Franciscan Alliance launches Spirit of Women health initiative

Franciscan Alliance's Northwest Indiana hospitals are introducing Spirit of Women, a new, monthly health education program for women and their families.

"Spirit of Women is an elite network of hospitals nationwide that are committed to caring for women and their families. The Franciscan Alliance Spirit of Women membership program seeks to bring together women of all ages and backgrounds by motivating them to make positive life changes through innovative clinical and preventative care, education and wellness programs," said Eva Tokarz, Franciscan Alliance regional outreach/wellness specialist.

The program kicks off with "Is your thyroid making you fat?" Sessions include:

* noon today at Franciscan Physicians Hospital, 701 Superior Ave., Munster, in the third floor conference room; presented by endocrinology specialist Dr. Ashwini Reddy.

* 6 p.m. Jan. 19 at Omni Health and Fitness-Chesterton, 810 Michael Drive, Chesterton, in the conference room; presented by family medicine specialist Dr. Krista Molina.

* 6 p.m. Jan. 25 at Franciscan St. Margaret Health-Dyer, 24 Joliet St., in the Reginald Board Room; presented by endocrinology specialist Dr. Julene Ricks-Nguayah.

* 6 p.m. Jan. 25 at Franciscan St. Anthony Health-Crown Point, 1201 S. Main St., in the Marian Education Center; presented by family medicine specialist Erin Vicari.

* 6:30 p.m. Jan. 25 at Franciscan Hammond Clinic, 7905 Calumet Ave., Munster; presented by endocrinology specialist Jean Kim.

The first of two signature events, a Day of Dance for Your Health will take place from 1 to 5 p.m. Feb. 12 at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, 800 E. 81st Ave., Merrillville. Dance demonstrations and participation, health screenings, a chef's corner, vendor bazaar, raffles and refreshments will be offered.

"There is no better way to learn about health and wellness than to incorporate it with a spirited event like Day of Dance," Tokarz said. "Spirit of Women is the perfect way for women looking to jump start their new year with a program that is designed to celebrate their spirit, while providing a substantial amount of health and wellness activities all year long."

Information on upcoming programs will be provided monthly.

To become a Spirit of Women member and register for the programs, call (800) 931-3322 or visit Franciscan Alliance.org/SpiritofWomen.