Hospital health fair offers discounted tests on Sept. 10
Daniela Vazquez
Staff writer
9-8-2016
GUNNISON—This year’s Gunnison Valley Hospital Health and Safety Fair will be held on Saturday and is focused on instilling improved health and safety values in the families that attend.
“Our goal for the health and safety fair is to provide a fun event for families to learn about important health and safety resources in their community,” Liz Brown, human resources specialist for the hospital, said. “But, ultimately we see this as an opportunity to say thank you for allowing the hospital to serve this community for 85 years.”
A balloon release will kick off the event, followed by a 5k run/walk at the Gunnison Valley Hospital (GVH) on 64 E. 100 North at 9 a.m. Registration for the race begins at 8:30 a.m., and suggested donations are $20 for families, $15 for singles, and $10 for children.
According to Brown, the race is an opportunity to celebrate and honor the life of a deceased loved one, and is open to everyone. Children on scooters and in strollers are even encouraged to participate.
GVH has invited the American Red Cross to attend the health fair to help with the demand of blood, which is said to be at a critical low. Blood draws will begin at 10 a.m. and go until 2 p.m.
Two diabetes education classes will be held to showcase skills families can use to help manage diabetes. Classes are at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
A hamburger and hotdog barbeque will be served at 11 a.m.
Vouchers for services such as labs, gender ultrasounds and body composition will be available.
The Centerfield Police will offer an expired prescription drop-off to dispose of old medicine safely.
Various other booths will provide information about common health issues and how to prevent them. Doctors at an “ask a doctor” booth will offer advice about a number of health care related issues.
A bounce house, climbing wall, inflatable slide, face painting, etc will be available for children. Local dance and music groups will provide additional entertainment.
Between the educational services and screenings offered at the health fair, drawings for prizes will take place every half hour.
“We want to encourage families to attend the Health and Safety Fair this year,” Brown said. “We want children in our community to experience the hospital in a positive way, and not just a place to go when they’re sick.”
The event is free and open to the public.
