WIBAUX HEALTH FAIR: “KEEP YOUR EYES ON THE PRIZE, NOT THE OBSTACLES”

Published: 2019
By Patti Goroski, MSU Extension Wibaux County Administrative/Program Assistant

The Wibaux Health Fair has been serving Wibaux County and surrounding communities with health-saving testing and informational booths for many years. The 31st anniversary of the Wibaux Health Fair “Keep Your Eyes on the Prize, Not the Obstacles” was open for business before the sun came up. The March 7 Health Fair opened its doors to over 550 youth and adults. The Health Fair is also a social event. Farmers, ranchers, and retirees welcome the opportunity to visit with friends while enjoying a continental breakfast sponsored by local individuals and businesses. Youth enjoy the hands-on booths and picking up a snack or a free pencil. With an emphasis on prevention and healthy lifestyles, the Health Fair is sponsored by MSU Extension-Wibaux County. The fair has grown to serve more than 500 people with typically over 20 organizations exhibiting their health-related services. With the cooperation of many volunteers and the local high school, which serves as the location for the fair, this is one of Wibaux’s most anticipated annual events. Healthcare in Wibaux consists of a county-owned clinic staffed two days a week by Glendive Medical Center, and two days a week by Fallon Medical Complex. Nutrition and health education are essential components needed to emphasize the importance of developing healthy lifestyles. Routine medical examinations also play an important role in prevention, as well as early detection. The Health Fair Committee consists of Danielle Harper, County Extension Agent; Patti Goroski, Administrative/ Program Assistant; and Trish Olson, Wibaux County Health Nurse. The Health Fair has proven to save community members thousands of dollars in health care costs. It has also saved the lives of those who have been referred to their primary care physician due to an abnormal blood profile or other screening tests provided at the Health Fair.