See what Patient First is doing in the community.
Schools lay at the heart of the community as the constant link that tie people together. Each year Patient First donates to multiple schools in the Mid-Atlantic region to help support the needs of its students. This year Maude Trevette Elementary School in Richmond, Virginia decided to focus their donation on the purchase of ukeleles. Music instruction is a great way to help regulate emotions and focus on social and emotional development. It also creates community, a sense of achievement, and is a great way to build self-confidence. We hope that these musical instruments allow the kids a comfortable form of self-expression, while creating enjoyable interactions amongst their peers.
Making our way downtown on the streets of Richmond, Virginia for the 39th annual Dominion Energy Christmas Parade-- what better way to get you in the holiday spirit than a community coming together to spread a little Christmas cheer!
Patient First was excited to be one of 93 parade participants involved this year. Our wonderful staff came out to volunteer their time and assist with carrying the giant Abby Cadabby balloon. Abby is a fairy in training from Sesame Street that was 35 feet long. This required a bit of determination and a lot of teamwork, especially with an unfavorable forecast. Rain was predicted to begin right before the start of the parade and continue until early afternoon. With fingers crossed and high hopes for sunshine, the weather did exactly what it said it would. Parade goers lined the streets with tents, ponchos and umbrellas, cheering us on as we made a splash down the over two mile parade route. Despite the rain, we were still able to have a fun, and memorable experience. We cannot wait to see what's in store for year 40!
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Colors changing, leaves crunching-- what better way to welcome fall than the Bluebird Gap Farm Fall Festival! Located on 60 acres of farmland in the city of Hampton, there were lots of activities for the kids at this 2-day event. There were food trucks, live music, pumpkin chunkin', face painting, a pumpkin patch, a playground, hayrides and of course, a visit with the animals. Some of the kids arrived in their costumes anticipating Halloween.
This was the first year that Patient First participated in this event. With so much to see and do, we can't wait to see what's in store for next year. We enjoyed the event and look forward to seeing you all in 2023!
Nuckols Farm Elementary School was excited to bring back their annual Fall Festival for the 2022-2023 school year. This was a fun event for the families to enjoy. From rock climbing to cake walks, a silent auction and bounce houses, there were so many activities for the kids and kids at heart.. Many families dropped by the Patient First table to pick up some goodies, and our very own physician assistant from the Midlothian center was in attendance with her daughter.
As a community partner, Patient First was delighted to attend this event to promote health and wellness. We all enjoyed ourselves and look forward to joining the Nuckols Farm community next year!
After a three year hiatus, Naval Air Station Oceana opened their gates to the public for a riveting air show so loved by the community. The highly anticipated performance drew in over 330,000 people over the three day weekend; a record breaking number in over 20 years. The U.S. Navy Blue Angels were the headlining act, accompanied by a number of other flight crews, jet trucks and sky divers. Jet engines roared and exhaust smoke filled the air as the crowd cheered and stood gazing in awe. Sunshine and clear blue skies created the perfect scene to a showcase of unforgettable performances.
Patient First is deeply rooted in the military community and proudly supports our troops . We were excited to be a part of such an amazing experience and look forward to seeing you all next year!
Beach Events kicked off their annual Funk Festival at the Virginia Beach oceanfront on 24th Street. For 12 years, this exciting festival has brought people together for a weekend of music and fun. We know the saying that music is medicine for the soul. Inspired by several genres of music, funk's rhythmic pattern makes dancing hard to resist. People lined the boardwalk, grooving to music while stopping by the Patient First tent to collect free promotional items.
With good weather and good vibes, Patient First was happy to participate in this electrifying event. We had a great time, and look forward to seeing you all next year!
The Carytown community celebrated 40 years of the beloved Watermelon Festival with perfectly mild weather and sunny skies. The festival stretched over several blocks with vendors, music and food trucks. This was a great way to bring folks together. A projected 100,000+ people were in attendance and over 3,000 watermelons were cut and used to serve the patrons. From freshly cut watermelon to deep fried watermelon, everyone was sure to find something tasty to enjoy.
Patient First has participated in this event for years. Who knew that something so sweet and enjoyable could be so good for you? Patient First was happy to share the health benefits of eating watermelon, along with some creative watermelon recipes. And of course we brought Band-Aids and hand sanitizer too. We’d like to thank the folks of Carytown for a great time. We look forward to seeing you all next year!
On Saturday, August 6th the 2022 Water Lantern Festival was held at Mount Trashmore in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Thousands of people came together to experience unity in the community that was moving, yet uplifting. People channeled their creative side working effortlessly to design water lanterns that were meaningful to them. Many people listed their dreams and aspirations whiles others took time to commemorate the loss of a loved one. Some participants were brave enough to get up on stage and share their personal stories. As night fell, everyone headed to the lake to release their lanterns which is symbolic to releasing peace, hope and happiness.
For years Patient First has aided in healing the community through the services provided at our medical centers. We were proud to support an event that brought healing and community connection outside of the healthcare setting. Although the event just concluded, we are already looking forward to next year.
On Friday, July 15 the Hanover County community welcomed the Hanover Tomato Festival back to Poole Green Park. This highly anticipated, family oriented tradition has been around for many years. There were several games and activities for the kids and some unique crafts and homemade goods. People came out to purchase the fresh produce and indulge in some popular tomato themed dishes.
Although the weather was warm, people were excited to be outdoors. Our friend, McGruff even took time away from fighting crime to say hello. Patient First was proud to be there to share some health benefits of tomatoes and support the return of this beloved festival.
Chalk the Walk returned to Virginia Beach this weekend for a colorful, creative, cartoon pals themed event. Several local artist and aspiring artist gathered on the boardwalk creating murals of artwork along the pavement. All registered participants competed for a trophy and a cash prize. Others stopped by to join in the fun by drawing pictures of their choice.
Patient First was blown away by the mere talent of all the participants. What an awesome way to bring unity to the community!