by Jerry Askin 

When was the last time you went in to see your doctor or had a health screening or a check up? Sunday, you could have done so, free of charge at the Chattanooga Market.

Sunday was the first annual Erlanger Health Day.  Everyone got their turn to see doctors and healthcare experts for free screenings and tests. And many there, having their own story to tell.

"Obesity had been a problem for me my whole life...I called myself a professional dieter because I could go on every diet and lose weight, but then gain it back," says Kathy Freeman.

Freeman has been on a mission to eat healthy and exercise regularly....taking her health serious has been her main goal since her life-changing moment in 2008.

"Almost 4 years ago I had weight loss surgery. And loss almost a 145 lbs," says Freeman.

She was one of a thousand people who made their way to the Chattanooga Market Sunday.

Physicians were on hand offering free blood pressure checks, depression screenings, and bone density tests to name just a few. Erlanger staff doing their part... teaching people the importance of maintaining good health.

"We teach people how to look at symptoms.. how to look at what's going on..or If they're aware of what's going on and how to connect with that doctor or that special care that they need," says Jennifer Hinesman from Erlanger Hospital.

The reason.. Raul Miramontes goes for a checkup at least one time a year.

"I think it's important because of the access. There's a lot of people who don't have  simple blood pressure checks, any checks or anything else so I think it's great to stop by here and take advantage of it.. It's free," says Miramontes.

As for Kathy Freeman....She has a message, hoping to help others.

"Don't be afraid.. The more information you have.. The more you are able to take control of your health.. Your health is the most important thing you've been blessed with so you have to take care of it," says Freeman.

Erlanger Hospital has at least one booth at the Chattanooga Market every Sunday... providing some kind of health information and awareness to the public.