Maria Parham Health to Host Free Lunch & Learn on Bone Health
July 13, 2026
By Donna Young
Maria Parham Health invites community members to attend Stay Strong for Life, a free Lunch & Learn focused on bone health, osteoporosis and common orthopedic conditions on Thursday, Sept. 10, from noon to 1:30 p.m. in the John T. Church Classroom at Maria Parham Health.
Presented by Samantha Pernell, FNP, of Maria Parham Orthopaedics, the educational program will provide practical information about maintaining healthy bones, recognizing risk factors for osteoporosis and understanding treatment options that can help individuals remain active and independent.
Often referred to as the "silent disease," osteoporosis frequently develops without symptoms until a fracture occurs. According to the National Osteoporosis Foundation, one in two women and one in four men age 50 and older will experience an osteoporosis-related broken bone. During the presentation, Pernell will discuss who is at risk, the importance of early detection, lifestyle strategies to improve bone health and available treatments for osteoporosis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
A complimentary lunch will be provided, and attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an interactive question-and-answer session with Pernell following the presentation.
"At Maria Parham Health, we're committed to helping our community stay healthy through education as well as exceptional care," said Bert Beard, CEO of Maria Parham Health. "This Lunch & Learn is an excellent opportunity for individuals to gain valuable knowledge about protecting their bone health and living stronger, healthier lives."
Event Details
What: Stay Strong for Life – Free Community Lunch & Learn
Topic: Bone Health, Osteoporosis and Common Orthopedic Conditions
Presenter: Samantha Pernell, FNP, Maria Parham Orthopaedics
Date: Thursday, Sept. 10
Time: Noon to 1:30 p.m.
Location: John T. Church Classroom, Maria Parham Health
Cost: Free
Registration: Required. Seating is limited.
Community members are encouraged to register early, as seating is limited.