The Wayne State University School of Medicine’s Department of Family Medicine and Public Health Sciences took part in the Great Michigan Race and Metroparent.com Family Fun and Fan Park in downtown Rochester.

The department staffed a booth offering wellness checks, “Ask the Doc” sessions, blood pressure checks and activities for children during the Oct. 17 event. Maribeth Mateo, M.D., assistant professor of the department, and three residents provided their services at the booth.

“Participating in the Great Michigan Race was an excellent experience,” said Tsveti Markova, M.D., F.A.A.C.P., associate professor and vice chair for Clinical Affairs and Graduate Medical Education for the Department. “Special appreciation goes to Dr. Mateo for her efforts to make the activities at our booth fun and at the same time educational. It was great to see other faculty, staff and residents stopping by.”

 Helen Phillips, the Michigan woman who won the weight loss contest in NBC’s 2009 season of “The Biggest Loser,” also participated at the booth, promoting healthy lifestyles, and chatting with and motivating visitors.

The event raised funds to support the Special Olympics in Michigan.