Community Health Fair in Cherryville to Raise Awareness About Sepsis

Cherryville, NC (WNN)- When Tamara Huff lost her mother, Gwendolyn Denise Huff, to sepsis on July 6, 2023, she knew she wanted to do something to help others learn more about the illness. This Saturday, September 27, Huff will host a free community health fair at 1006 E. Main St. in Cherryville to raise awareness about the condition and share vital health information.

“Since September is Sepsis Awareness Month, I thought it would be a good idea to host a free community health fair so that people can become familiar with the signs and symptoms and how important it is to know the signs of sepsis,” Huff said.

Understanding Sepsis

Sepsis is a potentially life-threatening condition caused by the body’s extreme response to an infection. Huff explained that recognizing the warning signs quickly can save lives.

She shared the acronym T.I.M.E. as a way to remember key symptoms:

• T — Temperature, which may be high or low
• I — Infection, with possible visible or hidden signs
• M — Mental decline, such as confusion or difficulty staying awake
• E — Extremely ill, including severe pain, discomfort, or shortness of breath

“If you or a loved one experience any of these symptoms, be sure to mention to your doctor, ER, or 911 that you think you may have sepsis,” Huff said. “The sooner you find out, the quicker your treatment of antibiotics can begin, but remember, TIME is very crucial with this illness.”

Blood Drive for Sickle Cell Awareness

The health fair will also include a blood drive with the American Red Cross from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The effort coincides with September being Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Month.

“When you donate a pint of blood, you can be helping save three lives,” Huff said.

Community Partners and Services

In addition to sepsis education and the blood drive, the health fair will feature local organizations providing wellness resources. Atrium Health will offer information on CPR, heart disease, and stroke. Kintegra Health, Altruistic Home Care Agency, and A New Beginning Therapy Center will also be on site to share information about health and therapy services.

“We’ll have health, wellness, and therapy agencies on site to share resources,” Huff said.

Message to the Community

Huff said her goal is to provide health screenings and information and empower people to take charge of their own health.

“We know our bodies. We know when we don’t feel ourselves,” she said. “Educate yourself, research any diagnosis you may receive so that you can understand your medical condition, ensure you follow your treatment plan, manage your health confidently, and communicate more effectively with your doctors.”

Huff plans to create a Facebook and Instagram page for the event soon. She also posts community events on local Facebook groups and encourages Cherryville residents to attend and sign up to donate blood.