Go Red for Heart Health!

In celebration of American Heart Association's (AHA) national "Wear Red" campaign and our own initiative, St. Mary's encouraged everyone to wear red on February 5, 2010.  Every day women are dying of heart-related illnesses at the rate of almost one per minute making it the number one killer among women. Please show your support for the fight against heart disease by wearing red on February 5.  It's an easy, powerful way to raise awareness of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

There are a number of ways to support Heart Month in February. You can purchase a hand-crafted memory candle in honor of your loved one at a cost of $20.  See a sample candle or fill out a purchase request form at the "Wear Red" celebration table at Campus Cuisine weekdays, February 1 through February 12, from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Proceeds of the memory candles go to the AHA.  All candles will be displayed on the dining room tables at Campus Cuisine during the month of February.  Purchase request should specify who it's in memory of.  To order via email, please contact Kate Sicotte at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it . 

Also for sale at the Campus Cuisine Lobby, Wear Red pins for $2, raffle tickets for a heart themed basket (valued at $50) - tickets are $1 each or 6 for $5, and various $20 gift baskets (while supplies last). 

More "Wear Red" activities to come so keep an eye out for updates!

Take Charge! Health Screening

Managing your risk factors is a vital action you can take to help reduce your risk of having a heart attack or stroke.  Risk factors that can be changed and/or managed are physical inactivity, overweight/obesity, tobacco use, high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Take Charge! is a quick and easy screening that includes testing your total cholesterol and HDL "good cholesterol" along with a written health risk assessment, height, weight, and blood pressure measurement.  As part of the program, you will receive a personalized review of your results and health risks that will be explained to you by an exercise physiologist followed by health education.  The next screening will be held on February 17, 2010.  The cost is $25.  Click here for other Take Charge! screening dates.

If you are interested in scheduling an appointment, please call Prevention & Wellness at 777-8771.  Screenings are by appointment only so call and sign up today!