BRIDGEWATER- The Polio Network of New Jersey (PNNJ) will hold its 26th annual conference on Sunday, April 17, at the Marriott Hotel in Bridgewater, N.J.
The initial impact of polio on individuals and the later effects of post-polio syndrome (PPS) on the lives of most attendees in the years since the epidemics of the 20th century will resonate throughout the one-day meeting of polio survivors, families, friends, and health care advocates. Vendors of goods and services of interest to people with PPS will also participate.
Registration by mail or online is now available. An early response would be appreciated to ensure that everyone desiring to attend can be accommodated. A continental breakfast available beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Keynote Speaker
The principal speaker will be Yale Hauptman, Esq., founder and managing partner at the law firm of Hauptman and Hauptman in Livingston, N.J. This presentation will address how people with PPS can navigate the long-term-care journey and the anticipated cost. Mr. Hauptman will discuss new and different long-term-care payment options to cover the costs. In addition to his expertise in this area, Mr. Hauptman can answer questions about elder and disability law, Medicaid eligibility, and how to legally protect one’s assets. Mr. Hauptman is a 1986 graduate of Rutgers University and received his Juris Doctor from Albany Law School in 1989.
Luncheon Speaker
Joanne Wendolowski is a Public Health Nurse Supervisor at Hackensack University Medical Center in their Health Awareness Regional Program (HARP). She will speak about the role of exercise and nutrition for people experiencing PPS. HARP’s programs are designed to help individuals increase control over their health, providing an opportunity to learn positive coping strategies and healthy habits. Ms. Wendolowski earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in 1982 and a Master of Science in Nursing degree from Rutgers in 2004.
Chair Yoga Workshop
A chair yoga workshop entitled “Explore a New Source of Spiritual, Mental and Physical Strength” will be conducted by Karen Pellegrini at 9:30 a.m. before the main events. A registered yoga teacher and certified meditation teacher, Ms. Pellegrini is associated with the LOKA YOGA studio. Yoga has been known to help individuals with PPS with stress reduction, range of motion, muscle strength, fatigue and balance. The workshop will include techniques of controlled breathing, meditation and gentle yoga positions, all accomplished while seated.
How to Register
Online registration is available at www.pnnj.org. Registration forms can also be obtained by calling 201-845-6860 or by e-mail to [email protected]. Through a generous contribution from the New Jersey Chapter of the March of Dimes, PNNJ is able to offer the conference, including continental breakfast and lunch, for $30 per person. A limited number of scholarships are available for New Jersey residents who may not be able to afford the fee. Some attendees may wish to enjoy an overnight stay at the Marriott, which can be arranged by calling the hotel directly at 800-228-9290 or 908-927-9300.
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