Lap Band Information. Learn about this minimally invasive weight-loss procedure to treat obesity.
Calendar

 

 

 

Classes, Support & Events

 

 

 


Special Events


Wellness & Health Education


Support Groups

Pregnancy & Childbirth

Integrative Medicine

Cancer Programs

 

 


SPECIAL EVENTS


 

MERCY IS CELEBRATING HEART MONTH!

In celebration of National Heart Month, Mercy is offering a number of activities and events to help you live well. Trust your heart with Mercy and begin your path to living well. For more information, please call 312.567.2600 or 312.567.6700.

 

 

 

Healthy Start to a Healthy Heart

In honor of February being National Heart Month, Mercy is offering weekly Lunch and Learn talks. Lunch and Learn talks will be from 12:00pm–1:00pm in the 12th Floor Great Room. Each week will have a prize raffled off to all attendees, each time you attend your name will be entered in the Grand Raffle, which will be picked at the end of the month. The Grand Raffle is a free year membership to Weight Watchers. Lunch will be provided, but space is limited and reservations are required. Please RSVP to Christine Daley at 312.567.6700.

 

Friday, February 3rd

Topic: “Women and Heart Disease: What Every Woman Should Know,” by Rocio Toledo, RN. Attend this talk and receive a free “Go Red” Cookbook.

Weekly Raffle: $25 Gift Certificate to Whole Foods

 

Friday, February 10th

Topic: “Know Your Risk Factors,” by Karen D. Walker, RN, MS, and “Introduction to Percutaneous Aortic Valve,” by Dr. Dasgupta

Weekly Raffle: Mercy Fitness Basket: Pedometer, Water Bottle, Free $30/30 Heart Screen Certificate, Mercy Yoga Matt

 

Friday, February 17th

Topic: “The Importance of Exercise and Physical Activity,” by Stephanie Rejc, Exercise Physiologist. Attend this talk and receive a free water bottle.

Weekly Raffle: A Free 1-year membership to the Mercy Fitness Center

 

Friday, February 24th

Topic: “Nutrition and Heart Health,” by Rachelle Meade, RD.

Weekly Raffle: Gift certificate for a free personalized Nutrition Consultation.

 

 

 

Improve your Health with FirstLine® Therapy

January 17th, February 21st, March 20th, April 17th, 12:00pm-1:00pm; Mercy Hospital; 2nd Floor, All Spice Cafe Foyer

For more information and to register, call Rachelle Meade at 312.922.3011, extension 227

Mercy Hospital now offers FirstLine® Therapy (FLT) researched and developed by Metagenics. FLT is a clinically proven and structured natural path to improving health and reversing chronic illness. FLT offers a Lifestyle Medicine tool that is customized to each person’s unique health status and goals. Start your path to wellness today with Mercy’s FirstLine® Therapy Program! Please join us at an information session to learn more about this program.

 

 

Smoke No More!
Series 1: January 10, 17, 24, 31, Feb 7, 14, 21, and 28
Each session is from 5:30pm - 7:00pm and is held at Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue, 12th Floor Conference Room;
$50 per person, materials included. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.2477.

A comprehensive, 8-session group program led by experts that use a positive behavioral change approach that teaches you how to quit smoking for good. The program is led by a Smoking Cessation Specialist and has experienced a phenomenal success rate. For man smokers, especially those who have tried to quit before, group support can make the difference in helping to stay smoke-free.  Special focus is given to: developing a personalized quitting plan, dealing with recovery symptoms, controlling weight, reducing stress through relaxation techniques (that work), being ready to fight those urges to return to smoking, and non-nicotine replacement therapies such as medication and acupuncture. Call 312.567.2477 to learn more and register.

 

WELLNESS & HEALTH EDUCATION

 

NEW! "Attack It" Adult Fitness
Every Thursday, 5:30pm - 6:30pm;
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor Joyce Auditorium Foyer
Cost: $15 per class. Reduced rates available for multiple session sign-up.
Reshape your body through strengthening of the core, arms, legs using Zumba fitness, Bootcamp fitness, and Pilates. Classes are provided by Kinetic Energy Fitness and rotate through the various styles, changing every 2 - 3 weeks. This rotation will keep your body from hitting the fitness plateau and boredom that comes with attending the same classes week after week. Burn calories and tone your body while you learn how to get a great workout with almost no equipment, learning to get the same results at home! All shapes, ages, and fitness levels are welcome! Just be ready to ATTACK IT!  For more information and to register online, visit kineticenergyfitness.com


Eat Right Every Bite: Hearty & Healthy Soups
Tuesday, February 21st, 6pm
Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue; 2nd Floor Auditorium Foyer
To reserve your space, call 312.567.8775 or register online

Save your appetite for this free healthy cooking class featuring tips and tricks for healthy eating. Features cooking demonstrations as well as the opportunity to sample food.


Center for Weight Management Information Class
Every Wednesday, 5:00pm; Mercy Hospital
More information and to register, please call 312.567.5555

Learn about Mercy’s NEW Center for Weight Management and our comprehensive, medically supervised approach to weight loss.


Diet and Nutrition Consultation
By appointment at Mercy Medical at Dearborn Station

Fees apply. For more information and to schedule an appointment, please call 312.922.3011, extension 227.

Private consultations that focus on understanding the body on a biochemical level and how nutrients affect our ability to heal and repair.

Education for Life Series-Diabetes Management
Individual & Class Sessions:
Mercy Medical on Pulaski, 5525 S. Pulaski Road, Thursday, 9am - 4pm
Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue, Monday through Friday, 9am - 4pm
Registration is required. Please call 312.567.8775 to register and for more information.
Classes are designed to help people living with Diabetes adjust to the lifestyle changes necessary to manage their condition. Topics covered include self- monitoring techniques, carbohydrate counting, label reading, the latest diabetes medications, nutrition, exercise and much more! Individuals who are newly diagnosed as well as those requiring a refresh on their skills are encouraged to attend. Special note for fees: Education for Life Diabetes Classes are covered under Medicare and most insurance plans. Participants are encouraged to check with their insurance plan prior to attending to assure coverage. A physician's referral and registration are required.


Freedom from Smoking
Next Session Series: March 13, 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24 and March 1
Each session is from 5:30pm - 7:00pm and is held at Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue, 12th Floor Conference Room;
$50 per person, materials included. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.2477.

A comprehensive, 8-session group program led by experts that use a positive behavioral change approach that teaches you how to quit smoking for good. The program is led by a Smoking Cessation Specialist and has experienced a phenomenal success rate. For man smokers, especially those who have tried to quit before, group support can make the difference in helping to stay smoke-free.  Special focus is given to: developing a personalized quitting plan, dealing with recovery symptoms, controlling weight, reducing stress through relaxation techniques (that work), being ready to fight those urges to return to smoking, and non-nicotine replacement therapies such as medication and acupuncture. Call 312.567.2477 to learn more and register.


Jazzercise
Every Monday & Thursday, 5:30pm
Every Saturday, 7:45am
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Great Room
Fee: $8 per class or, a package of 8 tickets for $34 (with an expiration date).

Other ticket packages are available. Registration is not required. Payment can be made via cash or check at the first class attended. Jazzercise® classes offer a unique blend of jazz dance and exercise choreographed to today's hottest music. Each class is 60 minutes in length and easy to follow. Instructors demonstrate both challenging movements and low-impact variations. Participants should wear supportive aerobic shoes and comfortable clothing. Please bring a mat or towel and water in a covered water bottle. Weights are optional.

For more information, please call Marcia Chassagne
at 773.821.8450.

NEW Times! LAP-BAND Information Session: What is it and is it right for you?
Monthly Information Sessions; Next dates are:

Friday, March 9th, 2:00pm, Register Online Now

Monday, March 19th, 6:30pm Register Online
Friday, April 13th, 2:00pm,  Register Online
Monday, April 23rd, 6:30pm, Register Online

 

All sessions are at Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue, Joyce Auditorium
To register call 312.567.BAND (2263) or email  This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Learn about this new minimally invasive weight-loss procedure to treat obesity. Using the LAP-BAND system, Mercy surgeons may be able to decrease the health risks associated with obesity and help patients live active and fulfilling lives. Attend a Lap-BAND Information Session today and begin your path to regaining your independence and living well again. To register call 312.567.BAND (2263), email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it , or register online above.


Lymphedema: Risks, Prevention and Treatment
Please call 312.567.6724 for current schedule
12th Floor Great Room

Any patient who has had lymph nodes removed or radiated in the under arm or groin regions is at risk for developing Lymphedema--chronic swelling of an arm or leg. Join Mercy experts and learn about the function of the lymphatic system, how to prevent and treat lymphedema, the warning signs of lymphedema and how to respond. Patients, caregivers, and health care practitioners are welcome!

For more information and to RSVP, please call 312.567.6724.


Transformational Movement: your Ticket for Anti-Aging and Vitality
Every Thursday, from January 12th through February 16th; 10:30am, Mercy Hospital Room 204
$75 fee for six lessons for adults under 55 years of age; $50 for seniors when paid in advance.
Are pain and stiffness spoiling your joy of living? Transformational Movement Lessons (TML) for Vitality and Anti-aging could be your ticket to increased energy and a renewed sense of well-being! The Anat Baniel Method (ABM) based on the owrk of Moshe Feldenkrais, accesses the nervous system through gentle, directed movement. This class is especially beneficial to those who suffer from back pain, joint pain, stiffness, movement limitations, neurological difficulties, and stress. For more information and to register, please call Virginia 312.842.2233.

 

Is Joint Replacement Right For You?
Every other Tuesday, 10am, 12th Floor Conference Room @ Mercy Hospital; Registration is required.
Please note, the February 21st class has been cancelled.
Register online now for upcoming dates: March 6, March 20 or call 312.567.6700.

Find out at this free workshop. Featuring experts from Mercy's Comprehensive Orthopedic Center, the workshop reviews what joint replacement is, who benefits, and details what to expect before, during and after surgery. Anyone considering hip or knee replacement, along with their after-surgery caregivers and/or family members, is encouraged to attend. At Mercy, we are committed to easing the joint replacement process and providing a seamless road to recovery. Registration is required; call 312.567.6700 to register, or register online above.


Wellness Wednesdays
Every Wednesday, 10:00am-2:00pm
Mercy Medical at Dearborn Station
Keep track of your health with convenient and free blood pressure screenings. No appointment necessary.


Yoga for You—for Beginners
Every Wednesday, 5:30pm – 7pm
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor, Joyce Auditorium Foyer

Practice traditional Hatha Yoga methods, which can improve flexibility, muscle tone, circulation, and stamina. Beginner and advanced classes are available. For more information, including fees and to register, please call Anita Cooper at 312.326.2979.


Yoga for You—for All Levels
Every Tuesday, 5pm – 6:30pm
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor, Joyce Auditorium Foyer

Practice traditional Hatha Yoga methods, which can improve flexibility, muscle tone, circulation, and stamina. Beginner and advanced classes are available. For more information, including fees and to register, please call Anita Cooper at 312.326.2979.

 

 

SUPPORT GROUPS

Breast Cancer Support Group
Upcoming dates:  December 16, January 27, February 24. All sessions are at 11am

Mercy Hospital; 12th Floor Conference Room

All are welcome! This monthly support group provides participants the opportunity to share experiences as well as to receive and offer support. Limited individual sessions are also available. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.5472 or 312.567.5473. Refreshments provided.


Diabetes Support Group
First Satuday of every month; 10am; Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue. 12th Floor
Participants have the opportunity to share their experience with this life-altering disease and to offer and receive support. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.8775.

 

Living with Heart Failure
Every Thursday. All sessions are at 1pm.

*Please note there will be no class on April 5th,May 24th, July 5th, August 30th, November 22nd, December 20th and December 27th.

Mercy Hospital; 12th Floor Conference Room

 

Whether you were diagnosed with Heart Failure, or are a family member, caregiver, or friend to someone living with Heart Failure, you are invited to attend this FREE support group. By meeting regularly, members help one another face and overcome common challenges by sharing experiences and encouraging one another. Each week will feature educational material that is based on the Heart Failure Society of America Patient Education Module Series. For more information and to register, call Nadine Rosier, MSN, ACNS-BC, Advance Practice Heart Failure Coordinator Nurse at extension 5539.



Look Good, Feel Better™
Next dates: January 13th, February 10th, March 9th, April 13th
All sessions are held 10am - 12pm in Family Health Center Conference Room
FREE; space is limited. Please call 312.567.5472 to reserve your space.

The Latest Cancer Treatments Aren't Always Prescribed by Doctors! Cancer can rob a woman of her energy, appetite and strength. But it doesn't have to take away her self-confidence! Look Good...Feel Better® is a free, non-medical, program that teaches beauty techniques to women cancer patients in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Trained, volunteer cosmetologists teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetics and skin care products. Learn make-up tips, skin and nail care tips, as well as suggestions for wits, turbans, and scarves. Participants receive complimnentary makeup kits. Caregivers are welcome, but cosmetic kits are limited to patients only. For more information and to register for this event, please call 312.567.5472.


Mercy Miracles Stroke Support Group
Second Thursday of each month, at 1pm;
Next dates are: January 12, February 9, March 8
Mercy Hospital; 12th Floor Great Room

Those that experience stroke can feel isolated and sad at times. By meeting regularly, members help one another face and overcome common challenges by sharing experiences and encouraging one another. This FREE support group for stroke survivors and their loved ones provides participants the opportunity to share fears, challenges, and experiences as well as receive and offer support. For more information and to register, call 312.567.2160. Refreshments will be served.


Us Too Prostate Cancer Support Group
Second Saturday of each month, 11:00am
Mercy Hospital; Room 242

Us TOO Prostate Support Group offers a meeting place for men living with prostate cancer and their families. The meetings provide unbiased information from experts in areas related to prostate cancer, including surgery, radiation, medications, nutrition, and psychology. Us TOO group meetings are free and open to all men, family, friends, and health professionals interested in prostate cancer/disease. For more information, please call Vanessa Spears at 312.842.4400.


Voices of Mercy
Please call 312.567.6131 for current schedule
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Great Room

Offers support to laryngectomy patients providing participants the opportunity to share fears, challenges, and experiences as well as receive and offer support. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.6131.



PREGNANCY & CHILDBIRTH

 

 

Birth Place Tour
Every Thursday, 2pm; please call 312.567.2441 to reserve your place
Mercy Hospital, 3rd Floor Birth Place
Whether you’ve already chose Mercy Hospital for your birth experience, or are simply exploring your options, you will enjoy this informative tour of the Birthplace at Mercy. Tours are led by a registered nurse and are interactive and engaging, providing the opportunity for questions and answers. Tours are available in Spanish, by appointment, at 312.567.2441.


Blessed Beginnings
September 27, October 4, 11, 18, 25
November 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
December 6, 13, 20, January 3, 10
All sessions are from 6:30pm – 9pm
Mercy Hospital; 3rd Floor The Birth Place
This comprehensive 5-session series covers topics such as what to expect during late pregnancy, labor and birth, feeding, baby care and postpartum care. Coping skills such as breathing and relaxation will be practiced and discussed. Sessions are presented in a group setting by a certified childbirth educator with 15 years of experience. $90 per couple; private sessions available. For more information and to register, please call 773.376.4626.


Breastfeeding Basics
English Sessions: Saturday, August 27; September 24; November 19; December 17
All sessions are from 9:00am – 11am, at Mercy Hospital, 3rd Floor, The Birth Place.
Classes are complimentary; registration is required. To register, please call The Birth Place at 312.567.2441 or visit mercy-chicago.org/events
Breastfeeding provides a nutritional and bonding foundation for your new baby and enhances your recovery experience. But it doesn’t mean it always comes so easy. Learn why breastfeeding is important for both you and your baby, and how to get off to a good start. From how to help baby latch correctly to which positions work well, you’ll learn the breastfeeding basics from an expert lactation consultant. Each class includes a tour of The Birth Place.


NEW! Bringing Home Baby
Second & Fourth Tuesdays of each month; 10am - 1pm
Registration is required; to register, please call 312.567.2441

Mercy Hospital, 3rd Floor, The Birth PlaceSafe Ride, First Ride, Every Ride. One of the very first important decisions you will make as a parent is a car safety seat for your new arrival. Yet statistics show that up to 90 percent of car seats are installed incorrectly. Soon to be moms and dads are invited to take advantage of "Bringing Home Baby," a free program at Mercy  providing tips for proper usage of your new baby's car safety seat, and inspection of your car seat and vehicle to verify and teach proper installation. Classes are taught by Certified Child Passenger Safety Technicians and are available in English and Spanish. Convertible car seats are also available, with a $25 cash donation to the program. 

 

 

NEW! Postnatal "Pump It Up" Fitness
Saturdays 11am - 12pm
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Great Room
Cost: $15 per class. Reduced rate with 6-week session registration.
This small group class is designed for women to get a full body workout all while interacting and bonding with your child. Each class consists of cardiovascular exercises with full body toning and strengthening intervals designed to help you lose the pregnancy pounds and tighten the abdominal area. This is a non-choreographed class that will help you gain the strength to lift and carry your baby and their belongings over the years as well as improve poor posture often gained through pregnancy. For more information and to register online, visit kineticenergyfitness.com 


NEW! Prenatal "Power Hour" Fitness

Saturdays 10am - 11am
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Great Room
Cost: $15 per class. Reduced rate with 6-week session registration.
Classes consist of cardiovascular workouts as well as full body strengthening with abdominal and pelvic floor activation (kegels) in preparation for labor and delivery. Classes are based on the most recent American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines and require documented clearance from your health care provider. Any fitness level and trimester of pregnancy are welcome! Don't forget to bring water--hydration is an important part of your fitness routine during pregnancy! For more information and to register online, visit kineticenergyfitness.com



INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE

Gentle Yoga for Women on a Breast Cancer Journey
Every Thursday, 3:30pm - 5:00pm
Mercy Hospital & Medical Center; 12th Floor Great Room
Women surviving cancer are invited to learn how yoga can increase energy

levels and assist in healing the mind and body after treatment. Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a towel or mat. Free to all breast cancer survivors. For more information, please call 312.567.6724.


Yoga for You—for Beginners
Every Wednesday, 5:30pm – 7pm
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor, Joyce Auditorium Foyer
Beginner and advanced classes are available.

Practice traditional Hatha Yoga methods, which can improve flexibility, muscle tone, circulation, and stamina. For more information and to register, please call Anita Cooper at 312.326.2979. Fees apply.


Yoga for You—for All Levels
Every Tuesday, 5pm – 6:30pm
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor, Joyce Auditorium Foyer

Practice traditional Hatha Yoga methods, which can improve flexibility, muscle tone, circulation, and stamina. Beginner and advanced classes are available. For more information, including fees and to register, please call Anita Cooper at 312.326.2979. Fees apply.



CANCER PROGRAMS

Breast Cancer Support Group
Upcoming dates: December 16, January 27 and February 24; All sessions are at 11am
Mercy Hospital; 12th Floor Conference Room

All are welcome! This monthly support group provides participants the opportunity to share experiences as well as to receive and offer support. Limited individual sessions are also available. For more information and to register, please call 5472. Refreshments provided.

 


Gentle Yoga for Women on a Breast Cancer Journey
Weekly, Please call for current schedule.
Mercy Hospital & Medical Center; 12th Floor Great Room

Women surviving cancer are invited to learn how yoga can increase energy levels and assist in healing the mind and body after treatment. Classes are specifically tailored to the needs of breast cancer survivors! Please wear comfortable clothing and bring a towel or mat. Free to all breast cancer survivors. For more information, please call 312.567.6724.


Look Good, Feel Better™
Next dates: January 13th, February 10th, March 9th, April 13th
All sessions are held 10am - 12pm in Family Health Center Conference Room
FREE; space is limited. Please call 312.567.5472 to reserve your space.

The Latest Cancer Treatments Aren't Always Prescribed by Doctors! Cancer can rob a woman of her energy, appetite and strength. But it doesn't have to take away her self-confidence! Look Good...Feel Better® is a free, non-medical, program that teaches beauty techniques to women cancer patients in active treatment to help them combat the appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment. Trained, volunteer cosmetologists teach women how to cope with skin changes and hair loss using cosmetics and skin care products. Learn make-up tips, skin and nail care tips, as well as suggestions for wits, turbans, and scarves. Participants receive complimnentary makeup kits. Caregivers are welcome, but cosmetic kits are limited to patients only. For more information and to register for this event, please call 312.567.5472.


Lymphedema: Risks, Prevention and Treatment
Please call for current schedule
12th Floor Great Room

Any patient who has had lymph nodes removed or radiated in the under arm or groin regions is at risk for developing Lymphedema--chronic swelling of an arm or leg. Join Mercy experts and learn about the function of the lymphatic system, how to prevent and treat lymphedema, the warning signs of lymphedema and how to respond. Patients, caregivers, and health care practitioners are welcome!

For more information and to RSVP, please call 312.567.6724.


Us Too Prostate Cancer Support Group
Second Saturday of each month
Mercy Hospital; Room 242

Free, informational and participatory prostate cancer support group for newly diagnosed, those living with, and long-time survivors of the disease. Family members are welcome.


Voices of Mercy
Please call 312.567.6131 for current schedule
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Great Room

Offers support to laryngectomy patients providing participants the opportunity to share fears, challenges, and experiences as well as receive and offer support. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.6131.




New TIme!