Health Break: “Don’t cheat your body” is this year’s theme for local 5k and Health Fair

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - The Cornelia A. Jackson Memorial 5K and Health Fair is returning to Hazlehurst for a second year after serving more than 120 people with free health services during its inaugural event, according to organizers.

Coach Cornelia A. Jackson Foundation President and Founder Shatoya Aylor said last year’s event exceeded expectations, drawing more than 20 vendors and providing on-site services to attendees.

The event carries the message “Don’t cheat your body,” a phrase Aylor said was often used by her mother, Coach Cornelia Jackson, to encourage students to push themselves. This year, the health fair will focus on advocacy, including guidance on how to describe symptoms and concerns to medical providers.

This year’s health fair will be part of a broader All-Star Weekend hosted in partnership with the James Earl Cray Foundation. Pastor James Earl Cray said the partnership is meant to promote community wellness and keep young people active.

Cray said the weekend will include youth activities on Friday, followed by a Saturday basketball tournament. The competition will offer a cash prize and draw participants from the surrounding area, he said.

The 5K is set to begin at 8 a.m., with organizers asking participants to arrive by 7 a.m. The health fair will follow the race.

Events will be held at the Jeff Davis Youth Center, 9 Young Street in Hazlehurst. You can find more information at cjacksonfoundation.com.