The Southwestern Illinois Asthma Coalition is partnering the City of East St. Louis for the East St. Louis Asthma Kick-Off! on May 21, 2015 at the East St. Louis City Rotunda 5pm-7pm!
The purpose of this event is to raise awareness about asthma in the St. Louis Metro East and to provide free resources for children with asthma as well as their families and friends. This event will feature asthma and health resources, activity tables, refreshments, AND special guests-- Fredbird and the JJK Healthy Dancers. The East St. Louis Mayor will make an official Asthma Proclamation highlighting May as Asthma Awareness Month. There will also be a special message delivered by Jackie Joyner Kersee, one of the all-time greatest olympic track star's that knows first hand the impact asthma can have on one's daily activities!
Third through sixth grade students have been invited to participate in an Asthma Awareness Poster Contest, with the top entries being awarded at the event. Additionally, T-shirt designs by District 189 High School students will be on display. Participants will be invited to vote on their favorite design, which will be used for future Asthma Camp T-shirts and awareness events!
Lastly, Harmony Health Plan will present the Southwestern Illinois Asthma Coalition (SWIAC) with a donation check to be used for future Asthma Camps. SWIAC offers free asthma camps throughout the year to Metro East school children and families.
Asthma is the #1 reason why children are hospitalized in the St. Louis Metro region, and allergies are the third most common chronic disease among children under the age of 18. St. Clair County has the highest hospitalization rate in the entire state of Illinois, with East St. Louis residents being especially impacted by asthma.
The Southwestern Illinois Asthma Coalition works to improve the quality of life for people with asthma, whether they are at home, school, or work. Coalition members represent a variety of local health care agencies and community organizations. If you would like more information about the Asthma Kick-Off Event or the Southwestern Illinois Asthma Coalition, call Amy Funk at: 618-344-4230.