A Community with heart

 

By Vicki Winger

 

The McLeod River Primary Care Network hosted its first annual event last week at the Whitecourt Legion. The event provided a day of pampering to people with lower income, or who may be facing challenges in other ways. Roberta Austin, a Registered Social Worker with McLeod River Primary Care Network said that it’s a day to have fun and treats to those who came and provide some additional resource information as well.

 

Approximately 40 people registered for the event. They are current clients of the Primary Care Network, or were referred by their doctors. “We were inspired by a similar event in Edmonton done by a group called Homeless Connect.” Those who registered said they enjoyed the day and were grateful, as they not only felt pampered, but also received services that they needed. One guest who suffers from chronic migraines was very thankful to Olga’s Massage for being able to alleviate her pain.

 

 

What kinds of services were offered to pamper and assist? The Primary Care Network provided foot care for diabetics, and Curl Up and Dye provided haircuts and nail care. The Whitecourt Library provided free books and for other kinds of reading material there was also a resource table offering pamphlets and resources and advice about services available to those facing challenges. Participants could also get flu shots, and the Lodge donated winter gear, such as hand-knit toques, socks and mittens.

 

Dentists from the 50^th Ave Dental Clinic and a doctor and nurse, Dr. Coenraad Byers and a nurse specializing in chronic disease management answered questions about health matters, or saw patients who needed to speak to a doctor. Olga’s Massage also provided massages to those who had pain.

 

Thank you to the IGA for the vegetable and snack trays that were provided and to the restaurants who donated pizza.

 

Jordan Veitch, also a Registered Social Worker, says although it’s their first event, they will gauge the response and the attendance as they are hopeful that they will be able to offer it from now on.