Health fair screenings prove to be important

Sue Church, County FSA Agent

Just ask Brenda Swinney of Hedley if taking advantage of the health screenings at the Health and Wealth Fair on the Clarendon College campus can make a big difference in a person’s life. 

She knew she didn’t have a great deal of energy several months prior to last year’s Health and Wealth Fair, but she had no idea that a simple hemoglobin test could identify the source of the problem.  Vicky Robertson, R.N., related that she re-ran the test on Ms. Swinney because she couldn’t believe the initial results.  Only after a second test did she inform Brenda Swinney that it was important to see a doctor immediately, which Brenda did that day.

Her 5.0 hemoglobin count was cause for grave concern as the ideal range is 12-16.  Even one year later, Brenda reports that her energy level is not where it should be, but it has improved dramatically.  She is taking prescribed iron supplements and can tell a world of difference in her current condition.

Each year several men have been referred to their physicians as a result of abnormal PSA readings at the health fair.  In 1999, a CISD employee learned of her diabetic condition following a glucose test at the Health and Wealth Fair. 

Another attendee at last year’s fair found it advisable to follow up with her physician regarding the results from her bone density test. 

These are just a few of the reported outcomes and benefits of the tests at this annual event while others have not been documented.  In any event, the Health and Wealth Fair provides immeasurable value to the lives of area residents.

The “Be a Champion of Your Health and Wealth IV” will take place Wednesday, March 21, at the Clarendon College Bairfield Activity Center from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Except for breast mammograms and immunizations, all health screens offered at the fair will be free of charge.  They will include glucose, cholesterol, PSA, blood pressure, hemoglobin glaucoma, bone density, and hearing tests.  Supporting the sponsorship of these health screens will be the Donley County Hospital District, which includes the Associated Ambulance Authority and the Medical Center Nursing Home; the Clarendon Family Medical Center; the Northwest Texas Health Care System; Lions Eye Bank; Novartis Pharmaceutical Company; and Miracle Ear.

The blood-drawn health screens will be conducted in the north hallway of the Bairfield Activity Center this year.  To get more accurate test results individuals are encouraged to fast 12 hours prior to having the blood work done.

In addition to the health screens will be a blood drive by the Coffee Memorial Blood bank, educational exhibits and story time for children by the Friends of the Library Literacy Council.  The Internal Revenue Service will assist with income tax return preparation.  To come prepared with information needed for preparing your tax return, be sure to bring in a copy of your 1999 income tax return, W-2’s and 1099’s for 2000, and social security numbers for individuals to be claimed on your 2000 income tax return.  Additionally, the Social Security Administration can help individuals sign up for the direct deposit of their benefits.

At 12:15 p.m. the kickoff for the annual Walk Across Texas campaign will begin with a representative of the Big 5 Sports Center delivering a brief message on “Motivating Yourself to Exercise” followed by the drawing of door special prizes for Walk Across Texas participants.

There will be a live remote broadcast provided by local radio station KEFH 99.3 FM throughout the duration of the Health and Wealth Fair.  Exhibitors of the event are offering door prizes which will be drawn for each half hour and will be announced on the air.

For those wanting to take in lunch or a light snack at the Health and Wealth Fair, Cheryl and Bob Wiggins, of Catering by Cheryl, will be offering concessions for fair goers.  The Wiggins have several new menu items they will make available.

The Health and Wealth Fair is an annual event that provides thousands of dollars in personal savings to area residents.  This is a stress-free setting that allows individuals the opportunity to keep a check on their health while sharing in some community fellowship.  Be sure to mark March 21 on your calendars, as it’s an event you won’t want to miss.  For more information about the fair, call the Extension Office at 874-2141.