Pocahontas Memorial Hospital Rural Health Clinic held its first ever Women’s Health Fair and Red Tent Event September 6 on the hospital lawn.  Educational seminars were held in the Red Tent, with Dr. Julie Hare, MD moderating.  Cheryl Cain, a breast cancer survivor, opened the event with a very personal and moving talk about her own experiences.  A common theme with Cain, Hare and Donna Lidel-Burley, FNP, was the importance for women to be their own advocates for their health and healthcare.  Hare and Lidel-Burley spoke about the importance of bringing any changes or issues to your medical provider and that women (and all patients) have the right to be taken seriously.

Vendors and exhibitors were on site with a variety of offerings and products.  One of the most popular offerings was a Reiki tent, with Carol Cassidy.  Reiki is a form of alternative medicine originating from Japan, in which hands are placed just off the body or lightly touching the body, as in “laying on of hands.”  Its intention is to create deep relaxation, to help speed healing, reduce pain, and decrease other symptoms a person may be experiencing.

Another popular offering was from Knapps Creek Fly Fishing.  Ann Mitchell was on-hand to give lessons on casting and the PMH lawn was covered with the flying lines of fisherwomen throughout the day.  Other exhibits and vendors included:  Younique Makeup with Pattie Plaugher, Scentsy with Jennifer Buzzard, Spaces of Grey with Erin Browning, Yew Mountain Center with Erica Marks, Red Oak Insurance, Amedysis, High Rocks Academy, Anthem Insurance, Bonnie’s Bus, and Essential Oils.  PMH services were also highlighted with exhibits from the Nutrition/Dietician Services, Infection Control and blood pressure checks.

Door prizes and refreshments were generously donated from businesses in the community including: Alfredo’s Pizza, Subway, Greenbrier Grille, Rayetta’s Lunchbox, The Mason Jar, Glades, CJ Richardson’s, Buckeye Country Mart and Pocahontas Pharmacy, as well as Pocahontas Memorial Hospital staff.

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