On October 7, over 300 women gathered at the SSGT Willie De Leon Civic Center for the ninth annual Women’s Health Expo, hosted by Uvalde Memorial Hospital. The event blended health education with a lively atmosphere, resembling a girls’ night out.
Sammi Raley, the marketing manager for Uvalde Memorial, explained that the expo aims to make self-care feel important, not just a chore. “Women can shop, eat, laugh, and connect while picking up useful health tips,” she said, highlighting the local charm of Uvalde that makes the event special.
Attendees had access to various local health resources, including En Su Casa and Uvalde Memorial’s oncology department, where staff provided information and support. Nelly Bordovsky, an oncology nurse navigator, expressed a desire for more awareness about the hospital’s services, emphasizing that the event allows the community to learn about their options and ask questions.
Molly Flores from Texas A&M AgriLife Extension focused on heart health and offered a prize drawing to encourage mammogram appointments. She travels to schools to educate young people about nutrition, sharing that “once you teach the kids, they help inform their parents.”
The keynote speaker was chef Dalia David, a finalist on “Chopped,” who spoke about how everyday cooking can boost immunity and hormone health. Additionally, doctors from different specialties participated in a Q&A session, allowing for open discussions about women’s health concerns.
According to the American Heart Association, heart disease remains the number one killer of women, emphasizing the importance of events like the expo. In fact, a recent survey found that 60% of women are unaware of their heart disease risk. Educational initiatives can play a crucial role in raising awareness.
Overall, Raley noted the event’s growth over the years, receiving positive feedback as a highlight for local women. “We’re excited to celebrate our 10th Women’s Health Expo in 2026,” she added, looking forward to another year of empowerment and education.
