John Jones spoke about men's health care
ESCANABA -- Too many men just don't care about preventative health care. That's according to former Green Bay Packers' President, John Jones.
Four years ago, Jones survived a life threatening aortic dissection, followed by a stroke. That's when his opinions on health care changed, and it's now his goal to convince men that we are not "bulletproof." That's the name of the presentation he gave Wednesday at the YMCA of Delta County.
"The YMCA started a new initiative several years ago called Activate America, and we're rededicating our YMCA to health seekers," says Gary Nash, Delta County YMCA Executive Director.
His "Y" just spent $100,000 on new cardio equipment, and tonight was their open house--a chance for people to tour the facilities, try the new equipment, and get a few health tips from none-other-than Mr. John Jones. Jones says that men do health, but they don't do health care.
"When you talk about health, you see guys working out, lifting weights, running, you see them all over town biking, getting out and fishing, mowing the lawn. But they never think about health care, that is, getting their check-up and having a doctor tell them that they are as healthy as they may think they are," says Jones.
Jones was brought to Escanaba by Bellin Health. Bellin says they're hoping he can put a bug in the ear of men who think they're bulletproof.
"Men in their 40s and their 50s, men that are too busy to go to the doctor, their wives are trying to get them to work out, to eat better, to go to the doctor," explains Barb Braun of Bellin Health.
OSF St. Francis co-sponsored the event, and the hospital also shares in Jones' message.
"Whether you're talking about men, women or children, it's always so important for people to be a little bit more aware of their health risks, what they can do to minimize those risks, and what they can do to stay more healthy," says Lanna Scannell, Manager of Community Relations and Development for the hospital.
So gentlemen, let's heed the advice from former Green Bay Packers' President, John Jones: "The best feeling is when you get the check-up and the doctor says 'Hey, you're great. I'll see you next year.'"