Classes, Support & Events

Special Events

Wellness & Health Education

Support Groups

Pregnancy & Childbirth

Integrative Medicine

Cancer Programs



Special Events

Know Your Stats: A Free Men's Prostate Health Event
Saturday, September 18, 2010; 8am - 2pm
Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue; Joyce Auditorium Foyer
Registration is Required; Space is Limited.
Join Mercy Hospital experts for a special Know Your Stats event fetauring a free PSA (Prostate-specific Antigen) screening and Educational Seminar presented by Drs. John Cudecki and Michael Gomez. Lunch will be served. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online now!

Wii® Can Better Your Game
Wednesday, September 22, 2010; 12pm - 1pm;
Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue; Room to be announced
Registration is Required; Space is Limited.
Attention Weekend Warriors! Whether you want to become more agile, avoid injury, or increase your energy level, Wii Fit® is a great way to strive for and achieve better health. Join rehabilitation experts from Mercy Hospital's Comprehensive Orthopedics Center and learn how using the Nintendo Wii® can better your game and help prevent injury through improved flexibility and balance. Guests are encouraged to bring a brown bag lunch; light refreshments will be served. Registration is required and space is limited. Register online now!

Eat Right Every Bite--"Smart Snacking"
Tuesday, August 17, 2010; 6:00pm
Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue; Room 203/204 
To reserve your space, call 312.567.8775
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
312.567.8775
Every Thursday, 1pm – 4pm, Mercy Medical on Pulaski
Mercy Hospital, please call for current schedule
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. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.8755.

Freedom from Smoking
Tuesday, March 9, 2010 (free information session/orientation), 16, 23, 30 Apr 6, 13, 20, 27
Each session is from 5:45pm - 6:45pm 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 uses 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.

Smoke No More! Information Session
Tuesday, March 9, 2010; 5:45pm-6:45pm
Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue, 12th Floor Conference Room
Attend this FREE Informational sessionand learn how Mercy's comprehensive smoking cessation program can help you quit smoking for good! Led by smoking cessation specialists who understand how difficult it is to stop smoking, Smoke No More is based on the American Lung Association's Freedom From Smoking program that has experienced a 90% success rate. And with today's economy, there has never been a better time to quit! For more information and to register, please call 312.567.2477. NOTE: March 9th is a free information session that outlines the Smoke No More program and is considered the first session of the 8-week program. Remaining 8-week sessions are: Mar 16, 23, 30 (quit day), Apr 6, 13, 20, 27. $50 fee applies for those who decide to complete the 8-week Smoke No More program and includes program materials. 

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.

LAP-BAND Information Session
Monthly Information Sessions; Next dates are
Aug 20, 2010, 2:30pm
Oct 11, 2010, 5pm
Sep 17, 2010, 2:30pm
Nov 19, 2010, 2:30pm
Dec 13, 2010 5pm
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 spam bots, 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) or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it Learn more about Lap-BAND

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.

Smoking Cessation Tips & Techniques
First Wednesday of each month
9am – 10am
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Conference Room
Learn practical tips and techniques to stop smoking for good in this FREE one-hour group session. For more information and to register, call 312.567.2477.

Transformational Movement: your Ticket for Anti-Aging and Vitality
Every Tuesday, Fundamental Fitness Class, 10:30am, Room 204
Every Thursday, Transformational Movement, 10:30am, Room 204
TML consists of slow, gentle, easy to do movements. This class is 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 312.842.2233.

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.

Whole Birth: Prenatal Yoga & Support
6-class sessions meet Mondays, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Each session is $96; per-class pricing available
Please call 773.354.3582 for current schedule
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor, Joyce Auditorium Foyer
Whole Birth sessions will increase physical comfort and instill confidence in women preparing for birth. Relaxation exercises reinforce the techniques learned in childbirth preparation classes as well as teaching women to maintain these states while working in appropriately challenging positions. For more information and to register, call Bridget Felix at 773.354.3582 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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
Friday, Jun 25; Friday, July 23; Friday, August 20; 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.

Caregiver Support Group
First Saturday of Every Month, 11am, Mercy Medical on Pulaski
Second Thursday of every month, 11am, Mercy Medical at Chatham
Third Thursday or every month, 11am, Mercy Hospital
Free monthly support group for caregivers providing care to loved ones with illness or disability. Participants find support and encouragement, learn about community resources, as well as learn coping methods and how to take care of themselves. For more information and to register, please call 312.567.2043.

Diabetes Support Group
First Thursday of every month; 6pm; Mercy Hospital, 2525 S. Michigan Avenue
Every Thursday, 9:00am - 12:00pm; Mercy Medical on 43rd, 4321 S. Pulaski Road
Every Thursday, 1:00pm - 4:00pm; Mercy Medical on Pulaski, 5525 S. Pulaski Road
Participants have the opportunity to share their experience with this life-altering disease and to offer and receive support.

Look Good, Feel Better™
Please call for current schedule
All sessions are held in the 12th floor conference room.
FREE-space is limited. Please call 312.567.7685 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. For more information and to register for this event, please call 312.567.7685.

Mercy Miracles Stroke Support Group
Second Thursday of each month; Next dates are: Jan 14, Feb 11, Mar 11, Apr 8, May 13, Jun 10, Jul 8, Aug 12, Sept 9, Oct 14, Nov 11, Dec 9
Mercy Hospital; 12th Floor Great Room
Those that experience stroke can feel isolated 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 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
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 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.


Pregnancy & Childbirth

Blessed Beginnings
August 10, 17, 24, 31, September 7
September 28, October 5, 12, 19, 26
November 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
December 7, 14, 21, January 4, 11
All sessions are from 6:30pm – 9pm
Mercy Hospital; 3rd Floor
This comprehensive 5-session series covers topics such as what to expect during late pregnancy, labor and birth, breastfeeding, 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.

Baby Steps Home--Information/Discussion Group
July 12, 19,, 26, Aug 2, 9, 16, 23, September 13, 20, 27
10am - 11am; Mercy Hospital, 3rd Floor The Birth Place
As your baby gets closer to discharge, join other parents and staff of Mercy Hospital for an opportunity to anticipate life at home for you and your baby. Discuss the transition home, share stories, meet other new parents and learn about other interesting topics including milestones that lie ahead and effective ways to calm and soothe your baby. Family members are welcome! Refreshments will be served. The Baby Steps Curriculum. For more information, please call Denise Delves at 312.567.7221. Program is also available in Spanish!


Whole Birth: Prenatal Yoga & Support
6-class sessions meet Mondays, 6:30pm – 8:30pm
Each session is $96; per-class pricing available
Please call 773.354.3582 for current schedule
Mercy Hospital, 2nd Floor, Joyce Auditorium Foyer
Whole Birth sessions will increase physical comfort and instill confidence in women preparing for birth. Relaxation exercises reinforce the techniques learned in childbirth preparation classes as well as teaching women to maintain these states while working in appropriately challenging positions. For more information and to register, call Bridget Felix at 773.354.3582 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Integrative Medicine

Integrative Medicine Panel Discussion
Wednesday, May 26th, 6:00pm - 7:00pm
Mercy Medical at Dearborn Station, 47 W. Polk Street, Suite G1
For more information and to reserve your space, please call
312.922.3011, extension 226.
Learn about the practices and benefits of integrative medicine in this interactive question and answer forum featuring Mercy's Integrative Medicine & Wellness program experts. Participants are encouraged to bring their questions related to the field of integrative medicine including acupuncture, massage, nutrition, herbal remedies, Chinese medicine, chiropractic care, and Zero Balancing. Learn how a holistic approach to your health can help bring healing and balance to your life. Light refreshments will be served. To reserve your place, call 312.922.3011, extension 226 or register now.

Gentle Yoga for Women on a Breast Cancer Journey
Every Friday, 4:00pm - 5:30pm
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 Cooperat 312.326.2979.


Cancer Programs

Preparing for Surgery & Biopsies: A Mind Body Approach to Reducing Anxiety
March 2, 2010; 9am - 11am; Mercy Medical at Dearborn Station, 47 W. Polk Street
$39.99 fee includes book and CD. Fee is not reimbursable by insurance carriers.
Space is limited; registration is required; register online at www.prepareforsurgery.eventbrite.com
Led by a clinical health psychologist, this 2-hour workshop will provide the information and skills to prepare the mind for, and relieve anxiety related to, upcoming surgery, dental procedures, biopsies, or other procedures. Each participant will receive a CD and book copy of Peggy Huddleston's "Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster: A Guide for Mind-Body Techniques". At the end of the workshop, participants are invited to join an additional 4 group sessions at no additional cost to practice their newly learned skills. Learn more and register online. Space is limited, so register today!

Breast Cancer Support Group
Friday, Jun 25; Friday, July 23; Friday, August 20; 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.

Freedom from Smoking
Tuesday, March 9, 2010 (free information session/orientation), 16, 23, 30 Apr 6, 13, 20, 27
Each session is from 5:45pm - 6:45pm 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 uses 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.

Gentle Yoga for Women on a Breast Cancer Journey
Every Thursday, 4:00pm - 5:30pm,
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.

Look Good, Feel Better™
Please call for current schedule
All sessions are held in the 12th floor conference room.
FREE-space is limited. Please call 312.567.7685 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. For more information and to register for this event, please call 312.567.7685.

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.

Smoking Cessation Tips & Techniques
First Wednesday of each month
9am – 10am
Mercy Hospital, 12th Floor Conference Room
Learn practical tips and techniques to stop smoking for good in this FREE one-hour group session. For more information and to register, call 312.567.2477.

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 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.