Eloise says get a health check, it could save your life

A Brixton woman has praised a Guy’s and St Thomas’ health advisor for “giving me my life back” after a routine check revealed she had a serious health problem.

Eloise Bowen, 60, visited Gracefield Gardens Health and Social Care Centre in Streatham after reading in a newspaper that NHS health checks were available for people aged 40 to 74.

Eloise, a retired teaching assistant, says: “I’d been feeling tired for a very long time and was forever having to stop when I was walking because of shortness of breath.

"That day I made up my mind to go for the check and thank goodness I did. The nurse, Thelma Bangura, took my pulse and found it was really low so she sent me straight to hospital.

“After checking my heart the hospital doctor told me that I had a blockage which meant my heart wasn't beating properly.

"I would advise anyone over 40 to have regular health checks. They are free and could save your life."

Specialist nurses carry out the checks at health centres and in other locations in Lambeth including church halls, mosques and libraries.

Thelma Bangura says: "Be like Eloise. Put your health first and get a health check today.

“By taking this simple 20-minute test and acting on the results you can reduce your risk of developing a heart problem, diabetes or stroke in the future.

“Our team will help you find ways to manage your weight, stop smoking and reduce your alcohol intake, and give you advice on making healthier meals for all the family.”

Get an NHS Health Check:

Wednesdays, 1pm-8pm
Elmcourt Health Centre
214-218 Norwood Road, SE27 9AW

Fridays, 9am-5pm
Gracefield Gardens Health and Social Care Centre
Streatham, SW16 2ST