Information will be plentiful when Monongahela Valley Hospital renews its bimonthly Arthritis Support Group. The first of these programs begins on Wednesday, June 20 at 1 p.m. in the hospital’s Anthony M. Lombardi Education Conference Center. The program is free and open to the public.

Ajay K. Mathur, MD, FACP, rheumatologist on staff at Monongahela Valley Hospital is moderating the program in cooperation with the MVH Education Department, which carries the general theme of “Arthritis – Support for You and Your Family.”

The problem of arthritis tries any relationship, whether it’s between parents and children or spouses. The support group will offer tips for keeping your relationships healthy in spite of arthritis.

Dr. Mathur said the program will also heighten awareness of the ways to control arthritis and related illnesses.

“People need to be more aware of how to control and cope with arthritis and similar disorders, such as Fibromyalgia and Osteoporosis ,” said Dr. Mathur. “These illnesses can bring pain and make life difficult. There are ways, however, to limit the impact and continue to enjoy life. The support group will help the participants and their families learn how they can do that and to discuss the latest research on causes and treatments. Interactions with other patients will allow them to share ideas, get advice from others and to let them know they are not alone.”

Although the program is free and open to the public, advance registration is requested at 724-258-1321.