The American Stroke Association sponsored a free health fair and gospel concert in Chicago over the weekend at the House of Hope. The goal of the event was to educate the African American community about their increased risk for stroke. According to the ASA, African Americans have nearly twice the risk for a stroke than Caucasians and often have strokes at a younger age. Stroke is the leading cause of disability and the fifth leading killer in the United States.
There were over 40 vendors at the health fair. Attendees were offered health screenings, hands-on CPR demonstrations, fitness activities, and healthy food options.
Following the health fair, participants were treated to a free concert headlined by Grammy Award-winning gospel artist Erica Campbell. Campbell is also a member of the wildly popular gospel duo Mary Mary and appears in and executive produces her hit reality show “Mary Mary”.
Opening acts for the evening included Walt Whitman and the Soul Children of Chicago and LXW Chicago. Walt Whitman and the Soul Children of Chicago continue to serve the community as a non-denominational, nonprofit educational organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of our youth. LXW Chicago was founded by gospel artist Deitrick Haddon as an extension of his L.A. choir movement. LXW Chicago is filled with young adults between the ages of 18-35 from various churches and backgrounds all brought together for ministry. The group joined Campbell as she performed her gospel hit “I Luh God.” There was also an award given to a stroke survivor.
There were over 8,000 people in attendance. Check out photos from the event.
