In a vibrant display of community spirit, the Organization for Social and Health Advancement in Guyana, OSHAG, hosted its second monthly health check on Monday 4 May 2026 at the New Amsterdam Post Office compound in Region Six.
The outreach brought together health care professionals, volunteers, sponsors and dozens of elderly residents for a day dedicated to wellness, prevention and empowerment.
From as early as 8 a.m., senior citizens gathered to benefit from a range of free medical services delivered in collaboration with the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital and the Ministry of Health. Doctors, nurses and other qualified professionals conducted blood pressure and blood sugar testing, offering immediate assessment and tailored advice.
Beyond the screenings, the initiative focused heavily on education. Participants received age-appropriate guidance on managing hypertension and diabetes, with discussions centred on balanced diets, medication adherence and practical lifestyle adjustments. A structured diet chart and meal plans designed for persons managing chronic conditions were also distributed.
OSHAG founder and president Carol Trim explained that the organisation began with a focus on cancer, but expanded as other social service needs became apparent. The group regularly distributes adult diapers, walkers, commodes and wheelchairs to persons in need, and has supported food donations and soup kitchens in the area.
Ms Trim said the golden-era health checks now run alongside the distribution of food essentials and provisions, so that elderly residents leave with both a health assessment and something to cook at home. She added that the work gives the volunteers a sense of fulfilment, because the seniors being served are the people who paved the road for those who came after them.
Alicia Maman, president of the OSHAG Ambassador Cabinet, said she was pleased the team had been able to return to the post office compound for a second time and intends to keep the outreach going.
The outreach also included the distribution of hygiene packages, an initiative warmly welcomed by recipients. Many of the elderly beneficiaries expressed heartfelt gratitude, describing the event as timely and thoughtful. Participants said the free testing gave them reassurance and clarity about their health status, and one commended the organisation for effectively bringing the hospital to the community.
Sponsors for the event included Merex Enterprise, Trims Management Services and JNS Food Court, alongside OSHAG itself.
As the outreach concluded at 1 p.m., organisers said the programme reflects the organisation’s core values of service, empowerment and sustainable impact, and reinforces the message that personal health is deeply connected to collective responsibility.
The report was filed for LRTVS Newswatch by Delon Adams.