If you attended Isha’s seventh annual McMinnville Community Health Fair, it was three hours of interesting information, free screenings and assessments, and even samples of healthy food.
On Saturday at Three Star Mall, rows of tables were set up, including representatives from Multi-County Cancer Support Group, a nonprofit organization designed to provide emotional, educational and financial support to cancer patients and their families.
“We provide up to $3,500 for cancer patients and up to $1,000 for travel reimbursement in eight counties including Warren,” said MCCSN board member Tann Rymer. “You just fill out a financial statement.”
Caring Hearts United, a nonprofit that works with hospice organizations, had a table displaying care baskets with coloring books, decorative items and other delightful goodies.
“We do between 450 to 500 baskets each holiday for hospice patients and this is just some of the stuff we put together,” said co-chair Alma Shoemaker. “We make sure our basket has something hospice patients can do, something they can use and something they can eat or drink.”
Several people from our community took advantage of the free screenings and assessments. Bill Martin had his blood pressure checked by Dr. Vinutha Atmakur, while Lion’s Club volunteer John Robinson checked Wallace Calvin’s vison.
Dr. Kayal Sambandam shared sleep remedies while also offering samples of a colorful and healthy snack rich in vitamins – carrot and green gram salad.
She shared the recipe for those who want to recreate it at home.
Carrot and Green
Gram Salad
3 Tbsp Isha Seasonings
1 ½ carrots, grated
2 cups green gram, sprouted
2 tsp. salt
1 tsp. black pepper
1-2 Tbsp lemon/lime juice
¼ bunch cilantro, finely chopped
Combine all ingredients. Garnish with cilantro. Variation: Add ¼ cup plumped raisins. Yields 3 – 4 servings.
Isha representative Dr. Kalpana Rajdev said the event offers a well-rounded variety of services and information. She’s already making plans for next year’s health fair in an effort to provide general information about good health and preventive medicine to the public.
If you were unable to attend and would like more information, call Isha at 815-8500 or email IshaCare@gmail.com.
