DOWNEY - One of the favorite women's events of the year in Downey is almost here.

The Rancho Research Institute is presenting the Fourth Annual Women's Health Conference at Rio Hondo Event Center on Friday, Oct. 18, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:15 p.m. The Event Center is located at 10627 Old River School Road in Downey.

"We have been working on this all year, and any woman who attended last year can tell you it was not only informative, it was a lot of fun," said Women's Health Conference Chair Dr. Yaga Szlachcic. Dr. Szlachcic, the Chair of Rancho's Department of Medicine and President of the Rancho Research Institute, has put together a free day of presentations from well-respected physicians, opportunities for the audience to try yoga, Zumba and meditation and even a free lunch.

"This conference will focus on all aspects of healthy aging, including mind, body and spirit," Dr. Szlachcic said. "Women who've attended each year have told me what a difference it has made in their lives, and so we put together our best Women's Health Conference yet for 2013."

"I wouldn't miss this event for the world," said Downey civic leader Beverly Mathis. "I learned so much about how to live a healthier lifestyle last year, and the doctors made it so enjoyable the day just flew by. I also loved being able to do the Zumba, which was my favorite. It's amazing how much information you can get there, and it's even more amazing that it's all free!"

Beverly is one of many local women who are looking forward to the 2013 conference. "If you're going to do one thing for yourself this year, this should be high on your list," said Downey School Board member Martha Sodetani. "The doctors gave me many tips I put into use immediately after last year's conference. It was also very inspiring to be among so many wonderful women. It's just a spectacular event."

"I want to make sure that everyone knows that space is limited, and that they should RSVP right away," Dr. Szlachcic said. "We've had waiting lists each of our three previous years because so many women want to attend this event." To RSVP, please eamail ranchowomen@gmail.com or call (562) 810-1385. And remember, there is no fee to attend the Women's Health Conference!"

The event will start with Dr. Szlachcic's traditional welcome, which will set the tone for the conference.

Then the all-star lineup of clinicians will speak to the audience. They include:

*Susan Shaw, MD, Rancho Staff Neurologist, Associate Director Stroke Medical Home and Co- Director of Rancho's Epilepsy Program, speaking about stroke prevention.

*Terrie DeBord, DDS, Rancho Chief of Dentistry, speaking about cosmetic dentistry

*Rashmi Desai, MD, Rancho Internal Medicine and Holistic Medicine, speaking about principals of Ayurvedic medicine

*Stephan Bughi, MD, Rancho Staff Endocrinologist & Patient Safety Officer; and Professor Clinical Medicine at USC, speaking about longevity and nutrition

*Fernando Gonzales, PhD, Rancho Chief of Psychology, speaking about aging and mental health

*Sylvia Shaw, MD, Rancho Chief of Endocrinology and Diabetes and Assistant Professor of Clinical Medicine at USC, speaking about the health effects of exercise

"The speakers are always great, and I especially enjoy the fun of performing yoga, meditation and Zumba with all the other women in the room," Martha said. "Of course, finishing it off with a complimentary lunch at Rio Hondo makes it all extra-special."

Sponsors of the event include Primary Critical Care Medical Group; Rancho Wellness Center; and Rio Hondo Event Center.

"There are so many wonderful things going on in our city to make Downey a healthier community, and the Rancho Research Institute is proud to do our part by conducting this very special event to help the women in our community lead healthier and happier lives," Dr. Szlachcic said.

********** Published: Oct. 3, 2013 - Volume 12 - Issue 25