M ention the word “free,” and people usually come running. Free movie, free dinner, free prizes, those are the kind of things that attract crowds. We like free stuff. The best things in life, they say, are free. Well, we’ve
M
ention the word “free,” and people usually come running. Free movie, free dinner, free prizes, those are the kind of things that attract crowds. We like free stuff. The best things in life, they say, are free. Well, we’ve got two such events on Kauai where everything is free and encourage people to check them out. Not only are they free, but they could benefit your health.
First, and going on right now, is Tropic Care Kauai, which started Monday and runs through June 26. Some 300 medical professionals in America’s military reserves are providing free medical care, including physical examinations, vision checks and glasses, and dental care. Yep, free glasses, and it’s not often you’ll get an offer of free glasses. Need some fillings done? They’ll take care of those, too. There are no income limitations. No residency rules. All are welcome. Just show up at one of the three sites around Kauai — Eleele Elementary School, Kauai Community College and Kapaa Middle School. Get there early so these folks can take care of you. We’re hearing these medical professionals want to help more people.
The clinics will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. with the exception of June 22 when the clinics will close at 3 p.m. If you need a ride to any of the sites, Kauai Bus is offering free service during Tropic Care. Don’t let this opportunity slip away. Tropic Care provided more than $1 million worth of medical services to more than 1,600 island residents in 2012.
Thanks to the Department of Defense Innovative Readiness Training project, which provides training opportunities to military member while also helping locals by providing free health services.
The second free event is Saturday’s Mayor-a-thon at Kapaa Beach Park. It includes a bike, run or walk, breakfast, prizes, games, T-shirts and gear bags. All you have to do is show up by 7:30 and be ready for some exercise, fun and games with your neighbors and friends. The sixth annual Mayor-a-thon may be the biggest and the best, with a simple goal of helping folks take those first steps toward a healthy lifestyle. Kudos to Mayor Bernard Carvalho, Jr., and his staff, along with Bev Brody and Get Fit Kauai, for leading the charge here.
In a nation that struggles to provide affordable health care for all citizens, where it’s not inexpensive to visit doctors or join a health club, it’s nice to see something that’s free. Not only is it free, but it’s something that really is a terrific benefit to Kauai and its residents.
