Carolinas Medical Center-Union offers a wide variety of community health events, seminars, support groups, and wellness classes, all intended to promote preventive health and encourage healthy choices. All classes and support groups will take place at CMC-Union, 600 Hospital Drive, in Monroe, unless otherwise noted. To view a complete list of upcoming events and classes scheduled for December, visit www.cmc-union.org/calendar/.



CPR/AED certification class

Saturday, 8 a.m. to noon. This class includes adult/child CPR and AED (Automated External Defibrillator) and infant CPR instruction. This is the right choice for day care providers, teachers, coaches, and any non-health care professional seeking a certification card. Certification cards will be mailed to participants upon completion of the course. The cost is $15 per person. To register, call 704-993-2265.



Childbirth preparation classes

Dec. 7, 14, 21 & 28, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Four-part prenatal program for expecting moms and their partners. Learn about the physical and emotional changes you’ll experience during the third trimester, the role of a support person, normal newborn behavior and breathing techniques to ease the labor and delivery process. To register, call 704-283-BABY.



Introduction to insulin pumps

Dec. 8, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Curious about insulin pumps? Find out how insulin pump therapy can improve the quality of life for people with diabetes. Understand how an insulin pump works in comparison to taking injections and explore what it means to wear an insulin pump daily. To register, call 704-225-2880.



Car seat safety workshop

Dec. 10, 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. This class will teach new parents how to install a car seat and properly secure their child in the seat according to the N.C. Child Passenger Safety Law. To register, call 704-283-BABY.



How smart is your cart?

Dec. 10, 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with diabetes and takes insulin, join us for a free grocery store tour to learn about heart healthy food choices, the effects of carbohydrates on your blood sugar levels, and how to make good food choices on a budget. The tour will take place at Harris Teeter located at 1817 Dickerson Blvd. in Monroe. To register, call 877-767-7373 ext. 1731.

Support groups

Brain Injury Support Group

Dec. 7, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free monthly support group for those suffering from a brain injury, including strokes, tumors, TBI, Parkinson’s, etc. Family members and caregivers welcome. For more information, call 704-355-4354.



Look Good, Feel Better

Dec. 8, 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Free bi-monthly support group for women undergoing chemotherapy or radiation. Trained cosmetologists help women adjust to the side effects of treatment such as hair loss and skin complexion. This program is provided in conjunction with the American Cancer Society. Pre-registration is required. To register or for more information, call 704-290-0444.



Gastric Bypass Support Group

Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Free monthly support group for people who have undergone or who are considering gastric bypass or lap band as a means to lose weight. For more information, call 704-226-5073.



Diabetes Wellness Group

Dec. 15, 6-8 p.m. Free monthly support group for adults with diabetes and those who support diabetics. For more information, call 704-225-2880.