Cures Come From Chicago
The Trib reports that Chicago is a unique hot spot for diabetes research, due to a diverse population and a high concentration of people living with the disease.
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Health/Fitness
Flu.gov
Get some information on H1N1 and seasonal flu resources at this growing flu.gov site. The Illinois page also has links to state resources.
Crip the Mass! @ Daley Plaza
Maybe you've participated in Critical Mass before, but you haven't seen it like this: the Disability Studies Student Council at UIC is calling for wheelchair users to Crip the Mass! -- showing off their own wheels and boosting awareness of wheelchairs on the streets. Join the fun at Daley Plaza today at 5pm.
Hope They Have Good Pedicurists
Some Chicago runners are hanging up their sneakers and hitting the trail barefoot, or in new glove-like shoes intended to simulate the au natural feel. It's more natural, they say, and even cuts down on pain (once your feet get tough enough to handle the rocks and gravel).
Widow Maker Indeed
That chest pain is evidently the least of your worries in Chicago. Unlike other cities, our ambulances don't come with the equipment that identifies "widow maker" heart attacks, meaning delayed treatment and increased chance of permanent heart damage or death. "We are doing a disservice to our patients," said one local director of cardiology.
Calling Florence Nightingale
A result of the economy, a lack of nursing graduates, and a possible wave of nurses retiring from the field, more of these health care professionals are needed, and Chicago is no exception.
Talk Health Care with Chicago Tonight
WTTW's Chicago Tonight is devoting its September 1 show to health care reform, and is looking for interested audience members. "We'll be hearing from legislators, insurers, doctors and hospitals...but we also want to hear your questions and concerns," says an alert the channel sent to supporters today. To request a ticket, email the show or call 773-509-5590.
Cubs on Life Support?
"If health reform were a baseball team, it would be the Chicago Cubs," says Bruce Reed on Slate. GB reader Zac Thomspon says, "Maybe it's finally our year?"
Autism Language Center to Open
By Your Side, a new autism-focused speech and language therapy center, will open in Burr Ridge on October 5. The center is conducting free in-home program evaluations until that date (a $225 value); to learn more, call 888-288-7667.
Nobody Watching
Illinois' mental health community homes have no regulatory oversight, leading to patient neglect and worse. the Chi-Town Daily News discovered. Some nursing homes aren't much better.
Wal-Mart Gets Applause
"We believe strongly that everyone should have access to affordable health insurance. Everyone." That line from a Wal-Mart executive at the National Council of La Raza convention here last weekend got big applause. And WBEZ is getting calls from Wal-Mart trying to stop the clapping.
Daley Plaza to DC: Walking for Health Care
Dr. Ogan Gurel, an uninsured physician, left Daley Plaza June 27 on a walking journey to Washington, D.C., highlighting the struggle of patients and physicians to fix our health care system. He's due in D.C. on July 26; you can track his journey on Facebook and follow him on Twitter.
L.A.T.E. Ride
There are few things as enjoyable as riding a bike through the streets of Chicago during the late nights of summer. The L.A.T.E. Ride organizes a community of cyclists to do just that. It is Chicago's only midnight bike ride, and it takes place this year on Saturday/Sunday, July 11/12. Early bird registration has ended, but you can still save $5 if you register by June 30.
Fitness is Back at Millennium Park
Tomorrow Millennium Park brings back its popular free summer fitness program for a fifth year. Each Saturday morning they'll offer tai chi, yoga, and pilates classes, along with a martial arts/aerobic dance class such as Capoeira or Zumba. Classes start at 7 AM on the Great Lawn.
Illegal Dumping in Hyde Park
Chi-Town Daily News reports that Congressman Bobby Rush is calling for an investigation into patient dumping practices at University of Chicago Medical Center.
Get Tested
"A first-of-its-kind study looking at HIV infection rates found that half of gay men in Chicago who have HIV did not know they were infected, and two-thirds of infected black men were unaware." Alarming statistics in the Chi-Town Daily News.
U of C Hospitals Closes More Clinics
The administration of the U of C Hospitals seems all too eager to drag its name farther through the mud, this time by making plans to close its Women's Health Center in addition to its April closing of the Walter G. Zoller Memorial Dental Clinic. Both clinics primarily served the poor.
Fitter, Happier, More Productive
In honor of the 6th Annual Chicago Moves Day, the Mayor's Fitness Council and the Chicago Park District have put together a few events for tomorrow that are meant to encourage healthier, more active lifestyles. The day starts bright and early with a 5K and continues with free workouts at Daley Plaza from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Run for the Buck
If you're into philanthropy, running, and winning Lollapalooza tickets I've got just the activity for you. On May 30, participate in the Buckingham Foundation 5K Fun Run and help raise money to restore Buckingham Fountain. All racers have a chance to win two 3-day passes to Lollapalooza.
A Local Women's Health Hero
GB's own Jenni Prokopy is one of 20 2009 Women's Health Heroes. Congrats!
H1N1 Flu Questions Answered
In case you still have some questions about the disease formerly known as swine flu, CAN TV is doing a live call-in this afternoon at 3:30 on channel 21. Your questions will be answered by Chicago Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Terry Mason.
Kiss Chlamydia Goodbye!
A nationwide effort to educate young people about chlamydia (and encourage testing) kicks off today at Columbia College, featuring a music performance by local band Lip Tease and the launch of a new site, getSTDtested. The event is at Columbia College's Film Row Cinema, 1104 S. Wabash, 8th floor, from 7 to 9pm.
First Probable Case of Swine Flu in Chicago
A Rogers Park elementary school is closed for at least the next two days as officials survey parents and try to curtail the spread of germs between students. One student at the school has been noted by City Public Health officials as a probable case of swine flu.
No One Ill In Illinois
So far, so good when it comes to swine flu cases in Illinois. Not so in the rest of the world. But school officials here are taking precautions to make sure it stays that way.
Doctors List
Chi-Town Daily News reports on the new Leslie's List, a database of local health care prices.
Get Smart at DePaul's Chronic Illness Symposium
"After Graduation: Creating Opportunities for Employment, Education, and Community & Family Involvement" is the focus of this year's Chronic Illness and Post-secondary Education Symposium at DePaul University on April 28. It's designed for those with chronic illness and disability, as well as those who work with them - and this year's keynote speaker is Karen McCulloh, executive director of disabilityworks at the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce. Get more info on registration and speakers in Slowdown.
The Twittered Tibia
A double bilateral knee replacement surgery at a Wisconsin hospital was Twittered today in its gory glory (with pics!).
Hospital TB Scare
A 26-year-old pediatric resident physician at Children's Memorial Hospital may have unwittingly exposed hundreds of patients and coworkers to tuberculosis.
It's Parkour Kids!
It seems not everyone is impressed with the Chicago parkour scene. [Thanks, Dubi!]
Deep Steaming
It may not be lined with animal pelts and come equipped with peyote, but the Chicago Sweat Lodge looks to be a good option for an Old World-style detox. UPDATE: Just FYI, it's men only. (Thanks and sorry, Kristen!)
Four South Side Clinics Safe for Now
The city is putting plans to close four South Side mental health clinics on hold following a report in the Chi-Town Daily News that known problems in the city's Department of Public Health billing system may have caused a critical funding shortage.
Chicken Buckets of Asphalt
Since the City is more interested (apparently) in repaving park district roads, maybe we can get KFC to fill some of Chicago's 25,000-plus potholes.
Fight For Uninsured in Illinois
Next week (March 22 to 28) marks the Robert Woods Johnson Cover the Uninsured Week campaign, and local blog Ill In Illinois suggests concerned Chicagoans can participate by heading to Springfield for a Legislative Advocacy Day on March 24 in support of The Health Care for All Illinois Act, HB 311. You gotta fight! For your right! To insurance!
U of C Hospitals Changing Course
In response to recent criticism, the University of Chicago Hospitals are revising plans to divert patients who do not need emergency care.
IL Medical Marijuana Bill Moves Forward
Yesterday, an Illinois House committee voted 4-3 on a bill that would bring medical marijuana to the state. Chicago Public Radio spoke to Rep. Lou Lang (D) and Rep. Patricia Bellock (R) to get perspective from both sides of the aisle. (Interesting side note: medical marijuana has apparently been legal in Illinois since '78, but never put into practice.)
Do Ya Think I'm Vegan?
Hoping to dispel whatever myths and stereotypes are out there concerning vegans (think sensible shoes, biking everywhere and some article of clothing made of hemp), PETA is sponsoring a "Sexiest Vegetarian Next Door" contest and a Hyde Park resident is carrying the banner for Chicago. You can vote for her here.
Are the U of C Hospitals Dumping Patients?
Following emergency room organizational changes, the U of C Hospitals have been accused of coming "dangerously close" to deflecting uninsured and otherwise cost-intensive patients to other hospitals by the American College of Emergency Physicians.
Not Just Any Old Pinups
What happens when you get a dozen fabulous female cyclists together in Chicago, introduce some introspection and give one of them a camera? The Thought You Knew Us Pinup Calendar, of course. Twelve Chicago cyclists, ranging from road warriors to bike messengers to everyday saddle lovers got together to explore public perception of women cyclists and to raise money for the Chicago Women's Health Center which keeps many of them on the road. Learn more, including where you can get your own here.
Massive Changes at the U of C Hospitals
Chicago BioMedicine (which includes the The University of Chicago Medical Center) announced a major reorganization with 450 layoffs -- 5% of its workforce.
Got Lupus? Get Empowered!
Attend a free seminar this Saturday, sponsored by the Lupus Foundation of America - Illinois Chapter, with speakers on the latest research, exercise options and healthy behaviors. (Disclosure: I will be one of the presenters.) Get more info and registration details in Slowdown.
Survival of the (20th) Fattest
Chicago is the 20th fattest city in America, according to Men's Health magazine. Just ahead at no. 19 is perpetual Chicago frenemy New York.
Helping New Year's Resolutions
Said you'd exercise more? The Chicago Park District's 60 fitness centers are there for you: the first two weeks of the new year are free.
Unbreakable?
A man flew 125 feet off of the Dan Ryan this morning when his car struck a wall and "ejected" him. The Stroger Hospital spokesman reported that his injuries are not life-threatening.
Getting More Than What You Paid For
The Trib's investigation of food mislabeling and hidden allergens found 117 products that violate federal law. While seeking the correct ingredient listings, it also conducted more food laboratory tests than the USDA and FDA have done -- combined -- over the last several years. How many tests did the Trib do? Fifty.
A Stark Look at the Health-Care Have Nots
Although some nonprofit hospitals are raking in the dough, Lawndale's Mount Sinai Hospital struggles in its attempts to provide quality health care to this inner-city neighborhood.
More Great Medical News from Local Conferences
Are you missing any needles, staples, paper clips or pieces of glass, wood, plastic, graphite, crayon or stone? Get the nearest teenager an ultrasound or an X-ray.
World AIDS Day in Chicago
December 1 is World AIDS Day. Free HIV testing at several locations in the city, the Fourth Annual Long-Term Survivor Awards, a candlelight vigil in Boys Town, and 6,000 Steps for 6,000 Orphans, a walk to commemorate the children who are orphaned daily due to AIDS are among the events going on in the city.
AIDS Fund in Jeopardy
The Chicago Reporter reports that the African-American HIV/AIDS Response Fund, created just two years ago, could be on the chopping block along with several other important health initiatives due to the state's budget shortfalls.
Dramatic Racial Disparities in Breast Cancer Mortality
A recent study demonstrates that the death rate from breast cancer in Chicago is 116 percent higher for African-American women than white women, twice the national average. What's worse: in 1980, the rate was identical.
How Deep are Your Compressions?
A researcher at University of Illinois' College of Medicine in Peoria has determined that a good guide for performing CPR is to match chest compressions with the beat of the Bee Gees' 1977 hit "Stayin' Alive", as they both clock in at 100 beats per minute.
C'mon, Have A Heart
A Chicago surgeon is being sued by a Niles woman for implanting an experimental heart device in her chest without her consent. The surgeon reportedly earns royalties every time he uses the device.
Let's Get Physical
Sunday's Chicago Marathon promises to be a spectacle of athleticism and CTA transit reroutes. If you know someone running and want to keep an eye on their progress, you can track their feet in a few different ways.
The Breast Cancer Gene
There is a genetic mutation that puts its carriers at much higher risk of getting breast or ovarian cancer. Chicago filmmaker Joanna Rudnick tested positive for it at age 27. Her new documentary, "In the Family," debuts on PBS this week; WTTW will air it at 9pm on Wednesday, Oct. 1. Tune in.
Apparently We're Pretty OK for Allergies
Chicago is the 86th worst city for allergies ... not that people with allergies will feel any better knowing that.
Trumpie Says Relax
New spa guestrooms, opening September 1 at the Trump Hotel and Tower Chicago, come with amenities like yoga kits, fresh orchids, and are staffed by "spa attachés" to customize the experience.
It's a Bird! It's a Plane! It's a...Runner?
If you're bored with running on the Lakefront Path, maybe you'll want to sign up for the Athens Sister City Shuffle 5K, which will take place on the new 9L/27R runway at O'Hare. Gives new meaning to the word "takeoff," doesn't it?
Nine Feet of Discomfort
Shaw's would like you to know the tapeworm did not come from them. Of course, the guy with the lawsuit doesn't see it that way.
Hospital Nightmares
Swedish Covenant Hospital is the new Gitmo? Chicagoan Alice Singleton documents her 2007 stay at the north side hospital in an ongoing five-part series published by the Huffington Post, alleging poor care, negligent staff, and unsafe conditions.
Texters Everywhere, Beware
Be forewarned: the American College of Emergency Physicians and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission suggest texting while riding horses, walking, driving and cooking noodles can be dangerous.
When You Gotta Go, You Gotta Go...
...to MizPee to find the best nearby toilet. Walking the Mag Mile and need to tinkle? The site recommends the Intercontinental Hotel, ranking it a "Royal Flush." Help other Chicagoans by rating your own favorite public potties, and use your handheld to search on the go.
You Say Tomato and I Say...
...you might want to make a note of one particular restaurant chain in Chicago, which has been pinpointed by the Chicago Department of Public Health as one of the major sources of the local tomato-based salmonella outbreak.
Clash of the Bed Pans
The University of Chicago Medical Center throws off the gloves and plans to set up shop down the street from their "arch rivals," Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Streeterville. The move supposedly is prompted by U of C's desire to treat more well-heeled patients.
Sweet (Asbestos-Filled) Summer
Ready to enjoy a nice day at the Oak Street beach? Here's a few tips, including: "Avoid Disturbing the Sand! Microscopic asbestos can be released from the sand when agitated."
Beer And Running--Tonight!
The Chicago Hash House Harriers (a drinking club with a running problem) are celebrating Polish Constitution Day tonight at Czerwone Jabluszko aka The Red Apple, a Polish buffet. There is talk of beer (and thus drinking). Some running might be involved too.
Breaking Boards for Kids
I was eating lunch in the Flat Top by Harpo Studios today when a man asked permission ... to break a 2"x4" in the restaurant. It turns out the man, Ron Werstler, is representing Caring Now for Kids and came to Chicago to raise $250,000 for a girl with cystic fibrosis, perhaps by getting on Oprah.
Syphilis Really is Back
It looks like those "Syphilis is Back" advertisements all over the city are right. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention released a report in town yesterday that confirms the trend for the seventh straight year.
Buy Our Newspaper ... I Mean, What an Interesting Study!
Reuters helps newspapers boost sales with a story about a flu pandemic study that used Chicago as a model. Oh-so-surprisingly, flu contagion reduction strategies would not be "like a snow day."
Wii as Medicine
The New York Times reports on the success of the Nintendo Wii video game system as a rehabilitation (and therapeutic) tool for patients at several hospitals, among them the suburban Hines VA Hospital and downstate Herrin Hospital. No word on whether patients have suffered ''Wiiitis'' as a result.
Bike the Drive Opens Registration
Even though I write this from an igloo, note that registration is now open for the May 25 Bank of America Bike the Drive, the ultimate car-free bicycling event (everyone should do this at least once in their Chicago lives). You can save $5 if you register before midnight on February 10.
Spelunking in the City
The artificial iodized salt cave complex at Galos Caves Spa supposedly provides many health benefits -- but it just looks cool, too!
Colorless, Tasteless and Odorless
The Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago reminds us that January is National Radon Month. Radon is the number two cause of lung cancer. During January, radon tests are free.
What are You Getting From the Doctor?
According to a recent U of C study, 48% of Chicago doctors surveyed gave placebos to patients. Only 12% were against the practice.
NOW What's Your Excuse?
The Chicago Park District is making it easy for you to stick to your (perennial?) New Year's resolution of getting in shape by offering two weeks of FREE admission to any of its 55 fitness centers beginning January 2.
Not a Biological Weapon
Frequent flyers take note: O'Hare and Midway will be offering flu shots near the gates this year.
Illinois - We're Just So Damn Happy!
Mental Health America has released a study finding Illinois to be the 8th least depressed state in the nation. Don't get too excited, though. The group says that no state should be happy with its current status. Bummer.
Sadie Hawkins' Day Race & Style Ride
The now annual Sadie Hawkins' Day Race & Style Ride is back again, November 10th. What is it? "Sadie Hawkins Day Race/Style Ride is an on-street, in-traffic, point-to-point bike adventure for couples or pairs... There are prizes for the fastest couple, fastest tandem team, fastest out of towners, best dressed, and more." Last year's inaugural event drew people from out of town, generated a ton of missed connections and suffice to say, there were a few couples that are still together to this day.
Running with the (Heat) Devil
Today's LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon will be a memorable one, as the unusually warm forecast is causing alternative preparations to be made by race officials to ensure the safety of the record 45,000 runners. Also, a number of CTA bus lines will be temporarily closed throughout the morning to accommodate the race route. Trains will be operating as usual. UPDATE: Despite precautions, one man died and 302 others were hospitalized as a result of participating in today's race.
And Justice for Cyclists...
GB alumni and fellow teammate Luke Seemann recounts a hit-and-run during the team's weekly Saturday morning ride up to Highland Park and back on his excellent Chicago Bike Racing. Clearly an attack on the riders who were paying attention to the rules of the road, the culprit turned himself in and is now facing felony charges in court. Luke has further details on Thomas Lynch.
We're the Cleanest!
According to the biennially disturbing survey of public bathroom hand washing, those at the Shedd and MSI washed their hands 81% of the time, compared to lower totals elsewhere. A word to the wise: avoid men at Atlanta baseball games.
Cheetah by the Bank
More details on the surprisingly quick Cheetah gym re-openings: the bank that held David Wilshire's loans, MB Financial, will be calling the shots. The Bucktown and Andersonville locations re-open today, Edgewater will be back up by Wednesday.
Crazy (Not Lazy) Sunday
If you're planning to head to the lakefront tomorrow, be warned of two major events that may affect your plans. The Banco Popular Chicago Half Marathon will close Lakeshore Drive going south from the Bronzeville area to East 67th Street throughout the morning, with a post-race festival taking place in front of the Museum of Science and Industry. Cyclists from the Boulevard Lakefront Tour will be biking along the path as far south as Hyde Park, with their post-event fun taking place on the Midway Plaisance.
On the Fly
If you've ever been down Ravenswood near Wilson, you might have seen the rather large stickered and logoed truck with bright red, yellow and black graphics that say, "On the Fly." The Chicago Traveler has the scoop: On the Fly is a mobile bike mechanic shop. Joe Ebervein and Rich Kwaitkowski will go where you are to get you on the road again.
Waiting... For a Cure
Local waitress (and performer) Jade Phillips had a bright idea: why not get Chicago's enormous service community to come together for a good cause, and bring much-needed attention to one of the deadliest forms of cancer that, also, affects only women: ovarian cancer. The result: Waiting For a Cure. On August 31st, waitstaff from across the city will pledge the night's tips to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF). I know the service industry reps GB hard: why don't you take a second to get involved and spread the word about this unique way to raise money and raise the profile of a serious illness? Visit here to sign up, here to donate.
City Running Tours
Combine running with sightseeing with City Running Tours. You'll run side-by-side with a guide who, along the way, points out sites and conveys the history of that particular site as well as little-known facts.Choose from set tours that are designed to deliver the best of each city as well as customized runs for individuals with a specific training regimen, fitness ability or the desire to see specific sites.
Walk Scores
Walk Score gives you an idea of how walkable your neighborhood is by charting the proximity of nearby amenities in a handy-dandy Google Map.
Feeling Ill?
If so, and you're into the U.S. News ratings for this, that and the other, you may want to head to the University of Chicago Medical Center for the best hospital in the region and the 17th best in the country.
Paging Dr. Carter...Again
WBEZ reported today that a survey of 178 Stroger Hospital physicians revealed that over half of them are thinking about leaving their jobs in the next year due to the recent dramatic staff reductions, and the resulting decline of both staff morale and the ability to provide quality medical care. County Commissioner Jerry Butler seemed unfazed about the foreboding data, commenting that it "doesn't mean they're going to leave." I know that these talented veterans of County Hospital are available for work should Jerry have some vacancies in the future.
Where Have All The Patients Gone?
Crain's has an excellent analysis of an odd recent phenomenon: the dropoff in patients at Stroger Hospital. '"This is the first time we're not bursting at the seams," says Robert Simon, interim chief of the county's Bureau of Health Services. "It's a major concern because I don't think these patients are getting access to care elsewhere."'
Dance Dance Party Party!
If you're looking for a new workout, look no more. Dance Dance Party Party is your new best friend. With no teacher, you can feel free to do what you want, like spin, jump, yoga, interpretive dance - who cares? "It's like being out at a club with your girlfriends without the expensive cover charge (only $5 per class!) and sweaty dudes grinding on you," say its organizers. Classes are at 6:30-8pm every Wednesday at Perceptual Motion Dance Studio (4057 N. Damen Ave.).
Does This Look Infected?
Drug-resistant staph infections are spreading through Chicago's population, thanks to the public hospital system, a study says. Yikes.
IML Starts Tomorrow
Hey, kids! The annual International Mr. Leather competition returns to Chicago for its 29th year May 24-28. The fleshy festivities include The Leather Market at the Palmer House Hilton, 17 E. Monroe (open to the public), the International Mr. Bootblack Contest (they like it very much!) and the Black and Blue Ball to wrap things up on Monday. "Queer as Folk" star/comedian Hal Sparks is the headline entertainer. So lace up those boots and show 'em what you got!
See Michael Crichton Speak on Bioethics
Michael Crichton will speak at the Chicago-Kent College of Law today (at 4pm) as a part of a free, open-to-the public biotechnologies and bioethics conference. The presentation will examine ethical, legal and social issues surrounding the latest (and emerging) biotechnologies, including human gene patents and other topics that used to be considered sci-fi. (His recent novel, Next, dives into this topic, too.) Preregister at WhoOwnsYourBody.
One in Four Chicago Women Lack Health Insurance
New research commissioned by the Chicago Foundation for Women (and performed by Health & Disability Advocates) shows a despicable lack of insurance for women in Illinois. One in six women (age 19 to 64) don't have health coverage; the number's higher in Chicago, where 25% go without. Latinas have it even worse: One in three aren't covered. Grr!
ChronicBabe 2.0
ChronicBabe, the locally-produced website for women with chronic health conditions, just launched a redesign. New features include a chronic conditions resource center and an online store. Additionally, if you sign up for Goodie Bags, the site's electronic newsletter, you get a free ebook copy of How to Be a ChronicBabe: A Beginner's Toolkit.
Bike to Work Week!
Gather your colleagues for some heart-healthy, Earth-friendly Bike to Work fun. From June 9-15, the Chicagoland Bicycle Federation is sponsoring events, supplying safe biking info, and staffing bike commuter stations in the city and suburbs. Ready to be your office's captain? Register your office ASAP.
It's American Diabetes Alert Day: Get Tested!
Today is American Diabetes Alert Day, a perfect day to take a few moments to get tested. According to the American Diabetes Association about one-third of the nearly 21 million Americans living with the disease are undiagnosed. Take a quick risk test, and if you score high, no cookie for you - it's time to schedule an appointment with your doc for further testing.
They Say It's the First Thing to Go
Researchers at Northwestern have discovered a possible -- and very odd -- link between vasectomies and Primary Progressive Aphasia, a rare form of dementia. So, ladies, even though experts are not discouraging men from getting their tube tied, be prepared to hear yet another reason why you should be solely responsible for contraception.
Chopping Block Offers Class Tonight on Gluten-Free Living
Folks with celiac disease (or who dine often with folks with celiac disease) can learn all about living well gluten-free tonight, at "Enlightened Cooking with Dietitian Dawn Jackson Blatner." Brought to you by the Chopping Block, the event takes place at the Merchandise Mart, 6-8:30pm. Register here.
Dominick's is Their Wonderwall
Or at least an oasis in the midst of a "Food Desert"! Researcher Mari Gallagher finds that the planned closings of 3 Dominick's would create food desert conditions (where fast-food restaurants are plentiful and grocery stores are scarce) for 75 city blocks that over 18,000 Chicagoans inhabit.
Granddad the Wii Master
Welcome to a world wherein grandparents in Lake County teach their grandchildren how to play video games.
Know Thy Physician
A survey conducted by researchers at the University of Chicago, which highlights the part religion and morality play in options physicians choose to present, has been making waves nationally. The results show effects are not confined to controversial cases, but can also crop up in discussions about legal procedures that don't vibe with a doctor's personal views.
Chicago author Paula Kamen will speak on women and pain care
As part of an ongoing lecture series on "Understanding Pain" sponsored by the International Museum of Surgical Science and the Hektoen Institute of Medicine, Chicago author Paula Kamen will speak this Tuesday, Feb., 20, on "Not All In My Head: Reflections on Women's Treatment with Pain Care." Paula's own experience with chronic daily headache is chronicled in her highly lauded book, All In My Head: An Epic Quest to Cure an Unrelenting, Totally Unreasonable, and Only Slightly Enlightening Headache. More info on the event in Slowdown.
Bird Flu vs Chicken Little
It might sound like "the sky is falling" but the lessons learned in 1918 taught us that bird flu should be taken seriously. It's a good thing then that a UChicago law professor is passionate about chickens, and is headed to Geneva to tell the WHO.
Are You Wearing Red Today?
Today is the American Heart Association's "Wear Red Day," when millions of men and woman across the country will wear red to raise awarness of heart disease - the number one killer of women in the U.S. Visit the AHA web site to make a donation, and get your red on!
Cycle Of The Seasons
Hearty cyclists (the ones that're always talking about "base miles," even in sub-zero temps) as well as recreationalists dreaming of warmer days may want to check out this list of 2007 races and events.
Chicago Park District Hearts You
So much in fact, that if you sign up for their Winter fitness center session by February 14th, they'll give you the Spring session free. The average price is $50 per three month session, there are 44 centers to choose from around the city, and they've improved their fitness center equipment. Wow! A city service that serves people? Awesome! (Thanks, Roni.)
Bleeding Heart Bleeds Fresh
The Bleeding Heart Bakery located in the latest hotbed of development and hipness (Damen/Chicago) has just re-opened following remodeling. They say, "We want to show the city how we've grown since opening last year- we've transformed everyone's favorite organic bakery into a full café, featuring a new line of sandwiches, a full espresso bar, and a wider selection of ready-to-buy produce and dry goods." Yum.
Winter Bike to Work Day
Like it's sibling in the summer, the Winter edition of Bike to Work Day coming up features hot beverages and goodies at Daley Plaza this month on the 19th (Friday) from 7 to 9am. The Chicagoland Bicycle Federation hosts activities, a raffle with prizes and the chance to congregate and meet up with your fellow cyclists.
Cold + Precipitation + Tall Buildings = Trouble
What's the appropriate course of action when you see a "Beware of Falling Ice" sign? The Tribune helps you avoid an icicle in the head.
You're such a slouch!
That is, if you follow the advice of research reported in today's Chicago Tribune, promoting sitting back in your chair at a 135-degree angle as a healthier alternative to sitting up straight. So if you're leaning forward right now to read this on your monitor, pump up the font size and lean back!
A Big Guide to the Web
Big Fat Blog, a fat acceptance blog written by GB alum Paul McAleer, recently launched the Big Fat Index, a guide to FA websites and other resources.
Plan B at Planned Parenthood
In case you find your self in an unhappy position, kinda like the one Brienne imagined, you should know you can receive Plan B at any of the 10 Planned Parenthood locations in the Chicago area, as well as at the Chicago Women's Health Center. And Shasta MacNasty and her readers did some legwork and sharing about this pill and how to get it.
Check your pulse on National Oriental Medicine Day
In honor of National Oriental Medicine Day, local holistic health studio Source Healing is offering free info and refreshments from noon to 6pm Tuesday, Oct. 24. Get a Chinese tongue and pulse diagnosis, learn about Chinese nutrition for fertility, and prep for cold and flu season. More details in Slowdown.
Going through the motions
Stressed and needing to relax? Maybe attending the newly opened Taoist Tai Chi Society's space at 1922 W. Montrose is just what you need. They've got beginner classes starting ths week (Monday and Thursday 6-7:30pm) and membership is only $40 a month.
Surgery? Remove That Belly Ring
Crain's Chicago Business writes this week about the increasing problem of patients not removing body piercings pre-surgery. Many don't consider them "jewelry" or simply forget to remove the, um, more private piercings. Hidden piercings can cause injury during surgery, so if you're headed to the hospital, get rid of 'em - or hope your doc has a removal kit like those sold by MedPierce Inc.
Walking in Chicago
With all of this walking around Chicago, why not take an idiosyncratic video stroll through the city?
Bionic Woman, Courtesy of Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago
Claudia Mitchell is the world's first woman to receive a bionic arm, created by the Rehabilitation Insitute of Chicago. Using RIC's Bionic Arm technology, nerves located in Mitchell's shoulder were re-routed and connected to healthy muscle in her chest, allowing the re-routed nerves to grow into the chest muscle and direct signals they once sent to the amputated arm instead to the robotic arm. The result: When Mitchell thinks about moving her arm, it happens, and she's able to complete essential tasks with ease. And this is just a first step; in the future, researchers hope to create advanced bionic arms that provide recipients with full sensation.
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