I do not recall ever mentioning a health fair in this newsletter before. However, this one has a different twist: it is a gumbo of genealogy and genetic issues with a Multiple Sclerosis focus. This is especially important in Louisiana, with its Acadian population that has intermarried so many times over the centuries. The Metarie area has a Multiple Sclerosis rate that is much higher than the national average, all because of ancestry.
The Bayou Multiple Sclerosis Foundation will present the 6th Annual MS Health Fair on Saturday, March 19, 2005. The health fair will be held at the St. Martins Episcopal School, Solomon Theater, in Metarie, Louisiana. Registration starts at 9:00 AM, and the program runs from 9:45 AM until 2:30 PM. Gumbo, jambalaya, sandwiches, and drinks will be provided for all attendees. (I am getting hungry already!)
Speakers will include Michael Wilensky, M.D., giving the introduction; Jorge Oksenberg, Ph.D., Associate Professor, University of California at San Francisco, speaking on "Genes, Heredity and the Reasons for MS;" Molly Kimball, LDN, RD, speaking on "MS and Nutrition;" Thelma Daigle, Cajun Historian and Otis Marks, II, an inspirational speaker, who will speak on "HOPE, A Beautiful Reality" (a talk about surviving multiple sclerosis).
The Half-Fast Knitters of New Orleans will offer a "hands on demonstration." Pharmaceutical companies and various vendors will offer exhibits of their goods and services.
This sounds like an excellent opportunity to combine genealogy, genetics, and family health in an effort to save or improve the lives of your family.
R.S.V.P. is strongly recommended: 1-800-596-7937.
