Teachers, students, and staff of the Pares Secondary School participated in a mini-health fair this week.  The event which took place on Tuesday 22^nd March was a collaborative effort of several agencies: the Rotary Club of Antigua, Antigua, and Barbuda Diabetes Association (ABDA), Medical Benefits Scheme (MBS) Antigua and Barbuda Association of Nutritionist and Dieticians (ABANDI) along with the Sir Lester Bird Medical Centre.

There was a high level of enthusiasm as teachers, students, and other staff at the school eagerly participated in all of the activities. On hand were nutritionists, nurses, and other healthcare workers who assisted in health screenings and food demonstrations.  

Health screenings were carried out for diabetes, hypertension, body mass index (BMI), height, weight, and cholesterol. The food demonstrations aspect consisted of nutritional alternatives namely, vegetable wraps and smoothies.

 President of the Diabetes Association, Juanita James, and Principal of the School Letitia Harris-Lawrence were two of the organisers.

The event was organised to increase awareness of the importance of healthy lifestyles. James said, “We want to be very practical in our approach. We want to increase the knowledge regarding, diabetes along with other non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and to reduce such risk. By going into schools you are meeting teachers, students, and other staff. The students then share that information with their parents and as an organisation we work in partnerships and to share resources.”

 An elated principal also expressed her satisfaction with the event. Principal Lawrence stated, “I am very pleased with the outcome; it was a concept in my mind for some time then Ms. James approached me and we were working on the logistics but everything was placed on pause due to COVID-19 restrictions.”

She elaborated further, “At first I was a bit dubious about the idea because children appear to want jumpy things. Most were even apprehensive because of needles but despite that, it was a welcome initiative wish I hope will continue.”

She further expressed her sentiments concerning non-communicable diseases. “Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are not isolated just to seniors but young persons as well. I know of current situations even close to me who are hypertensive and diabetics. This whole idea was borne out of personal experiences and as the principal, I am in a position to effect change since the quality of our lives as adults began in our youth.”

Many thanks to the organisers and those who assisted in making the event a success, your commitment, and expertise are deeply appreciated.