Fort Good Hope (Feb 21/05) - Fort Good Hope was bustling with activity on Feb. 16 as it held its first health fair.

Janet Grandjambe, who took responsibility for registration, was very busy with more than 100 people attending the health fair. Alphonsine McNeely, the language co-ordinator, was also hopping throughout the day to provide interpreting services for the elders.

Myles Lennie, a 13-year-old Grade 7 student from Chief T'Selehye school, thought it was a good idea.

"The information on dental care and smoking was excellent," Lennie said. "It was well worth my time and we should have it next year."

Back in September, community health nurse Henry Tobac and alcohol and drug co-ordinator Dolly Pierrot began to discuss the possibility of providing an awareness for healthy living.

Planning of the health fair spiraled from there as they shared their excitement with other community members. The main objective was to provide information to the public and to encourage community members to make healthy choices.

Tobac was disappointed that they did not have more displays from the Inuvik Regional Health and Social Services Authority and from Yellowknife Regional Headquarters. "But this health fair was a very good start in creating community awareness," said nurse in charge Michael Beardon.

The interactive health centre display proved to be very popular as participants lined up to check body mass index, hemoglobin, blood sugar, blood pressure and to get information on diet and exercise.

Participants in the health fair included Simon Jozzy from the Inuvik Regional Board Health/Social Services Authority.

A very important message that Jozzy talked about is that awareness of tooth care is vitally important so that people can ensure they keep their teeth for life.

Jozzy has seen many children lose all their teeth. "They are now handicapped because they cannot eat healthy foods, like apples and caribou meat," Jozzy said.

Other participants included regional nutritionist Eileen Kabaroff from Inuvik; community wellness reps Delphine Pierrot and Addy Tobac; prenatal nutrition expert Shauna Gully; home support worker Beverly Manuel; and active living and recreation rep Freda Kelly.

The organizations that had displays are people very concerned about community health, said Neil Pascal, human resources development officer.

"Isolated communities need the information on diabetes, alcohol/drug use, mental health, active living and other related topics," Pascal said.

The K'Asho Gotine Community Council is also acknowledged for their in-kind support, as they provided space in the band office.