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Message From the Director

With 2008 almost here, it is the time to think about New Year’s resolutions. If you are making them, be certain that they are attainable. One of the most helpful ways to set your resolutions is to become informed first. Ann Phillips is our Consumer Health Information Specialist and can assist you. If you have made a New Year’s resolution about weight loss, for example, she can provide information for you. After reading about weight loss, you can move forward with your plan. She can also help with any other issues you might want to research.

As the calendar rolls on, February will be here soon. Because it is American Heart Month, we have provided information on heart disease. OSF Saint Francis Heart Hospital is making more women aware of their risk for heart disease.

Most of us have heard about the superbugs in hospitals, specifically MRSA. Did you know that many hospitals, especially those as large as OSF Saint Francis, have an entire department dedicated to infection control? This department works to prevent patients from developing infections while they are in the hospital. Everyone at OSF Saint Francis is involved in our hand-washing campaign to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria.

With all the changes we experience, one thing is certain— stress. So all of us must learn how to de-stress. In order to do that, we first have to learn how to handle stress without becoming totally overwhelmed. Pam Lichtenstein can help you do just that. Take a look at our story and see how women of all ages and stages in their life de-stress. If you would like to tell your story to other readers, see the box on that same page. One wonderful way to de-stress is to have a massage by Valerie Doubet, LMT. You will be so relaxed when she is finished. Whatever method you use to de-stress, be certain that it is a healthy choice.

As we embark on another year, let us resolve to have it be the healthiest ever. There is no better resolution.