February 2024 Meeting

Reviving Mobility: Stem Cell Therapies for Arthritis and Joint Pain

February 14, 2024

Stem cell therapy is an early-stage field of pain management that, in some situations, can provide an alternative to surgery. Since stem cells have the unique ability to develop into specialized cell types, they can help promote tissue repair and reduce inflammation, easing pain. Yet, erroneous assumptions and misinterpretations cloud the understanding of regenerative medicine.

Adam Berge will introduce you to the pain mitigation potential of stem cell therapy by addressing:

  • What stem cells are and where they come from
  • Conditions effectively treated by this type of regenerative medicine
  • Whether stem cell therapy is safe
  • Benefits and risks
  • The most common misconceptions
  • Cost considerations
  • Questions to ask when considering stem cell therapy

His company is Amplified Wellness, and his email is adambergeies@hotmail.com.

January 2024 Meeting

 

January 10, 2024

At age 67, Charli Fulton embarked on an epic journey. Throughout her 2,200-mile hike along the Appalachian Trail, she not only conquered physical challenges but also discovered transformational insights. Her trail name “Sturdy Peasant,” became a powerful catalyst for overcoming adversity, defeating pancreatic cancer, and forging a new, vibrant chapter in her life. The name stuck as she tackled other trails.

In her reflections, Charli will emphasize the value of personal encounters, where the trail became a platform for the exchange of life stories. She will highlight how the hikes instilled in her a profound sense of self-discovery; unearthing strengths she never knew existed. The intimidating challenges of the Appalachian and other trails helped her discover a reservoir of courage laying inside herself, waiting to be tapped.

Charli’s storytelling unveils both physical feats and personal growth. Through her experiences, we learn that we often overlook our own strength and courage amidst daily chaos. Don’t miss this inspiring presentation to start the new year in a positive direction. Charli’s adventures are a narrative of rebirth, renewal, and the unwavering belief that one can start a new chapter at any age.

To learn more about Charli’s journeys, follow her blog posts at Sturdy Peasant’s journals.

Women’s Walking Group -October 27

Message from Elizabeth Barnum

Time to schedule a Fall walk to enjoy the beauty of nature. I was in the arboretum today and it was just beautiful! I am hoping the leaves don’t fall before our walk. Fingers crossed!

Date: Friday, October 27
Time: 9:30 Meet at the Senior Center upper parking lot off Lacy Rd and we will carpool
Place: UW Arboretum, Visitor Center parking lot, 1207 Seminole Hwy
The walk is about 2-2 1/2 miles on an unpaved trail through the woods. A walking stick or trekking poles may be helpful if you wish, but not necessary. The trail is fairly flat and being a woods, there are some tree roots and rocks to watch out for. It is an easy trail.

Please let me know if you will be joining the group so we don’t leave anyone behind.

November 2023 Meeting

Spotlight on Acupuncture

November 8, 2023

The medical industry is gradually embracing acupuncture for pain management. It is now accepted as a complement to standard Western practices. According to a 2017 article in the Annals of Internal Medicine, acupuncture resulted in “lower pain intensity” for both acute and chronic low back pain. Medicare recognized this, and the government website states that “Medicare Part B… covers up to 12 acupuncture visits in 90 days for chronic low back pain.”

But what exactly is acupuncture? How does it work? What conditions can it address?

Elissa Gonda will provide an honest overview of the practice. She’ll explain what happens during a typical treatment, and describe the principles of health therapy. Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll leave the session with a newfound appreciation for the topic. As you delve deeper, you’ll discover how this age-old practice is more relevant than ever in today’s fast-paced world.

Elissa’s interest in acupuncture stemmed from her lifelong battle with asthma, allergies, and sinusitis. She and her business partner opened Dane County Family Acupuncture in 2010. With an advanced degree, active advocacy, and over a decade of experience, Elissa is a wealth of knowledge in holistic wellness.

Here is Elissa’s contact information:

 

Annual Email List Cleanup

It’s time for our annual email list cleanup. I’ll pass around a form at the October and November meetings for you to let us know if you want to be on the 2024 AWG email list. If I don’t hear from you at either meeting, I will email you ONCE. If I still don’t hear from you, I will remove your name from the list and from the AWG directory.

If you choose to be removed from active membership, you will still be able to access the website for information on programs and activities.

Annual Potluck, Oct. 20

Annual Potluck

  • Friday, October 20, 11:45 a.m.
  • Swan Creek Room, Fitchburg Community Center

Here is a message from Lindy Bass:

Hi everyone, 

Right now there are seventeen friends signed up for the potluck, but more are welcome! Please let me know or sign up at the October meeting. 
I will provide the plates, napkins, plastic ware, and hot apple cider. 🌻
Looking forward to wonderful food and great conversation.
Lindy lindymb@aol.com

October 2023 Meeting

The Art of Self-Care: A Hands-on Workshop

October 11, 2023

Give yourself a fall tune-up to ignite a brighter, healthier future. Here are a few things you’ll learn:

  • Breathing exercises: Explore deep breathing to enhance oxygenation, reduce stress, and improve mental clarity.
  • Self-massage: Target key areas to ease muscular discomfort, promote relaxation, and enhance body awareness
  • Pressure points: Apply acupressure to specific locations to address a range of physical and emotional issues.

Jo Anne Lindberg, a 30-year veteran of Asian medicine, will be your guide. Working in small groups, you can experience and practice these self-care techniques, or simply observe.  Next, Jo Anne will invite you to take part in a one-month challenge to make these concepts part of your daily life. As a traditional shiatsu practitioner, Jo Anne works with clients to improve the quality of their lives at all ages. She is certified by the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia and a graduate of the Ohashiatsu program.