OSTEOPOROSIS FUND RAISER SET

Bad to the bone, a 24-hour fund raiser designed to bring attention to osteoporosis, will be held Feb. 26 and 27 at Universal Health and Fitness. It is sponsored by St. Francis Medical Center.

Events are planned around the clock from 3 p.m. Feb. 26 to 3 p.m. Feb. 27. Golf, tennis, aerobics and a variety of tournaments and workshops are set.

Osteoporosis is a disease of the bone characterized by thinning and weakening of the internal structure of the bone, making bones susceptible to fracture. It primarily affects women over 50. A key factor in preventing or treating the condition is exercise.

Money raised will be used to purchase air-powered exercise equipment designed for osteoporosis victims. The special equipment offers a low-impact workout with more control and reduced risk of injury.

Doug Friese at Universal Health and Fitness said of the equipment: "You can virtually start at zero pounds and work your way up. You can go up in 1 pound increments."

St. Francis Medical Center hopes to raise $30,000.

For golfers, putting, chipping and driving contests will be held. A video swing analysis will be available, and a golf clinic is scheduled on injury prevention.

Tennis players can hit a target or drop-hit a ball through a hula hoop for prizes. Players can see their swing on tape and measure their serving speed.

Line dancing, step and spinning classes, wallyball, walking and continuous rocking chair action are planned.

Participants can register for prizes. To be eligible for prizes, participants must raise at least $100. The grand prize is a three day-four night trip for two to Las Vegas including air fare and accommodations. The person who brings in the largest donation over $500 wins a one-year family pass to Universal Health and Fitness.

Information packets, including sponsor envelopes, are available at Universal Health and Fitness, Center for Health and Rehabilitation and the front lobby at St. Francis.