CALBAYOG CITY — Numerous Calbayognons from various sectors gathered at dawn on February 15 for the 12th Walk for a Healthy Heart, organized by Saint Camillus Hospital of Calbayog (SCHC). The event, held to celebrate Philippine Heart Month and the Catholic Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope, carried the theme “WALK for a Healthier Heart and be a HOPE for others.”
Northwest Samar State University (NwSSU) students, faculty, and staff actively participated in the walk, which began at the Calbayog City Hall Stage at 4 AM with a warm-up exercise. Other participants included nursing students and faculty from various schools, members of Calbayog’s Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and representatives from other sectors.
The walk traversed the National Highway en route to SCHC, where participants registered and received breakfast meals. A lively Zumba session followed, promoting physical fitness and well-being.
The event continued with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by Fr. Jaime A. Roa, MD, MI, SCHC Hospital Chaplain, with Fr. Gabriel V. Garcia, MI, SCHC Hospital Director, delivering the homily. The mass emphasized the gathering’s spiritual significance.
Youth attendees enjoyed parlor games and fun activities, fostering community and fellowship. Simultaneously, a health screening was conducted, offering free tests for various health indicators – random blood sugar (RBS), cholesterol, uric acid, complete blood count (CBC), blood typing, urinalysis, and ECG, along with free consultations and medicines.
The walk symbolized unity and hope, reminding everyone that small steps can lead to a healthier and more connected community. By participating in this event, NwSSU demonstrated its commitment to promoting health and wellness among its students, faculty, and staff.