Union hosts second annual health fair
Second grader Tanner Cooper prepares to try to knock down the cans in a game set up at the Family & Children First Council table at the second annual Union Elementary Health Fair. Josie Sellers | Beacon
WARSAW – For the second year in a row the community was invited to attend a health fair at Union Elementary School.
“We had a great turnout last year and through this we are able to educate not just the children, but the whole family,” said Principal Jarred Renner.
The free event included displays from each of the class on a health issue they researched.
“We focused on eye health,” said Sarah Fornara, who teaches third grade at Union. “The kids don’t realize that what they do when they are young affects how their eyes are when they are older.”
Her classroom display included tips on how smoking, hygiene, nutrition, exercise and wearing sunglasses can impact your health. They also had quizzes set up for people to test their knowledge.
“One of the students told me after doing this that it’s really important for kids to know what they are doing now can affect them later,” Fornara said.
In addition to the displays, community organizations and agencies were available with information about positive, family-oriented health, safety, and wellness choices.
Kayla Davis, school nurse, was with her sister Clarissa Gergley at a table set up to educate people about strokes.
“Anyone of any age can have one,” Gergley said. “Even unborn babies can have strokes.”
Gergley, who is 27, had a stroke this past December, but recovered well. However, doctors do not know what caused it.
“Strokes can really impact your daily living, but mine didn’t really debilitate me in any way,” Gergley said. “We want to let people know what a stroke is though and how to spot one. Knowing the signs could ultimately save a life.”
Attendees of the health fair also received snack bags with fresh and healthy items from Baker’s IGA and had the chance to win raffle and door prizes. Plus many people chose to do a fun line dance exercise with gym teacher Lisa Green.
“I really appreciate everyone that partnered with us and helped us connect our families with agencies and their services,” Renner said.
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