“We begin and end our lives with the act of swallowing,” says Shannon McCool, MS, CCC-SLP, St. Luke’s Hospital’s speech and language pathologist. “This is why being aware of how swallowing difficulties impact quality of life is so important.”

 McCool will lead a HealthTalk focused on understanding the implications of swallowing disorders and the challenges they pose on eating habits and overall health. The program will be held Wednesday, Dec. 13, from 1-3 p.m. in St. Luke’s Hospital Boardroom.

 The presentation will cover how changes or difficulty in swallowing affect weight, nutrition, eating and drinking habits and personal well-being.

 “Our goal is for participants to come with questions or concerns regarding any issues related to difficulties with swallowing. The 50 pairs of muscles and nerves used to help you swallow are often taken for granted and, in some cases, can lead to serious conditions,” McCool explained.

 For reservations or more information about this free presentation, please call 828-894-8419. Light refreshments will be served.

– submitted by Kathy Woodham