Programs Listing
Educational Programs,
Events and Screenings | Childbirth
and Infant Care
Clinics and Services | Support
Groups
Education Programs, Events and Screenings
Backus Hospital Cancer Survivors Day
Backus Hospital patients who are cancer survivors, and their families, are welcome to attend this celebratory event and luncheon. The featured speaker is David Bailey, a nationally known musician and cancer survivor. Includes cancer-related booths, door prizes, pet therapy and more.
• Saturday, Oct. 6
• 11 a.m.
• Backus Hospital
Program free but registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4946 to register and for more information or, email kbourque@wwbh.org.
Beginning and Continuing Yoga with Michele Flowers
Classes incorporate stretching, movement, and attention to the breath to relax the body, improve flexibility, calm the mind and enhance inner awareness. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations as well as continuing students. Instructor: Michele Flowers
• Mondays, Oct. 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
• 6 - 7:15 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich
There is a $77 fee for the seven-week series program and registration is required. Call CHI at 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information. $13/class walk-in fee, based on space availability. These are the last five classes in a seven-week series. A new series will begin Nov. 5.
Beginning and Continuing Yoga with Carol Klammer
Classes incorporate stretching, movement, and attention to the breath to relax the body, improve flexibility, calm the mind and enhance inner awareness. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations as well as continuing students. Instructor: Carol Klammer.
• Wednesdays, Oct. 24, 31, Nov. 7, 14, 28, Dec. 5, 12
• 4:30 - 5:45 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich
• Thursday, Oct. 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1
• 7 - 8:15
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich
There is a $77 (for the seven- week series) and $44 (for the four- week series) fee for this program and registration is required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information. $13/class walk-in, fee based on space availability.
Community Blood Pressure Screening
Free, open to the public, third Wednesday of every month.
• Wednesday, Oct. 17
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference room 1
Program free; no registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2495 for more information.
Community Coalition for Children
Join author Glenn Singleton for "Beyond Diversity-Let's Get Real!," on Monday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. in the Garde Arts Center in New London. Mr. Singleton is the co-author of "Courageous Conversations About Race: A Field Guide for Achieving Equity in Schools."
Also, on Oct. 23, Mr. Singleton will deliver the opening address at an Intergenerational Workshop from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Crozier-Williams Center at Connecticut College.
These free programs are open to the public, including parents, grandparents, students, teachers, counselors, social service agencies, coaches and religious groups. Childcare registration is required and available by calling 701-5150.
Continuing Yoga
Classes incorporate postures and stretches that relax, strengthen and energize. Yoga meditation is included each week. Previous yoga experience is requested. Basics will not be emphasized. Instructor: Carol Klammer.
• Thursdays, Oct. 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1
• 5:15 - 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke., Norwich
There is a $44 fee for the four-week program and registration is required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information. $13/class walk-in fee, based on space availability.
Free Community Prostate Cancer Screening
A free prostate cancer screening. Urologists Frank Friedman, MD, and Richard Colman, MD, are volunteering their time for this vital screening. A digital rectal exam will be performed and a blood test (PSA) will be drawn. Participants will need to call the doctor that performs their exam to find out their PSA result one week following the screening. Educational materials will be available.
• Saturday, Oct. 13
• 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
• Ambulatory Medical Care Unit, entry level of Backus Hospital
Program free but registration required.
Gentle Yoga
Classes focus on very gentle movement, stretching, breathing and relaxation. They are designed to support and enhance recovery from cancer, chemotherapy, radiation, and many other medical conditions. Postures can be done seated and standing often with the support of chairs. Accommodations will be made to meet individual needs. Instructor: Carol Klammer.
• Thursdays, Oct. 11, 18, 25, Nov. 1
• 3:30 - 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich
There is a $44 fee for the four-week series and registration is required. Call Carol Klammer at 887-3388 to register or for more information. Partial scholarships for oncology patients are provided by The ECHO Cancer Foundation.
Meditation for everyone
Meditation can help you deal with stress and pain and can be part of treatment for conditions including hypertension and heart disease. Come quiet your mind and body, release the stress of your day and enter stillness, clarity, and peace. Instructor: Marie Perez.
• Wednesdays, Oct. 3, 10
• 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI), 115 Lafayette St. (across the street from the hospital).
There is a $60 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information. These are the last two classes in a six-week series.
Humanizing Manhood; an Evening for Men with Paul Dunion
Explore the cultural definitions of manhood and how they diminish our humanity. We will look at ways to support and strengthen our development as men and liberate ourselves from destructive male legacies. Program will empower men to be better partners, fathers and friends. Paul Dunion, EdD, is the founder of Boys to Men, a mentoring community for teenage boys, and Comega, a CT gathering of men. He has been in private practice as a counselor for 25 years with a primary focus in the area of men's issues, and has written two books: Temptation in the House of the Lord and Shadow Marriage, a Descent into Intimacy.
• Friday, Oct. 5
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich
There is a $25 fee for this program and registration is required. Call The Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI) at 889-8331, ext 2483 to register or for more information.
Lighten Up! Win At Losing
A dynamic six-week course designed to help you achieve a healthy relationship with food and exercise through hypnotic relaxation. Release, once and for all, old patterns of craving and overeating with hypnosis which activates your deepest reserves of willpower. Discover the foods which satisfy and nourish you best and learn a delightful, quick form of self-hypnosis. All participants receive two hypnosis CDs. Instructor Jane Percy, CH, CIH, Hypnotherapist and teacher, past life regression therapist, empowerment coach, and medical intuitive. Her Lighten Up program was featured in FIRST Magazine and she is author of LIGHTEN UP! WIN AT LOSING, A Dynamic Guide To Weight Health.
• Thursdays, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25
• 4:30 - 6 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room
There is a $300 fee for this program and registration is required. Call the Backus Center for Healthcare Integration (CHI) at 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information. These are the last four classes in a six-week series. A new series will begin Nov. 8.
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
This program is free to women with no health insurance or whose insurance does cover these services. Mammograms are provided through Backus Hospital and their satellite mammography sites. Pap smears and clinical breast exams are offered through a selection of Backus affiliated physician groups or clinics. This is an ongoing program but eligibility determination and registration is required. To register, call Joyce Kuusela, Case Manager at 823-6318, or Irene Mackie, Outreach Educator at 892-6962 for more information.
• Monday through Friday, 8:00am - 4:00pm.
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6318 for more information.
"Medicine, Miracles and the Art of Healing" with Dr. Bernie Siegel (read more)
Dr. Bernie Siegel, one of the foremost physicians, authors, motivational speakers and advocates for individuals facing the challenges of all chronic illnesses, encourages us to take an active role in our own healing process and to find joy and inspiration in everyday life. His best-selling books and his talks are motivational, inspirational and down-to-earth, mixing compassion and humor.
• Tuesday, Oct. 30
• 6 - 9 p.m. (book-signing 8-9 p.m.)
• Holiday Inn, 10 Laura Blvd. Norwich
Program free; no registration required. Call The Center for Healthcare Integration at 889-8331, ext. 2483 for more information. Space is limited to 250 people and will be on a first come basis. No early sign up is available.
Prepare for Surgery-Heal Faster
Using Guided Imagery and relaxation helps people feel calmer before surgery, have less pain after surgery and recover more quickly. The techniques are also helpful for many other procedures to help lessen anxiety. The patient will receive a book and CD or tape and take one 90 minute instructional class. Ideally the class is taken 1-3 weeks prior to surgery. Classes are offered each Monday and Wednesday.
• Mondays, Oct. 1, 15, 22, 29
• 6 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Surgical Services Family Room
• Wednesday, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
• 2 - 3:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Tpke, Norwich
There is a $30 (tape and book) or $35 (CD and book) fee for this program and registration is required. Call CHI, 889-8331 ext. 2483 for more information. A friend or family member may accompany the patient.
Remembrance Day
Memorial event for families who have suffered a loss during pregnancy or infancy.
• Sunday, Oct. 14
• 1 - 2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building lobby
Program free; no registration required. Call Elynor Carey at 889-8331, ext. 4239 for more information.
Rocky Neck Heart Walk
Join the Backus team and thousands of others on this scenic walk to help raise awareness and funds to support the fight against heart disease and stroke. Healthy Heart nutrition info will be offered on the Backus Mobile Health Resource Center by Registered Dietitian Lauren Burdick from 9 a.m. to noon. To join the Backus team, call Shawn Mawhiney, Backus Company Leader, at 889-8331, ext. 2312.
• Sunday, Oct. 14
• 9 a.m.
• Rocky Neck State Park, Niantic
Program free; no registration required.
Sail Through Surgery
A pre-op program for children, ages 18 and under, and their parents, to help prepare for an upcoming surgery.
• Friday, Oct. 5
• 4 - 4:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Same Day Surgery waiting area
• Saturday, Oct. 20
• 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
A combination of martial arts and meditation in motion. The many health benefits include increased balance, circulation, coordination, flexibility, and mental clarity. Suitable for beginners, those with physical limitations, as well as continuing students. Instructor: David Chandler.
• Tuesdays, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20
• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich
There is a $120 fee for the eight-week series program and registration is required. Call 889-8331, ext. 2483 to register and for more information. Walk-ins are welcome for the first and second classes, $15/class based on space availability.
Total Care Program (joint replacement)
Learn what to expect from your joint replacement surgery -- preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues. Includes demonstrations from physical therapists.
• Wednesdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
• 11:45 a.m. - 1:30 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.
Total Care Program (spinal fusion)
Backus patients scheduled for surgery can learn what to expect from spinal fusion surgery -- preparatory measures, the procedure, rehabilitation, and other issues.
• Wednesdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
• 9 - 11 a.m.
• Backus Outpatient Care Center, 111 Salem Turnpike, Norwich.
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6376 for more information.
Woman to Woman Health Talk series (read more)
The Backus Nursing and Community Health Education Department is offering a monthly "Woman to Woman Health Talk," featuring female clinicians at Backus speaking about health issues of interest to women. Held the second Thursday of each month. October's program is "Snoring and Sleep Apnea: Be on the Alert," presented by Olimpia Radu, MD.
• Thursday, Oct. 11
• 6:30 - 8 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry level conference rooms
Program free but registration required. Call 823-6313 to register or for more information.
Childbirth and Infant Care
Birth Plan Seminar
Do you need a birth plan? Learn how to write a simple and effective plan to communicate your wishes. Held the third Tuesday of the month
• Tuesday, Oct. 16
• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Breast-feeding Preparation Class
Learn breast-feeding tips for success. This class is for expectant women.
• Tuesday, Oct. 9
• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Friday, Oct. 12
• 10 - 11:30 a.m.
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 or email moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Childbirth Preparation Classes
A four-week series offered on Monday evenings in the Backus Hospital Birthing Center. Includes a tour of the Birthing Center. Register three months prior to due date.
• Oct. 15, 22, 29, Nov. 5
• 7 - 9 p.m.
There is a $55 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 to register or for more information or, email moc@wwbh.org
Childbirth Refresher Class
A one-evening class taught by a certified instructor for couples who have had an infant less than three years ago.
• Wednesday, Nov. 14
• 7 - 9 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $35 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 to register or for more information or, email moc@wwbh.org.
Childbirth Weekend Preparation Class
A two-day weekend class. Register early. Continental breakfast.
• Saturday, Oct. 20
• 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital entry-level conference room
• Sunday, Oct. 21
• 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 425-3863 to register or for more information or, email moc@wwbh.orgs
Expectant Grandparent Seminar
Designed to bring expectant grandparents up to date with: 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.
• Tuesday, Oct. 23
• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center Conference Room
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 to register or for more information. Online registration available by emailing moc@wwbh.org. Enrollment is limited, please register early.
HypnoBirthing Class
Learn how to break the fear-tension-pain cycle. Complete childbirth education series using hypnosis, relaxation, visualization and education to have a more comfortable, satisfying birth.
• Nov. 3, 4, 10
• 9:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Thursday, Nov. 8, 15, 29, Dec. 6, 13
• 6:30 p.m. - 9 p.m.
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $300 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 376-2667 or andrearn@hughes.net for more information.
Infant-Child CPR
A Backus Birthing Center program for parents and parents-to-be in the instruction of CPR infants and children. Instructor is certified in CPR.
• Saturday, Oct. 13
• 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center conference room
There is a $35 per couple or $20 per person fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 to register or for more information or, email moc@wwbh.org. Classes are limited to eight people per session.
Infant Massage
Five-week sessions offering techniques for infant massage and relaxation.
• Tuesdays, Oct. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
• 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. Pro-rated for those who join mid-session.
Nurturing Your Newborn — An Infant Care Class
This 2 hour class teaches about normal newborn behavior, tests and procedures in the hospital, and how to care for your baby in the first few days at home. Topics include: safe sleep, swaddling, bath demonstration, feeding, newborn appearance and behaviors and when to call the doctor.
• Monday, Oct. 8
• 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
• Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 for more information.
Labor Comforts
A 3-hour class to learn labor support techniques to maximize your comfort and relaxation in labor.
• Thursday, Nov. 1
• 6:30 - 9 p.m.
• The Backus Hospital Birthing Center
There is a $65 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 376-2667 or andrearn@hughes.net for more information.
New Moms Support Group
For new moms, come in and talk to other moms like you, discuss postpartum issues, breastfeeding, and infant care. Facilitated by the Lactation Consultant/Educator. Discuss your questions and concerns in a supportive, breast feeding friendly environment. Held every Tuesday and Thursday.
• Tuesdays, Oct. 9, 16, 23, 30
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
• Thursday, Oct. 4, 11, 18, 25
• 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free; no registration required. Call 425-3863 at moc@wwbh.org for more information.
Prenatal Yoga Class
Nurture yourself and prepare for the changes ahead with a gentle stretching and meditation-focused practice.
• Wednesdays, Oct. 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
• 6 - 7:30 p.m.
• Wednesday, Nov. 7, 14, 28, Dec 5, 12
• 6 - 7:30pm
There is a $77 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 887-3388 or email hathayoga@snet.net for more information. Please register one week ahead, space is limited. Ongoing enrollment on a space available basis.
Sibling Class
This one day class helps 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, Oct. 10
• 10 a.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing Center
Program free but registration required. Call 425-3863 to register or for more information or, email moc@wwbh.org.
Teen Birthing
A two-evening childbirth preparation class to prepare adolescent couples for labor and delivery. Call for confirmation.
• Tuesdays, Oct. 2, 9
• 4:30 - 7 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Birthing center conference room
There is a $10 fee for this program and registration is required. Call 425-3863 to register or for more information or, email moc@wwbh.org.
Clinics and Services
Amputee Clinic
For new amputees or amputees considering a new prosthesis. Usually held the first Tuesday of the month. Individualized sessions.
• Tuesday, Oct. 2
• 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 and third Friday of every month.
• Fridays, Oct. 5, 19
• 10 a.m. - 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. The clinic will be closed on Monday, Oct. 8, due to the Columbus Day holiday.
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, Norwich. No appointment needed. No new registrations accepted after 7 p.m. Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6344 for more information. The clinic will be closed on Monday, Oct. 8, due to the Columbus Day holiday.
Support Groups
Bereavement 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, Oct. 4
• 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, sponsored by Backus Hospital and ECHO. Usually held on the third Tuesday of each month.
• Tuesday, Oct. 16
• 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 ext. 2777 for more information.
Cancer Support Group
Cancer patients and survivors, are invited to discuss how cancer has changed their lives. Usually held on the second Thursday the month. Reservations are requested as lunch will be provided.
• Thursday, Oct. 11
• noon - 1 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Radiation Therapy Conference Room in the Medical Office Building
Program free but registration required. Call 889-8331, ext. 4239 or 823-8362, ext. 293 for more information.
Celiac Support Group
For people unable to tolerate gluten in their diet, held the last Thursday of the month.
• Thursday, Oct. 25
• 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Medical Office Building room 130
Program free; no registration required. Call Janice Jurczyk, 889-7776 for more information.
Congestive Heart Failure Support Group
Patients with congestive heart failure can learn more about the disease and meet others going through treatment at a new support group offered by Backus Hospital. Aimee Stefanski, APRN, facilitates the CHF support group for patients and families, held the second Wednesday of each month.
• Wednesday, Oct. 10
• 6 - 7:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital auditorium
Program free; no registration required. Call 823-6577 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, Oct. 4
• 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
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.
Mended Hearts
Cardiac support group that meets the third Tuesday of the month.
• Tuesday, Oct. 16
• 6:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital auditorium
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, Oct. 9
• 7 - 8:30 p.m.
• Backus Hospital Medical Office Building Conference Room
Program free; no registration required. Call Elynor Carey, 889-8331, ext. 4239 for more information.
Stepping Stones
A Hospice Southeastern Connecticut bereavement program that provides extended support to people who have experienced the death of a spouse or partner in the past three years. The program empowers participants to move forward in their lives. Held the second Wednesday of each month, from 5-6:30 p.m. at Hospice Southeastern Connecticut, 179 Gallivan Lane, Uncasville. Program free but registration required. Call 848-5699 to register or for more information.
Laryngectomy Support Group
Tri-County New Voice Club for laryngectomy patients and family meets on the second Sunday of the month.
• Sunday, Oct. 14
• 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.