Gov. Blunt announces new health site

Finding accurate advice on how to live a healthier life just got a little easier. Gov. Matt Blunt has announced the launch of a new Internet site offering a wealth of information about healthy living, www.lifedependsonit.com.

“The Internet offers a great deal of information about your health, but it can be difficult to determine what is accurate and what is not,” Gov. Blunt says. “The recommendations on this new Internet site are based on research and sound advice from health experts.”

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services developed the new site in collaboration with a number of health advocacy groups throughout the state. It includes information about healthy eating, physical activity and other lifestyle choices that can impact a person’s health. The site also provides the latest recommendations for health screenings to detect problems early, when they can be more easily treated.

In addition, the site offers a number of resources, primarily links to other Internet sites, for more detailed information about specific topics.Heartland

Auxiliary hosts PINK tournament

The first-ever Pink Benefit Golf Tournament will be May 27 at the St. Joseph Country Club.

All proceeds will benefit Heartland’s new breast center, for which Heartland’s Auxiliary is aiming to raise $1.5 million.

“The objective of the breast center is to unite all clinical experts and diagnostic technology to be centered on the patient,” says campaign co–chair Senator Charlie Shields. “Simply stated, it’s all about convenience for the patient.”

The entry fee per four-player team is $500 and includes a gift, cart, green fees and an invitation to a special event. Play is limited to 30 teams, so register by contacting Jackie Runyan at 271-7867.

Get your game on with Corporate Challenge

Corporate Challenge has a variety of events and activities throughout the spring, summer and fall and offers the opportunity to increase employee interaction, boost morale and pride, build teamwork skills and encourage physical and mental health.

Corporate Challenge isn’t just for athletes. It’s for anyone who wants to get involved and have a great time, and a business doesn’t have to be a large employer to get involved. If a small business wants to participate in a team event, Heartland Health will coordinate a team with other businesses. Contact Laura De Kraai at 271-7250.

For more information or to register, visit www.heartland-health.com and click on “Get your game on!” under the Heartland News heading.

Program for people with lymphedema

St. Francis rehab & sports medicine department announces the addition of lymphedema-management services to its occupational therapy program.

All human bodies have fluid within the tissues. This fluid is made up of proteins, red and white blood cells, waste products and fat. The fluid is transported throughout the body by the lymph system. If the lymph system is damaged, the fluid will begin to accumulate in the body’s soft tissue, which results in swelling (edema). The edema is most commonly found in the arms or legs. This is called lymphedema.

There is no cure for lymphedema. However, with treatment and self-management, lymphedema can be controlled. For more information on lymphedema or lymphedema-management services, contact St. Francis rehab & sports medicine department at (660) 562-7908.

Lifestyles reporter Erin Wisdom can be reached at ewisdom@npgco.com