This essay competition is an opportunity for students in Mayo to have their say on the issue of childhood obesity, and allow them to share their thoughts and views on what they believe would help tackle this important issue at a local and county level.
The prizes on offer include an iPad kindly sponsored by Staunton's Pharmacy, Castlebar and a one week work placement with the Western People for the winning student. The winning school will receive a €200 sales voucher kindly sponsored by Primary Solutions Computer Shop, Ballina. The second prize for the student consists of a €100 sales voucher and a €100 computer repair voucher kindly sponsored by Coleman's Computer Store, Castlebar. The third prize for the student is a €200 gift card kindly sponsored by Molloy's Lifestyle Pharmacies & Health Stores, Ballina. The closing date for receipt of essays is Friday 25th May and all the competition details are available on www.croi.ie/essay.
Announcing details of this initiative Croí Nurse Lead for the ‘Mayo Action on Heart Disease & Stroke' programme said "Recent statistics show that the number of young people in Ireland who are overweight or obese is increasing at an alarming speed. Obesity is associated with premature death and an increased risk of developing chronic illnesses such as heart disease and diabetes." She went on to say that "Much of the debate around childhood obesity has centered on the views of health care professionals, teachers, parents etc. Through this competition we want to give students a voice and gain an insight into what Transition and 5th year students believe would help tackle this important health issue".
For more information on the ‘Mayo Healthy Living Month' contact Ailish Houlihan, Croí Nurse Lead, ‘Mayo Action on Heart Disease & Stroke' on 094-9049172 or email ailish@croi.ie or log onto www.croi.ie
