It’s a New Year and that means New Opportunities for healthier living and personal growth. It’s a good time to take stock or take a class or take time for yourself. In this issue, we are offering a variety of first steps: an invitation to our new patient wing; news about an upgraded area for newborns and expert advice to help you with your resolutions about improving and maintaining your health and your family’s health. Plus, we offer a wide variety of classes. Here’s to good health in 2009!

As a Health-e Woman newsletter reader, you’re cordially invited for a tour of the new patient wing at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center before we open for business in February. Mark your calendars for Jan. 31!

We have all heard about the HPV vaccine that is being used to prevent cervical cancer but there are still many questions surrounding it. Our Ask the Expert column, featuring trustworthy advice from Banner Health providers, can help you make the right decision for your family.

Our expert offers some practical tips on how you can be successful with this year’s fitness resolutions.

Banner Thunderbird, always a strong community partner for Glendale, has improved its capabilities to provide care to the sickest of newborns. Read about how Banner Thunderbird’s new Level III NICU will allow Glendale families to stay closer to home and receive state-of-the-art care for their infants.

How can I take care of myself as I try to get pregnant? At Banner Health, we want to help you as plan for your new family by offering advice on medications and supplements.

Everyday, many families must face the challenge of dealing with dementia   Banner Health offers a number of different resources for patients and families, including Sun Health Research Institute, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and Banner Alzheimer’s Residence. In today’s issue, we look at the basics of dementia and what patients and families can expect from this progressive disease.

We have an easy-to-prepare dish that is good to eat and good for you:

Winter Vegetable Stew

We offer step-by-step directions, the dish’s nutritional value and a link to other healthy recipes.

We offer a wide range of classes to keep you well informed and healthy: Our Community Education and Wellness program offers fitness classes as well as session on arthritis, diabetes and meditation classes and support groups. Our Banner Del E. Webb Women’s Center offers classes in pregnancy and other maternity-related topics, including a Dad’s Boot Camp. Sun Health Research Institute this month offers people a chance to learn more about Parkinson’s.

Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center OB classes at 14502 W. Meeker Blvd., Sun City West. 

Parkinson’s Disease and Cognition Seminar