HEALTH & WELLNESS
HEALTH & WELLNESS CORNER
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Mobile Dental Clinic
Mobile Dental Clinic Coming to GSA This Fall/Winter
Attention GSA families! We are excited to announce that the mobile dental clinic/Dental RV is coming to visit our school in late fall/early winter. This convenient service allows your children to receive essential dental care without having to leave school grounds, ensuring their overall wellness while minimizing any disruption to their academic day.
Why Sign Up?
Convenience: No need to schedule separate dental appointments or arrange transportation. The mobile clinic comes directly to GSA, making dental care easily accessible for all students.
Overall Wellness: Regular dental check-ups are vital to your teen's health. By participating, you ensure your student maintains a bright smile and good oral hygiene, which are crucial for preventing more serious health issues.
Reduced Absence: By utilizing the mobile dental clinic, your student will spend less time out of class, which means fewer missed lessons and a more consistent learning experience. Say goodbye to lengthy out-of-seat time for dental visits!
Look out for consent forms coming home soon. We encourage you to take advantage of this fantastic opportunity by signing up and returning the completed forms promptly to secure a firm date as Maine Oral Health and Wellness is trying to coordinate area visits with BHCS.Together, let's ensure our students have the best possible health and education experience at GSA!
P.S. For your convenience there is an easy jot form you can access through Maine Oral Health and Wellness' website at https://form.jotform.com/252218364773158
You can also visit their website for more information at https://maineoralhealthandwellness.com
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Movember Moustache Contest
An anonymous donor has pledged $5.00 to the Movember/Men's Health Initiative for every signed-up participant (students, faculty and staff). There will be a final judging of the best moustache on November 25th at 9:45 AM outside of my office. The winner of the "Best Moustache" will receive a Dunkin' Gift Card. If I have several participants with great moustaches there will be a few more prizes! So, here is your excuse to STOP shaving for the month!
Other participants are welcome to sign-up and collect Men's Health facts about Testicular and Prostate Cancers as well as Men's Mental Health OR create your own moustaches over the course of the next few weeks out of material, yarn, buttons, whatever. The participants who have the most Men's Health Facts and creative moustache by 9:45 AM on November 25th will also win Dunkin' Gift Cards!
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Health Precautions During the Season
As the days grow shorter and we spend more time indoors, it’s important to be mindful of our health, especially during cold and flu season.
- Stay Home When Sick: If you experience symptoms such as fever, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, please stay home until you’re symptom-free for 24 hours without the aid of medication like Tylenol, Ibuprofen and/or Pepto-Bismol, etc.
- Use Masks: If you're unsure about your health, wearing a mask can help protect others. Feel free to pick one up outside of my office.
- Stay Active: Despite the shorter days, find ways to stay active indoors to maintain physical and mental health.
By staying informed and proactive, we can contribute to healthier communities and support those affected by these health issues. -

Diabetes Awareness Month
Diabetes is a chronic health condition that affects millions worldwide. November is dedicated to raising awareness about the prevention and management of diabetes. Here are some key points to remember:
- Types of Diabetes: The most common types are Type 1, Type 2, and gestational diabetes.
- Prevention and Management: A healthy diet, regular physical activity, and monitoring blood sugar levels are crucial.
- Support and Resources: Look for local events or online communities to support those living with diabetes. -

Lung Cancer Awareness Month
Lung cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally. This month, we aim to educate the students on the importance of early detection and prevention:
- Risk Factors: Smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and environmental pollutants are significant risk factors.
- Symptoms: Persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath are common symptoms.
- Screening and Treatment: Early detection through screening can improve treatment outcomes. Encourage loved ones who are at risk to get screened.
Meet our Nurse, Andrea Lopez
Andrea Lopez has joined the staff this year with significant experience in psychiatric and school nursing and working with adolescents. Andrea relocated to Blue Hill in Fall 2019 from the northern Eastern Shore of Maryland with her family not far behind in early 2020.
She is a graduate of The Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing for her basic nursing education and has a Master's in Nursing from Drexel University College of Nursing and Health Professions. In addition to caring for the GSA community, Andrea works as a PMHNP in private practice, spends time with her family, starts projects on her house in the village (eventually they get finished) and gardens (a lot!). She is also the advisor for the GSA Garden Club activity.
"My goals are centered on supporting student success by promoting a safe and healthy GSA community that reaches beyond our doors. Through proactive health promotion and collaborating with healthcare providers, students, faculty, and families, I am dedicated to addressing student health needs and creating an environment where every student is healthy and ready to learn."