Contributed Article
St. Matthew AME Church held its Annual Health Fair, organized by Mrs. Michelle Gilchrist, FNP, a dedicated healthcare professional committed to improving community wellness. The event brought together local healthcare professionals and participants eager to learn about maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
The program opened with an inspiring prayer led by Reverend Gypsie Murdaugh of Piney Grove United Methodist Church, setting a tone of hope and unity for the day. Following the invocation, attendees were treated to a series of enlightening presentations by healthcare professionals covering a wide range of topics.
Ms. Alexia McKoy, FNP, of CareSouth Carolina, educated participants on hypertension (HTN), emphasizing the importance of managing blood pressure. She provided practical tips, such as dietary changes, regular physical activity, and stress reduction, and highlighted the significance of early detection and treatment to prevent complications.
Mrs. Toni Graves, a mental health specialist in private practice, gave a compelling talk on mental health. She stressed the importance of annual mental health assessments, likening them to routine medical checkups, and encouraged attendees to take their mental well-being seriously. Through engaging discussions, Graves shared statistics on mental health disorders and offered insights into treatment options and risk factors.
Asia Harrison of McLeod Health underscored the importance of acquiring basic life-saving skills. She provided a demonstration on how to respond effectively during cardiac arrest emergencies, equipping attendees with potentially life-saving knowledge.
Ms. Hattie Lighty energized the audience by leading a brief session of low-impact exercises, promoting physical activity as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle.
Mrs. Brenda Clements, a Health Benefits Coordinator and licensed insurance agent, provided valuable insights on navigating Marketplace health insurance and selecting Medicare Advantage plans. Additionally, she discussed the advantages and disadvantages of term life, whole life, and indexed universal life insurance policies.
Ms. Latasha Bethea of CareSouth Carolina discussed the implications of diabetes and the importance of eating in moderation, particularly during the holiday season. She provided practical tips on managing diabetes.
Dr. Latifah Smith, a local native and anesthesiologist Resident Physician at UNC Chapel Hill, shared insights on herbal treatments versus traditional medication. She reminded participants to always consult their medical providers before incorporating herbal remedies into their treatment plans, emphasizing the need for professional guidance.
The health fair was supported by Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.’s Pearls of Promise and
Purpose, who warmly greeted participants and managed registration. CareSouth Carolina provided free health screenings, ensuring attendees had access to vital health checks.
To round out the day, participants enjoyed a nutritious meal, reinforcing the importance of healthy eating habits.
The Annual Health Fair at St. Matthew AME Church was a success assisting people with education and proactive health management. Mrs. Michelle Gilchrist and the entire team of speakers and volunteers deserve commendation for their efforts to empower individuals to take charge of their health.
With events like these, the community continues to move toward a healthier, more informed future. Under the leadership of Reverend Fredrick Johnson, St. Matthew AME Church ensures that resources and education are available to all.
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