Olympic medalist to speak at Women’s Health Night

Posted on March 21, 2017
Jackle Joyner-Kersee captured six Olympic medals after being diagnosed with severe asthma. (Photo Facebook/Jackie Joyner-Kersee Foundation)

 

By Greg Halbleib

BLOOMINGTON – An Olympic medalist and Illinois native will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Women’s Health Night next month.

Jackie Joyner-Kersee is scheduled to speak at the 19th annual event on April 28 at Illinois Wesleyan University’s Shirk Center. The East St. Louis native won three gold, one silver and two bronze medals in track and field during Olympics in 1984, 1988 and 1992.

The Twin Cities-based Illinois Heart and Lung Foundation organized the event, and foundation director Kathi Franklin said Joyner-Kersee is an ideal speaker because she was diagnosed with severe asthma at age 18.

“She really has an amazing story to tell and inspiration that all of us can use,” Franklin told WJBC’s Scott Laughlin and Patti Penn. “You can have these chronic diseases and these other health issues, but just do it right and work with your doctor. Look how far she’s come.”

Franklin said those attending the event won’t have to pay a cent.

“There’s nothing sold there. It’s all free,” Franklin said. “Free screenings, free education, both hospitals, other health centers all will be there.”

More information on the event is at the foundation web site, IHLF.org.

Greg Halbleib can be reached at [email protected].

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