In typical medical language, Vitamin H refers to biotin, which is actually in the B complex of vitamins. But Mary Pebley has a different take on it. To her, the vitamin refers to “humor” medicine.
Pebley, humor therapist and national speaker, will lead an interactive televideo (ITV) presentation at St. Rose Ambulatory & Surgery Center in February. It is called “Don’t Let Life Fracture Your Funny Bone” and is scheduled for 3 to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 12 in the basement-level St. Dominic Room.
While the presentation is designed for cancer patients, those with other chronic illnesses may also benefit. The event is free and open to the public.
“Humor deficiency may cause osteoporosis of the funny bone and constipation of the personality,” Pebley commented. “I encourage people to join us at St. Rose for a time of learning, laughter and a healthy dose of Vitamin H.
“We will explore the health benefits of laughter, and discover ways to use playfulness and humor to manage stress and support the body’s ability to heal,” she explained. “There will be lots of exercise for the funny bone.”
Laughter helps boost resilience, Pebley added, noting it has healthy benefits that support the body’s ability to heal.
“We will talk about attitudes and habits that promote happiness,” Pebley said. “This is a great opportunity to learn more about the positive effects of emotions on our health. Many believe living with chronic illness robs us of happiness. This ITV session can dispel that notion.”
St. Rose is a member of the Midwest Cancer Alliance (MCA), which co-sponsors the series of ITV presentations. MCA is the outreach arm of The University of Kansas Cancer Center.
St. Rose also is part of Centura Health, which connects individuals and families across western Kansas and Colorado with more than 6,000 physicians, 15 hospitals, seven senior-living communities, physician practices and clinics, and home-care and hospice services.