Health and fitness briefs for Nov. 6

This year marks the fourth annual Reindeer Run, which includes three options: a 10k, a 5k and a shorter Reindeer Dash for children. The theme is “Crazy Socks!” Participants are asked to wear their “most interesting, craziest socks” to the events. Prizes will be given to those whose socks wow the judges.

The Oklahoma City Running Club has selected the run as part of its 10k race series.

“All proceeds from the race will benefit crisis counseling for children,” said Lisa Macias, chief reindeer officer (no, that's a not a misprint), in a news release. “Each year NorthCare works with over 2,000 children impacted by child abuse, neglect and mental illness. This race is the only event NorthCare has to support these services.”

NorthCare helps 13,000 Oklahomans each year who are dealing with emotional crises or substance abuse issues. It provides outpatient mental health services to children, adolescents and families who have been affected by trauma.

The 5k and 10k races begin at 9:30 a.m. at NorthCare's south parking lot, 4436 NW 50. Once those races have started, the Reindeer Dash will begin.

Registration for the 5k or 10k is $20. The dash is free.

To register or for more information, go to www.northcare.com/inline/reindeer.html.

Hospice of Oklahoma County Inc. will begin training volunteer end-of-life caregivers on Nov. 20.

The hospice provides care for the dying and their families in nine central Oklahoma counties, including Oklahoma City and surrounding areas, according to a news release. A skilled team of nurses, home health aides, social workers, chaplains and trained community volunteers provides physical, spiritual and emotional support.

“Volunteers provide a special type of care and concern hospice patients and their families find so meaningful,” Ruth Ann Frick, volunteer coordinator, said in the release. “They make such a difference at the end of someone's life.”

Full-time caregivers devote their time to making patients comfortable. Volunteers allow them to take short breaks. Volunteers also assist at the Integris Hospice House, run errands for caregivers or become companions to patients who are living alone or in nursing homes.

Hospice of Oklahoma County is a nonprofit, Medicare-certified hospice program.