CARIBOU, Maine – Cary Medical Center will join some 5,000 hospitals around the country in celebration of National Hospital Week May 7-13. The week will feature a number of activities, including the launching of the 100 Miles in 100 Days Healthy You Fitness Challenge. This has been a very popular activity in recent years and helps to promote physical activity.
Karlee Willett who manages the Health You program at Cary said that the fitness challenge is a great way to start including regular physical activity into your lifestyle.
“We are excited about launching the 100 miles in 100 days challenge during National Hospital Week,” said Willett. “The weather is really getting better and it is so nice to be outside. We have had hundreds of people participate in this activity in recent years and we hear from folks who really enjoy the program.”
Individuals who participate in the 100 Miles in 100 Days Challenge have a chance to win prizes including the grand prize a $250 VISA Gift Card sponsored by Hebert’s Rexall Pharmacy in Van Buren. Sleepers in Caribou has also provided $25 gift certificates that will be drawn throughout the 100 day event. More information on the Fitness Challenge is available at carymedicalcenter.org or by calling Cary Community Relations at 207-498-1112.
Another special activity that will take place during hospital week is being supported by the Caribou Recreation Department. On Thursday, May 11 the center will host an “Introduction to Pickle Ball.” The community is welcome to attend the program which will be held from 4:30–6 p.m. at the recreation center.
Willett pointed out that pickle ball has really gained popularity in recent years. “This activity has really been growing”, she said. “It is a sport that most anyone can do and it provides great exercise along with lots of fun. At first we were going to do this for our employees but we know there is a lot of interest in the community about pickle ball and we welcome anyone with an interest in the sport to participate. We appreciate the partnership with the Caribou Wellness and Recreation Center.”
A number of other events are scheduled during National Hospital Week including an employee appreciation barbecue, a ribbon cutting on the hospital’s newly renovated obstetrics unit, a patient appreciation day and other activities. Cary hopes to open the walking trails on the hospital campus during National Hospital Week, conditions permitting.
Bill Flagg, director of community relations and development at Cary, said that one of the goals of the week is to engage employees and the community in physical activity.
“We know how beneficial it is to remain physically active throughout our lives,” said Flagg. “Walking 100 Miles in 100 Days is a great way to begin a regular fitness routine. Walking is one of the best exercises, it is often called a ‘miracle medicine’. Walking can help combat depression, lower blood sugar, improve heart health, burn calories and so much more. Together with Pines Health Services we are creating healthier communities and National Hospital Week is a great way to promote physical activity.”
Cary Chief Executive Officer, Kris Doody, RN, will address the Caribou Kiwanis Club on Tuesday, May 9 as part of National Hospital Week. She will provide an update on the hospital and present a brief recruitment video.
Cary’s Healthy You program will partner with the Caribou Recreation Center for another outdoor activity, the annual Bird Watching event which will be held throughout the month of May. During National Hospital Week the Bird Watching event will be held on Wednesday, May 10 from 7–8 a.m. at the Aroostook Valley Rail Trail at the road crossing on the Washburn Road directly before the Carson Road. No need to pre-register, just meet up at the site. For additional directions and more information on the bird watching activity contact the Caribou Recreation Center at 207-493-4224.
For more information on National Hospital Week contact Cary Community Relations at 207-498-1112.
