Uvalde Memorial Hospital Hosts Ninth Annual Women’s Health Expo
On October 7, the SSGT Willie De Leon Civic Center welcomed over 300 attendees for the ninth annual Women’s Health Expo, presented by Uvalde Memorial Hospital (UMH). This event combined elements of a health fair with a social gathering, aiming to empower and engage women in their health and wellness journeys.
Event Purpose and Highlights
Sammi Raley, UMH’s marketing manager, emphasized that the expo aims to inspire women to prioritize self-care beyond mere tasks. “Women get to shop, eat, laugh, and connect with each other, all while learning practical health information they can actually use,” she noted. The event blends the vibrancy of a large urban fair with the warmth typical of Uvalde.
Connecting the Community with Health Resources
The expo showcased various local health and wellness resources, including collaborations with organizations like En Su Casa and UMH’s oncology department. Nelly Bordovsky, an oncology nurse navigator at UMH, expressed a desire for greater community awareness regarding available services. “We have a lot to offer,” stated Adriana Ballesteros, a radiation clerk who assisted Bordovsky at their booth.
Educational Opportunities and Activities
In addition to networking, attendees encountered several informative booths. For example, Molly Flores, a representative from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, informed visitors about heart safety and held a drawing to encourage mammogram appointments. “Once you educate the young ones, they educate the parents,” Flores remarked about her outreach efforts in local schools.
Keynote Speaker and Interactive Sessions
The expo featured a keynote address from Chef Dalia David, who gained recognition as a finalist on the 38th season of Chopped. David motivated attendees to use everyday cooking techniques to enhance immunity and hormone health. Additionally, a Q&A session allowed participants to engage directly with health professionals, including doctors Jared Reading, Andrzej P. Stypko, Plinio Caldera, and Chérie L. Hauptmeier.
Success and Future Plans
“Women’s Health Expo continues to grow each year, with overwhelmingly positive feedback from attendees,” Raley commented. She also shared excitement for the upcoming milestone tenth edition of the expo, scheduled for 2026. “It’s truly become a highlight for local women – a chance to connect, learn, and celebrate wellness together,” she concluded.
Contact Information
For more information regarding future events, you can reach out at kalejandro@ulnnow.com or call 830-278-3335.
