The on-campus Collegiate Health Service Corps, a health career club, along with the American Heart Association, hosted a spin class fundraiser on Saturday, Feb. 26. There was a suggested $10 donation fee to participate, with all proceeds being donated to the AHA. Spin instructor Peter Gonzalez graciously donated his time to instruct the class and support the cause. Along with the class, the CHSC provided other small aerobic activities to try, like jumping rope. There were also refreshments available for participants.

In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson federally declared February as American Heart Month. According to the AHA, “heart disease remains the single largest health threat to Americans — just as it was when LBJ was alive.” This year marks the 56th consecutive year that February has been dedicated to honoring American Heart Month. Although the entire month is dedicated to heart health awareness, on Feb. 7 the nation was encouraged to wear red to show support and unite “millions of people for a common goal: the eradication of heart disease and stroke.” 

The on-campus CHSC president Julie Becker ‘20 and treasurer Micaela Thompson ‘21 were both very enthused about the turn out from both Fairfield University students and the Fairfield community. The pair was especially happy because this was the first time such an event was held. Additionally, the CHSC encouraged people to enter a raffle which included prizes like $25 gift cards to popular restaurants like Playa Bowls and Pronto. Although the CHSC vice president Gabby Roy ‘21 and secretary Dan Epstein ‘20 were not present at the beginning of the event, they were also pleased with the turnout when they arrived.

With such success, the club plans to continue this wonderful fundraiser and spread heart health awareness in their communities. Along with this event, the CHSC hosted an event for “The Great American Smoke Out” this past November. Annually, every third Thursday in November is a nationwide day for Americans to quit smoking. Since there has been an extraordinary increase in vaping among young adults, the CHSC hosted a “buyback program” for students to sell their vape devices. As for events that have not already occurred, the CHSC will have a health fair in the upcoming weeks, which will be an informative event with activities such as professional acupuncture and making stress balls. 

Although February has come to a close and it is no longer American Heart Month, heart health awareness is still essential in leading a healthy life. According to the AHA, the month is designated to “remind Americans to focus on their hearts and encourage them to get their families, friends and communities involved,” but it is important to remember that one should be conscious of the dangers of heart-related diseases year-round. 

 

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