Soroptimists distribute funds from osteoporosis walk
Lillian Cale offered thanks to those who help Soroptimists of Fayette County in its fight against osteoporosis.
“This has been a wonderful relationship and we are grateful to each of you for what you contribute,” said Cale, president, at a recent dinner meeting at the Uniontown Holiday Inn.
Cale was speaking to the partners who have been working with the civic organization since the start of their annual 5-K walk and health fair, which has been held every spring at Mount St. Macrina for the past five years to promote education and awareness of osteoporosis.
They include Grandview Medical, Laurel Highlands OB-GYN and Mount St. Macrina of Uniontown and Rendu Services, which works throughout Fayette County.
Cale also noted the work of Soroptimist members Melody Filicky and Sally Bryan-Dobek, who were co-chairwomen of the walk, and Norma Snyder, who was chairwoman of the health fair.
The Soroptimists raised more than $10,700 this year. While some funds are sent to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, most are being used locally to fund medical care for uninsured individuals that includes bone density screenings as well as offer prevention education programs.
The Soroptimists presented checks of $4,000 each to representatives of Grandview Medical and Laurel Highlands OB/GYN.
Dr. David Sheba, who specializes in orthopedics at Grandview, said, “We do appreciate the support and what you are doing for us.”
Sue Spinuzza, clinical coordinator for the Center for Osteoporosis at Grandview, reported a woman came into the office recently who had lost her job because of a fracture and worried that she would not not be able to pay for medical care.
Spinuzza alleviated her fears by telling her, “We have this wonderful thing — the Soroptimists insurance account.”
Dr. John Sunyecz, who specializes in obstetrics and gynecologist at Laurel Highlands, noted that he’s being recognized for his association with the osteoporosis awareness campaign and said a woman recently stopped him in a store to ask his advise on calcium supplements.
“I think you’re doing a great job with this effort, so thank you very much,” he said.
Sister Mary Fran Bassick received a check on behalf of Rendu Services, which visits communities throughout Fayette County to conduct screenings and distribute information.
“It helps us to get out to communities with the health van,” said Bassick, who was accompanied by Sister Alice O’Connell.
Cale also presented a check to Sister Barbara Swindells of Mount St. Macrina for use of the grounds.
Swindells said, “We enjoy having you there and will always be there for you.”
The next osteoporosis awareness walk and health fair will be held June 9, 2012.