Check your health free at Stratford Lions day

The Lions club in Stratford will host a free health check day next month.

Toko and Stratford Lions Clubs have teamed up to host a community health check day in Stratford next month.

President of the Toko and District Lions Pam Macdonald says the event will give people the opportunity to talk to health professionals and have some basic tests done.

"We will have registered nurses on hand to take your blood pressure, check your diabetic status and other simple tests, as well as offering advice on a range of health-related topics, from diet and exercise to stopping smoking."

A dietician will give advice on understanding food labelling, says Pam. "As well as numerous other health specialists, offering advice, information and checks."

They include chemists, audiology specialists, skin checks, podiatrists and lessons in CPR, cardiac educators and specialists in incontinence, stomas and prostate cancer. The event is free.

"All the checks are being done free e, thanks to the generosity of the health professionals who are donating their time and expertise to this project while the Stratford District Council have kindly given us the use of the venue at no cost."

While the event is open to anyone, Pam says the focus is particularly on hose aged 40 or over.

"As we get older, we seem to put our own health needs on the backburner at times. A bit of the Kiwi 'she'll be right' attitude, along with being short on time to get to see a doctor and we can be at risk of ignoring symptoms or warning signs. This day gives people the opportunity to talk to experts about any concerns, while also taking advantage of the chance to have a bit of a health warrant of fitness."

Pam says people can come in their lunch break from work, with no booking necessary.
"Just come along on the day, and take this brilliant opportunity to have your health checked. This helps avoid you being caught out or taken by surprise with a health issue. Let your local Lions groups help you deny your kids their inheritance for another 20 or 30 years!"
● Toko and Stratford Lions Health Promotion Day: Stratford War Memorial Centre. Thursday, December 13. 10am — 2pm. Free.