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News Releases / Full Story

August, 2008

Empowering Patients with Chronic Conditions

Dean & St. Mary’s Health Works Offers 6-Week Workshop

Some of the most successful recovery stories come from patients who seek help for and then work through their illness with determination and positive thinking!

Dean & St. Mary’s Health Works, in partnership with the Area Agency on Aging of Dane County, invites the public to a program called “Living Well with Chronic Conditions.” The 6-week workshop, which meets once per week, is a self-empowering workshop. Those with chronic diseases learn skills that complement their existing treatment and help them manage daily activities.

“We strive to provide programs that help participants live healthier lives,” says Emily Borenitsch, MPH, of Dean & St. Mary's Health Works. “This program accomplishes that by teaching participants self-management skills and techniques to better communicate with their physicians and their family members. ”

“Many participants are juggling more than one chronic condition,” says Amy Ramsey with Wisconsin’s Department of Health Services. “In addition, they may suffer fatigue, pain, anxiety, depression and fear, symptoms that feed themselves in a symptom cycle. The workshop teaches participants how to manage those symptoms and lets them know they are not alone in what they are experiencing. ”

If you or someone you know suffers from a chronic condition such as arthritis, asthma, heart problems, stroke, pain, cancer, osteoporosis, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure or emphysema, you are invited to attend. Individuals with chronic conditions are encouraged to attend, as are family members, friends and support persons. Participants, who prefer to remain anonymous, say the workshop has made a positive difference in their lives. Here are some examples of their feedback:

“It made me realize that most everyone—my age especially—has some kind of problem. I also liked the camaraderie and open discussion of various problems, ideas, and helpful hints. I’ve put some to good use. ”

“It is great to be with other people, to share ideas, get support and help each other.”

“I found ways to relax, to take short breaks and to think a bit more positively. I am now more goal-oriented and I have new ideas.”