Mercy Health – Springfield to host Men’s Health Expo

Mercy Health – Springfield will host the first-ever Own Your Game: Men’s Health Expo on November 12 from 4:30 to 7 p.m. at the Courtyard Springfield Downtown. Maurice Clarett, former Ohio State football standout, will deliver the keynote address.

The free event gives men of all ages the opportunity to take charge of their health with screenings, expert advice, and practical tools to stay smart and strong. According to the press release, research indicates men are less likely than women to seek medical care, with studies showing they’re 33% less likely to visit a doctor at all. This reluctance to seek timely medical attention contributes to men having a shorter life expectancy. On average, men have nearly six years less than women in the United States. 

“Men often put their health on the back burner due to a variety of reasons, from lack of time and resources to avoidance and denial,” says Bobby Parrett, director of rehabilitation for Mercy Health — Springfield/Urbana. “This event is about giving men the resources, knowledge and confidence to take control and overcome those very real and sometimes perceived roadblocks.”

Additionally, men are more prone to chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers, many of which are preventable or manageable with early detection and lifestyle changes. Events like the Mercy Health Men’s Health Expo aim to bridge this gap by providing accessible health resources and encouraging proactive health management among men, according to Parrett. 

“With free screenings, expert guidance and a supportive environment, attendees can make real changes that improve their lives,” he adds.

Clarett, a nationally recognized speaker, author, and mental health advocate, first gained national attention as a freshman running back for The Ohio State University, helping the Buckeyes win the 2002 national championship. However, his path was not without challenges. Following his collegiate success, Clarett faced a series of personal and legal struggles that ultimately led to a prison sentence. Through his journey of redemption and resilience, Clarett now uses his story to inspire others, especially men, to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. His keynote begins at 5:30 p.m.

The expo will also feature free health screenings for heart disease, diabetes, cancer and other conditions, as well as expert guidance from Mercy Health – Springfield specialists and partners on physical fitness, nutrition, mental health, sleep and more. Raffles, prizes, refreshments and appetizers will also be available. 

Mercy Health – Springfield specialties and partners participating in the event include heart and vascular, sleep medicine, mental health, REACH (Recovery, Education, Advocacy, Care and Hope), oncology, nutrition and diabetes, rehab and neurology, primary care, Urology Specialists of Ohio, and Springfield Health & Fitness.

“Ultimately, we want this event to be an inviting space for all men in our community to learn more about preventive health and the resources available to them to live long and healthy lives,” Parrett says.
The Own Your Game: Mercy Health Men’s Health Expo is supported by proceeds from the Mercy Health Foundation’s 25^th Annual Golf Classic, making it free and open to the public. Spots are limited. For registration information, visit bit.ly/mercyhealthexpo.