For the estimated 100 million Americans who suffer from a chronic illness, day-to-day living can be such a challenge that any thought of doing something other than “just getting by” may seem a pipe dream.

But people with chronic illnesses such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease and respiratory problems can lead fuller, happier lives if they learn how to manage their ongoing health conditions:  That’s the message of a new class beginning Wednesday, Oct. 7, at the Fullerton Senior Multi-Service Center.

The free six-week course, which will be held from 9 a.m.-11:30 p.m. Wednesdays, is designed to help people with chronic illnesses learn to manage and control the symptoms and conditions of their diseases, thus enabling them to lead fuller, healthier lives. 

Topics to be covered in the course include improving communication with your doctors, dealing with depression, personalizing a fitness program, managing symptoms, setting weekly goals, effective problem-solving, and healthier eating.

The class is open to anyone with a chronic disease, as well as to friends or relatives who help care for persons with such illnesses.  The program, developed by Stanford University, will be conducted by trained volunteers from AmeriCorps/WeCare.

Class registration and further information may be obtained by calling the center at (714) 783-6305.

The Fullerton Senior Multi-Service Center is located at 340 W. Commonwealth Ave., west of Harbor Boulevard, in Amerige Park.