Diabetes Self-Management Program (DSMP) will meet from 9-11:30 a.m. July 18, 25 and Aug. 1, 8, 15 and 22 with Paul Strauss and Michelle Medeiros. This series of workshops is for people with diabetes or pre-diabetes, as well as their family members and caregivers. Presented once a week, over a six-week period, this interactive workshop will share practical skills for living a healthy, active and enjoyable life with diabetes. Advance registration is required. Email kahealani@kidneyhi.org or call Kahealani Wakinekona at 895-9068.
Waimea Monthly Book Club will gather from 5:30-7 p.m. July 18. Discussion will be about “The Underground Railroad” by Colson Whitehead, a Pulitzer Prize, National Book Award and Oprah’s Book Club winner. It chronicles Cora, a young slave, and her adventures as she makes a desperate bid for freedom in Georgia, the antebellum south. The book to read for the Aug. 15 discussion is “The Boy’s in the Boat.” Each participant is responsible for acquiring their own copy of the designated book to read for the month. Bring a pupu or appetizer to share and join the group the third Tuesday each month.
iPods for the Elderly information will be shared by Program Director Jen McGeehan from noon-1:30 p.m. July 19, and from 2-3:30 p.m. July 29. Working in conjunction with Music &Memory.org and Waimea’s Teen Tech Tutors, this program assists caregivers, family, medical and/or support staff by introducing personally customized iPods for those diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Loading an iPod with the music of a person’s life rings memory bells, and recipients are sometimes able to re-engage in a higher level of recognition and participation in family life. Those with diagnosed memory loss are not encouraged to attend due to sensitive subject matter and materials. Feel free to bring a snack and beverage.
Cancer Support Group for Women will gather from 12:30—2 p.m. July 19. Whether a survivor, currently in treatment, recently diagnosed, or coping with the effects of cancer on a loved one, join this group to discover the power of healing through connection with others who share a common bond.
Kupuna Caregivers Support &Ohana Mediation Program will meet from 3-4 p.m. July 20, led by Gina Tumasone from West Hawaii Mediation Center (WHMC). This new mediation and conflict resolution program is a partnership between East and West Hawaii Mediation Centers and the Hawaii County Office of Aging. The program aims to provide support around issues like living arrangements, financial support, durable and medical powers of attorney, as well as changing roles, shared decision making and care-giving responsibilities for Hawaii Island kupuna, their caregivers and families.
Family Science Night will be held from 5:30-7 p.m. July 21 at Earl’s Garage with Katherine DuBose-Oliver. This is a great opportunity for family members of all ages to work together and spend time exploring hands on activities. Everything is provided, including food and supplies. A head count is needed, and space is limited, so call Katherine at 885-6777 by July 19 to reserve space for your ohana.