FirstHealth Richmond Memorial Hospital is gearing up for its annual Kids’ Day event, on may 7, from 9 a.m. until noon. the program is free, and open to all area children and their caregivers.
“This program provides free or low-cost health screenings and safety related items,” said FirstHealth Outreach Manager Amy Forester. “It’s our response to the Fall health fair, for adults, provided by FirstHealth.”
Several Richmond County physicians will be on hand during the program to administer health screenings, and to provide medical consultation.
Ahdieh Pediatrics and Sandhills Community Care Network will be administering asthma screenings, and providing information on the topic; Shamsul Khan, M.D. will be providing ear and throat checks; Patrick Egbe, M.D. will be doing BMI assessments; Kimberly Lingler, M.D. will be conducting vision and hearing screenings; and Richmond County Health Department will be providing immunizations and lead screenings.
The Rockingham Police Department will also be on hand to assist with the procurement of identification cards for children.
The event isn’t all business, and no play for kids. Sparky the fire Dog will be celebrating his 60th birthday at the event.
“Sparky is going with the firemen, and will be having his birthday party with all the kids,” said Captain Vic McCaskill. “the fire department will also be on hand to talk about fire safety, and pass out Jr. firefighter helmets, pencils and other goodies. We want to support the event any way we can, because we believe safety and prevention are important.”
Other highlights of the event include: a bounce house; trauma roo; temporary tattoos; refreshments; K-9 Officer Blecky; boating safety display; $7 bike helmets; and $5 booster seats.
The ambulance and fire truck tours are expected to be a big hit with the youngsters, and caregivers can take the opportunity to have car seats checked by Safe Kids Mid-Carolinas Region.
“In addition to the free and discount screenings we make available, we will also work with families in order to link them with services, if needed,” said Forester. “the Health Department will be on site to assist with health check insurance information as well.”
For more information on Kids’ Day, call 910-417-3735.
n Staff writer Kelli Easterling can be reached at (910) 997-3111 ext. 18, or by email at easterling@heartlandpublications.com
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