Community Health Updates: Donations, New Specialists, and Events at Franciscan Health and PNW

Franciscan Health Foundation Donates to Pet Therapy Program

The Franciscan Health Pet Therapy Program received a $13,000 boost thanks to a donation from the newly established Franciscan Health Foundation Circle of 1875, according to a release.

Northwest Medical Adds Critical Care Specialist

Northwest Health has added Dr. Christos Deamont, a pulmonologist, to its staff, a release said.

Franciscan Offering Virtual Diabetes Program

Franciscan Health will host a virtual diabetes prevention program online at 5 p.m. Oct. 1, a release said.

PNW Professor Named Fulbright Specialist

Purdue University Northwest faculty member, Magesh Chandramouli, professor of Computer Graphics Technology in the College of Technology, has been named a U.S. Fulbright Specialist, according to a release.

Physician Joins Franciscan in Crown Point

Dr. Latifa Barti is now part of the Franciscan Physician Network and is accepting new patients in Crown Point, according to a release.

Franciscan Hosting Car Seat Safety Event

Franciscan Health is hosting a free car seat safety event from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 27 for Indiana residents at the Franciscan Health Michigan City Legacy Campus, located at 301 W. Homer St., Michigan City, a release said.

Influential Women Winners to Be Announced

The 14th-annual Influential Women of Northwest Indiana Awards Banquet, sponsored by Northwest Indiana Influential Women Association, is set for 5-8:30 p.m. Sept. 25 at Avalon Manor in Merrillville, according to a release.

Franciscan Health Foundation Donates $13,000 to Pet Therapy Program

CROWN POINT, IN — The Franciscan Health Pet Therapy Program has received a significant boost with a generous $13,000 donation from the newly established Franciscan Health Foundation Circle of 1875. This funding will enhance the program’s ability to provide comfort and companionship to patients, families, and staff across Franciscan Health’s Crown Point, Dyer, and Munster hospitals, as well as the Program for All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) in Dyer.

Celebrating nearly a decade of service, the Pet Therapy Program is entirely volunteer-driven, featuring 16 dedicated volunteers and 17 trained therapy dogs. These furry companions play a crucial role in improving the emotional well-being of those they visit, offering a unique form of support during challenging times.

The Circle of 1875, named in honor of the year the first Franciscan hospital opened in Lafayette, is a women’s giving circle committed to supporting the mission and programs of Franciscan Health in the community. Members pledge a minimum annual donation of $1,000, making a tangible impact on local health initiatives. Those interested in joining the Circle or learning more about the Franciscan Health Foundation can call 219-661-3401. For more information about the Pet Therapy Program, contact Julie Canady at 219-226-3469.

Northwest Medical Welcomes New Critical Care Specialist

VALPARAISO, IN — Northwest Health is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Christos Deamont, a pulmonologist, to its medical staff. Dr. Deamont specializes in diagnosing and treating both acute and chronic lung conditions, particularly in intensive care settings.

Located at the Northwest Medical Group — Pulmonary and Critical Care office in Valparaiso, Dr. Deamont’s expertise includes managing respiratory failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, and lung cancer, among other conditions. He completed his medical education at Michigan State University and his residency at Wellmont Health System in Virginia. To schedule an appointment, call 219-464-9054.

Franciscan Health Launches Virtual Diabetes Prevention Program

CROWN POINT, IN — Franciscan Health is set to host a virtual Diabetes Prevention Program starting at 5 p.m. on October 1. This program, designed for individuals diagnosed with prediabetes, follows guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Participants will engage in weekly sessions over the course of a year, led by a trained lifestyle coach. The program is open to adults aged 18 and older with specific health criteria. Registration is required, and the program costs $99. Interested individuals can complete the DPP Qualifying Questionnaire online at Franciscan Health.

PNW Professor Named Fulbright Specialist

HAMMOND, IN — Magesh Chandramouli, a professor of Computer Graphics Technology at Purdue University Northwest, has been named a U.S. Fulbright Specialist. This prestigious appointment will see him spend three weeks in December at Politecnico di Torino in Italy, where he will collaborate with faculty to enhance aerospace engineering training.

Chandramouli’s visit will include conducting workshops and developing training programs, fostering international educational exchange. Additionally, two students from Politecnico di Torino will conduct research at PNW’s College of Technology this fall.

New Physician Joins Franciscan in Crown Point

CROWN POINT, IN — Dr. Latifa Barti has joined the Franciscan Physician Network and is now accepting new patients at the Winfield Health Center. With a medical degree from the American University of Antigua and a residency in family medicine in Chicago, Dr. Barti focuses on medical weight management, lifestyle medicine, and treatment for substance use disorders. To schedule an appointment, call 219-662-9424.

Franciscan Health Hosts Free Car Seat Safety Event

MICHIGAN CITY, IN — Franciscan Health is offering a free car seat safety event on September 27 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Michigan City Legacy Campus. Co-hosted by the Trauma Services Department and the Prenatal Assistance Program, the event will feature a nationally certified child passenger safety technician who will provide guidance on proper car seat installation. Reservations are required; call 219-488-1380 to secure your spot.

Influential Women Winners to be Announced

MERRILLVILLE, IN — The 14th annual Influential Women of Northwest Indiana Awards Banquet is set for September 25, celebrating the achievements of women across various industries. Winners will be announced from a pool of 250 finalists, selected from over 500 nominations. The event will recognize outstanding contributions in 13 categories, including the overall Influential Woman of the Year. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit nwiiwa.org.

Stay tuned for more updates on these impactful community initiatives!