More than 40 million Americans are living with this chronic condition, according to the American Diabetes Association, with another 115 million U.S. adults considered prediabetic. Diabetes can be challenging because it involves constantly balancing food, medications, blood sugar levels and lifestyle choices – and those factors can affect each person differently from day to day.

“When people understand what’s happening in their bodies and learn practical, everyday strategies, they move from feeling alone and uncertain to feeling confident and in control,” Largen said.

The free seminar – “Knowledge is Power: Taking Control of Your Diabetes” – will take place from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m., Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at Northwest Health – La Porte, Pine Lake Conference Room, 1335 State St., La Porte. Largen will discuss:

• What diabetes education really means and how it supports long-term health
• Why managing diabetes goes beyond food choices alone
• How education can help you feel better, boost energy and stay active
• When to seek a referral and how to access diabetes education services

This event, is part of the Northwest Health HealthyU series, a wellness program that provides free seminars on various health and wellness topics for the community.

Registration is encouraged for this free community event. To register, visit NWHinfo.com/Diabetes-TakeControl. For more information, call 219-262-6446.

About Northwest Health

Northwest Health is a regional healthcare system committed to providing communities in Northwest Indiana with high-quality, accessible health care — from highly specialized care and surgical services to more routine primary care. The system of more than 60 access points includes three hospitals, five emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient surgery centers, an ambulance service, and physician offices. A compassionate team of caregivers work hard to fulfill its mission to help people get well and live healthier.  For more information, visit NWHealthIN.com.

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The entry-level question, persuade and refer, or QPR Suicide Prevention Course, is based on a curriculum developed by the QPR Institute. The course aims to save lives and reduce suicidal behaviors by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with one suicide taking place every 11 minutes. According to the QPR Institute, just as people trained in CPR and the Heimlich Maneuver help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade and refer someone to help.

Franciscan Health Munster is presenting the QPR Suicide Prevention Course from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Central on Friday, March 27 in the St. Clare Conference Room of the hospital at 701 Superior Ave.

The course is free, but registration is required by March 25. To register and for more information, please contact Franciscan Health Community Health Improvement Coordinator Stacy Zembala at Stacy.Zembala@franciscanalliance.org.

Please note: If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis, call the National Suicide Hotline at 988.

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The community is invited to join Northwest Medical Group neurologist Johnathan Grossman, DO, for a one-hour seminar that will explore how knowing the warning signs of stroke can save a life. Every 40 seconds, a person has a stroke in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Nearly 87% of all strokes are ischemic – when blood flow to the brain is blocked.

“Every minute counts when someone is having a stroke,” Dr. Grossman said. “Recognizing the warning signs early – whether in yourself or others – and seeking immediate medical care can significantly reduce the risk of long-term disability and even save a life.”

The free seminar – “Stroke Smart: Taking Control of Your Brain Health” – will take place from noon to 1 p.m., March 10, 2026, at the Duneland Family YMCA, 215 Roosevelt Street, Chesterton, IN. The general public is invited to attend. The event will cover:

• Practical ways to recognize a stroke
• How strokes happen
• Types of stroke
• Why fast action is important
• How to understand your personal risk
• Simple lifestyle changes that can help prevent a first or repeat stroke 

Dr. Grossman will also save time for questions at the end of the event, which is part of the Northwest Health HealthyU series, a wellness program that provides free seminars on various health and wellness topics for the community.

Registration is encouraged for this free community event. To register, visit NWHinfo.com/StrokeSmart. For more information, call 219-262-6446.

The post Stroke Smart: Taking Control of Your Brain Health appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

The community is invited to join Northwest Medical Group neurologist Johnathan Grossman, DO, for a one-hour seminar that will explore how knowing the warning signs of stroke can save a life. Every 40 seconds, a person has a stroke in the United States, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control. Nearly 87% of all strokes are ischemic – when blood flow to the brain is blocked.

“Every minute counts when someone is having a stroke,” Dr. Grossman said. “Recognizing the warning signs early – whether in yourself or others – and seeking immediate medical care can significantly reduce the risk of long-term disability and even save a life.”

The free seminar – “Stroke Smart: Taking Control of Your Brain Health” – will take place from noon to 1 p.m., March 10, 2026, at the Duneland Family YMCA, 215 Roosevelt Street, Chesterton, IN. The general public is invited to attend. The event will cover:

• Practical ways to recognize a stroke
• How strokes happen
• Types of stroke
• Why fast action is important
• How to understand your personal risk
• Simple lifestyle changes that can help prevent a first or repeat stroke 

Dr. Grossman will also save time for questions at the end of the event, which is part of the Northwest Health HealthyU series, a wellness program that provides free seminars on various health and wellness topics for the community.

Registration is encouraged for this free community event. To register, visit NWHinfo.com/StrokeSmart. For more information, call 219-262-6446.

About Northwest Health

Northwest Health is a regional healthcare system committed to providing communities in Northwest Indiana with high-quality, accessible health care — from highly specialized care and surgical services to more routine primary care. The system of more than 60 access points includes three hospitals, five emergency departments, urgent care centers, outpatient surgery centers, an ambulance service, and physician offices. A compassionate team of caregivers work hard to fulfill its mission to help people get well and live healthier.  For more information, visit NWHealthIN.com.

The post Stroke Smart: Northwest Health Offers Free HealthyU Seminar at the Duneland YMCA Recognizing and Preventing Stroke appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

Early detection remains the most effective strategy in reducing breast cancer mortality. Mammograms are the best tool for finding breast cancer early — often before there are symptoms — which makes treatment more successful.  

Why Mammograms Are Crucial  

Mammography, an X-ray of the breast, is considered the gold standard for routine screening. Women aged 45-54 at average risk should get a mammogram every year. Some organizations recommend beginning as early as age 40, especially for women who may be at higher risk. Starting earlier is particularly important for Black women, who often develop breast cancer at younger ages and may be diagnosed at more advanced stages. Consistent, routine mammograms remain the most effective method for detecting breast cancer early. 

Advanced imaging like 3D tomosynthesis, increasingly available at major health centers, can improve detection in dense breast tissue and reduce the likelihood of false positives.

Spotting the Early Signs  

Even with regular mammograms, personal awareness is key. Any breast changes — such as a lump, swelling, skin dimpling, nipple discharge or pain — should be brought to a healthcare provider’s attention. While most changes are not cancer, it’s essential to follow up promptly. Providers can help determine whether additional testing is needed and guide you through appropriate next steps.  

Overcoming Barriers to Screening  

Despite clear guidelines, many women face obstacles to getting screened. Factors such as income, transportation, insurance status and access to healthcare can delay or prevent routine mammograms. Fortunately, programs exist to help. For example, national initiatives offer free or low-cost mammograms to eligible women, making this lifesaving screening more accessible.  

A Lifesaving Habit  

Studies show that regular screenings can lower breast cancer mortality by as much as 30-40%. Pairing mammograms with self-awareness and timely follow-ups can help catch breast cancer early, when treatment is most effective. 

While recommendations may evolve, one fact stays the same: Early detection saves lives. Whether you’re scheduling your first mammogram or keeping up with annual exams, make breast health a priority. Don’t wait — your future self will thank you.

To schedule a mammogram with Powers Health, call 800-809-9828. 

The post The Power of Early Detection appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

An evening of wellness just for you!

• Breast cancer risk assessments begin at 4:00pm
• Free Seminar presented at 5:00pm
  Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Prognosis
  Presented by Laini Fluellen Charities
• Light refreshments will be served

Hurry! Space is Limited To Reserve Today CLICK HERE or call 1-888-909-3627

The post Healthy Night Out with the Girls 2026 appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

The entry-level question, persuade and refer, or QPR Suicide Prevention Course, is based on a curriculum developed by the QPR Institute. The course aims to save lives and reduce suicidal behaviors by providing innovative, practical and proven suicide prevention training.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States, with one suicide taking place every 11 minutes. According to the QPR Institute, just as people trained in CPR and the Heimlich Maneuver help save thousands of lives each year, people trained in QPR learn how to recognize the warning signs of a suicide crisis and how to question, persuade and refer someone to help.

Franciscan Health Michigan City is presenting the QPR Suicide Prevention Course from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Central on Tuesday, March 31, at the Franciscan Health Michigan City Legacy Campus, 301 W. Homer St.

The course is free, but registration is required by March 24. To register and for more information, please contact Franciscan Health Community Health Improvement Coordinator Nila Williams at Nila.Williams@franciscanalliance.org. 

Please note: If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide or a mental health crisis, call the National Suicide Hotline at 988.

The post Franciscan Health Michigan City presenting free suicide prevention course appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

“Woman-to-Woman: A New Conversation About Heart Health” is one of several Northwest Health events observing American Heart Month and featured four female cardiologists speaking about meaningful topics to guide women towards a future that includes a long, heart-healthy life. The event was led by Cardiologists Sabaa Ahmed, Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO), Maya Kommineni, Doctor of Medicine (MD), Stella Kyung, MD, and Jessica Williams, MD.

“It’s a huge opportunity for us to do an event like this,” Kommineni said. “This is the number one killer in women, and two out of every three women have cardiac disease. One out of every three women die, and it goes undetected or undiagnosed. It’s great for us to reach as many people as we can.”

Topics such as heart attacks in women, advanced cardiac imaging, spontaneous coronary artery dissection, atrial fibrillation, and more were discussed during this program. Most of the topics emphasized the education of prevention and wellness.

“We tried to pick topics that are a bit more common,” Kommineni said. “I’m going over atrial fibrillation, but we are also discussing issues of sudden cardiac death and chest pain. It’s also important to be an advocate for yourself and to understand your family history.”

Ahmed opened the program by discussing Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection (SCAD) and how it can impact pregnant or middle-aged women.

“SCAD occurs overwhelmingly in women in their 40s or 50s,” Ahmed said. “It may cause acute coronary syndrome and up to 35% of heart attacks in women 50 and under. It’s the most common cause of heart attack in pregnancy.”

Kommineni shared the biggest components that cause atrial fibrillation and blood clots in the heart. 

“Typically, we think it’s age-related. We see it more as we get older because the heart changes,” Kommineni said. “Blood pressure is the number one cause of atrial fibrillation. Factors such as obesity or sleep apnea can really irritate the heart as well.”

Kyung highlighted the benefits that modern imaging can have in protecting women’s heart health.

“Advancing imaging helps us detect disease earlier, avoid unnecessary procedures, and personalize the care,” Kyung said. “We can look at the heart muscle, blood flow, heart arteries, and the structure and function.”

Williams covered the impact of heart attacks, along with the symptoms that are most frequent.

“This pain can radiate to your shoulders. Sometimes it can go to your right arm, or even your left arm,” Williams said. “Some patients will come in with progressive fatigue saying, ‘I can usually get through one or two miles a day, but now I’m struggling with half a mile.’ Shortness of breath, chest pain, breaking out into a cold sweat, or feeling nauseous can all be symptoms as well.”

After the initial discussion, the four physicians opened up the floor to questions from the attendees. By creating a conversation that allowed all of the attendees to speak comfortably about their health concerns, the goal is that these women can leave with practical and actionable insights that they can apply to their own situations.

Prior to the event, attendees were asked to bring a newly purchased personal care item for donation to The Caring Place, a non-profit in Valparaiso that serves victims of domestic violence. Everyone who donated earned a raffle entry for a chance to win a special prize.

“The beautiful thing about this event is we have women coming together to support one another,” Kommineni said. “We’re coming together to support each other, celebrate as a collective, and give back to our community in a meaningful way. The Caring Place is a shelter for domestic violence victims, so we want to do something special to show our appreciation for them.”

The Medical Staff of Northwest Health – Porter also presented a $500 donation to The Caring Place at the event.

Throughout the evening, women were able to visit with local female-owned businesses and learn about what they have to offer. This allowed women an opportunity to mingle, enjoy hor d’oeuvres, and discover products that are best suited for them.

“Part of the reason we invited women who own small businesses is to show them our support, help them thrive, and get the word out about what they’re doing.”

Having a healthy heart is imperative to a long future and can be attributed to day-to-day habits. Some women might not discover their health issue until it gets too severe. If you are a woman dealing with heart complications, check out the Heart Care tab on the Northwest Health website to learn more about the severity of your health issues.

All the women in attendance had an opportunity to get their blood pressure checked, purchase jewelry, and clothing items as well.

For more information on Northwest Health, you can visit NWHealthIN.com

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Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Neel Jain, MD, an independent surgeon with Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute who chooses to practice at Franciscan Health, will present information about joint pain and treatment options, including robotic surgery.

The event is scheduled to take place at 6 p.m. Central on Wednesday, March 4 at the Franciscan Health Fitness Center Chesterton, 810 Michael Drive. Light refreshments will be served.

The event is free, but space is limited and registration is required. For more information and to register, please call 877-888-1777 or register online at https://franciscanhealthcare.formstack.com/forms/joint_pain_seminar_chesterton.

The post Franciscan Health Joint Pain Seminar appeared first on GreatNews.Life.

Orthopedic Surgeon Dr. Neel Jain, MD, an independent surgeon with Lakeshore Bone & Joint Institute who chooses to practice at Franciscan Health, will present information about joint pain and treatment options, including robotic surgery.

The event is scheduled to take place at 6 p.m. Central on Wednesday, March 4 at the Franciscan Health Fitness Center Chesterton, 810 Michael Drive. Light refreshments will be served.

The event is free, but space is limited and registration is required. For more information and to register, please call 877-888-1777 or register online at https://franciscanhealthcare.formstack.com/forms/joint_pain_seminar_chesterton.

The post Franciscan Health hosting free joint pain seminar appeared first on GreatNews.Life.