SHAREing & CAREing Program Manager Merryl Reichbach, LCSW recently presented two wellness programs on July 16 and 23 to families receiving prenatal and obstetrical services at the Women’s Pavilion. These presentations are part of an initiative to bring ongoing health education programs and services to families receiving health care at the pavilion. Programs are open to all and are offered while patients are waiting to see their health care provider, and can make the experience of waiting informative and engaging.

It was great to see families, including fathers and young children, having fun together and relaxing together during the Chair Stretching presentation. “These are stretches you can do together almost any time and anywhere, and you can feel better,” one participant pointed out. “Very relaxing!”

New moms and parents of young children usually don’t get the sleep they need. Our workshop, “Coping with Sleeplessness,” addressed the consequences, including poor concentration, depression and irritability. Participants appreciated the impact of sleep deprivation on their relationships with children: “A cranky mom can mean cranky kids!” Participants were provided with strategies and resources to help them manage their time and cope with the anxieties that can impact sleep. They were encouraged to identify people, such as friends and family who could help them and support them.

Elmhurst, Queens is, perhaps, the most ethnically diverse community in the world with 20,000 recent immigrants from 112 different countries. The Women’s Pavilion’s patient population reflects this. Translation was provided in Spanish and Bengali to ensure that the programs were accessible. SHAREing & CAREing plans to continue to offer health education presentations at the Women’s Pavilion. These programs enable us to connect in a welcoming way to people who can benefit from our free cancer support services and who may not otherwise be aware of them.