CityView Magazine

year, he and fellow members of the Fayetteville Lions Club were helping needy families at Christmas. The only thing his assigned family requested was the expensive feeding tubes needed for a bedridden relative. A call to Better Health soon had a case of feeding tubes delivered, and Kerchmar could use the Lion’s Club donation on decorations and presents to brighten the family’s holiday. “Better Health not only made a difference to that needy family in 1995, but it made me proud to be a part of a community that had such a caring organization,” Kerchmar said in an email. “After more than a few years of involvement with Better Health, I am able to say with confidence that the same kind of caring support (that) needy family received that Christmas in ’95 is repeated daily at Better Health and in countless situations.” “Eat Smart, Move More” is one of the agency’s newest projects. The four-part education program helps families develop better eating habits and behaviors to achieve a healthy weight. The program is offered through local congregations and civic organizations. And, of course, there is diabetes care. Five years ago, Melissa Brady came on board as health education coordinator. Now, she and volunteers operate a weekly clinic and run a seven- week management course called “Take Charge of Diabetes.” A registered nurse monitors blood glucose levels, weight and blood pressure and provides glucometer trainings. Clients can also participate in a low-impact exercise program. “Roughly, we serve 150 unique clients,” Brady said. “Some have been here for 20-plus years. It is a real family environment, a social network … a support group.” Every quarter, pharmacy residents bring lunch and their expertise to “Brown Bag Day.” Residents spend the day reviewing clients’ medication records to make sure they are receiving proper dosages and not risking dangerous drug interactions by combining the wrong medications. “The nurses and Melissa are very concerned about helping me to keep my diabetes in control … in check,” said Alfred Davenport, a retired agriculture extension agent who has attended the clinic since the late 1980s. Josie Cates began attending when her husband, Charles, retired in 1991 and started driving her there. Charles Cates admits that not only has his wife benefited from the clinic, it opened his eyes to his own health and helped him develop healthier habits. Thomas Hodges can second that. The Hope Mills man says he is in good health due to the support he receives through the clinic. “I live for Tuesdays,” he said, smiling. “These people here are genuine.”CV Want to help? Contact Better Health of Cumberland County at 483.7534 for volunteer opportunities. Want your home to be featured? Does your home have a story to tell? Contact editor@CityViewnc.com or Call 910.423.6500 CityViewNC.com | 67

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