Student pharmacists plan community heart health fair

WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. — The Purdue chapter of the American Pharmacists Association - Academy of Student Pharmacists is hosting Operation Heart Health Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. April 11 at William Henry Harrison High School, 5701 N. 50 W, West Lafayette.

Pharmacists and student pharmacists will provide a variety of screenings, educational booths and activities to encourage prevention or management of heart disease in the Lafayette community. The fair is free and open to the public.

Included in the fair are cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings and informational booths about how to identify and measure risk factors for cardiovascular disease. People are encouraged to bring a medication list for consultations with pharmacists to better understand their treatment. There will also be an opportunity to dispose of old medications.

Community members will be able to attend cooking demonstrations for heart healthy foods, CPR demonstrations and Zumba sessions with local instructors. Children of all ages and adults may also participate in games and activities to promote healthy lifestyle.

"I never had the chance to meet either of my grandfathers because of heart disease. Through Operation Heart, we can help people in Tippecanoe County be in better control of their health and hopefully reduce the negative impact of heart disease," said Marjorie Guillermo, student pharmacist. "The fair will be a family-friendly event where children and family members of all ages are welcome to participate and learn."

The Purdue chapter of APhA-ASP organized Operation Heart with support from Purdue Student Government, Purdue College of Pharmacy, Fresh Thyme, the Journal and Courier, Greyhouse Coffee & Supply Co., Walgreens, Drug-Free Coalition, Chris Richart, Studio b, Absolute-U-Fitness, Freckles Graphics Inc., Sunspot Natural Market, My Gym Children’s Fitness Center, Emergency Munchie Truck and Kathryn Weil Center. More information and a full list of sponsors can be found on the Purdue APhA-ASP Operation Heart event page on Facebook.

The American Pharmacists Association - Academy of Student Pharmacists seeks to be the collective voice of student pharmacists to provide opportunities for professional growth, to improve patient care and to envision and advance the future of pharmacy. The Purdue chapter hosts blood drives, health screening events, philanthropy events, an annual Mr. Pharmacy pageant and career development opportunities to encourage student participation in national, state and local association affairs.

Writer: Rachel Semple, rsemple@purdue.edu

Media contact: Elizabeth Gardner, 765-494-2081, ekgardner@purdue.edu

Source: Marjorie Guillermo, professional.asp.pu@gmail.com