CRESTVIEW — Some 50 healthcare vendors filled the Crestview Community Center on Saturday, offering helpful information and health screenings.
The Crestview Area Chamber of Commerce’s Health and Wellness Committee hosted the awareness event, which gave residents no reason to ignore their health, as several tests were free.
Crestview resident Nikki Priest — who got a free flu shot and a skin cancer screening — said the day’s events were quick, painless and provided assurance.
"Getting both of those done has really put my mind at ease," she said.
Lynn Weldon, a registered dental hygienist and tobacco treatment specialist, gave free oral cancer screenings with ultraviolet lighting. She also passed out information for local free quit-smoking programs.
A couple of students from Crestview’s Science Students Together Reaching Instructional Diversity and Excellence program, or SSTRIDE, assisted. SSTRIDE, an outreach program sponsored by the Florida State University College of Medicine, ensures students who want a career in medicine have the curriculum and lab work experience available to complete their goal.
"We've been out here taking vitals and giving information on nutrition," said Katelyn Ramirez, 16, a prospective pediatrician.
Some of parents, like Crestview resident Miguel Booker, used the fair to have their children vaccinated. Booker brought his daughter, Amber Washington, 11, to get her first flu shot at the Crestview Urgent Care table. Amber said she was hesitant at first, but eventually came around.
"It doesn't hurt and you need it," she said.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Health fair gives residents information, assurance