Being masculine does not mean ignorging health. In an effort to bring attention to the health of men with a stiff upper lip, a car show, free food and entertaining speakers are offered to alongside free health screenings at Stein Mart Square, Downtown Washington Avenue, 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. Saturday, June 22.
Man Up, Take Control of Your Health is the first collaborative effort among sponsering organizations Washington County Community Action Network, Tougaloo College Delta Health Partners Male Involvement, City of Greenville and Washington County Opportunity Inc. HS/EHS.
June is Men’s Health Awareness month, which focuses on preventable health problems and encourages detection and treatment of disease among men and boys.
Health care providers, public policy makers, and individuals are encouraged to promote issues invloving men’s health, which includes seeking medical advice and early treatment for disease and injury.
“Did you know that men, on average, die almost five years earlier than women,” said Carol Mack, an event chairperson. “Part of the reason is that men are more reluctant to go to the doctor. Recognizing in preventing men’s health problems is not just a man’s issue. Because of its impact on wives, mothers, daughters and sisters, men’s health is truly a family issue.”
Vendors such as Mid Delta Home Health & Hospice, Delta Health Center, Delta Health Partners and Mayors Health Council/Vessels of Mercy Health Ministry will be at the event.
The vendors will be providing blood pressure and weight screening.
Corvette, motorcycle and motorbike clubs will showcasing cars and bikes in the car show. Individuals interested in entering their vehicles in the car show may contact Dejuan Watts at 662-255-1522 or Jestin Dishman at 662-645-2964 for information on how to enter.
“The concept of cars and bikes is something that men gear towards because their automobiles is something that they take pride in,” said Watts. “We want them to also take pride in their health and bodies just like they do their cars or bikes.”
The refreshments are free and there will be live music as well.
Sherman Harris, speaking on men’s mental health, and Jessie Tyler, speaking on chronic diseases in the Delta, will be the guest speakers for the event.
Face painting and fingerprinting will be available for children.
“We want the community to be involved and engaged in increasing awareness,” said Beverly Courtney, an event chairperson.
For more information, contac Beverly Courtney at 662-332-1521 or Carol Mack 662-335-4300.
