The new year has kicked off with a number of events planned. Camarillo Health Care District is hosting two doctor presentations and will hold a personal storytelling event at Camarillo Public Library. In addition, wellness events are planned at Camarillo Public Library and the Goebel Adult Community Center in Thousand Oaks.

Presentation: Addressing the Stigma of Addiction

Attend a free, informational presentation 2-3:30 p.m. on Jan. 16 by Dr. Jonathan Shirman, a board-certified physician specializing in both family medicine and addiction medicine.

Addiction is often shrouded in stigma, leading to misconceptions and barriers to treatment. This presentation will explore the nature of addiction, the impact of stigma, and the vital role of addiction medicine in addressing these challenges.  By promoting understanding of addiction as a medical condition and emphasizing the importance of addiction medicine, Dr. Shirman says we can create a more inclusive environment that encourages individuals to seek help without fear of judgment.

Dr. Shirman, who practices at Community Memorial Healthcare, earned his degree from Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. With advanced training in addiction medicine, he is adept at evaluating, diagnosing, and treating individuals facing substance abuse disorders.

The talk will be held in the District's Sequoia Rooms, Building F, 3639 E. Las Posas Road in Camarillo. Registration is required by calling 805-388-1952. Seating is limited.

Neighbors to share their caregiver and health journeys

As Dot Damon’s parents grew older and faced health issues, juggling her three primary roles as daughter, nurse and caregiver became challenging. Pattie Braga found herself in a similar position when her father had a stroke. Navigating those times with love, patience and understanding helped them through it, but it wasn’t easy.

Both Ventura County residents will share their journeys along with community members Elizabeth Olson, Leslie McLeod and Dawn Smithfield at Camarillo Health Care District’s storytelling event, “Stories from the Heart: Tales of Life, Love and Learning.” 

This will be a live version of the District’s podcast featuring true, personal stories about caregiving, health and family. It will take place 6-7 p.m. on Feb. 6  in the Community Room at Camarillo Public Library, 4101 Las Posas Road. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m.. There is no charge for admission, but you must register in advance by calling 805-388-1952. Seating is limited.

“Growing up, I never considered myself an athlete,” said Elizabeth, whose story, “From English Rose to Triathlon Competitor,” is about a health journey inspired by her father and nurtured by friends who held her accountable to a healthy lifestyle. “My story is about the importance of friendship and that you have the power to change how you perceive yourself,” she said.

Dawn’s story is about finding love later in life while experiencing the ups and downs of caring for aging parents.

Pattie’s is about becoming a family caregiver for her father after his stroke and the lessons she learned after she was given the gift of time with him.

“All those Saturdays and all those ‘Jeopardy’ games on TV, I learned more about him as a person than I ever would have if it weren’t for our time together. Watching him manage his physical limitations taught me about patience, acceptance and dignity.”

Leslie will talk about family dynamics during times of crisis and changing roles as parents age. She hopes her story conveys "heightened awareness of the need for communication, grace and forgiveness in family relationships. "

Dot says she was grateful for the opportunity to help her parents during their golden years.  “I feel absolutely fulfilled that I was part of their care from when (their need) began until the end of their lives.”

Listen to their stories in person at this upcoming event or tune into our podcast, which you can find here by clicking on our website.

Presentation: What you need to know about dental implants

Dr. Charles Scholler, DDS, will present a free, informational presentation on dental implants, which is becoming the alternative of choice to dentures and bridges. He will speak to the benefits of dental implants, the different types of dental implants, who is not a candidate and the success rate.

The talk will take place 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. on Feb. 7 on our campus, 3687 Las Posas Road, Building H, Magnolia Room, Camarillo. Call 805-388-1952 to register. Seating is limited.

Winter Wellness Resource Fair

On Saturday, members of Camarillo Health Care District's staff will be at Camarillo Public Library's Winter Wellness Resource Fair. Stop by to say hello, learn more about District programs, services and classes, and give virtual reality a try. The event will take place 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the library's Community Room. There will be local health organizations and community groups, health screenings and interactive demonstrations focused on wellness resources.

Highway to Health at Wellness Fest

On Wednesday, Michelle Rogers, community outreach and education manager for the District, will be at the Conejo Senior Volunteer Program's Wellness Fest, Highway to Health, between 9 and 11 a.m. The event runs 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. She is volunteering as part of the Moving Seniors Forward group, and will be sharing information about the group, as well as the District.

Learn more about the District's programs, services and classes. Pick up a promotional item while supplies last. The event will be held at the Goebel Adult Community Center, 1385 E. Janss Road, in Thousand Oaks. There will be more than 60 vendors on site, including local businesses, nonprofit agencies and public service organizations. The event will include demonstrations, health screenings, a Dementia Live experience, Master Gardener tours, a raffle and more.