May 28, 2004

MGH honors community women as role models of good health

A senior who volunteers her time to terminally ill children, the founder of an African American dance troupe and a senior center director who does not let multiple sclerosis slow her down, were among seven community residents honored by the MGH as "role models of good health" May 13 at Revere High School.

From left, Marshall, student presenter Julie O'Neil, Celebrating Women Award winner Gloria Keane of Everett and Everett Mayor David Ragucci

More than 350 area women gathered for the fourth annual "Celebrating Women: Leading a Vibrant, Healthy Life" event presented by MGH Community Health Associates.

"Keep Moving" was this year's message with yoga, tai chi and other demonstrations, which emphasized the importance of exercise in leading a healthy life. Participants gathered information and engaged in discussions on a variety of women's health issues, including heart disease, menopause, diabetes, nutrition, depression, smoking cessation and cancer. Health care providers from the MGH and its community health centers were on hand to answer questions. Blood pressure screenings, massage and reiki therapy sessions also were available.

Mallika Marshall, MD, of the MGH Chelsea HealthCare Center and CBS-TV 4 medical consultant, presented the Celebrating Women Award to women from Back Bay, Charlestown, Chelsea, Everett, the North End, Revere and Winthrop. The women, chosen by their community health centers, were honored as role models of good health, and were introduced by young women in the community who had found inspiration in their lives.