Expo provides health awareness to black residents

By Thenisha Smith/reporter

Approximately 1,000 people attended the Fifth Annual African-American Health Expo April 21 in Fort Worth.
The day focused on the eradication of obesity in the black community.

A fitness demonstration sponsored by Silver Sneakers showed participants people are never too old to get active and physical activity is important to maintaining overall health.

The Texas Agricultural Extension Service provided a healthy cooking demonstration and healthy recipes that showed food can be both nutritious and delicious

More than 50 vendors provided Expo attendees information on a variety of topics ranging from dental care to organ donation to veteran’s information to speech pathology services.

Vendor Tamia Boyer with the Tarrant County Health Department said, “This is a good avenue for educating and bringing about awareness to the community on sickle cell and other health issues that affect the African-American community.”

Attendees could have their blood pressure checked, eyes examined and blood glucose levels tested. Free
HIV testing and classes on HIV and sickle cell awareness were also available.

“ The Health Expo has been fantastic,” attendee Carol Aidoo said, “Every aspect of health was covered. They covered it all: mind, body, and soul.

Aidoo’s grandchild accompanied her to the Expo.

“ I can’t get my granddaughter out of the children’s area. I have thoroughly enjoyed it,” she said.

The children’s area was filled with young visitors, including those who received immunizations. The area featured face painting, games, clowns, a library, dancing and music. In addition, the children received vaccinations and were tested for diabetes and blood pressure.

Entertainment was offered by Shanette Littlejohn, Inspirational Choir, Praise Dancers, Drill Team from Mt. Hermon Baptist Church, TamRah-Spoken Word, KURIAKOS Steppers from Inspiring Temple of Praise Church and Second Nature.

Mime Ministry of Great Commission Baptist Church, Your Praise Dancers and Drill Team from Macedonia Baptist Church also performed.