The Wellness Fair, held on Oct. 8 and 9 in the Lewis and Clark Community College Commons, was an event for the public and students to better understand the value of good health.
Healthcare is a necessity to living a hearty and able-bodied lifestyle, but it is often neglected. Health awareness is promoted in many forms and ways to educated the population on the importance of their well-being.
“Many students are unaware of the many programs offered, and the Wellness Committee believes this is a wonderful way to showcase all the services,” Donna Meyer, L&C Dean of Health Sciences, said.
The fair ran from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on both days, and was a popular pit-stop for students commuting between class periods. Many different booths, displays, and informational tables were scattered throughout the room for students and outside people to view.
Of the available activities present at the Wellness Fair, depression and substance abuse screenings headlined the event. After completing a questionnaire, students were able to talk with campus counselors about their responses and possible problems they are currently dealing with.
Other entertainment and booths included: essential oil demonstrations, chair massages, blood pressure screening, flu shots, organ donation registration, and an oral cancer screening. Reading material on all types of health issues from suicide to poison intake were available.
One display at the Wellness Fair dealt with how posture affects almost all students, especially when wearing a backpack.
“We want to prevent injury. If you’re carrying a really heavy backpack, more than 10 percent your body weight your odds of injuring yourself are higher,” Kathy Thornsberry, an L&C medical professional on staff, said.
Some students who wear backpacks may not be aware of the consequences caused with how they are worn.
“Your posture is indicative of your ability to move and breathe properly,” Thornsberry said.
Overwhelming positivity seemed to be the response from the student body who filled in during the week.
“I found all the stations very informational and interactive. It was something fun to go check out with my friends between classes,” L&C freshman, Sarah Clayton, said.
Renee Bauer and Kayla Hansen are the L&C counselors available to students’ needs. Free appointments can be set up with both, Bauer at: (618) 468-4121, and Hansen at: (618) 468-4211.
For more information about the Wellness Fair, health questions, or L&C services, contact Donna Meyer at dmeyer@lc.edu, or Sheila Emerick at semerick@lc.edu.
