The First Presbyterian Church Health Ministry helps members of the congregation address all aspects of our spiritual, physical and emotional well-being.  Our aim is to help each child of God examine our lifestyle choices allowing us to live up to that potential given by Him.
 
Led by an acting elder of the Session, the Health Ministry could consist of any of the following:  physicians; nurse practitioners; registered nurses; pharmacists; nutritionists; physical therapists; exercise instructors; mental health professionals; substance abuse counselors; Christian counselors; devoted care givers; who demonstrate willingness to act as Christ did.  By adhering to the belief in compassionate concern for others that is fundamental to our faith and moral values, we believe that we can become a caring community that seeks to sustain each person in body, mind and spirit; teaching that faith and health are interwoven and cannot be separated.

Ongoing Activities Include:

"First Aide":  A deacon will greet and provide assistance at the breezeway for the elderly and handicapped on Sunday mornings prior to worship services.  If you need assistance, please contact the church office.  Contact:  Church Office at 864-225-2551 or e-mail us on the Contact Page.
 
First Aid Kits:  Easily accessible emergency first aid kits have been located throughout the church and Family Life Center.   Contact:  W. Lee Propp, RPh
 
Defibrillator:  – AED’s are located in easily accessible, high-traffic areas throughout the church.  Please take time to note these locations:
 
     1. Sanctuary Narthex (wall mount near front doors of church sanctuary)
     2. Kirk (wall mount in foyer)
     3. Family Life Center (wall mount between Canteen and McDougald Room)
     4. Hallway at Church Office (Coming Soon)
 
Watch for free training sessions for the Automated External Defibrillator, dates to be announced.  These lifesaving devices have an automated audio tutorial as well as visual instructions.
 

Presbyterian Palates Are you always looking for a new healthy recipe for dinner tonight or a new twist on Grandma Tedder's macaroni and cheese?  Lower in calories?  Lower in fat?  Lower in carbs?  But, then will it be tasty?  Will it be quick?  Will "they" eat it?

The Health Ministry is seeking your healthy recipes to be submitted for testing and tasting.  After it passes the "Mikey" test, a new recipe will be posted monthly on the church web site.

Click Here for Presbyterian Palates Recipes
  

Hard copies of the recipes will be available in the hall near the church office. The congregation is encouraged to participate in this fun and healthy fellowship.  If you would like to contribute a recipe, or be a kitchen tester or a taster of a ‘healthy’ recipe or healthy adaptation of an old favorite recipe, contact the church office or email Kathy Roser

Be sure to check the Church Calendar for Upcoming Activities:

Blood Drive Sunday – The AnMed Blood Assurance Program comes to FPC three times during the year from 8:00 a.m. until noon. 
Contact:  Sandra Altman
  
 
 
Blood Pressure Screening Sunday – Volunteer health professionals will check your blood pressure in the Session Room before and after worship services, usually twice during the year. 
Contact:  Rosanne Pruitt, PhD, RN
 
CPR Training – Learn new updated Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation guidelines for 2010, approved by the AHA.  Watch for classes to be announced for October 2010.  Each class is limited to 15 participants.  Cost is approximately $25. 
 
Influenza Immunizations – Flu shots are given at the church a Wednesday afternoon usually in November. 
Contact:  Mary Gay Drake, RN
  
Medications Review Sunday – Qualified pharmacists and health professionals will review your prescription drugs and supplements, screening for possible drug interactions and side affects, from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. on one Sunday during the year.  
Contact:  W. Lee Propp, RPh
   
Midnight Flight – Training for the September 3, 2010 event will begin in May.  Jennifer Benson and Fred Tolly will be leading and inspiring anyone who would like to participate in the 5K, 10K or one mile run/walk event.  Bring the whole family or invite a friend.  Watch for more information in First Word.  Click on the link at the bottom of this page for more information and registration.

Check out the Team Poster 2010 - click here
Download the 2010 Registration Form - click here

Contact: Kristi Martin
  
Pink Sunday – October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. 
Contact:  Nancy B. Hellenga, NP  
 
Red Sunday – February is Heart Health Awareness month. 
Contact:  Nancy B. Hellenga, NP  
 
Staying Connected on Wednesday evenings begins on April 7, 2010 from 5:30 pm to 6:30 pm in the Kirk.  "Preparing for the Road Ahead"  will feature community professionals discussing aspects of successful aging: what elder care is, home safety, fall prevention, when to take away the car keys, legal issues, end of life issues, dementia and Alzheimer's, the family's roll and spiritual issues with aging. Whether your are a senior,  a younger person with an aging family member or just want to prepare for your road ahead, bring a friend and join us.
   
If you have a request or an idea to share concerning our congregation’s faith and fitness, please do so by contacting Kristi Martin ,  W. Lee Propp, RPh , or the church office.

Helpful Links:

Presbyterian Church (USA) Health Ministries
The Cancer Association of Anderson 
AnMed Blood Center
American Heart Association
Midnight Flight