Islanders will have many opportunities to celebrate community health on Canada Health Day, Monday, May 12, 1997.
Canada Health Day is a national event, celebrated each year on May 12th, the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birthday.
The theme this year is Focus On Community Health. It has been chosen to encourage Canadians to support our broader view of health and health care, one that allows for greater community and individual involvement in defining health goals.
Health and Social Services Minister, Mildred Dover, said the theme is very appropriate for P.E.I., and she encouraged people to participate wherever possible. "Many excellent activities are planned," she said "by health providers and community leaders to improve individual health and to create healthy Island communities. It is also roadside clean-up time, an excellent opportunity to contribute to your community, get some exercise and have some fun at the same time."
Minister Dover encouraged Islanders to participate in the many Canada Health Day events happening throughout the Island.
In Eastern Kings, Public Health Nurses have been working for the past month with Grade 3 students to raise their awareness and understanding of the many things that make a healthy community. As part of the school immunization programs, students participated in a colouring contest to promote a healthy community. Five drawings were selected and reproduced as placemats. This week, and on Canada Health Day, the placemats are being used at local restaurants, the high school, the hospital and the manor.
In Southern Kings, health providers, the Partners For Living organization and the community are marching on Canada Health Day in the Montague Canada Health Day March For Health. The march begins at the Montague Town Hall at 12:00 noon, and winds up there for refreshments.
In the Queens Region, residents of all ages can participate in the Stratford Canada Health Day Community Walk on Saturday, May 10th, from Glen Stewart School at 11:00. Stratford residents have combined talents to promote community spirit, fitness and fun.
For more information, contact Jean Doherty, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Health and Community Services, (902) 368 6257.