Mercy health fair brings vital medical checkups and nutritional aid to Heartland families

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (Heartland News) - Mercy Southeast will hosting a free community health event next month. The event is designed to provide critical medical screenings, vaccinations, and wellness resources to Heartland families. The indoor/outdoor event will take place rain or shine from 9 a.m. to noon on October 10, at the Mercy Cancer Center in Cape Girardeau, located at 789 S. Auburn Road. Hospital officials say the event helps more people access preventative healthcare because early detection of chronic conditions can drastically improve long-term survival rates and quality of life. Attendees can access free health screenings, adult vaccinations, cooking and CPR demonstrations, and personal home medication counseling from Mercy pharmacists. The public will get a chance to talk to talk to health professionals from several Heartland clinics, including specialists from Mercy's breast, cancer, general surgery, therapy, and cardiovascular teams. The event will also provide free giveaways such as diapers and dental kits. Additionally, the Southeast Missouri Food Bank will be on-site to connect residents with nutritional assistance programs and education. 'Catching health concerns early saves lives and improves quality of life, and it often starts with a routine checkup,' said Simone Lampkin, Mercy Cancer Center director and event organizer. 'It's a small step today that can have a big impact on your future.' Beyond medical care, the event will feature a bounce house, face painting, fire truck tours with the Cape Girardeau Fire Department, and interactive, walkthrough inflatable models of human organs. The event is open to everyone, with no registration or fees required to attend.