FRANK LEWIS

PDT Staff Writer

Beth Dunlap of the Scioto County Health Coalition says a lot of activities are being scheduled to improve the health of the citizens of Scioto County through the coalition.

“Southern Ohio Medical Center has two fitness related opportunities coming up in the next two months,” Dunlap said. “The Triathlon on Aug. 12, and Run For Your Life on Sept. 1.”

The SOMC Tri For Your Life Sprint Triathlon will begin at 7 a.m. and registration information is available at hfpracing.com. Run For Your Life will also begin at 7 a.m. at the SOMC Life Center. The event will feature a 5K walk, a 5K run, a 10K run and a pump and run. Registration can be done online at www.active.com. People needing more information may call 740-356-7650.

“If you’re not a runner, but want to help, both races have volunteer opportunities and want to see more community support,” Dunlap said. “If you are interested, contact Jim Kolar at 740-356-7566. And, hey, you get a free T-shirt.”

There is also an opportunity to kick the smoking habit. SOMC is partnering with the American Lung Association to offer the Freedom From Smoking program, a program to help anyone wanting to kick the tobacco habit.

Dunlap said the course is eight days over a seven week period, and will be from 4:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the SOMC Cancer Center conference room. The next class starts on Aug. 27 and ends on Oct. 8.

The classes are free and all materials are included. She said registration is required and information is available at Community Health and Wellness, 740-356-2720. Support group meetings are held the third Thursday of every month at 5 p.m.

Frank Lewis may be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 232, or at flewis@heartlandpublications.com