JCC Location is Popular Addition to Fitness Scene

Nancy Capporusso is the Director of Donor Relations for the Jewish Federation of South Jersey and liaison for sponsorships to the Katz Jewish Community Center (JCC) in Cherry Hill.

Years ago it was Nancy who worked with Deborah Heart and Lung Center to install a Health Station for members at the JCC.  The move was part of Deborah’s strategy to sponsor community locations that serve multiple purposes for the Health Stations.

“Cardiovascular disease is known as the silent killer,” said Deborah Vice President of Marketing, Media & Public Relations Lewis Clark, Jr.  “We wanted to find venues for the Health Stations where people were already somewhat health focused.”

The JCC’s mission “is promoting and enriching Jewish culture, heritage, values and lives by providing outstanding educational, social and health & wellness program and experiences.” Health and wellness programs that take place in the JCC’s extensive fitness and aquatics centers are one of its most appealing benefits to more than 9,000 members of all ages.

Checking her Blood Pressure was a Wakeup Call

Nancy has worked at the JCC for nearly 15 years.  During the COVID-19 pandemic, she started to not feel like her usual self. She noticed that her heart was racing and wondering if she should check her blood pressure at the JCC’s Deborah-sponsored Health Station.

She remembers that, along with her blood pressure reading, was the message, “Seek Medical Care.” That week, she checked her blood pressure several more times.  When it was high each time, she made an appointment with her doctor.

What transpired at the Health Station was a good wake-up call for Nancy. She ended up changing her lifestyle and diet and getting her blood pressure under control.

“Many people who work out are focused on their physical activities, so why not continue that process with a blood pressure check, ‘healthcare’ on your time?” Clark asked.  “A simple blood pressure reading can make all the difference for issues happening inside the body that you might not notice.”

Individuals have the opportunity to register to keep electronic records of their health profiles at the Health Station.  They can also opt-in to receive exercise tips, recipes and wellness articles.

Taking Control of Your Own Health Information

“The more proactive people are, hopefully the sooner they will make an appointment with a doctor to talk about what’s going on,” Clark stressed.  “The more people feel comfortable about taking control of their own health, hopefully the sooner health issues can be caught.”

In addition to the JCC, Deborah sponsors Health Stations at the YMCAs of Mount Laurel and Hamilton, Moorestown Mall, Ocean County Mall and Anytime Fitness in Point Pleasant.

According to Nancy, with its convenient location on the way to the pool, the basketball and pickleball courts and the fitness floor and studios, the Health Station is used by JCC members every day.

Do you know your heart health numbers? Learn about what those numbers mean and check out our health station locations.