In one of the classrooms available at the hospital, vendors worked alongside the hospital staff in presenting information and giveaways to educate participants in ways to keep their heart in good shape. Pamphlets for healthy lifestyles from exercising to diet plans as well as options to quit smoking were available along with a Powerpoint presentation rotating in the background with tips on how to maintain excellent health.
Partnering with the Redmond Regional Medical Center, which is commonly known for their cardiovascular center for surgery and treatments, a mobile AngioScreen unit was in the parking lot to offer a non-invasive vascular screening that examines a person's circulation and helps to determine the individual's risk of heart disease or stroke. Tests were administered for $25.
"We just opened our new cath lab in January," said Tori Rakes, the hospital's chief operating officer. "With February being Heart Health Awareness month now is the perfect time to do something like this."
Registered dietitians were available to discuss meal structures and plans with interested visitors as well as to provide a healthy cooking demonstration and sampling. Hospital pharmacists discussed medication options with event participants in the attempt to thoroughly explain each medical route possible and decrease any confusion about specific medications. Ladies Fitness Health Club also was alongside the staff and fellow vendors for a fitness presentation. Utilizing participating staff members, Belk sponsored a fashion show featuring spring outfits for men and women.
To keep children entertained a Kids Zone was created for face painting, emergency 911 awareness and coloring activities that provided education in health care professions as well as healthy eating habits.
South 107 hosted part of their afternoon show on site as community members participated in the event.
"I'm thrilled with this turnout," said Rakes. "We're here to provide the best in care for our patients, but we are all about prevention too. We hope to educate the community in ways to be healthy and prevent heart disease and touch on every topic."
Kathy Lucas of Rydal stated that her sister is a nurse and encouraged her to come to the event. "I like this," she said. "Usually people don't do anything until it's already happened, but with the low cost for the screenings it's good to be able to know. This whole thing is fabulous."
For more information about "Cartersville Has Heart," please call MedLine: 800-242-5662.