Ashley McKnight-Taylor

February is Hearth Health Month, and Obici Hospital is partnering with community members to educate people about heart disease, the No. 1 killer of both men and women.

Exhibits will be on display all month, said Rhonda Bowles, with marketing at Obici. The “Red Dress” display in the lobby, furnished by Denison’s, should help bring awareness, Bowles added.

A “Tree of Knowledge” on the second floor, decorated by Marianne Walston, Lisa Story and Betty Stroud, is adorned with heart ornaments and information.

“We use any tool we can think of to educate the public,” Story said. “People look at the tree with its decorations because its beauty catches their eye. What we hope will happen is that the tree’s message will make the viewer more aware of health issues and help them lead a healthier lifestyle.”

A display table in the hospital atrium will have handouts regarding heart health, along with healthy recipes and lifestyle tips, she added.

Heart Health events include:

“Heart Truth” video, featuring stories of women from different backgrounds who have heart disease, will air all month, Monday through Friday, from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Obici’s Courtyard Caf\u00E9.

The Courtyard Caf\u00E9 will serve a heart-healthy menu every Wednesday this month.

Blood pressure screenings will be offered every Wednesday in February from 2-4 p.m. in the hospital lobby. Each participant will receive a card that lists their current blood pressure, with blanks for future blood pressure recordings. The record makes a convenient history for physicians.

Canine volunteers and friends in the Canine Therapy Program will visit units, patients and departments on Feb. 14.

The Obici Wellness Center will hold a free Heart Health class Feb. 16 from 10-11 a.m. Learn about heart disease and how to keep your heart healthy from Pat Edwards, RN. Register by calling 934-8572.

There will be a Heart Health Fashion Show at the Chesapeake Square Mall on Feb. 25 from 10 a.m. until noon. The show, outside Dillard’s For Men, will feature red outfits.

Contact McKnight-Taylor at ashley.taylor@suffolknewsherald.com