By Alex Rice Long without its own Colorado Medical Society Alliance branch, the San Luis Valley has recently gotten just that with the inception of the San Luis Valley Medical Society Alliance (SLVMSA). President and founder Mary Rice, who just moved to Del Norte with husband Dr. Kevin Rice and her two sons, is excited about getting the SLVMSA off the ground and running. "We knew the Valley could use an organization like this," said Rice, who previously served as the vice president of the Illinois State Medical Society Alliance. "Our mission is to partner with physicians and medical community to promote healthy lifestyles in our community and to support the family of medicine." The SLVMSA will be initiating various programs across the Valley in order to educate citizens on current health care issues. Its initial program is one that provides infant car seats to the needy, for which funds will be provided through grant-writing and fundraising. They will be working with the Women's Resource Center on this project. "We surveyed community leaders, and found that there is a need for infant car seats," said Rice. "We are very excited about this project, since it will be helping parents ensure that their children grow up to be healthy adults." The SLVMSA will be collaborating with other community organizations on programs related to the betterment of public health, such as those focusing on exercise, eating habits, tobacco use, violence, internet safety, and health literacy. "The national organization found that many people might not know exactly what their doctor or health care provider is telling them, and we'd like to educate people so that they can ask the right questions about their health." The SLVMSA Alliance held its first annual meeting on Wednesday, May 21. After a 6 PM social and 6:30 dinner, the SLVMSA installed its first officers, including Rice as President, Susan Geiger as treasurer, and Susan Shank as secretary. Speakers for the evening included local physician , author , and candidate for the Colorado Legislature Rocky White, along with Colorado Medical Society Alliance President Joann Johnson of Fort Collins. Rice encourages you to join. "Over the past ten years, I've enjoyed helping others with community projects, developing my leadership skills, and making friends. The friendships I've made will last a lifetime, said Rice. "We need your talents and energy!" For more information on the SLVMS alliance call Mary Rice (719) 657-0394 |
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