Written by: Venal Naidu and Elizabeth Kunene

The Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa together with the Kidney Association of KwaZulu-Natal hosted a Wellness Day at the Glenwood Community Church today to help church members with their health and wellness.

The project, which happens once a month, is free of charge and consists of a blood glucose, blood pressure, a cholesterol test and a vitamin B injection.

Health Promotions Manager at the Heart and Stroke Foundation, Samkelisiwe Ndladla, said that it is always a pleasure carrying out community outreach projects.

“Helping people is what our organisation stands for and being here with my team is just helping serve that motto and help guide people away from cardiovascular diseases and ensure they are healthy,” said Ndladla.

Ndladla also made reference to the fact that most of the patients do not have medical aid and for these services, they would have to stand in long lines at government hospitals.

“It’s sad that most people do not have access to medical aid and the services we provide can force them to wait a whole day, hence the reason I wish we could do projects like this almost every day if possible,” explained Ndladla.

Sister Lynette Govender who was on duty at the church said that she feels blessed carrying out these projects.

“These community outreach projects are great and helping people especially the elderly makes me feel so good,” said Govender.

Patient John Matthews could not be more grateful that people come out to help his community and make it a healthier place.

“These people are really good people as they sacrifice their time for people they don’t have any relation to. I am really grateful,” said Mathews.

*Caption: Sisters and volunteers carry out various tests on patients.