Annual Health Fair for seniors draws crowd
Nearly 200 attendees ages 55 and older gathered at the Sparkman Civic Center to participate in the annual Hartselle Health Fair this past Friday. This year’s theme, “Disney through the Years,” featured 37 vendors and exhibitors.
The event collected $4,450 from exhibitors and sponsors, according to event organizer Kelly McIntyre. McIntyre is the director of admissions at The Cottages in Hartselle.
Of the funds raised, $2,083 was allocated to purchase items for the eight Morgan County senior centers, she said, including a deep freezer, utility cart, leaf blowers, printers, puzzles, craft items, dart boards, sewing machines and tickets to the Cook Museum in Decatur. The remaining $2,367 is being donated to Meals on Wheels & More through CAPNA.
Sponsors for the event included The Cottages, Decatur Morgan Homecare, Genesis Rivercity Center, Hospice of North Alabama, NARCOG, McAbee Medical, DOC Orthopaedic & Sports Medicine, Redstone Federal Credit Union, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cullman Regional Hospice, Right at Home, Viva Health and the Mental Health Association.
Bryan Chapman with McAbee Medical said he enjoys being a sponsor and vendor of the annual event because it offers him a unique opportunity to connect with the senior community that he serves.
“It also allows us to connect with other resources in the community like other assisted living, government resources and other things that sometimes seniors ask us about because they might not be sure what is available in their community,” Chapman said.
Entertainment was provided by DJ Richie Thompson, who kept the energy high with a playlist that got everyone dancing, including a crowd favorite, “YMCA,” and some lively line dancing. Attendees enjoyed drinks, popcorn, door prizes, giveaways and a wealth of information.
The feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive.
Long-time attendee Jill Copeland said, “I’ve been coming for the last 8 years. It’s busy.” Brenda Reynolds added, “It’s always refreshing to have this event. It’s good to relax and learn more about what’s available in the community.”
“It’s a blessing to all senior citizens,” Diann Alexander added. “We get to know each other. I love it.”
“I want to thank all the exhibitors and sponsors for helping make this another great Hartselle Health Fair,” McIntyre said. “I love the fact that our seniors can come to one place to learn about all the wonderful resources and have fun at the same time. I can’t wait to see everyone again next year.”
