Last weekend was all about wellness throughout Prince George’s County.
Councilmember Wala Blegay hosted a symposium focusing on suicide prevention and mental health awareness at Glenn Dale’s Reid Temple and District Heights Commissioner Anthony Tilghman hosted a health, wellness, and opportunity expo in Capitol Heights’ Trinidad Baptist Church on Sep. 21.
The “Black People Die By Suicide Too” podcast hosted a table during Blegay’s symposium, and attendees were guided through deep breathing exercises.
At the Health, Wellness, and Opportunities expo, attendees were able to engage with more than 25 vendors.
“Health is wealth,” said District Heights Commissioner and expo organizer Anthony Tilghman, who also works with The Washington Informer.
Tilghman was proud to bring dentist Ifeoma Essien of Accokeek, Maryland, who did free dental screenings, along with dozens of other vendors. A follow-up expo will be held in September of next year.
“I think we need to do better to support our community health agencies. We need to be more accessible and do a better job of ensuring that resources are known to the community,” he said.
District 25 Del. Denise Roberts (D) weighed in on the importance of bringing health and wellness events to the community.
“As a Maryland state delegate, I believe health fairs like this one are essential for our community. They provide direct access to critical healthcare services and resources, empowering residents to prioritize their health and well-being,” said Roberts after attending the Health, Wellness, and Opportunities expo. “By bringing healthcare providers and information directly to the community, we can help ensure that everyone, regardless of their circumstances, has the opportunity to receive the care and support they need to lead healthy lives.”