RaeAnn Tucker from the Henry and Stark Health Departments joined Wake Up Tri-Counties to discuss health designations for March and local education on heart health for school kids. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments, in collaboration with First Choice Healthcare, are making strides in community health education. March is crucial as National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, with clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon offering free FIT tests for those aged 45-75. Meanwhile, National Nutrition Month promotes the WIC Supplemental Food Program. Recently, RaeAnn Tucker engaged with local schools, educating children on heart-healthy habits and spotlighting the importance of regular exercise, balanced diets, and ample sleep. Additionally, as International Women’s Day approaches on March 8, empowerment through health prioritization for women takes center stage.
March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, highlighting the significance of early detection. Colorectal cancer ranks as the second leading cancer killer in the U.S., but regular screenings can save lives. First Choice Healthcare Clinics offers free home FIT tests for individuals aged 45-75 in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon. These tests can detect polyps before they become cancerous, significantly reducing mortality rates. Colorectal cancer may exhibit no symptoms, underscoring the necessity of screening. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the First Choice Healthcare location nearest you: Kewanee 309-852-5272; Colona 309-792-4011; or Toulon 309-852-3115, or find us on Facebook at Henry and Stark County Health Departments or First Choice Healthcare, or follow them on Twitter and Instagram.
In recognition of National Nutrition Month, the Henry & Stark County Health Department highlights the benefits of the WIC Supplemental Food Program. This initiative supports local mothers and children by offering free groceries and promoting healthier lifestyles. Heather Aldred, RN, announced that WIC services have returned to in-person appointments while maintaining online application options. The new Illinois WIC EBT Card streamlines the process, consolidating food benefits onto one card and simplifying shopping for participants. Expanded hours accommodate working families and schoolchildren.
February marks American Heart Month, focusing on heart health awareness and preventive measures. The Henry and Stark County Health Departments encourage residents to prioritize heart health by understanding risks linked to cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of death in the U.S. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, emphasizes that many CVD fatalities could be avoided with healthier lifestyle choices. This month, she’s been engaging with local schoolchildren, providing education on heart-healthy habits such as daily exercise, balanced diets, and sufficient sleep. To learn more about available health education programs, contact the Health Department at (309) 852-0197.
In celebration of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025, the Henry and Stark County Health Departments, alongside First Choice Healthcare, emphasize women’s empowerment through health prioritization. Highlighting the comprehensive women’s health services available at their clinics in Kewanee, Colona, and Toulon, services include annual exams, pregnancy testing, and more. RaeAnn Tucker, Director of Health Promotion, stresses the importance of accessible, affordable healthcare for all women. Services are covered by Medicaid, grants, and most insurances. For more information, call the nearest clinic or connect via social media platforms. Women’s health matters—let’s prioritize it today.