Back to School Extravaganza | Video

Kristin Clouston | 8/7/2012

Childhood obesity has more than tripled in the past 30 years. For years, St. Alexius and Kohl`s have teamed up for the Back to School Extravaganza to teach kids healthy lifestyle tips.

One of th events was the chance to run drills with University of Mary football players.

"I think it`s great any time for kids to get out and get involved and you know it`s a good opportunity for them to get to know us as players and just to stay healthy and active for kids growing up," said football player Michael Wagner.

This year`s party also had a new addition called "Alex`s Buddy Clinic."

"The nurse or doctor will evaluate the stuffed animal and if the stuffed animal has a broken arm then they go and get their arm fixed. If the stuffed animal needs to learn about food and nutrition, they go to the food and nutrition booth," said St. Alexius Development Director Kilee Harmon.

The clinic is designed to help kids become more familiar with doctor`s offices. Avery Wanner, 9, brought in her pal Meatloaf.

"I guess it could have a broken tail."

Just like on a real visit, kids had to admit their buddies, visit with staff and follow discharge instructions.

Like many of the patients, Meatloaf ended up in a cast, Avery said she hopes that never happens to her, but if it does, she`ll know what to expect.

Since 2006, Kohl`s has donated more than $147,000 to St. Alexius Medical Center.

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