RaeAnn Tucker joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to talk about January being National Radon Action Month, battling the winter blues, “12 Communities in 12 Months,” monthly CPR certification classes, and insurance navigators. January is National Radon Action Month, and the Henry and Stark County Health Departments are reminding residents that radon exposure is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Affordable radon test kits are available for $15 at local health department offices. As the season shifts, community health experts are also bringing attention to the “winter blues” and more severe forms like Seasonal Affective Disorder, urging those affected to seek support through First Choice Healthcare. For lifesaving skills, monthly CPR certification classes are available, and Health Insurance Navigators will assist community members with coverage options at Geneseo and Alpha locations later this month. The Henry & Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare, are rolling out the “12 Communities, 12 Months” initiative in 2026. Each month, a different local community will host outreach events where residents can access free blood pressure checks, safe disposal of medications, and health information.
January marks National Radon Action Month in Illinois, highlighting the dangers of radon—a radioactive gas responsible for thousands of lung cancer deaths each year. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments are raising awareness that radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers. Since radon is colorless and odorless, only testing can determine if levels are unsafe in homes. Residents can now purchase affordable test kits for $15 at health department offices in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. Homes testing above EPA action levels should seek guidance on mitigation, with more details available at henrystarkhealth.com.
The Henry & Stark County Health Departments, in partnership with First Choice Healthcare, have launched a new outreach campaign titled “12 Communities, 12 Months” for 2026. Each month, teams will visit a different community in Henry or Stark County, highlighting public and clinic health services. The series begins in Alpha, with an event scheduled for Monday, January 26th, at Alwood Pharmacy. Residents can access free blood pressure checks, sharps collection, and medication disposal, along with giveaways and health resources. More details can be found by contacting the Health Department or visiting their website and social media platforms.
The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare, are urging residents to sign up for monthly CPR certification classes. These sessions teach lifesaving skills crucial in cardiac and breathing emergencies for people of all ages. Instruction also covers the use of Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). Classes take place every fourth Tuesday from 4 to 6 PM at the Health Department on North Burr Boulevard in Kewanee. The registration fee is $45 per participant, payable in advance. Limited spots are available, so those interested are encouraged to call 852-0197, extension 231, to reserve a place.
Health Insurance Navigators from the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, together with the Get Covered Illinois program, will be on hand to help community members explore health coverage options this January. Assistance will be available at Nosh Good Mood Food in Geneseo on Friday, the 23rd, from 11 AM to 1 PM, and at Alwood Pharmacy in Alpha on Monday, the 26th, from 1:30 to 3 PM. Navigators offer guidance with applications, comparing plans, and checking for financial help or Medicaid eligibility. Special Enrollment Periods are available for those with recent major life changes. For details, call 309-852-5272.
Nosh Good Mood Food, 804 S. Oakwood Ave., Geneseo, IL
Friday, January 23rd
11:00 am-1:00 pm
Alwood Pharmacy, 211 S. 1st St., Alpha, IL
Monday, January 26th
1:30-3:00 pm