July 8, 2005

What's Happening

Smoking cessation program
The MGH Quit Smoking Service will offer a lunchtime smoking cessation program beginning July 13 at noon. This weekly, seven-session group program includes information about preparing to quit, coping with stress without cigarettes, preventing weight gain and tips for not smoking again. The group is open to employees and the general public. For more information, call Amy Asare at (617) 726-7443.

EAP training for managers and supervisors
The MGH Employee Assistance Program (EAP) will offer training courses this fall for managers and supervisors regarding the use of the EAP as a resource to assist with behavioral and mental health and substance abuse concerns. The training sessions will be held Sept. 21, from 3 to 5 pm and Nov. 3, from 1 to 3 pm in the Haber Conference Room. To register for either session, call (617) 726-6976.

Nominations for Ballantine Volunteer Award
Nominations now are being accepted for the Janet Ballantine Oncology Volunteer Award. The award was named in memory of Ballantine, a patient in the MGH Cancer Center, whose valiant struggle with cancer was a source of inspiration to family, friends and caregivers. Ballantine also was a committed volunteer and co-founded Friends with Hope, a foundation that has raised more than $100,000 to support breast cancer research. Any MGH volunteer who supports patients with cancer is eligible for this award. Nomination forms are located on Founders 6 at the Center for Clinical and Professional Development, Bigelow 10 Nursing office, the Volunteer Department and the Cox 1 Cancer Resource Room. The deadline is Aug. 9.

Perioperative nursing information session
The MGH will host a Perioperative Nursing Training Program Information Session Aug. 2, from 2 to 7 pm in the Sweet Conference Room. There will be opportunities to meet with representatives from Human Resources and operating room staff and also tour the operating rooms. The program begins in October and applicants must be registered nurses with experience in an acute care setting. For more information, call Michele Andrews at (617) 724-6052.

Leverett Circle lane shut down
The implementation of a new Leverett Circle Phase l traffic pattern will begin July 8. The new pattern will close left turn lanes from Storrow Drive Eastbound to McGrath/O'Brien Highway. All traffic to McGrath/O'Brien Highway will be detoured via Martha Road to Nashua Street to McGrath/O'Brien. This will not affect access to the MGH Nashua Street Orange Lot. In addition, the pedestrian bridge at Leverett Circle will be demolished beginning July 10. The pedestrian bridge at Blossom Street can be used as an alternative. Construction updates can be obtained by visiting www.masspike.com or by calling (617) 951-6400.