The Franciscan Day of Dance: Celebrating the Spirit of Women

Although the weather was dreary, The Franciscan Day of Dance brought immense positivity and a proactive stance on life to those attending. The Radisson in Merrillville hosted this spectacular event throughout their hotel and free food and drink was also available.

This occasion was based around the Spirit of Women and their health choices. Many families attended this event and participated in free health screenings, informational seminars, dance routines, vender tables and various doctor lectures.

“The reason for our Day of Dance is to celebrate women and promote their healthy lifestyles; we want to remind them and their families to take care of themselves through nutrition and being active,” Amy Delahunty, the Regional Outreach and Wellness Specialist from the Franciscan Alliance, said.

Many individuals took a huge interest in the dance phenomenon, which showcased dance performances by Eclipse Performing Arts, Premiere Dance Studio and The Chicago Bulls Swingin’ Seniors. Other appearances included: Dessert with the Docs, Body Combat, Body Vive and Body Flow.

Nine hundred people registered to attend The Franciscan Day of Dance and 170 volunteers were in charge of directing those attending to the various health screenings available and making sure everything ran smoothly.

Marci Crozier, Franciscan Omni Health & Fitness General Manager and Biggest Loser contestant, said, “My favorite part about The Franciscan Day of Dance is the fact that everyone is exercising without knowing it. Dance is a fun way to keep the body moving! We want everyone to embrace change and maintain a balanced fitness level. If we can think it, then we can do it!”

The whole month of February highlights the Spirit of Women all across the country. Events such as this will be occurring all across the country and reminding the public how dire our lifestyle choices affect our health.

Sister Aline Shultz, Corporate Vice President and Development, Marketing & Public Relations representative for the Franciscan Alliance, shared her personal experience with the heart attack she survived in 2006. After spending 14 days in the Saint Anthony hospital, she made a promise to exercise and eat healthier.

“I want to make sure women have annual health screenings; it is important to notice small occurrences in our body no matter how insignificant they may seem,” Shultz said.

The Franciscan Alliance is exclusive to Northwest Indiana and continues to educate the community in a very lively way. Although this is only the second year of the nationwide program, members receive benefits for their registration to Spirit of Women.

“This is a wonderful, free opportunity for the community and extends the likelihood of healthier families in the future,” Joe Dejanovic, the Vice President, and Regional Marketing & Communications of the Franciscan Alliance, said.

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