[COMMUNICATED] In the United States, a woman’s rate of cancer survival can be as high as 93% or down to a mere 15%. It all depends on early detection and health awareness.Such stark data should be sobering. And so should the obvious: Knowledge about your body and health can save your life.

Bikur Cholim has been witness to women in our community who unfortunately did not detect their diseases early enough. At the behest of doctors and Rabbanim in our community, and with informal surveys, and years of helping women with health conditions, cancer diagnoses and other life threatening illnesses, an idea to spread health and wellness was born.

Bikur Cholim of Lakewood knew that while we must support women—physically and emotionally—in their time of need, educating women in the community as a preventative path is a matter of pikuach nefesh.

Born of months of brainstorming, the Women & Wellness Health Expo is an opportunity to share our passion for helping women help themselves and incorporate healthy living.

“We met with top medical professionals who shared their experiences about women’s health issues that could have been prevented or effectively treated had they been addressed earlier,” shared Ahuva Leider*, Director of Patient Care at Bikur Cholim.

“We began as a small initiative, but as people got wind of what we were trying to accomplish, the scope of the event grew and grew. If just one woman’s life is changed as a result of this event, it will all have been worth it,” Ahuva explained.

Many women are so busy taking care of everyone around them, that their own healthcare takes a backseat. However, taking a proactive approach to women’s health has never been more crucial.

The groundbreaking Women & Wellness Health Expo on May 13th, 2019 will educate and support women who are ready to prioritize their well-being.

And because every woman needs a full heart to give of herself to others, Bikur Cholim of Lakewood has that covered too. On theme with an evening focused on women’s health, Bikur Cholim has put together a fantastic spread full of nutritious (and delicious) foods. There will be a make your own salad bar, grilled vegetables, acai bowls, infused water, granola, Urbanpops, and other wholesome baked goods.

There will also be *live food demos* presented by Faigy Murrah and Ida Levey. In addition, come meet Nutrition by Tanya and Shani Taub for some post-Pesach, pre-summer inspiration!  

From 6:30-9:30 PM at the Fountain Ballroom (725 Vassar Ave), the empowering educational event will feature presentations from renowned doctors and specialists on relevant health topics. Between presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to be screened by nurses on-site for cholesterol, glucose, BMI, blood pressure, balance, and bone density.

The Expo will showcase informational booths from doctors, hospitals, the motherhood center, insurance companies and medical specialists with practical information on women’s health and wellness.

“We’re happy to participate in a monumental event focused on creating awareness around important women’s health issues. The more knowledgeable women are, the more proactive they can be in protecting their future,” expressed one attending doctor.

Women must know how to monitor their own health and learn how to detect a growth before it spreads. You should also know when your sugar level, cholesterol or blood pressure is too high and recognize signs and symptoms to prevent stroke, heart attack, diabetes, cancer and other illnesses.

With presentations such as “The facts and myths of the BRCA gene” by geneticist Dr. Aliza Zidele, “You don’t need to accept varicose veins” by Dr. David Feng, Director and Founder of the Center for Vein Restoration, and many more covering topics on heart health, fetal medicine, high risk pregnancy, Gut health and screenings, and so much more.

Along with vendors, and presentations, tens of doctors from Lakewood and the Tri-State area will be in attendance. Ranging from primary care physicians, obstetricians, endocrinologists, and more, these doctors are excited to meet attendees, discuss personal concerns, answer questions, and even to book patient appointments.

As Ahuva Leider explains, “The Women & Wellness Health Expo is not an expo for gathering business cards–although that is important too, it is essentially a practical event. We know that women are busy so we are gathering your doctors (book your appointments!), providing free screenings, and sharing very relevant, actionable information all in one venue.”

Just to add some more excitement, all participants will have a chance to enter a raffle to win an Irene shaitel.

In one evening, women will gain knowledge that can transform their health – and even save their life. Women are encouraged to mark their calendars and spread the word to mothers, daughters, sisters and friends.

Do it for you – so you can be there for the ones you love.

Register for free here HEALTHEXPO/ORG.LRBCOL or text your name to 732-905-3020.

About Bikur Cholim of Lakewood     

Founded in 1991, Bikur Cholim of Lakewood was created to assist members of the Lakewood community going through difficult medical challenges. The founders shared a simple goal: to help in any way, and every way, they could.

Bikur Cholim of Lakewood’s services have expanded to include providing free transportation to cancer treatments and out-of-town medical appointments; kosher meals and food pantries in area hospitals; Shabbos accommodations and hospitality for patients’ families; a selection of medical equipment available for loan; and patient advocacy to ensure patients receive the most appropriate, best quality care.