar will be held on Wednesday, Dec. 18 in the Community Room at Caring Circle, located at 4025 Health Park Lane in St. Joseph. Both seminars will take place from 6:30–8 p.m.

Bariatric surgeons Michael Schuhknecht, DO, and Seth Miller, MD, will discuss programs available for losing weight and maintaining a healthy weight for years to come. The Lakeland Weight Loss Center specializes in working with each person to create a customized lifestyle plan through bariatric surgery, diet and nutrition counseling, and monthly support groups.

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, about 190 million adults in the United States are overweight and obese. Individuals more than 40 percent overweight are twice as likely to die prematurely as someone of average weight. However, the good news is that losing as little as five to 15 percent of your initial body weight can reduce your risk of diabetes and other illnesses and can even eliminate your need for some medications.

For more information or to register for the seminar, visit lakelandweightlosscenter.com/events or call 269-927-5361.

Free Wellness Event in Benton Harbor

(BENTON HARBOR)—Community members are invited to attend an upcoming Neighborhood Centered Health Home event on Thursday, Dec. 12, from 2–6 p.m. at Elite Barbershop, located at 1301 Pipestone Road in Benton Harbor.

Free blood pressure screenings will be offered during the event. A clinical educator will be on-site for personal health coaching sessions. Those in attendance will also have the opportunity to meet with a Lakeland resident physician and participate in discussion about key medical topics. Walk-ins are welcome. For more information, call 269-556-2808.

Lakeland Rehabilitation to Host Winter Sensory Camp

(ST. JOSEPH)—Children ages three to 12 who have a diagnosis of autism, sensory processing disorder, or cerebral palsy are invited to experience a fun and active group environment during the Spectrum Health Lakeland Sensory Camp. Led by licensed physical, speech and occupational therapists, activities are presented in a consistent routine and include sensory motor exercises, balance and coordination, obstacle courses, socialization opportunities, and gross motor tasks, among others.

“After seven years of overwhelming success with this program, and at the request of many parents/caregivers of children with special needs, we are pleased to be adding an additional winter sensory camp in 2020,” said physical therapist Keri Pawielski, PT, Lakeland Rehabilitation. “We look forward to continuing to serve this fantastic group of children.”

Sensory Camp will be held from 9–10:15 a.m. on Mondays, January 12–March 2, at Power in Motion Gymnastics, located at 3889 South M-139 in St. Joseph. Cost of the camp is $120 per camper, due by the first day of camp. Sibling discounts are available. Space for the camp is limited. For more information or to register, call 269-428-2799.