SSMH Health Fair - Fall 2008

Hello All BTW Followers!

Fall is definitely upon us now. We have had our first frosts on the pumpkins and leaves are turning the beautiful colors so familiar to those who live in this part of the Ozarks. Speaking of fall always brings up the hospital Health Fair. They do one each spring and fall, and held a very successful Health Fair on Saturday, October 18, 2008. They had more people than ever stop by and have their blood drawn for the lab to check. The lines were long from very early (6:45 am) until it was over at noon. All vendors seemed to stay busy passing out information and giving goodies that might advertise their business. Many hospital departments were represented, and I got the feeling from the people I spoke with that it was just a great community event. The weather was beautiful! We had sunshine and a blue sky, but there was a bit of a nip in the air when we arrived.

During this event, another thing was happening in our fine community. The Annual Siloam Springs Heart Walk took place. From what I have heard, more money was raised this year than ever before! Way to go Siloam!!! The economy is down, but people are still stepping up to GIVE for heart health and walk to show support! I was proud to be a part of the Heart Walk this year, and walked the 2 miles without much difficulty, except for the uphill climb at the end of the walk. The walk started at the Hospital Health Fair, went down Maxwell street hill to E Twin Springs, then left on Washington street to get on the Walking Trail at Washington and Main. We then followed the trail to a point on Washington that made one mile, turned around and came back on the same path to end up back at the Health Fair. That meant the UPHILL climb was the last part of the walk. It really wasn't so bad as I made it out to be, but I did huff and puff for a while when I got back under the big white tents at the Health Fair!

We were able to pass out many fliers about Bridges to Wellness, as well as surveys, to both individuals and businesses. We hope many will go ahead and fill out those surveys, or at least visit us online to see what we are up to. Thank you to all who have turned in your completed surveys! Your input is greatly appreciated, and we are continuing to gather and compile that information so we will be able to help the most people with their health and wellness.
Best wishes for Health and Wellness to you all!
Joyce