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Tuesday, March 1, 2016

Spring into March with free heart-healthy classes at Franciscan St. Francis Health

INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana – Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center is offering free classes focused on cardiovascular health and wellness in March.

To register for any of the classes, call 317-782-4422 or go online at MyHeartCare.net to see the full listing of spring classes. Seating is limited for these events. The classes include:





How to protect yourself from stroke
Thursday, March 10, 6:30 p.m.
Franciscan St. Francis Heart Center
8111 S. Emerson Ave., entrance #1
Presented by Thomas Webb, MD

Having a stroke is some people’s greatest fear.  Dr. Webb, vascular surgeon at Franciscan St. Francis Health, will talk about carotid artery disease and the increased risk of stroke.  He will talk about other risk factors and the importance of keeping the carotid artery free of plaque, decreasing the risk for stroke. Class attendees may sign up for a free carotid artery screening at a later date.

Atrial fibrillation: What are my options?
Wednesday, March 16, 6:30 p.m.
YMCA at CityWay
426 S. Alabama St., Indianapolis
Presented by John W. Moore, III, MD, and Andrew Barksdale, MD
Refreshments served at 6 p.m.; cholesterol screening from 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is a condition where the heart beats irregularly at a high rate. Some people say it feels like a hummingbird fluttering in their chest. When severe, this condition can lead to heart attack or stroke.
Fortunately, physicians and surgeons can treat this condition in several ways. Dr. Moore and Dr. Barksdale will discuss signs and symptoms of Afib and the innovative treatment options available. Our physicians will also provide details about a new surgical procedure that, when Afib is diagnosed in the early stages, may permanently correct the heart condition. Bring your questions for the doctors.

How does blood pressure affect my heart?
Thurs, March 31, 6:30 p.m.
Franciscan St. Francis Health – Mooresville
1201 Hadley Road
Presented by Harry Genovely, MD

Do you know what your blood pressure is? Do you know what it should be? Learn how high blood pressure affects not only the heart but also other vital organs. Dr. Genovely will share steps you can take to lower your blood pressure, including diet, weight loss, exercise and medication. No more excuses: learn how you can lower pressure starting today, with the advantages lasting a lifetime.


Change of Heart classes offered in Spring 2016
Those attending a class in March and take an initial health assessment, then attend at least 3 of our scheduled classes and take a final health assessment will receive a gift for your commitment to improving your health!

Fitness Tips
Tuesday, March 15 at 6:30 p.m. at Franciscan St. Francis Health – Mooresville
Being fit is more than being thin.  Research shows that no matter what you weigh, increasing your fitness helps your heart.  Discover that exercise can be healthy and fun.  Learn how to set up a schedule for yourself.

Healthy Dining Out Tips
Thursday, March 17, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center
Tuesday, March 22, 6:30 PM at Franciscan St. Francis – Mooresville
Americans eat nearly half their meals away from home.  How can you control what you eat when you don’t cook for yourself?  Learn how to make wise menu selections and eat smart while dining out.

Healthy Eating
Wednesday, March 2, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center
Wednesday, March 9, 6:30 p.m.at Franciscan St. Francis Health – Mooresville

Healthy Meals on a Budget
Wednesday, March 30, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center
As food prices climb and budgets get tight, smart purchases at the supermarket are important.  In this class, you will learn ways to stretch your food budget while still getting the nutrients you need.

Reduce Stress
Tuesday, March 8, 6:30 p.m. at the Heart Center
Negative stress causes changes in lifestyle and behavior, which may lead to unhealthy choices.  Learn to identify the causes of stress in your life and techniques to decrease your stress which can improve your health!

Savvy Shopping
Monday, March 28, 6:30 p.m. at Southport Meijer
5325 E. Southport Road

With all the new and changing products on the shelves, grocery shopping can be overwhelming.  Walk with us through the grocery store and learn where to find the healthy foods and how to avoid packaging tricks commonly used to market foods.  Discover how food labels make you a smarter shopper.