University Mall, Kroger and Wal-Mart held events Saturday to get the word out about heart health and the American Heart Association's Go Red campaign.
From 8 to 10:30 a.m., Athens residents had the opportunity to enjoy a continental breakfast and learn more about the Mall Walkers Program, in which a group of people exercise by walking through the mall.
The Ohio University College of Osteopathic Medicine community service programs offered a free cholesterol, glucose and blood pressure screening in the mobile health van at Wal-Mart's parking lot, 929 E. State St.
Inside, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., displays were set up from local fitness centers, the Athens Health Department, O'Bleness Memorial Hospital and more. Each display included an array of information for heart-conscious visitors.
At Kroger, 919 E. State St., a table was set up in the entranceway to give patrons information, and Kroger was offering Red Dress Specials on heart-healthy items throughout the store. From 12 to 1 p.m., the Hocking Valley Chorus provided musical entertainment.
Today we are out here educating the public about women's heart health and giving out brochures and information
said Lynn Anastas, vice president of community relations at O'Bleness. We're trying to increase people's awareness that heart disease is not a man's disease.
A Go Red Fashion Show was held at Wal-Mart. Models sporting red shared heart health facts with the spectators.
What people don't realize about heart health is that you may not have any symptoms that your heart is unhealthy said Lisa Flowers-Clements, a mother of two whose children participated in the fashion show.
Flowers-Clements stressed that proper diet and exercise are important for maintaining a healthy heart.
It is important to promote knowledge that heart disease is the No. 1 killer in women said Ruth Dudding, health educator at the Athens Health Department.
The health department is collaborating with Wal-Mart to start a walk program, which Dudding said she hopes will kick off in April.
Women are often the health care providers for their families
she said. They are models for kids and the support for their husbands; sometimes they forget about themselves.
It is important for people to know that the little things do count, Dudding said. Even smoking one less cigarette in a day or having one more glass of water can help.
At least one resident received good news at the free screening.
I'm always watching my health
and I don't see the doctor much
said Sue Dillon, 56, of Fisher Road. I'm looking peachy-keen today; everything is way within its means.
With a history of heart problems in her family, Dillon said the free screening was convenient because she didn't have to make an appointment and then wait around in the waiting room.
This year we decided to come out and help the community and try to get the community more involved
said Kristi Brown, administrative assistant for community relations at O'Bleness, who spent Saturday passing out information at Kroger.
O'Bleness offers a glucose and cholesterol screening the first Wednesday of every month, which costs $5. To schedule an appointment, call 592-9300.
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Heather Foos
