Saturday, April 11, 2009, the 13th Annual African American Men’s Health Summit graced Orlando, Florida. This amazing affair is coordinated and organized by Dr. Angela Adams. It is through her vision and tenacity this annual summit has helped to improve the quality of life for thousands of men in the community.
Her organization, the Central Florida Pharmacy Council is a professional community based non-profit organization whose mission is to improve the health and wellness of African Americans and minorities through health education programs. This year there were 1,500 men at the free breakfast buffet where CNN reporter Joe Johns was the keynote speaker.
The majority of the screenings and health education information is free and provided at the summit. African American men are reluctant to go to the doctor but at this event, the focus is on our health. There is a special camaraderie with the brothers at this event because women are not allowed to come to the event.
Joe Johns the keynote speaker was extremely motivating with his speech. He told stories of experiences he had with friends who failed to keep track of their health. He talked about a childhood friend who was a good athlete, and after 20 years of being away from home, he met his friend one day. The friend was now 400 pounds and died in his early forties.
He talked about the importance of exercise and why everyone must be motivated to stay healthy. He showed how going to the doctor could save your life. There must be a movement to health in our community, because diet and exercise can change our lives.
After the breakfast, there were long lines where brothers checked their blood pressure, diabetes readings, cholesterol levels, and screening for prostate readings. This was an opportunity for men to take advantage of free health screening and workshop health exhibits.
Dr. Angela Adams is very passionate about black men and their health. This year the summit was a tremendous success. In addition, there were about 200 young men who have a separate seminar that deals with issues that impact their lives. They discuss issues such as anger management, drugs, and safe driving habits.
Thank you Dr. Angela Adams for another phenomenal year, and caring for all the brothers in the community.
