Barbados joined other CARICOM countries to celebrate Caribbean Wellness Day on Saturday, September 12, 2009.  A number of activities were staged in Bridgetown which was a “zone of health”.  The festivities kicked off with a 5K walk which started and ended at Independence Square.  This was followed by an Opening ceremony that was addressed by the Minister of Health, the Honourable Donville Inniss and Professor Trevor Hassell, Chairman of the National Commission for Chronic Non-communicable Diseases.  The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of the Task Force on Physical Activity which was chaired by Mrs. Mara Thompson, wife of the Prime Minister.  Mrs. Thompson was also present at the ceremony and handed out prizes to the winners of the 5K walk.

Other activities included exercise, entertainment and dancing in Independence Square; blood testing and screening conducted by non-governmental organizations in Heroes Square; and nutrition tips and demonstrations in Jubilee Gardens.  There were performances by local artiste, street theatre and tuk band performances.  Several stores around Bridgetown offered discounts on health related items; and Broad Street was closed to vehicular traffic for three hours to encourage Barbadians to walk more.   

From Left:  Chief Medical Officer - Dr. Joy St. John, Minister of Health - Mr. Donville Inniss, Wife of Prime Minister David Thompson - Mrs. Mara Thompson and Chairman of National Chronic Non-communicable Disease Commission - Professor Trevor Hassell; at a ceremony to mark the start of Caribbean Wellnes Day. Photo taken from Barbados Advocate Newspaper, dated September 13, 2009.

Participants at the start of the 5K walk.

Participants at the start of the 5K walk.

Participants at the end of the 5K walk.

Mrs. Mara Thompson presents a prize to Sandra Murray who placed second in the 5K walk.  Photo taken from Barbados Advocate Newspaper, dated September 13, 2009.