“Family Wellness Fair” enjoyed by many during National Hospital Week


Health displays at VMH Family Wellness Fair ... Many free health tests and demonstrations were offered at the Family Wellness Fair hosted by Veterans Memorial Hospital Wednesday, May 8. The display sponsored by the Respiratory Therapists at the hospital, pictured above, includes two pig lungs, one healthy and one that had been exposed to second-hand smoke, and was back by popular demand again this year. Visitors were invited to see just how the lungs expand and contract with real breathing and see firsthand the effects of smoking on these lungs, which are very similar to human lungs. Submitted photo.

The 22nd annual “Family Wellness Fair” was held Wednesday, May 8 at Veterans Memorial Hospital in Waukon. Over 220 individuals attended the wellness fair despite the very wet and cold evening. Those in attendance had the opportunity to enjoy the information and activities provided by over 45 agencies and businesses that serve Allamakee and northern Clayton counties.

Entertainment for the evening included special appearances by “Klyde Thinger” the Clown, plus the “Hidden in Plain Sight” drug exhibit from Clayton County which emulates a teenager’s bedroom with over 50 different drug indicators, indicating drug use or support of drug use.

In addition, a Waukon Fire Department fire truck and a Veterans Memorial Hospital ambulance were on site near the front entrance of the hospital for children to view. Face painting was offered plus many new youth games such as a bean bag toss, a hula hoop contest and a youth fitness challenge. Child car seat checks were also be offered by certified professionals.

Many took advantage of the service to disinfect their cell phones with the PHONESOAP machine located at the main entrance of the hospital. This service will remain available for any visitors to the hospital in the months to come at the hospital reception desk.

Veterans Memorial Hospital sponsored a health fair at the event and offered many free health tests, assessments and information throughout the evening. Both the Mayo Waukon Clinic and Gundersen Waukon Clinic were in attendance as well. Nutritious snacks were offered compliments of the hospital’s Nutrition Services department.

This family event is held each spring and is free and open to all members of all area communities.