Support Groups

There are times in all of our lives when we could use a shoulder to lean on. For some, talking and listening about these experiences, in a safe and confidential meeting, can help. Please take advantage of the various support groups available at Putnam County Hospital.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers Support

This group, which is affiliated with the Indiana Alzheimer’s Association, provides a place for caretakers, family members, and Alzheimer’s patients themselves to come together and share stories. Since Alzheimer’s is an unpredictable disease with various stages, it can be helpful to hear how others have and are coping with similar challenges. It meets the second Thursday of each month at 4:00 p.m. in the third floor classroom of the hospital. For more information on alzheimer's, visit www.alz.org or contact group leader Dean Shugars at 765-653-4944.

Cancer Support

The group discusses new cancer treatments, in addition to pertinent topics such as nutrition and stress management. Most importantly it is a meeting space for people to share their story—their diagnosis, treatment, fears, successes—with fellow peers. Family and friends of someone who has been diagnosed with cancer is also welcome to attend.  The group meets on the fourth Tuesday of each month at 5:00 p.m. in the classroom on the third floor of the hospital. For more information on cancer, www.cancer.org.

MS Support

This group no longer meets at the hospital, please contact Marjorie Robinson at 765-246-6066 for more information.

Tobacco Cessation

Meredith Williams (from the Putnam County Tobacco Prevention and Cessation Coalition) facilitates weekly classes to help people who are ready to quit smoking. The “Fresh Start” program is four weeks long, but people can enter the classes at any time. Goals include: identifying personal smoking behaviors and reasons to quit, learning ways to cope with cravings and triggers, and developing a network of support. Adult classes offered every Wednesday evening at 6:00 p.m.   All classes meet in the third floor classroom of the hospital. Prenatal Smoking support is also available by appointment. Please call Meredith Williams at 765-655-2697 for more information.

ITPC               Smokefree Indiana              Indiana Tobacco Quitline            White Lies

Prenatal Classes

This five-week prenatal education course is offered at the hospital for expectant mothers and their support person. A variety of hospital staff teach the classes, covering topics such as nutrition, fitness, breathing and relaxation techniques, emotional adjustment, medication and the birth process, labor rehearsal and care of the newborn. Those taking the class will be given the book “The Gift of Motherhood—a personal journey through prepared childbirth”. The five-week course is free for those delivering at Putnam County Hospital, and $25 for those planning to deliver elsewhere. The class meets at 6:30 p.m. in the third floor classroom of the hospital. Please call 765-655-2663 or 765-655-2577 for information about course dates, and to sign up for prenatal classes.

Youth and Family Diabetes Support Group

A Youth and Family Diabetes Support Group is being offered to help families develop strategies to make important lifestyle choices.  Click Here for more information.  The group meets the third Thursday of every month at 6:00 p.m. in the third floor classroom of the hospital.

Other Support Services

Chaplain Steve Williams provides emotional and spiritual support is available to speak with patients and their family members. You may contact him at 765-653-5121.