Women's Committee Report - May 2008

National Women's Health Week is May 11-17
The 9th annual National Women's Health Week will kick off on Mother's Day, May 11, 2008 and will be celebrated until May 17, 2008. National Women's Check-Up Day will be Monday, May 12, 2008. Helping women get better access to health resources is one of the many ways that unions can show their value to prospective and current members.

National Women's Health Week empowers women across the country to get healthy by taking action. The nationwide initiative, coordinated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' Office on Women's Health, encourages women to make their health a top priority and take simple steps for a longer, healthier and happier life. During the week, families, communities, businesses, government, health organizations and other groups work together to educate women about steps they can take to improve their physical and mental health and prevent disease, like:
* Engaging in physical activity most days of the week
* Making healthy food choices
* Visiting a healthcare provider to receive regular check-ups and preventive screenings
* Avoiding risky behaviors, like smoking and not wearing a seatbelt
Here are some ways that you and other women can participate in National Women's Check-Up Day:
* Contact your health care provider to schedule check-ups and screening services on National Women's Check-up Day.

* Prepare for doctor visits with "A Checklist for Your Next Check-up," developed by the Health and Human Services Office which is available on their web site at www.hhs.gov.
* During the check-up, encourage women to discuss with their health care professionals which of the tests are right for them, when they should have them, and how often.

Last, our Women's Committee is still seeking volunteers to help us with our Fun Run next month on Saturday, June 7th. A sign up sheet is in the back if you can join us. This is a fundraiser for Guide Dogs and we hope to see you there. Thanks!
Our Women's Committee is once again planning this year for the Seventh Annual 'Flight for Sight' Fun Run & Walk to be held on Saturday, June 7th at the Everett Boeing Activity Center. Participants have three options: a 1 mile walk, a 5K run and/or walk that is flat and easy, or a 10K run on a challenging course. All proceeds will go to benefit Guide Dogs of America and anyone gathering at least $30.00 in pledges will have their event registration fee waived. Prizes will be awarded to the three individuals who raise the most dollar amount in pledges.

This event requires a huge amount of volunteers to make it a successful Fun Run. Maybe you've already helped with past runs and made this an annual event to volunteer with our Committee. That's great and we welcome you back this year. If not, we could sure use your help and it is both fun and rewarding. Pledge forms and volunteer sign up sheets are available in the back of the hall. And a mailing will be sent out to all Stewards soon. Thanks and we hope to see you at our June Fun Run, either on the course and as a volunteer!