On May 5, 2026, the Middlesex–Union Regional Chronic Disease Coalition and the Middlesex County Public Health Center brought our community together for a powerful purpose: to empower women through education, preventive screenings, and access to essential health resources.
Thanks to the leadership of Ruby Garcia, Community Outreach & Education, and Twyla Paige, Health Education Coordinator with the Middlesex County Office of Health Services, this event became a true reflection of what community health can look like when partners unite with intention and heart.
A Day of Impact
With our community partners, the event successfully provided:
- 29 Breast Cancer Screenings
- 21 Cervical Cancer Screenings
- 2 Prostate Cancer Education/Screenings
- 14 Skin Cancer Screenings
- 18 HIV Screenings
- 14 Vision Screenings (with 5 referrals)
- 21 High Risk Health Assessments, Blood Pressure & Diabetes Screenings
- 13 STD Screenings
- 45 Community Members Reached
Breakfast and lunch were generously provided by Hola Doctor and Catholic Charities–Unity Square, ensuring that participants felt welcomed, nourished, and supported throughout the day.
AAYHA’s Role: Advocacy in Action
As a participating partner, All About You Healthcare Advocates (AAYHA) brought licensed clinicians and volunteers who performed 21 high‑risk health assessments. Our team provided:
- Free automatic blood pressure monitors
- Free glucometers
- Hands‑on education using the teach‑back method
- Literature on signs and symptoms of hypertension and diabetes
- Guidance on when to contact a primary care provider or seek emergency care
- Education on the long‑term consequences of uncontrolled chronic conditions
But our work didn’t end there. AAYHA made
- 8 referrals to Saint Peter’s University Hospital Clinic
- 3 referrals to the Navigator / Navigator Exchange Program – Center for Family Services for health insurance assistance
These referrals ensure that care continues long after the event — because advocacy is not a moment; it’s a journey!
A Moment That Changed Us
One of the most powerful parts of the day came when our team encountered women who spoke Indonesian and Mandarin — languages none of our clinicians spoke.
Instead of turning them away, we turned to our community partners. Within minutes, nurses who spoke their languages stepped in to help.
This moment reminded us of a truth we see every day:
Language and culture are not barriers — they are realities that must be honored if we want true health equity.
Serving these women inspired our team deeply. It reinforced our mission to ensure that no one seeking care is ever turned away, regardless of language, culture, or circumstance.
The Unmet Need
Despite our team’s best efforts, the demand for services exceeded our capacity. We were unable to see four individuals due to limited resources.
This is not a failure — it is a call to action.
A call for more resources. More partnerships. More support for the organizations doing this work on the ground.
Why This Work Matters
AAYHA exists to bridge gaps, reduce disparities, and advocate for the underserved. Events like this show us what is possible when community partners come together — and what still needs to be done.
We are honored to have stood alongside the Middlesex–Union Regional Chronic Disease Coalition, the Middlesex County Public Health Center, and all the partners who made this event possible.
Together, we are building a healthier, more equitable future for women and families across our community.
Your health. Your voice matters. And AAYHA will always be here to make sure it is heard.
