A special program is designed especially for teens and their Moms
Community Medical Center’s Women’s Health Advisory Council will sponsor a special program called “A Time for Us” designed for mothers and their daughters to come together to listen to and discuss important health topics in a relaxed and non-threatening environment. This free dinner program will be held on Thursday, March 11 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Holiday Inn on Route 37 in Toms River. Karen Purcell, program coordinator of Community Health Services at Community Medical Center, said, “This unique program is designed to educate teen girls and their moms on current health care topics and to increase communication between mother and daughter.” Speakers at the event include physicians and health professionals who will cover a variety of topics. Donald Erwin, PhD, and his team will present a lecture and demonstration on healthy body image and developing healthy relationships among peers. Obstetrician/gynecologist Lesley Furman, MD, will present a lecture on Pap Smears, Breast Exams and Mammography Screenings---when to begin and how often. She will also discuss why it is never too young to start the monthly routine of breast self exam which can help detect breast cancer long before a mammogram. Obstetrician/gynecologist Lisa Vernon will discuss what young girls can expect at their first gynecologic exam; and gynecologist Wilhemina Azu, DO will discuss the HPV vaccine---now available to young women to help prevent cervical cancer. Purcell said “We hope to offer a relaxed setting where mothers and daughters can learn about topics they wouldn’t normally discuss together, and have the opportunity to ask health professionals questions about these sensitive issues which are of utmost importance to a young woman’s overall health.” The program is free, but seating is limited and pre-registration is required by calling 1-888-SBHS-123.
Program funding is provided by a grant from the Susan G. Komen for the Cure, Central and South Jersey Affiliates.
Sue Linfante
