Taking control of your health fair offers more than just advice

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY)– The 6th annual “Taking Control of Your Health Fair” took over Independence Mall Thursday.

New Hanover Regional Medical Center’s physician group and WWAY hosted 47 booths designated to health and other organizations from all over the southeast.

“I Know it’s quick, but it still hurts until afterwards,” patient Jimmy Faison said.

Faison says he had only planned on going to the barber shop Thursday until he heard about the taking control of your health fair.

“When I heard they would take the tests and give you readings and explain them I said ‘hey take advantage of it,'” Faison said.

The New Hanover Regional Medical Physician’s group offered free cholesterol and blood pressure screenings,
so Faison took the plunge.

“It’s not as bad as I remembered,” Faison said.

They also gave away 50 free flu shots. Marketing organizer Lindsay Smith says all of these screenings are important for your overall health.

“Those indicators, if they’re not kept in check, can lead to a lot of other conditions that can be life threatening so, it’s important to make sure that those are within healthy levels,” Smith said.

That’s not all that was offered. WWAY had 47 booths total from organizations all over the Southeast. Faison even stumbled on something he’s been wanting to do. That is fostering for the boys and girls club.

“I’d always assumed that being single or divorced or whatever that I wouldn’t be able,” Faison said. “I’ve done mentoring in the past, but if I had somebody right in to work with, I’d love it.”

From health, to some pretty smart pups, to the boys and girls club, it was another successful start to taking control of your health.

Smith also stressed the importance of having a primary health care physician. If you don’t have one you can visit their website. http://www.nhrmc.org/nhrmc-physician-group