Community Health and Wellness Guide
Spring 2017
From the President
Spring is a season of renewal.
For many of us, spring is also a time for fresh starts, and that means setting some personal health goals.
Randy Stasik, President
Spectrum Health
Gerber Memorial
In this issue of our Wellness Guide, you’ll learn about a program at Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial
to help you kick the tobacco habit and get back on the road to health and wellness. Though Newaygo
County has among the highest rates of smoking in Michigan, we are slowly starting to make progress in
reducing that rate. Together, we can help build a healthier, smoke-free community, one person at a time.
You’ll also read about an exciting upgrade at Tamarac—new state-of-the-art spin bikes that are
providing participants in Tamarac’s spin classes with a rewarding and challenging workout.
Spring also means that plants and flowers will start to emerge from their winter sleep—and for some people, that could lead to
sniffles and sneezing. In this issue, you’ll get some quick tips about coping with spring allergies and what you can do for short-term
relief for adults and kids in your household.
Our team in outpatient rehabilitation is gearing up to help more people get to their best health. In this issue, you’ll read about the
importance of pelvic health and how our therapists are helping women and men address a wide range of conditions that can affect
people of all ages.
We’re grateful we can continue to be your partner in health and wellness. On behalf of Gerber Memorial, I hope you and your family
enjoy the outdoors and warmer weather as we step into spring!
Meet Your Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial Providers
Heather Grantz, NP
Daniel Pierce, PA-C
Heather Grantz, NP, is a nurse practitioner who cares for
people who are unable to leave their homes. She provides
specialized care that helps make homebound patients’ daily
lives less stressful, including routine care visits and blood
draws for lab screenings. She also delivers prescription
medications, so her patients don’t have to worry about how
they will get their medicine. These services are available to
Priority Health members only.
Daniel Pierce, PA-C, has joined Spectrum Health Gerber
Memorial Multispecialty Clinic as a primary care provider. A
certified physician assistant, he is accepting new patients.
Grantz received a Master of Science and an adult-gerontology
primary care nurse practitioner licensure from the University
of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She earned a Bachelor of Science in
Nursing at Grand Valley State University in Allendale.
Pierce earned a Bachelor of Science in human nutrition,
summa cum laude, and a Master of Physician Assistant
Studies, both from the University of Kentucky College of
Agriculture, School of Human Environmental Sciences in
Lexington.
To schedule an appointment, call the Gerber Memorial
Multispecialty Clinic, 230 W. Oak Street in Fremont, at
231.924.4200.
For more information about Spectrum Health’s home-based
services, call 855.773.5956.
Editor: Azlan Ibrahim
Contributor: Emily Folkema
2 spectrumhealth.org/gerber
Make This Time Your Last
You know the risks of smoking.
You’ve been told time and time again from doctors, family
and friends: tobacco in all its forms—cigarettes, chew,
e-cigarettes—is harmful to your health. It is linked to many
preventable diseases, including lung cancer, emphysema and
heart disease. In addition to being an expensive habit, tobacco
use kills hundreds of thousands of people across the United
States each year. The “cost” can be just as high for people
exposed to secondhand smoke.
Kicking a tobacco habit is not easy, and chances are you’ve
made the decision to quit many times in your life.
Now is the time to make this your last, through Spectrum
Health Gerber Memorial’s Quit 101: Smoking Cessation class.
This free, four-week series focuses on tips to help you develop
a quit plan and strategies that are tailored to your needs.
According to a large meta-analysis conducted by the U.S.
Public Health Service (a division of the U.S. Department of
Health and Human Services), group counseling and support
increase a person’s chances of successfully quitting by about
30 percent.
A free one-month pass to Tamarac will be given out to
participants to increase their likelihood of quitting. Research
shows that increasing physical activity can help decrease
cravings and put you on the path to a healthy lifestyle. Quitting
tobacco is a challenge, and every person is unique, with
different triggers and reasons for smoking.
“You will have the best quitting success when you attend quit
smoking classes or coaching sessions, like Quit 101. Every
person is different, and what you need to quit tobacco may
not be the same as how Uncle Bob quit,” said Sally Wagoner,
RN, tobacco treatment specialist at Gerber Memorial. “As a
trained and certified tobacco treatment specialist, I can help
you create your own quitting plan that is just right for you.”
In Quit 101, participants will learn:
•That tobacco use is not a “bad habit,” but rather a strong
addiction to nicotine that changes your brain
•What your smoking triggers and patterns are and how to
change the way you deal with them
•Which medications or nicotine replacements can work the
best for you and when to use them
•How to create your quit plan with the help of your tobacco
Gerber Memorial’s Quit 101
will prepare you with proven
strategies, appropriate tools,
guidance and support for
success. Register now by calling
231.924.3073.
treatment specialist
SOURCE: https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/data_statistics/fact_sheets/fast_facts/
3
Physical Therapy
Can Help Boost
Pelvic Health
Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial physical therapist, Ethel Lobrigas, increases awareness of pelvic health and teaches patients how to coordinate
movement so they use their pelvic floor correctly through physical therapy.
Are you taking more than two minutes to empty your bowels?
Are you accidently leaking urine when you exercise, laugh or
cough?
Does your child go to the toilet multiple times in two hours?
If these scenarios sound familiar, you might be dealing with
pelvic floor dysfunction, which can affect women and men.
The pelvic floor—appropriately named, as it is situated at
the bottom of the pelvis—is composed of muscle fibers and
connective tissue that run from the front of the pubic bone to
the tailbone.
“Your pelvic floor is like a shelf that stabilizes your core and
supports your bladder, bowel and rectum,” said Ethel Lobrigas,
4 Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial physical therapist.
Lobrigas has 25 years of experience and specializes in pelvic
floor rehabilitation.
Having strong pelvic floor muscles gives us control over the
bladder and bowel. Weakened pelvic floor muscles mean
the internal organs are not fully supported and you may have
difficulty controlling them.
Pelvic health problems can occur when the pelvic floor
muscles are stretched, weakened or too tight. Some people
have weak pelvic floor muscles from an early age, and others
notice problems after certain life stages, such as pregnancy,
childbirth or menopause.
Anyone can experience pelvic floor dysfunction, and it’s
important to maintain positive pelvic health.
spectrumhealth.org/gerber
An
Uncomfortable
Fact
Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial physical therapist Ethel Lobrigas
demonstrates biofeedback testing, which helps patients learn to strengthen
or relax their pelvic floor muscles to improve bowel or bladder function.
25 million people
More than
in the United States suffer from incontinence.
This general inability to fully control bladder
functions, resulting in leaking or dribbling of
urine, is not an insignificant complaint.
The good news is, most cases of
incontinence can be managed and even
treated. The first step is getting informed.
According to Lobrigas, “One of the keys to keeping your
pelvic floor strong is learning how to isolate it so you can
give it a workout. It’s important to learn how to restore and
strengthen the coordination of how the pelvic floor functions.”
Restore Your Pelvic Floor
Physical therapy can help:
•Improve bladder and bowel control
•Reduce the risk of prolapse (the descent of organs such as
the bladder or rectum)
−− In women, this may be felt as a bulge in the vagina or
LOCATIONS AND CONTACTS
−− In men, this may be felt as a bulge in the rectum or a
Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial outpatient
rehabilitation is available in two convenient
locations, Fremont and Newaygo.
a feeling of heaviness, discomfort, pulling, dragging or
dropping
feeling of needing to use their bowels but not actually
needing to go
•Improve a woman’s recovery from childbirth or
gynecological surgery
•Improve a man’s recovery after prostate surgery
In addition to her standard therapy regime, Lobrigas is the
only physical therapist in Newaygo County who is trained
in hypopressive abdominal gymnastics, which incorporates
a breathing exercise that is used to intensely activate the
postural muscles.
Tamarac, a member of Spectrum Health
1401 West Main Street, Fremont
231.924.3195 Fax: 231.924.3197
Newaygo
211 West Pine Lake Drive, Newaygo
231.652.5079 Fax: 231.652.5385
SOURCE: http://www.nafc.org/home National Association for Continence
5
The
Sniffles
of Spring
Spring is here.
Allergies and the ER
The chirping of birds can be heard everywhere.
Spring allergies almost never
cause a severe reaction that
would require a trip to the
emergency department.
Welcome to spring, the time of year when new plants appear and allergies come
back with a vengeance.
However, Mike DeWeerd,
MD, recommends being more
vigilant in regard to allergic
reactions to certain foods, such
as peanuts, fish and others, or
insect stings, such as bee or
wasp stings.
These allergic reactions can
be more serious, resulting in
anaphylaxis, which includes
shortness of breath, wheezing,
swelling, reduced activity and
even loss of consciousness.
Anyone showing signs of
anaphylaxis should call 911 or
go immediately to the closest
emergency department for an
evaluation.
6 So can the sneezing and the sniffles.
The most common allergies health providers see in Newaygo County are allergic
rhinitis (or the runny nose) followed by allergic conjunctivitis (itchy eyes with
drainage). People with allergies also frequently have asthma and eczema, and
these can flare up in spring, said Mike DeWeerd, MD, a family physician at
Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial Multispecialty Clinic in Fremont.
DeWeerd recommends a few simple steps to his patients to help minimize
spring sniffles:
•Get tested to learn what you’re allergic to, and then avoid the source.
•Pay attention to weather reports that provide a pollen index. If the pollen index
is high, avoid outdoor activities.
•Keep over-the-counter antihistamine medications handy and use as needed.
For families with young children, short-term relief is available. Some old standbys,
such as Benadryl®, can be found in many medicine cabinets, although DeWeerd
notes that it may cause sedation and in some cases, hyperactivity or irritability.
Newer antihistamines have fewer side effects and work just as well. Nasal sprays
are effective, although it takes a week for the full benefits to kick in. Also, some
young children dislike the spray.
Parents of infants should watch for runny noses; red and itchy eyes; discharge
around the eyes, especially at night; and eczema flare-ups.
spectrumhealth.org/gerber
A New Spin
Benefits of
Indoor Cycling
Feel the endorphin rush
Exercise releases natural, happymood inducing brain chemicals
Improve heart health
The combination of
anaerobic and aerobic
exercise is great for your
heart, may lower your
blood pressure, resting
heart rate and your risk
of heart disease
Build your core
With correct posture,
your abs also receive a
workout
Work those muscles
More beautiful skin
Expect nonstop leg work that
results in toned legs
Sweating is part of your skin’s detox
process and means clearer skin.
Well-oiled joints
Burn calories
Burn between 400 and 800 calories
in a 45-minute class
Make friends
Whether a beginner or an experienced
rider, the class rides together
High-intensity, low-impact
cycling keeps your hips and
knees flexible
Indoor workouts at Tamarac are
getting a new spin.
In January, 19 new state-of-the-art
indoor bikes were installed at our
Tamarac wellness center. The new
Stages SC3 bikes feature wireless
connectivity to personal technology
such as heart rate monitors. They are
also equipped with a power meter
display to track your performance,
magnetic resistance for a smooth
ride—meaning no pads—and
SprintShift™ for jumping gears.
The USA cycling team and many other
professional top-tier athletes use
Stages products, and Tamarac trainers
and members are thrilled to have them.
Tracey Crowley, Tamarac spin class
instructor, said, “These bikes help
riders focus on form and technique
while engaging important muscle
groups. During our classes, I’ve
noticed that people are having more
fun and enjoying themselves, and that
motivates people to exercise. When
people work out on good equipment
like these new spin bikes, they can feel
the difference, and that’s encouraging.”
In addition to the new spin bikes,
Tamarac also added two new step
mills.
7
Hospitalists
Help Bridge
Patients’ Care
Michael Havens, PA, is a hospitalist at
Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial.
From the time he walks into Spectrum Health Gerber
Memorial at 7 a.m., Michael Havens, PA, spends a lot of time
on his feet, talking to patients and just about everyone else
at the hospital.
“I’m the guy new patients see when they’re admitted, and
I’m often also the last one they see because my role is
to make sure the patient gets a good handoff as they’re
discharged,” said Havens, a Cass City native and physician
assistant who graduated from the University of North
Texas Health Science Center in Dallas. “I’m responsible for
interacting with everyone who touches every patient in the
hospital—lab, radiology, physical therapy, you name it.”
For that reason, physicians and advanced practice providers,
including physician assistants like Havens, are appropriately
called hospitalists. Hospitalists, who specialize in internal
medicine in a hospital-based setting, began emerging as a
more visible presence at hospitals about a dozen years ago,
Havens said.
8 “Primary care
physicians would
be the ones seeing
patients in hospitals—
they were responsible
for their clinics, as
well as for their
patients’ hospital
stays,” Havens said.
“Then professionals
specializing in
hospital-based
medicine began
coming up. With greater specialization, it just made more
sense for primary care physicians to keep their office hours
and see their patients in their clinics, and for hospitalists to
focus on those patients who did end up getting admitted into
a hospital. That helped reduce the burden for primary care
physicians while providing patients with specialists whose
expertise is medicine in a hospital setting.”
Hospitalists offer
an advantage because
we help bridge the gap
in communications so
primary care physicians
are up to speed and can
get a good recap. For
patients, it means a good
handoff, and that’s vital
for quality care.
spectrumhealth.org/gerber
Havens said he sees the same patient three or four times
a day, compared with a few minutes that a primary care
physician could squeeze into his or her already busy days.
“Hospitalists are here on-site, and we’re trained for hospital
care,” Havens said. “Hospitalists offer an advantage because
we help bridge the gap in communications so primary care
physicians are up to speed and can get a good recap. For
patients, it means a good hand-off, and that’s vital for quality
care.”
Before graduating from the University of North Texas,
Havens was a dietitian and found that he was more
comfortable in a hospital.
Havens’ day starts with a report from the evening physician
or physician assistant. He checks on new admissions, and
he addresses issues that may have arisen overnight with
some patients. He reviews charts, he studies morning lab
results and he reads radiography reports. He sees patients
and performs physical exams. Havens also goes over care
plans and discusses discharge strategies with the patient
and others, from therapists to primary care providers to
registered dietitians.
At around 1 p.m., Havens goes on interdisciplinary rounds
with the attending physician, social workers, nurses and
pharmacists, among others. He touches base with patients
and answers any questions they or their family may have.
Sometimes, the emergency department will call him for a
patient admission to the hospital.
“My job then is to take the report from the emergency
physician, assess the findings and make sure we’re all on the
same page,” Havens said.
On average, he sees about 10 patients a day—and two of
those are typically admitted before he ends his 12-hour
Michael Havens discusses an issue with physical therapist assistant
Amy Gardner.
shift in the evening. Havens typically works a shift with a
physician, who is also on call overnight. When Havens leaves
Gerber Memorial, another physician assistant takes the
overnight shift. The hospitalists work seven straight days,
then take a week off.
“I like taking care of people who are acutely ill and watching
them get better over time,” Havens said. “I get to see rapid
changes in many of my patients. The best thing about
being a hospitalist is I get to bring in a patient, see them get
better and develop a discharge plan to keep them out of the
hospital, and see how they respond to physical therapy, to
the medicine I prescribe.”
Gerber Memorial hospitalist, Michael Havens, consults with Autumn
McDaniel, a Central Michigan University physical therapy intern; Gerber
Memorial rehab tech, Meranda Troyer; and Gerber Memorial physical
therapist, Leah Bartolameolli.
9
Massage.
It’s more than just sore
muscles and stress relief.
The benefits of
massage include both
physical and psychological
effects. Physical benefits
include relieving muscle
tension and stiffness,
reducing muscle spasms,
increasing joint flexibility
and range of motion,
reducing blood pressure,
and improving circulation.
Psychological benefits
include reducing stress,
anxiety, depression,
insomnia and worry, by
decreasing cortisol levels
and increasing serotonin
and dopamine levels.
Amanda Sackett, massage therapist, at
The Skincare Center & Spa at Tamarac.
10 spectrumhealth.org/gerber
Improve quality of life
in hospice and palliative
care.
Whether it’s end-of-life care or
managing a terminal illness, massage
can help enhance a patient’s quality of
life. Hospice massage is not focused
on fixing a specific physical issue but
providing relaxation, pain relief and
emotional support.
Reduce chemotherapyrelated nausea.
Nausea and vomiting are the most
common side-effects of chemotherapy
and while anti-nausea medicine can
help, so can massage. Studies show the
relaxation response caused by a foot
massage is effective for treating nausea
in patients.1
Reduce and relieve
stress.
Many people carry stress in their
shoulders, neck and head, and massage
can help loosen and relax these
muscles. Research shows massages
can lower your heart rate and blood
pressure and increase your body’s
production of endorphins—a natural
“mood improving” chemical.
Improve sleep.
More than 25 percent of Americans are
not getting enough sleep.2
While the chemistry of sleep is
complex, the evidence shows that
massage promotes the release of
serotonin, which regulates mood,
hunger and sleep.
Additional benefits of
massage include:3
•Reduces anxiety
•Relieves pain after surgery
•Manages low-back pain
•Helps minimize fibromyalgia pain
•Reduces muscle tension
•Enhances exercise performance
•Relieves tension headaches
•Eases symptoms of depression
•Improves heart health
•Reduces arthritis pain
•Improves balance
•Dampens effects of dementia
•Decreases symptoms of carpal
tunnel syndrome
•Helps minimize chronic neck pain
•Reduces joint replacement pain
•Increases range of motion
•Decreases migraine frequency
Dermaplaning
Your skin can be brighter,
smoother and more youthful.
It’s not just the tweenage boy in
your life who has peach fuzz. It’s
something we all have. This fine
facial hair can trap bacteria and oils,
giving your skin a dull look. Removing
it can help refresh your skin.
Dermaplaning is a safe, effective
and painless way to remove your
unwanted vellus hair—or peach
fuzz. Using a sterile dermaplaning
tool, our skin care specialists gently
“shave” the skin’s surface, removing
the top-most layer of dead skin
along with your fine, vellus hair. It
takes less than 30 minutes and can
be repeated monthly as needed.
The benefits include:
• A face free of excess fine hairs
that accumulate dirt and oil
• Makeup and skin care products
can work better
• Exfoliated skin
• Minimized superficial acne
scarring or uneven skin tones
• Reduced pore size and
appearance
To find out if dermaplaning is
right for you or to schedule an
appointment, call the Spa at
231.924.7800.
1. L. Grealish, A. Lomasney, and B. Whiteman, “Foot Massage. A Nursing Intervention to Modify the Distressing Symptoms of Pain and Nausea in Patients Hospitalized
with Cancer,” Cancer nursing. 23, no. 3 (June 14, 2000), accessed February 6, 2017, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10851775.
2. “Sleep Home Page - Sleep and Sleep Disorders,” March 12, 2015, accessed February 6, 2017, https://www.cdc.gov/sleep/index.html.
3. American Massage Therapy Association
11
212 S. Sullivan Avenue
Fremont, MI 49412
Join our community-wide
Health and Safety Day!
Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial is pleased to partner with our
community as we host a fun-filled, family friendly celebration
of good health and greater safety, through fun activities, safety
demonstrations and useful information.
Saturday, May 13
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Get car seats checked. Learn how to
prevent injuries. Get tips from police,
fire and emergency professionals
and enjoy free giveaways.
Nonprofit Org.
U.S. Postage Paid
Fremont, MI
Permit No. 18
Community Classes and Events
Community Education
and Screenings
Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies Presented by Spectrum
Health Gerber Memorial
Join us the second Thursday of every month as we discuss
ways to keep your mind and body healthy.
DateTimeProgram
April 13
6:30 p.m. to Five Ways to Improve
7:30 p.m.
Your Financial Health
May 11
6:30 p.m. to
7:30 p.m.
June 8
6:30 p.m. to
7:30 p.m.
Use Your Mind to Build
a Better You
Elder Care, Estate Planning and You:
Know Your Options
Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies is free and open to the
community. Light refreshments will be provided, and free
Child Watch is available with an appointment.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information or to register, call 231.924.3073.
Space is limited.
Vascular Screenings
Spectrum Health is offering free vascular screenings, close
to home, for high-risk patients. To qualify for a free vascular
screening, you must be 60 or older and have at least two of
the following:
• Diabetes
• Hypertension/high blood pressure
• History of smoking
• High cholesterol
• Family history of abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Family history of hardening of the arteries before age 60
Day
Wednesday Wednesday
Wednesday
DateTime
April 5
By appointment
May 3
By appointment
June 7
By appointment
Cost: Free
Location: Gerber Memorial Hospital
To schedule your vascular screening, call 877.495.2626,
option 4.
Fall Prevention/Balance Screening
Falls are the leading cause of accidental injury in older
adults, but most falls can be prevented. Learn your fall risk
and how you can reduce your risk by participating in a free
screening the third Thursday of every month.
Day DateTime
Thursday
April 20
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Thursday
May 18
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Thursday
June 15
11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.2193.
Blood Pressure Screening Clinics
Get your blood pressure checked often. Free blood pressure
screenings are offered at Gerber Memorial the second
Wednesday of every month and at Tamarac on the fourth
Wednesday of every month.
Day DateTime
Wednesday
April 12
8 a.m. to noon
Wednesday
May 10
8 a.m. to noon
Wednesday
June 14
8 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Location: Gerber Memorial Radiology Department
Day
Wednesday
Wednesday
Wednesday
DateTime
April 26
8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
May 24
8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
June 28
8 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
Diabetes Self-Management Education
Gerber Memorial’s Diabetes Self-Management Education
program provides group and individual education to people
with diabetes and helps participants understand how simple
choices can make a big difference in their health. The
program is certified by the State of Michigan and recognized
by the American Diabetes Association.
A primary care physician referral is required.
Location: Tamarac
For more information and a class schedule, call 231.924.1866.
1
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR)
Heart Saver classes are free, open to the public and taught
by our certified CPR instructors.
Day DateTime
Tuesday
April 11
8:15 a.m. to noon
Tuesday
May 9
8:15 a.m. to noon
Tuesday
June 13
8:15 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
Registration is required, and space is limited.
Call 231.924.1192.
Stroke Support Group
Join us the first Thursday of every month for free information,
inspiration and support as we discuss various topics regarding
strokes and related issues. Patients, survivors, families and
caregivers are welcome.
Day DateTime
Thursday
April 6
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday
May 4
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday
June 1
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.3073.
Parkinson’s Support Group
Join us the third Thursday of every month for free
information, inspiration and support as we discuss various
topics regarding Parkinson’s disease. Patients, families and
caregivers are welcome.
Day DateTime
Thursday
April 20
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday
May 18
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday
June 15
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.3073.
Alzheimer’s Support Group
Join us the fourth Thursday of every month for free information,
inspiration and support as we discuss various topics regarding
Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia and memory
loss. Patients, families and caregivers are welcome.
Day DateTime
Thursday
April 27
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday
May 25
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday
June 22
3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.3073.
2
Answers on Alzheimer’s
Meet one-on-one with an Alzheimer’s Association community
outreach coordinator to discuss your concerns and get your
questions answered on the third Thursday of every month.
Appointments are recommended, but walk-ins are welcome.
Day DateTime
Thursday April 20 9 a.m. to noon
Thursday May 18 9 a.m. to noon
Thursday June 15 9 a.m. to noon
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.3073.
Alzheimer’s and Dementia Quarterly Program—
Understanding and Responding to Dementia-Related Behavior
Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias can cause people
to act in anxious, aggressive or unpredictable ways. These
reactions can be difficult for the caregiver and dangerous for
the person with the memory loss. Learn why these behaviors
may occur and how to respond in a way that can be both safe
and effective. This program is open to the public.
Day DateTime
Wednesday June 28 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.3073.
Tobacco and Nicotine Quit Information
Quitting tobacco and nicotine use is the single most
important thing you can do for your health. Talk with
Spectrum Health’s tobacco treatment specialist (TTS) for
information about group classes, one-on-one coaching and
family quit programs. Special counseling is available for
pregnant women, new moms and youth.
Cost: Free consultation and programs
Location: Tamarac and Spectrum Health Gerber
Memorial Hospital
For more information, call Sally Wagoner, RN, TTS, 231.924.7589.
Participants will be eligible for a free month’s membership
at Tamarac.
Quit 101: Smoking Cessation Class—Four-Week Series
Are you fed up with the impact tobacco is having on your
wallet and your health? Have you struggled to stop using
tobacco, only to remain caught in the web of addiction?
Quit 101 focuses on tips to help you develop a quit plan and
strategies that will work for you.
Day DateTime
Wednesdays June 7 to 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
June 28 Cost: Free
Location: The Stream, Newaygo
To register, call 231.924.7589.
Participants will be eligible for a free month’s membership
at Tamarac.
Freedom From Smoking®—Eight-Week Series
Join the American Lung Association’s successful tobacco and
nicotine quit program. You will get a workbook, a DVD and
the support you need to quit for good.
Day DateTime
Saturdays April 1 to 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
May 13 Monday April 24
6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Cost: $25; financial assistance available
Location: Tamarac
For more information or to register, call 231.924.7589.
Participants will be eligible for a free month’s membership
at Tamarac.
Hope and Healing Support Group
Spectrum Health Hospice offers the following sessions to
provide information about the grief experience. Sessions
are open to the community and geared toward adults who
have had a loss within the past year. A minimum of four
participants is needed to hold the group.
Day DateTime
Wednesday
May 24
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Wednesday
June 28
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Wednesday
July 26
10 a.m. to 11 a.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
Registration is required; call Kelly at 616.486.2833.
Weight Empowered (formerly TEAM)
Join others in your weight loss or weight management
journey for an encouraging time of group coaching and
support, weekly weight tracking and more.
Day TimeLocation
Tuesdays
5:30 p.m. to Tamarac
6:15 p.m.
Wednesdays 11 a.m. to
Tamarac
11:45 a.m.
Wednesdays 3:45 p.m. to The Stream, Newaygo
4:30 p.m.
Cost: $10 a month for Tamarac members or $20 a month
for nonmembers.
For more information or to sign up, call 231.924.3073.
OPTIFAST® Weight Management Program
OPTIFAST is a comprehensive weight management program
that combines lifestyle education with medical monitoring and
meal replacements. This program includes:
• Meal replacement products
• Lifestyle education
• Expert counseling
• Medical supervision
• Weekly support with health coach
• One year of weekly classes covering behavioral, nutrition
and physical activity topics
Free OPTIFAST Information Session
Day
Date
Time
Wednesday April 26
5:30 p.m.
Location: Tamarac
For more information or to register for the information
session, please call 231.924.3073.
Grocery Store Tours
Led by a registered dietitian, you’ll learn how to read
nutrition labels and make healthy food choices. The
grocery store tours are free and include healthy shopping
information and lists.
Date TimeStore
April 4
5:30 p.m. Ed’s Orchard Market, Hesperia
April 21
9 a.m.
Ed’s Orchard Market, Hesperia
May 10
9 a.m.
Houseman’s Foods, White Cloud
May 23
5:30 p.m. Houseman’s Foods, White Cloud
June 8
9 a.m. Gene’s Family Market, Grant
June 22
5:30 p.m. Gene’s Family Market, Grant
Cost: Free
Registration is required. Must be 13 years or older to participate.
For more information or to sign up, call 231.924.3073.
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MyLife Care Planning
Is your living will enough? Who will speak for you when you
cannot speak for yourself? Make your wishes known, and be
involved in the decision-making process while you are able,
giving yourself peace of mind and lifting the burden from
your loved ones.
MyLife Care Planning is an internationally recognized
care model that helps you put the kind of end-of-life care
you want in writing. Spectrum Health Advance Directive
Services are free and do not require an attorney.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.3073.
Michigan Blood Saves Lives—Be a Donor
Donating blood is the simplest way to help save lives. Giving
blood with Michigan Blood helps ensure that your donation
stays local.
Day DateTime
Friday
April 7
7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Friday June 2
7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Tamarac
Day DateTime
Friday, May 5 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Location: Gerber Memorial Hospital
Childbirth Education
Early Pregnancy (first trimester to 20 weeks)
This free class is designed to help you have a healthy pregnancy.
For more information, call 231.924.1344.
Preparation for Childbirth (second or third trimester)
This five-week class will help you prepare for labor and
delivery, and will cover relaxation and pain-management
techniques, infant massage, CPR, breastfeeding, and
new mom and baby care. Classes are taught by certified
childbirth educators and registered nurses.
Cost: Covered by most insurance plans.
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.1344.
HypnoBirthing
This five-week childbirth class teaches that severe discomfort
doesn’t need to be a natural accompaniment of birth when a
woman is properly prepared and trusts her body.
Cost: Covered by most insurance plans.
Location: Tamarac
For more information, call 231.924.1344.
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SF
= Senior-friendly classes
PE
= Safe for expectant mothers
Big Kids’ Class
This free class is designed for kids ages 3 to 10 years old
and teaches them about becoming big brothers or sisters.
They will learn about their new role and how to help care
for the new baby. Class includes a DVD, information about
babies and a tour of the Gerber Memorial Birth Center.
For more information, call 231.924.1344.
Infant CPR
This free class teaches you how to take action if an infant
begins to choke or stops breathing. The class is taught by an
American Heart Association certified instructor. Grandparents
are welcome. For more information, call 231.924.1344.
Breastfeeding: One of the Best Gifts You Can Give Your
New Baby!
Join this free class for up-to-date breastfeeding information
and the tools to be successful. The class is taught by a certified
lactation consultant. For more information, call 231.924.1344.
Childbirth Review
This class reviews labor, delivery, relaxation and breathing
for those who have previously taken childbirth classes.
Cost: Covered by most insurance plans.
For more information, call 231.924.1344.
Tamarac, a member of
Spectrum Health
At Tamarac you’ll find certified trainers, a café, a swimming
pool, an exercise facility, a full-service spa, community events
and fitness classes for every level. Tamarac also offers a range
of affordable membership options that fit your needs. For
more information about membership, call 231.924.1600.
Holiday Hours
Easter, April 16: Closed
Memorial Day, May 29: 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. (no Child Watch
or classes)
Tamarac
Monday through Thursday: 5 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday: 5 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Saturday: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday: Noon to 5 p.m.
For more information, call 231.924.1788 or visit
tamaracwellness.org.
Tree House Child Watch*
Monday through Thursday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Saturday: 8 a.m. to noon
Sunday: Noon to 4 p.m.
Note: If you have a baby under 18 months of age, a
reservation is required before dropping your child off. Infant
reservations may be made up to seven days in advance.
*Child Watch is now free with a Tamarac membership.
The Skincare Center & Spa at Tamarac
Sunday: Closed
Monday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday: By appointment only
To make an appointment or for more information, call the
Spa at 231.924.7800 or visit tamaracwellness.org/thespa.
Family Swim at Tamarac
Monday: 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday: 4 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday: 11:45 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday: Noon to 2 p.m.
Spring Break Family Swim Hours
Tuesday, April 4, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Thursday, April 6, 3 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Family swim is free for Tamarac members. For nonmembers,
it is free for children up to age 12 and $10 for adult
nonmembers. Note: There must be an adult in the pool area
for each child at all times.
Euchre Tournament
Enjoy a progressive-style Euchre tournament the third
Wednesday of every month.
Wednesday, March 15, noon to 3 p.m.
Wednesday, April 19, noon to 3 p.m.
Wednesday, May 17, noon to 3 p.m.
Cost: Free
Location: Tamarac
Tamarac’s Running Club
Cost: Free for members and nonmembers; all distances and
abilities welcome.
Day: Saturday mornings
Location: Tamarac lobby, 8 a.m.
Group Fitness Classes
All group fitness classes are free for Tamarac members.
Nonmembers may purchase class passes, five classes
for $25 (may mix and match). For more information, call
231.924.1600.
For a complete group fitness schedule, visit
tamaracwellness.org.
SF = Senior-friendly classes
PE = Safe for expectant mothers
Barre Fusion
Intensity: moderate
Toning exercises fuse Pilates, yoga and weight training.
Special Events at Tamarac
A Spring Event at The Skincare Center & Spa
Thursday, April 20
5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Bring a friend and join us for hors d’oeuvres and
refreshments, sample industry-leading skincare products,
experience our medical aesthetic services and more at
The Skincare Center & Spa at Tamarac.
The first 100 people registered for this event will receive a
beauty gift bag. To RSVP, call the Spa at 231.924.7800.
Community Sand Volleyball
Join Tamarac this summer for 3x3 sand volleyball.
The registration deadline is Wednesday, May 31. Call
231.924.1788 for more information or to register.
Dates and times will be based on registration.
Cost: $25 per team
Location: Tamarac
SF
= Senior-friendly classes
Body Sculpt
Intensity: low to moderate
This low-intensity workout is designed to systematically
strengthen each muscle group in the body.
Cardio Blast
Intensity: moderate to high
Heart-pumping cardio class uses track work and weight
lifting. No two classes are the same!
Core ’n’ Stretch
Intensity: low to moderate
Increase your flexibility and strengthen your core and spine
in a class open to all abilities and limitations.
CycleFit
Intensity: high
This class is a unique combination of cycling and strength
training for a solid conditioning workout.
PE
= Safe for expectant mothers
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Energize PE SF
Intensity: low to moderate
POUND®
Intensity: moderate
We all want more energy, which is why Tamarac has created
Energize! This low-impact cardio, strength and stretching
class was designed for just about anyone, regardless of
physical ability. It doesn’t always take a high-impact, fastpaced class to get results. Come try Energize, and let us
show you the difference!
Using Ripstix®, lightly weighted drumsticks engineered
specifically for exercising, POUND transforms drumming
into an incredibly effective way of working out. Become the
music in this exhilarating full-body workout that combines
cardio, conditioning and strength training with yoga and
Pilates-inspired movements. Designed for all fitness levels,
POUND provides the perfect atmosphere for letting loose,
getting energized, toning up and rockin’ out!
Extreme Circuit
Intensity: moderate to high
Train like athletes in this high-intensity circuit-style workout. Our
instructor creates a full-body program that builds strength and
lean muscle mass to increase your metabolism all day long.
FAST (Functional Agility and Strength Training)
Intensity: moderate to high
If a high-energy exercise class is what you are looking for,
then you definitely need to check out FAST! This circuittraining class will not only teach you a variety of full-body
exercises but will also help you maximize your calorie burn
by combining short bursts of cardiovascular exercise with
form-perfect strength-training exercises. You’ll use your
own body weight and lightweight accessory equipment.
NEW! Evening classes offered in 2017.
This one-hour class offers a vigorous fitness-based
approach to Vinyasa-style yoga.
Quick HIIT
Intensity: high
It’s a short, high-intensity interval workout to turn up the
metabolic heat for long-lasting effect.
Restorative Yoga
Intensity: low
Soothe the nervous system with the use of props and a few
simple poses to achieve a deep level of relaxation.
Slow Flow Yoga
Intensity: low to moderate
Kidding Around Yoga®
Intensity: low
Kids will experience creative instruction in meditation,
breathing, relaxation, fitness, games and activities, and
stress management. (Recommended for children 6 to 12.)
Pilates PE SF
Intensity: low to moderate
Improve your core strength and posture while practicing
proper breathing techniques.
This class teaches yoga fundamentals in a traditional format with
Pranayama (breath control), Asana (postures) and meditation.
Spinning® PE
Intensity: moderate to high
Regardless of your age, weight or skill level, Tamarac’s
Spinning class is a great way to work on your fitness goals.
Reserve your seat by calling 231.924.1884.
Weekend Warrior
Intensity: moderate to high
PiYo
Intensity: low to moderate
PE
Power Yoga
Intensity: moderate to high
SF
PiYo is a blend of Pilates and yoga designed to strengthen
the core and create long, lean lines using resistance bands,
balls and rings. This class brings together stretching and
isometric exercises to increase your range of motion and
circulation, reduce your risk of falls or injuries, and gain the
best results from your workouts.
This yoga class is specifically targeted to athletes and
focuses on shoulder and hip mobility and strength.
Yoga
Intensity: moderate
This is a 60-minute yoga class focused on pose breakdowns
and transitions as you work through a series of poses.
Zumba®
Intensity: moderate to high
Zumba is an exhilarating, effective and easy-to-follow
Latin-inspired calorie-burning activity that moves you
toward optimal health.
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SF
= Senior-friendly classes
PE
= Safe for expectant mothers
Specialty Fitness Classes
For more information about Tamarac’s specialty fitness
classes, call 231.924.1600 or visit tamaracwellness.org.
Intro to Weight Training
Break out of your cardio comfort zone. In this six-week weight
lifting class, you’ll learn basic weight training techniques
to help you improve your overall strength and expand your
exercise program. The class size is small—two to three people
per class, taught by one of our fitness specialists.
Tai Chi for Health: Beginner
Learn the 12 basic movements of the sun style, with gentle,
agile and powerful qigong exercises to improve breathing,
facilitate relaxation and promote healing. The Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention recognizes the use of tai chi
for arthritis and fall prevention. Seven-week series. For dates
and times or to register, call 231.924.1788.
Day
Date Time
Wednesdays April 12 to May 24 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Tamarac members $20; nonmembers $30
Location: Tamarac
Cost: $50
Knockout
This is an intense 60-minute workout with kicking, punching
and lifting to test your stamina and build strength. It’s a
small class environment with tailored programming and
multiple options each week.
Cost: $75 for members; $99 for nonmembers (12 class passes)
Suspension Training
Train every muscle group in your body with a workout that
utilizes gravity and body weight to emphasize muscular
balance, control and strength.
Cost: $75 for members; $99 for nonmembers (12 class passes)
NEW! Outdoor Bootcamp
This high-intensity class will push your functional strength,
endurance and agility to the limit. Outdoor Bootcamp will
meet in the parking lot behind Tamarac.
Cost: $75 for members; $99 for nonmembers (12 class passes)
NEW! Strong and Stable
Falls are the leading cause of accidental injury in older
adults, but most falls can be prevented. This class will help
you improve your posture and increase your stability, giving
you increased confidence as you move.
Cost: $75 for members; $99 for nonmembers (12 class passes)
*A fall prevention/balance screening is required for participation
in this class. Call 231.924.1788 for more information.
Pickleball
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the United
States. It’s a combination of table tennis, badminton, tennis
and racquetball. It’s fast-paced, easy to learn, great exercise
and fun for all ages. All are welcome.
Day Time
Tuesdays 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Thursdays 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Tai Chi for Health: Intermediate
Students learn to do nine new movements. Learning and
practicing tai chi can improve overall health and help with
arthritis and fibromyalgia symptoms. The benefits are
cumulative and compound over time. It’s a seven-week series.
For dates and times or to register, call 231.924.1788.
Day
Date Time
Thursdays
April 13 to May 25 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Tamarac members $20; nonmembers $30
Location: Tamarac
Tai Chi for Health: Continuing Practice
This class is for students who have reached comfortable
levels of practice with the 12 basic movements, reverse of the
12 basic movements, the nine intermediate movements and
the reverse of the nine intermediate movements. Seven-week
series. For dates and times, or to register, call 231.924.1788.
Day
Date Time
Mondays
April 10 to May 22 5 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Cost: Tamarac members $20; nonmembers $30
Location: Tamarac
Aquatic Classes
Tabata Bootcamp
Intensity: low to high
This intense workout is designed around intervals of work
and rest to keep the heart pumping, burn calories and
challenge your muscles.
Hydro Blast PE SF
Intensity: low to high
Get everything from deep-water exercises to kickboxing
while challenging yourself against the waves!
Cost: $5 for drop-in pickleball; punch cards available for $65
Location: Fremont Rec Center
SF
= Senior-friendly classes
PE
= Safe for expectant mothers
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Aqua Fitness PE SF
Intensity: low to high
Improve your endurance and core strength while splashing
around in the pool during a total-body workout! This is a lowimpact cardiovascular class designed for all ages and levels.
Cost: Tamarac members $50; nonmembers $75
Location: Tamarac
Aqua Power PE SF
Intensity: low to moderate
Get body tone and strength using only aquatic weights and
the water’s natural resistive properties.
Aqua Fusion PE
Intensity: low to high
Dive into a class that has it all: cardio, toning, games and
aqua toys! No two classes are alike.
Arthritis Aquatic Program
Intensity: low
Beginners/Tadpoles—According to Ability Level
Classes are six weeks, 30 minutes, with a maximum of 10
participants and parents in the pool with child.
Call 231.924.1788.
Day Dates
Saturdays May 6 to June 17*
Cost: Tamarac members $50; nonmembers $75
Location: Tamarac
SF
Gentle activities in our warm-water therapy pool will help
you gain strength and flexibility and help decrease pain and
stiffness in your joints and muscles.
Deep-Water Challenge
Intensity: moderate to high
With the use of buoyancy tools, challenge your core and
limbs to move against the resistive properties of the water.
Swim Lessons
Adults and Children Private Swim Lessons
Learn to swim or improve your strokes with one-on-one
instruction for adults and children. We welcome all swim
abilities and will go through each level at your desired pace.
Cost: Tamarac members
Nonmembers
$20, 30-minute session
$35, 30-minute session
$40, 60-minute session
$55, 60-minute session
Location: Tamarac
Group Swim Lessons
All group swim lessons are offered Saturday mornings.
Class times will be decided by enrollment.
8
Beginners—6 Weeks to 3 Years
Classes are six weeks, 30 minutes, with a maximum of 10
participants and parents in the pool with child.
Call 231.924.1788.
Day Dates
Saturdays May 6 to June 17*
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Tadpoles/Frogs—According to Ability Level
Classes are six weeks, 30 minutes, with a maximum of 10
participants and parents in the pool with child.
Call 231.924.1788.
Day Dates
Saturdays May 6 to June 17*
Cost: Tamarac members $50; nonmembers $75
Location: Tamarac
Sharks—According to Ability Level
Classes are six weeks, 45 minutes, with a maximum of 10
participants. Call 231.924.1788.
Day Dates
Saturdays May 6 to June 17*
Cost: Tamarac members $50; nonmembers $75
Location: Tamarac
*Swim lessons will not be held on Saturday, May 27.