Programs Listing

Educational Programs, Events and Screenings | Childbirth and Infant Care
Clinics and Services | Support Groups

Education Programs, Events and Screenings

Featured Program

Healing from the inside out, an Expressive Arts series

There is a growing belief that art can be a powerful healing tool for people experiencing changes in their lives, health problems or emotional issues.

Christopher Carbone, who serves on the faculty for Salve Regina University’s program in the Expressive Arts, said the emotional aspects of healing deserve even more attention.

“Recognizing and releasing
emotions is a part of the healing process that much research is showing is really essential,” Mr. Carbone said. “When they are taken care of, it is shown that physical healing can happen much more effectively.”

Mr. Carbone presented “Exploring Sound, Music and Healing,” one of the sessions held in May as part of the Center for Healthcare Integration’s new Expressive Arts series. The series continues throughout June.

He said creative arts therapies are not meant to replace standard medicine, but to serve as a new doorway for people to tap into healing.

“It is important to offer these types of workshops, because people may not be aware of these modalities,” Mr. Carbone said.

Many studies have shown the power of thoughts and beliefs on outcomes, said Amy Dunion, RN, Coordinator of Backus Hospital’s Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI).

“We carry beliefs we may not be aware of and we are very much affected by what we believe and expect,” Ms. Dunion said. “The arts are a way to tap into that inner belief system and change it for the better.”

The June sessions are:

June 1, The Power of Words with Jude Rittenhouse, award winning poet and short story writer. Participants will be guided through the writing process using writing exercises to tap the deep inner streams of truth.
• 6-8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level
conference room

June 8, Mask, Movement and Myth Making with Marya Ursin, mime, dance and theatre arts instructor. The workshop will include introduction to masks,
creating short myths and a story circle.
• 6-8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich

June 15, Imagery and Art as Medicine with Jane Percy, certified hypnotherapist, intuitive energy healer and Director of Riverlight Wellness Center. Explore imagination as medicine and the use of active guided daydreaming,
symbol, color and sound to create calm and well being.
• 6-8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center

June 22, Drawing Out the Inner Healer with Louise Lumen, Registered Art Therapist. Use
simple drawing to reveal inner
wisdom and access guidance to the core of healing.
• 6-8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center

June 29, Writing from the Heart with Elaine Brooks, nurse and
registered poetry therapist. Learn how you are impacted by your writing and the writing of others as well as the wisom that speaks from your heart.
• 6-8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center

There is a $20/session fee for each program, and registration is required by calling 889-8331, ext. 2483 to register.
No artistic experience is required to enjoy and benefit.

Community Blood Pressure Screening
Fourth Wednesday of every month
• Wednesday, June 21
• 1-2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2495 for more information.

Dinner at Backus- Lung Cancer- #1 Killer
Three Backus Hospital physicians – Setu Vora, MD, Anca Bulgaru, MD, and Meena Moran, MD – will discuss diagnosing lung cancer, medical management of the
disease and the role of radiation therapy
in treatment.
• Wednesday, June 14
• 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms 1, 2, 3.
The program is free, but registration is required by calling 823-6379.

Healing Touch Level 3
For students who desire more in-depth skills in Healing Touch and have completed levels 1 and 2. This course includes development of Higher Sense Perception, a full healing sequence, working with guidance, self-healing and self-development.
• June 23, 24, 25
• Friday, 7-10 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Sunday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms
There is a $32. fee for this program and registration is required.

Lighten Up! A dynamic weight loss program
A six-week series that will help you end yo-yo dieting, cravings, and exercise resistance using a blend of hypnosis and coaching. Next class begins in the fall. There is a $300 fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI at 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information.

Living Longer, Living Better - Senior Health Forum – "Medication and You: Be Safe, Be Smart, Be Savvy"
Come learn about the best way to manage your medications, avoid food and drug interactions, and more. Michael Smith, Pharmacist and Clinical Coordinator for Backus Hospital's Pharmacy, will be the speaker at this informative program, a joint effort between Backus, the Jewish Federation of Eastern Connecticut and United Way.
• Tuesday, June 13
• 1:30-3 p.m.
• Rose City Senior Center, Mahan Drive
Program free but registration required.

Look Good....Feel Better
A monthly program offered by the American Cancer Society to help current cancer patients look their best throughout chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatment. For schedule, call 887-2547, press 3.
Program free but registration required.

Mammograms and Pap Smear Screenings
Free to women with no health insurance or insurance that does not cover these services. Program free but registration required. Call 823-6318 for more information.

Prepare for Surgery-Heal Faster
Using Guided Imagery and relaxation helps people feel calmer before surgery, have less pain after and recover more quickly. The techniques are also helpful for many other procedures to help lessen anxiety. The patient will receive a book and tape and a one-hour instructional class. Ideally the class is taken 1-3 weeks prior to surgery.
• Mondays, June 5, 12, 19, 26
• 6-7:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Center for Healthcare Integration, 115 Lafayette St.
There is a $25 (tape and book) or $32 (CD and book) fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI, 889-8331 ext. 2459 for more information.
A friend or family member may accompany the patient.

Sail Through Surgery
A pre-op program for children, ages 18 and under, and their parents, to help prepare for an upcoming surgery.
• Friday, June 2
• 4 - 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
• Saturday, June 17
• 10 - 10:30 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6376 for more information.

Tai Chi
Health benefits include increased balance, circulation, coordination, flexibility, and mental clarity. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations, as well as continuing students.
• Tuesdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27, July 11, 18
• 6:30-8:30 p.m. (8- 8:30 p.m. for advanced form work; everyone is welcome to stay)
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich
There is a $120 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2483 to register and for more information.
These are the last 6 classes of an eight week series. Classes will begin again on July 25.

Total Care Program
Learn what to expect from your joint replacement surgery – preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues. Includes demonstrations from physical therapists.
• Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21, 28
• 11:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich.
Program free but registration required. Call Cheryl Martel at 823-6376 to register or for more information.

Childbirth and Infant Care

Breast-feeding Preparation Class
Learn breast-feeding tips for success. Women should attend at least 34 weeks into pregnancy. Choice of three dates.
• Monday, June 12
• 10 a.m. - noon
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Saturday, June 17
• 10 a.m. - noon
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6359 for more information.
We have added an evening class Thursday, June 8, from 7-9 p.m. in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center Teaching Room.

Childbirth Preparation Classes
A five-week series offered on Monday or Wednesday evenings. An Infant Care Class and Birthing Center tour included. Register three months prior to due date.
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Childbirth Refresher Class
A one-evening class taught by a certified instructor for couples who have had an infant less than three years ago. Offered the second Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, June 14
• 7-9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $35 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Childbirth Weekend Preparation Class
A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental Breakfast.
• Saturday, June 10
• 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry-level conference room
• Sunday, June 11
• 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry-level conference room
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Expectant Grandparent Seminar
Designed to bring expectant grandparents up to date with current information new parents receive from healthcare providers. Included: Roles of grandparents; current information about pregnancy and childbirth; breastfeeding and bottle feeding; home safety for babies and toddlers; variations in the newborn; baby care; and questions and answers.
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Infant CPR
Designed for parents and parents-to-be in the instruction of CPR for babies ages newborn to 1 year of age.
• Tuesday, June 13
• 6:30-9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference room
• Tuesday, June 27
• 6:30-9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room
There is a $30 per couple or $20 per person fee for this program and registration is required. Call 823-6359 for more information.
Classes are limited to 10 people per session.

Infant Massage
Five-week sessions offering techniques for infant massage and relaxation. No classes in July – next session begins Aug. 29 to Sept. 6
• Tuesdays, June 6, 13, 20, 27
• Morning class 9:30-11 a.m.; evening class 6:30-8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room
There is a $66.50 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 860-564-4753 for more information.
These are the last four classes in the five-week series. Pro-rated for those who join mid-session.

Infant Care Class
Topics include: bathing, infant home
security, and when to call your pediatrician. Usually held on the third Monday of the month at 10 a.m. in the Birthing Center.
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Prenatal Yoga Class
Nurture yourself and prepare for the changes ahead with a gentle stretching and meditation-focused practice.
• Wednesdays, June 7, 14, 21, 28
• 6 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference room 3
There is a $66 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 887-3388 or email hathayoga@snet.net for more information.
Register early, space is limited. Ongoing enrollment on a space available basis.

Sibling Class
Help big brother or sister, ages 3-6, prepare for the new addition. Tours of the Birthing Center are included and participants have the chance to see a newborn.
• Wednesday, June 21
• 10-11 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Teen Birthing
A three-evening childbirth preparation class to prepare adolescent couples for labor and delivery. Call for confirmation.
There is a $10 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 823-6359 for more information.

Clinics and Services

Amputee Clinic
For new amputees or amputees considering a new prosthesis. Individualized sessions.
• Tuesday, June 6
• 1 - 3 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6317 for more information.

Backus Car Seat clinic
Backus Hospital, the Norwich Safe Communities Coalition and Safe Kids New London County offer car seat checks and installation on the first Friday of every month.
• Friday, June 2
• 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Norwich Fire Department
Program free but registration required. Call 442-0733 for more information.

HIV Education and Testing Site
Offers free, anonymous and confidential HIV education, counseling and testing. Ongoing Mondays and Wednesdays 5 - 8 p.m. and Tuesdays 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. at 107 Lafayette Street. Program free but registration required. Call 823-6343 for more information.

Relaxation and Restoration
The Backus Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI) offers therapeutic Massage, Thai Massage, Healing Touch and Reiki sessions to the community by hospital credentialed therapists. No referral is needed.
Call 889-8331, ext. 2483 to make an appointment or for more information.
Appointments are available 7 days per week, early morning until mid-evening. $60 for one hour and $80 for one and a half hours. Gift certificates are also available in the Hospital Gift Shop and at the CHI center.

Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Clinic
Diagnosis and treatment of most sexually transmitted diseases; HIV testing is available. Mondays and Wednesdays, 5:30 - 7:30 p.m., at 107 Lafayette Street. No appointment needed. No new registrations accepted after 7 p.m. Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6344 for more information.

Support Groups

Bereavement Support Group
A support group sponsored by The Compassionate Friends (TCF) to offer friendship, understanding, and hope to families following the death of a child. Usually held on the fourth Tuesday of the month in the Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room.
Program free; no registration required. Call 468-0018 for more information.

Brain Injury Support Group
For persons who have experienced a brain injury, and for their families and friends. Usually held on the first Thursday of the month.
• Thursday, June 1
• 1 - 2:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Radiation Therapy Conference Room in the Medical Office Building.
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4060 for more information.

Breast Cancer Support Group
For breast cancer patients and their families, facilitated by a Backus social worker. Usually held on the third Tuesday of the month.
• Tuesday, June 20
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Radiation Therapy Waiting Room, Medical Office Building
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4239 or 2777 for more information.

Cancer Support Group
Cancer patients, survivors, caregivers, significant others and families are invited to discuss how cancer has affected their lives. Usually held on the fourth Wednesday of the month.
• Wednesday, June 28
• 1:30 - 2:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Radiation Therapy Conference Room in the Medical Office Building
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4239 or 2777 for more information.

Chronic Pain Management Support Group
For persons with chronic pain. Group focuses on how to cope and live a full life. Family welcome. Usually held on the last Wednesday of the month. Program free; no registration required. Call 889-0759 for more information.

Diabetes Support Group
The Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology and Metabolism offers a Day Diabetes Support Group the first Tuesday of every other month. The Evening Diabetes Support Group is usually offered every other month on the first Thursday.
• Thursday, June 8
• 7 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich.
Program free but registration required. Call 892-6906 for more information.
When registering, leave a message on the Living With Diabetes Outpatient Patient Education Classes option.

Bereavement Support Group, Hospice Southeastern Connecticut
Grief support groups open to anyone in the community who may have lost a loved one, regardless of when the loss occurred. These discussions occur in a supportive and non-threatening atmosphere in a variety of locations throughout southeastern Connecticut.
Program free but registration required. Call 848-5699 for more information.

Lymphadema support group
Lymphadema support group is for individuals living with lymphadema of all types. Offers an opportunity to share experiences and learn about risk reduction and treatment of lymphadema. Meets first Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, June 7
• 5:30 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Auditorium
Program free; no registration required. Call Becky Congdon at 823-6317 for more information.

Mended Hearts
Cardiac support group that meets one Tuesday per month. Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331 ext. 2554 for more information.

Pregnancy and Infant Loss Support Group
"Angels Remembered" is a support group for parents who have experienced pregnancy or early infancy loss. Held the second Tuesday of each month.
• Tuesday, June 13
• 7-8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building
Program free; no registration required. Call Michelle Sanford at 822-1155 or Suzanne Smith, Backus Hospital Social Worker, at 889-8331 ext. 4239 for more information.

Psychiatric Services Department Lectures
Monthly lectures on psychiatric trends and topics.
• Thursday, June 22
• 3 - 4:30 p.m.
• Entry Level Conference Rooms 1 & 2
Program free; no registration required.

The Cove
The Southeast Connecticut Cove, located in Groton, is a safe place for grieving children to come together with other children in the same situation, to share their stories and feelings with others. Parents and siblings of grieving children are also encouraged to attend the sessions, which are held two Sundays per month. The program is free, although donations are requested. For more information or to register, call 1-800-750-COVE. Program free; no registration required.

Laryngectomy Support Group
Tri-County New Voice Club for laryngectomy patients and family meets on the second Sunday of the month.
• Sunday, June 11
• 2 - 4 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Radiation Therapy Conference Room in the Medical Office Building
Program free; no registration required. Call Speech Therapy at 889-8331 ext. 3480 for more information.