Howard County health briefs

Blood donations

The Greater Chesapeake and Potomac Region of the American Red Cross is requesting blood donations. Eligible donors can call 800-GIVE-LIFE to schedule an appointment. Platelet donors should call 800-272-2123.

Calendar

Red Cross blood drive: Emmanuel United Methodist Church will sponsor a blood drive from 8 a.m. to noon, Sept. 18, 10755 Scaggsville Road, Laurel. Information or to schedule an appointment call 1-800-272-2123 or visit http://www.eumclaurel.org. Use sponsor code 13952.

Spiritual reflections: Bon Secours Spiritual Center will offer spiritual enrichment programs at 1525 Marriottsville Road, Marriottsville. Information: bonsecoursspiritualcenter.org. Registration: 410-442-1320.

Health education programs: Howard County General Hospital will offer the following programs. Unless noted, all programs will be held at the Medical Pavilion, Suite 100, 10710 Charter Drive, Columbia. Registration and information: 410-740-7601 or http://www.hcgh.org.

Prenatal exercise. Gentle stretching and light exercise condition birth muscles and enhance delivery from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sept. 8 through Oct. 27. Physician permission required. Cost $88 for eight sessions.