Visitors to the farmers’ market in July had some health checks carried out thanks to Rotarians in Stone
On Saturday 4th July, Rotarians in Stone held
their first Health Awareness Day and encouraged visitors to find out more about their health through blood pressure and blood sugar checks, as well as their Body Mass Index (BMI) measured.
This was all made possible by the Crown Hotel, who provided their facilities free of charge to Rotary so they could carry out these checks in this community initiative.
The event was run in conjunction with the Stroke Association and was one of many that have been held in the United Kingdom, the overall aim of these events is to highlight the importance of getting regular checkups concerning these necessary measurements (mentioned above).
In addition to these basic health checks, participants also received essential lifestyle advice, which will not only help them control the necessary measurements but it will also give them the tools to maintain a healthy lifestyle. What was also stressed within the lifestyle advice was the importance of Face Arm Speech Time (FAST), so that the participants could recognise the symptoms of a stroke early on. Stone mayor Cllr Mike Williamson and Stone Urban county councillor Philip Jones were among those who took the tests.
The leader of this programme, Rotarian Carol Reilly, said she was “delighted that well over 100 people had agreed to take part” and that “if the event had helped to save just one life it was well worth it!”. She added: “Strokes and Trans Ischaemic Attacks (TIAs) are medical emergencies which need immediate response via the emergency services”. A few people who had these checks have even been advised to visit their doctor in the near future for further consultation, proving that getting regular checkups is extremely beneficial.
The President of Rotary in Stone, Tim Joyce, claimed that several hundred people stopped to chat with the Rotarians and their supporters. He thought it was very encouraging to discover that so many people are being well looked after by their own family doctor.
If you would like to get involved with Stone Rotarians, email pro@stonerotary.org or call 01785 819807.
