Public Health takes preparedness, health and wellness message on road

By Darlene M. Foote

The images that come to most people's minds when they hear "Public Health" are typically very limited. However, Cobb & Douglas Public Health is on a mission to let community members know that they have a lot to offer.

In an effort to reach the community in a big way Cobb & Douglas Public Health is teaming up with the Yolanda Adams Morning Show, Health and Wellness Tour to emphasize the value of healthy habits and choices, as well as the importance of emergency preparedness and personal readiness.

The event, which will be held Feb. 21 at Word of Faith Family Worship Cathedral at 212 Riverside Parkway, Austell, GA, from noon to 5 p.m., will feature a variety of health and wellness information and activities.

Cobb & Douglas Public Health will offer a variety of educational booths, seminars and breakout sessions from Cardiovascular Disease Signs, Symptoms of Heart Attack and Stroke and Talking to your Teenager, to Travel Abroad, Family Preparedness Planning and What You Need to Know About Pandemic Flu. Gospel recording star, Yolanda Adams will also be in attendance, along with other radio personalities from 97.5 FM.

"This will be wonderful opportunity for us to introduce ourselves to the community and let them know who we are and why we are here," said Dr. Jack Kennedy, District Health Director. With a total of 10 centers in Cobb and Douglas Counties, the Department provides community and personal health services for children, adolescents and adults.

Another vital function of Public Health is to provide emergency preparedness and response to the community in times of natural or manmade crisis. "In the event of a Public Health emergency, our primary role is to provide medical support and information to Cobb and Douglas county residents," said Pam Blackwell, R.N., Director, Center for Emergency Preparedness and Response. "Our goal is to connect with the community and educate them before a crisis arises."

There will also be opportunities for people who would like to volunteer to assist during emergencies. For more details about the event go to Praise 97.5.