5th Annual Women’s Health Symposium Addresses Stress Management

The Sonoma Valley Hospital Foundation recently conducted the 5th Annual Women’s Health Symposium on May 6, focusing on the critical topic of stress management. Held at the Hanna Center, the event brought together a panel of esteemed experts to share valuable insights.

Expert Panel Discussion

This year’s symposium featured presentations from leading figures in the medical field:

• Dr. Dena Dubal – Professor of Neurology at UCSF’s Weill Institute for Neurosciences.
• Dr. Elissa Epel – Professor and Vice Chair in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at UCSF.

After their presentations, Dr. Andrew Josephson, Chair of the UCSF Department of Neurology, facilitated a comprehensive Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with the speakers.

Supporting Women’s Health Initiatives

The Women’s Health Symposium serves as the only annual fundraising event for the Sonoma Valley Hospital Foundation. Proceeds from the event are crucial for financing Women’s Health initiatives at the community hospital. Key projects supported by these funds include:

• Project Pink: This initiative offers free mammograms to local women in need.
• Specialty Care Equipment: Funds help acquire essential tools for doctors and nurses providing specialized care.

This year’s fundraising efforts will contribute to the purchase of a state-of-the-art ultrasound system, designed for use as a secondary screening tool for women with dense breast tissue.

Community Engagement and Insights

SVHF Board member Cherie Hughes emphasized the importance of accessing cutting-edge medical information locally. “We are proud that the Women’s Health Symposium is bringing cutting-edge medical information to us right here in Sonoma,” she stated. “This year, the doctors shared great tips on managing stress and exciting advances on the horizon for increased longevity.”

Hughes further noted, “I believe the Women’s Health Symposium’s biggest value is helping us all be well informed on the latest information about what we can do now to stay healthy as we age.”

Event Attendance and Networking

The event attracted a crowd of 275 attendees who enjoyed a catered box lunch from Cuvee Wine Country Events before the symposium, creating an engaging atmosphere for networking and learning.