Staying Healthy for FREE

In today's crazy economy we need to be even more careful with our precious pennies. "Deals That Are Nifty" is intended to be a sharing forum where we can give each other the "head's up" on great bargains, managing our money, stretching our dough, saving more and spending less. I'd love to hear about all of the great deals you've found, so feel free to post comments!

This week, I thought I'd talk about one of the most important things in the world....MOM! When Mom is happy and healthy, then all is well with the world. Moms truly are the heartbeat of their families, so it's important to take care of yourself. The bad economy doesn't mean you have to skimp on your health. Here are a few no-cost screenings that everyone can afford:

* October 16th is National Mammography Day. I know, that's just about as much fun as sticking toothpicks in your eyeballs, but it's gotta be done. You can find a clinic that offers free testing at http://www.nbcam.org/ While you're thinking about "the girls" you can exercise for free at one of the many Breast Cancer Awareness runs/fitness walks around the country.

* Your heart is full of love for your family, so let's keep it healthy too. You can get free heart-health screenings year round at participating clinics nationwide found at http://www.sistertosister.org/

* You're probably outside a lot, watching the kids' soccer games, serving as lifeguard at the pool, and taking the dog on walks, so let's make sure your skin is healthy too. Skin cancer is one of the easiest types of cancer to get, but also to prevent. To find a clinic that offers free skin cancer checks year round go to www.aad.org/public/exams/screenings

* You kiss your kids goodbye when they get on that school bus; now it's your turn to get on the bus. Walgreens sponsors a tour bus that travels around, offering free health testing for bone density, glucose, cholesterol, blood pressure and body composition. To find out when it will be rolling into your town check out www.aarpwalgreens.com/tour

Moms, the world needs you, so take a few minutes for yourself and be healthy!

CENTSerely,

Sister Thrifty