It was an interesting political cartoon that you carried in Tuesday’s edition.

It underscored the one issue, in the current health care reform debate, that all Americans can agree on: individual responsibility for one’s health status and hopefully the ability to get (and pay) good health care if that status is compromised.

Next week is National Public Health Week, which encourages communities across the country to highlight public health, wellness and disease prevention programs and services that keep people well and improve the public’s health.

We have an opportunity to learn about these programs on April 21 by attending the “Live Well in the Miss-Lou Health Fair” from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Vidalia Conference and Convention Center.

The event is free and open to the general public. It is being conducted by the Miss-Lou Regional Health Care Committee under the sponsorship of the Natchez-Adams County and Concordia Parish chambers of commerce.

Our committee chairman is Sarah Carter Smith, and our committee is composed of more than 20 representatives from health care providers in the region.

The fair will feature presentations and demonstrations on ways people can live healthier lives, thus preventing disease and disabilities.

Local physicians will explain ways to prevent and treat such conditions as obesity, diabetes, cancer and heart health problems, among others.

Regional hospital and health care organization representatives will also be available to inform the public about the comprehensive array of health care programs, services and treatments available in the Miss-Lou.

There will be plenty of “kid-friendly” activities as well.

Bring the whole family to the April 21 health fair to learn about ways to stay healthy and live well in the Miss-Lou.

 

Michael K. Gemmell

Natchez resident