Fair promotes health for body, mind
By Lara Hendrickson
Staff Reporter

TCU’s first Health and Wellness Fair Thursday focused on different health issues and new programs available at the University Recreation Center, said Mary Ellen Milam, associate director of Campus Recreation.

The “Wellness Explosion” fair, which was hosted by the recreation center and community organizations, was free to the public and lasted 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Complimentary classes such as pilates and kickboxing were offered.

More than 30 booths were set up, providing screenings for blood pressure, blood sugar, mammography, cholesterol, hearing, skin cancer and vision. A blood drive was also sponsored by Carter BloodCare.

Rachel Julian, director of fitness and wellness for Campus Recreation, said they had been planning extensively for the fair by collecting business cards of wellness programs that would be interested in setting up booths.

She also said she wanted to start the program for students and faculty, so they could better understand total wellness and be able to approach her with any comments.
“I welcome any suggestions,” Julian said. “This is for them, not for me.”

David and Rita Flora were asked to participate in the fair to represent their company, Vision for Life.

Rita Flora said they were excited to have this opportunity.

“We wanted to show people the products that make them feel better daily,” Rita Flora said. “And we wanted to promote our business.”

Ashley Fisher, junior fashion merchandising major, said she was on her way to work out when she noticed the health fair and ended up looking at the booths.

“I learned a lot about general wellness from all the booths,” Fisher said. “I am really glad I came and would definitely attend again.”

Julian said between 1,500 to 3,000 students were expected to attend the fair.

Lara Hendrickson
l.c.hendrickson@tcu.edu