Destination Better Health Series at Fairview Hospital

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GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass. — Berkshire Health Systems has announced that Destination Better Health is returning to Fairview Hospital during July and August, with several informative events being held.  

Berkshire Health Systems’ Destination Better Health series brings neighbors together for free, expert-led conversations about health topics that matter most to our community. The programs, held free of charge, can help in managing health conditions, caring for loved ones, or finding smart choices for a healthier future.  

The 2026 Destination Better Health programs include:  

Wednesday July 9 at 4:30 p.m. 

The Aging Shoulder 

Presenter: Pier Boutin, MD, Fairview Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Center 

That nagging ache in your shoulder may be more common than you think — and more treatable than you fear. Join our orthopedic experts as they walk through why the shoulder becomes more vulnerable with age, what symptoms to watch for, and the full range of options available, from simple exercises to surgical solutions.

Wednesday, July 15 at 4:30 p.m. 

Optimizing Your Heart Health 

Presenter: Ellen Hamm, RN, BSN, Fairview Hospital Cardiac Rehabilitation 

Your heart works for you every second of every day — this session is your chance to return the favor. Learn what the latest science says about blood pressure, cholesterol, lifestyle habits, and emerging risk factors, and walk away with a practical, personalized plan to protect the engine that keeps you going. 

Wednesday, July 22 at 4:30 p.m. 

Longevity is a Daily Routine  

Presenter: Maureen Logan, M.Ed, BHS Director of Community Wellness 

Living longer isn't just about luck — it's about the small decisions you make before breakfast. This session explores the daily habits, sleep patterns, movement practices, and mindset shifts that research consistently links to a longer, healthier life. 

Wednesday, July 29 at 4:30 p.m. 

When Illness Isn't Going Away: How to Change Your Framework 

Presenter: Chris Clark, MD, Chief Hospitalist, Fairview Hospital & BHS Palliative Care Project Lead 

A chronic diagnosis can feel like a door closing, but it doesn't have to. This honest, compassionate session helps patients and caregivers to reframe living with chronic illness — shifting from surviving to thriving within a new normal. 

Wednesday, August 5 at 4:30 p.m. 

Introducing Robotic Surgery at Fairview: What It Means to Our Patients  

Presenter: Mark Taylor, MD, Fairview Surgical Services 

Fairview is proud to bring the precision of robotic-assisted surgery to our community — and we want you to understand exactly what that means to you. Our surgeons will demystify the technology, explain which procedures it's used for, and share how it translates to smaller incisions, faster recovery, and better outcomes. 

Wednesday, August 12 at 4:30 p.m. 

In a World of Diets, Choosing What's Best for You 

Presenters: Robert Hoechster, RD, LDN; Sheila Rivera RD, LDN, Fairview Hospital Nutrition Services 

Keto, Mediterranean, plant-based, intermittent fasting — the options are endless, and the noise is loud. This session cuts through the confusion with evidence-based guidance to help you understand your own body's needs and find an approach to eating that's sustainable, satisfying, and genuinely good for you.

All programs are free and take place at 4:30 p.m. in the Ground Floor Conference Room at Fairview Hospital, 29 Lewis Avenue, Great Barrington.  Due to space limitations, please pre-register here or call (413) 854-9609.

If you would like to contribute information on this article, contact us at info@iberkshires.com.

South County Wins Masters Soccer League Title in OT

By Ben McDonoughiBerkshires.com Sports
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — South County needed every bit of resilience Thursday night in the championship game of the Berkshire Masters Soccer Tournament, overcoming a second-half deficit before Caleb Rogers delivered the deciding blow in overtime to lift his side to a 2-1 victory over Barcelona.
 
The match opened as a defensive battle, with South County weathering consistent pressure from Barcelona. Although Barcelona generated the majority of the first-half scoring chances, South County’s back line remained organized and disciplined, repeatedly turning away dangerous attacks to keep the match scoreless through the opening 45 minutes.
 
The intensity of the contest increased before halftime as Barcelona was issued both a yellow card and a red card, forcing the side to play the remainder of the match with 10 players.
 
South County nearly took advantage of the extra man early in the second half when a dangerous opportunity rolled just wide of the post.
 
Despite playing shorthanded, Barcelona broke the deadlock about 15 minutes into the second half, finding the back of the net to take a 1-0 lead.
 
South County refused to back down.
 
The hosts responded later in the half with an equalizer, rewarding their persistence and bringing the match level at 1-1. Barcelona threatened to reclaim the lead on a dangerous free kick, but the South County goalkeeper came through with a key save to keep the score even and send the contest into overtime.
 
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