Each day, doctors step up to the plate to hit home runs for families seeking quality health care and solutions. On Sunday, September 5, 2010, several dozen of them will do just that as they gather at the Baseball Grounds of Jacksonville, 301 A. Philip Randolph Blvd., to make "Rounds at the Grounds."
In recognition of National Infant Mortality Awareness Month, Healthy Start and the Jacksonville Suns have partnered to host a celebrity softball game immediately prior (5:00 p.m.) to one of the Suns' final games. More than 26 various physicians - obstetricians, gynecologists, surgeons, pediatricians, family practitioners, oncologists, residents - and other medical professionals from area hospitals and offices will participate in the inaugural 90-minute softball game. Eugene Monroe, Jacksonville Jaguars offensive tackle and Healthy Start ambassador along with Jaguars teammate Eben Britton, will serve as celebrity coaches. In addition, Olympic gold medalist Shannon Miller, President, Shannon Miller Lifestyle: Health and Fitness for Women, will serve as a celebrity sideline media correspondent.
"I am glad to lend my support to Healthy Start in helping raise awareness about infant mortality and how it affects families in our community," said Monroe. "I have learned that the health of women and men long before they begin planning for a family will bring about successful births. We can tackle this issue and make Jacksonville a winner for healthier babies and families."
In addition to the softball tournament, Monroe will throw out the first pitch during the Suns' 7:05 p.m. Fan Appreciation night game that immediately follows. The first 3,000 Suns game attendees will receive one of four baseball cards featuring Monroe and "Healthy Starter" tips.
"We are so excited about our new partnership with the Jacksonville Suns," said Carol Brady, Executive Director, Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition. "It affords us a unique opportunity to build even greater awareness about programs that are leading to grand slams for Jacksonville families."
Each member of the Rounds at the Grounds team will receive a team shirt and recognition during a special post-game victory reception featuring free food, beverages, and prizes.
Community members, families and hospital/office staff members are encouraged to purchase tickets for Rounds at the Grounds to cheer for their team doctors and our home team. The Suns are offering group discount tickets (box or reserved seats). All persons who purchase Suns tickets can attend both the celebrity softball game and the Suns game. Tickets are available at the Suns' box office or by contacting Sarah Foster with the Jacksonville Suns at 358-2846.
To learn more about how you can help make a noise, make a difference, and prevent infant mortality, please visit the Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition's Web site at www.nefhealthystart.org or call 904.723.5422.
Established in 1991, Northeast Florida Healthy Start Coalition operates a variety of cooperative community-based programs and outreach services designed to reduce infant mortality and improve the health of children, childbearing women, men, and families throughout Duval, Nassau, Clay, St. Johns, and Baker counties.
