Press Release

Burgess to offer course on Chronic Disease Management

Chronic Disease Self-Management Program, a new six-session class for the public, will be offered Wednesdays from Sept. 9 to Oct. 13 from 6 to 8:30 pm at Burgess Health Center. 

The classes are designed to help persons with arthritis, diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, anxiety and other ongoing health conditions. Topics will help adults of all ages with a chronic disease as well as their caregivers.

Participants will learn to find better ways of dealing with pain and fatigue, discover easy exercises to improve strength and energy, learn medication use and improve nutrition. Topics will also cover how to talk effectively with family, friends and health professionals; understand new treatment choices and feel better about life.

Brenda Wimmer, a registered nurse of Burgess Home Health Hospice will serve as course instructor. She has worked as a nurse at Burgess for 20 years.

"This class will be helpful to anyone who has a chronic illness or a family member with a family illness whether they're 18 or 88 years old," says Wimmer. "We will help persons learn to set goals and serve as advocates for their health. Regina Henschen, a teacher at Lark Elementary School, attended the training program with me to help teach this course and will be a valuable asset to the class.

“There is a need to help energize people with ongoing health conditions," adds Wimmer adds. "This class will compliment any other disease classes persons may have taken.”

Class fee is $30.  For more information and to register call Burgess education office at 712-423-9354.