By Staff
Thanks for support during Fitfest
I'm so elated over the success of another exciting FitFest and DWM Senior Health Advantage program held recently in Brewton. D. W. McMillan Hospital and departments worked quickly and efficiently with the guests to provide health screenings for blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar, tobacco use assessment, and lung functioning use. They are to be commended
The primary purpose of FitFest 2006 and Senior Health Advantage program was to encourage the seniors in the community to become more fully informed and more pro-active about their health and lifestyle. As a result of the program, we observed that the seniors seem more interested and more knowledgeable about how to improve their quality of life. A grand total of seventy – three people attended this year. We were so impressed with the big increase from last year's program
I heard several people state how surprised they were that their blood pressures were elevated. They were encouraged to have their pressures checked by their doctors or healthcare providers. The compiled test results from our health screening will be mailed to participants soon. Just think, all of these wonderful screenings were done as a FREE service of D.W. McMillan Hospital.
It was exciting for me to chat with people from the surrounding areas including Atmore, Castleberry, Evergreen, Flomaton, Jay, Okalahoma, and Pensacola. It was pleasing to realize that people would come from miles away to secure medical services in a "One Stop Health Care" type environment. All of the topics were informative, timely and well received.
We would like to thank our speakers for giving dynamic insights on the following topics:
Bob Ellis, Director of Nursing at D. W. McMillan Hospital gave a very informative talk on the "Matters of the Heart" He discussed Heart Attacks, Strokes and Hypertension. He emphasized the importance of recognizing severe pain in the arms, chest and shortness of breath; and that we should call 911 immediately for medical care. Bob also strongly recommended that all people over the age of 40 take one aspirin a day as a preventive measure for heart attacks and stroke, if they are not allergic OR on any blood thinner. Note: All people should check with their family physicians regarding taking aspirin.
Janet Peterman, Fitness Director at the Brewton Area YMCA, encouraged all of us to do a series of strength building exercises every day. And to get off the couch and …JUST MOVE MORE!
.Marcia DeGraaf, Human Resource/Community Coordinator at D. W. McMillan Hospital, gave highlights of the DWM Health Advantage Program. and support groups that meet at the hospital
I would like to extend an ENORMOUS THANKS to the following for providing GREAT services and for a job well done:
D. W. McMillan Hospital and their staff, Escambia County Extension System and the Brewton Area YMCA
I would be remiss if I did not THANK the following businesses for the wonderful SUPPORT they shared with us:
B. C. Moore's, Changing Seasons Florists, Herrington's the Florist, Milligan's Place, Marvin's Building Material, NDI (Natural Dried Interior), The Garden Gate, The Treasure Chest, Wal-Mart, and Weaver's,
It was rewarding to realize that FitFest 2006 and D. W. M Senior Advantage Programs were successful because of the collaboration of many caring and dedicated people wanting to provide a service for the community. When people work together for a common goal, they can accomplish a lot. Thank you everyone for your continued support of our health care programs.
Carolyn F. Bivins
Brewton