Health and Wellness Fair to return

After an absence in 2018, the Fall into Health and Wellness Fair will again be held on Saturday, Sept. 28.

The community awareness fair is the brain child of co-organizers Deb Fisher and Pat Faris. Both are school nurses in Sussex County elementary schools and have extensive experience in all phases of healthcare.

Faris and Fisher estimate that upwards of 30 health organizations will be present at the autumn event, with familiar local names like the American Heart Association, the Division of Senior Services, Newton Medical center and the Sparta Cancer Center.

The Center for Prevention and Counseling will have information on adolescent vaping. Shop Rite of Franklin dieticians will be offering tips on eating and quick, easy and healthy recipes. Vernon Acme will provide no-cost or low-cost 2019 flu shots. Hands-on or participation activities will include art therapy and yoga demonstrations by the Hardyston YMCA, with the Y also suggesting movement therapy and daily exercise for all ages.

The Alzheimer Association and the Vernon Valley Vietnam Veterans Chapter 1002 will explore their respective diseases and health issues and assistances related to those in the military services. Trans Options will encourage bicycle safety by distributing complimentary bicycle helmets to fair participants on a first come, first serve basis.

There may be additional surprises of new and different health participants like pet care or tick safety as the two nurses are still in the process of recruiting health care personnel.

“We are extremely excited about the 2019 Health and Wellness Fair, it’s a wonderful, efficient way to get familiar with all our local and county resources,” explained Fisher.

Faris reiterated that knowing and education of health topics is a great stress reliever and can be empowering.

“Mark your calendars for Saturday September 28 at St. Francis de Sales Church in Vernon for a truly informative look at health and well- being,” smiled the nurses.