WESTON — Approximately one hundred patients participated in the Mon Health Stonewall Jackson Memorial Hospital Annual Healthy Heart Fair on February 12. 

The highlight of the day was a presentation by Cardiologist Dr. Wissam Gharib of the Mon Health Heart and Vascular Center in Morgantown. He spoke about heart health and the tremendous strides that have been made in the cardiovascular area. He also noted the heart care that patients currently receive at Mon Health Heart and Vascular Center is comparable to other large renowned hospitals in other states.

Dr. Gharib addressed the difference between men and women’s heart health factors, symptoms and treatments.

One of the attendees had a special admiration for Dr. Gharib. Sarah Paugh told the story of her heart attack ten years ago and her treatment provided by Dr. Gharib.

“I was 80 years old when I was having a heart attack,” explained Sarah Paugh. “I can’t say enough about Dr. Gharib because he saved my life, and I am now 90 years old.”

Several other women with past heart experiences also spoke including Vicky Allen and Julia Spelsberg. Both were appreciative of the help they received from the Mon Health SJMH Cardiac Rehabilitation Department.

During the Healthy Heart Fair students from the Fred Eberle Technical School in Buckhannon manned many of the screening booths including blood pressure, blood glucose, height and weight. Forty-four participants took advantage of the free EKG screening. Other screenings included bone density and arterial doppler screenings.

SJMH Assistant Administrator Kevin Stalnaker was quite pleased with the Health Fair.

Stalnaker said, “The response from the community was very positive and goes to show that the care we provide is recognized. Our affiliation with Mon Health has improved the care that we provide to our patients.”