Verde Valley Medical Center invites the community to its “Heart of the Matter” cardiac education program, Monday, Feb. 8, from 6:30-7:30 p.m. February’s presentation, “Diabetes and Heart Disease,” will be given by Brenda Howland, M.D.

Dr. Howland will discuss the link between diabetes and heart disease. She also will present information on how controlling blood sugar is critical to reducing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and complications from high blood pressure.

Dr. Howland received her medical degree from the University of Arizona. A board certified internist, she has been a member of the VVMC Medical Staff since 1998.

The Heart of the Matter program is presented free of charge, and will be located at VVMC, 269 S. Candy Lane, Cottonwood, conference rooms B and C. If you are a cardiac incident survivor or caretaker, you may wish to consider arriving at 5:30 p.m. for the Mended Hearts support group meeting which precedes the Heart of the Matter presentation.

It is easiest to park in the visitor lot on Candy Lane and enter through the EntireCare Services entrance. Please RSVP to 639-6551. Walk in attendance also is welcome.