HIGHLAND PARK, MI., Oct. 16, 2024: Over the past few years, Wellness Wednesdays has grown to become a safe space for women in Highland Park and Detroit to share stories and information, have a few laughs, and, yes, sometimes shed a few tears.
October’s monthly support group and luncheon – facilitated by Alexis Harvey of the SAY Detroit Family Health Clinic – took on two topics important to women today: breast cancer and medications.
With October being Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Harvey shared the importance of regular breast exams and screening, and made sure the nearly 30 women in attendance were aware that all are invited to the SAY Detroit Play Center (19320 Van Dyke Ave., Detroit) from noon to 4 pm on Friday (Oct. 18) for free pre-screening and mammograms – and available to all locals – thanks to the Van Elslander Cancer Center’s Mobile Mammogram Unit and Hungry Howie’s.
“Look in the mirror – it’s your body,’’ Harvey said. “When you get out of the shower take a look, take a feel, be aware of any changes you might notice.”
When a participant shared that her provider recently told her that she didn’t need a mammogram because of her age, she told the doctor that she was going to get one anyway.
“I have a lump,’’ the woman said. “And I was told that because I was over 80, I didn’t need it. Well, I’m going to go get that mammogram.”
The second half of Wednesday’s event was dedicated to your medicine cabinet and paying attention to all your prescription and non-prescription medicine, including dosing and side effects.
“Your body changes with age, but the pills don’t,” said Kristin McErlean, nurse practitioner at the Cabrini Clinic in Detroit, who also stressed the need to share information with ALL providers on what medicine you’re taking. National Drug Take Back Day is on Saturday, October 26 from 10am-2pm — use this link to find where you can dispose of expired medicines.
“Continuity matters,” she said.
Wellness Wednesdays’ next session is Nov. 20 at the Ernest T. Ford Recreation Center in Highland Park. Registration is required. Call 586-345-0225 to secure your spot.
