| HOSA
students to attend nationals
Three Prairie High School students will be attending the national Health Occupations Students of America competition in Anaheim,  California
from June 21st to 26th. Seth Guyer, Michael Karel and Josh Zigler
captured third place at the state HOSA competition which qualified them
for nationals. Qualifying is only half the battle, though.
The three must raise enough travel and lodging money to underwrite the
trip for themselves and their chaperone, Susan Guyer.
According to Zara Hasselstrom, member of the St. Mary’s Hospital Mission Committee and Josh’s mom, the committee has donated $400 to the cause, but more is needed. “The boys are holding a Bingo night on Saturday, June 4 from 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Prairie Middle School cafeteria. All proceeds will help with the cost of going to nationals,” said Hasselstrom. “Businesses and people in the community have been so generous in donating prizes or money to purchase prizes and silent auction items. Now, we just need people to attend for a night of fun for a good cause.” HOSA competitions include topic areas such as medical terminology, medical spelling, dental assisting, nursing assisting and medical photography. The local HOSA chapter was established at Prairie High school seven years ago for students interested in pursuing a career in the healthcare field. Sheri Daly advises the group which included 34 students this year. “HOSA provides a valuable opportunity for students to develop leadership and team working skills while preparing them for future careers in the medical field. It is very rewarding to see the students grow and mature through their involvement in HOSA,” said Daly. The three qualifiers plan on pursuing careers in the healthcare field. Guyer is accepted at Washington State University to study pharmacy. Karel will attend the University of Idaho and hopes to become a general practitioner. Both were seniors this past year. Zigler, a junior, wants to study Sports Medicine after graduating next year. All three have fulfilled the community service requirement by volunteering over 20 hours at the hospital, the SMH Food Bank and the regular blood drives. “We really appreciate the donation from the St. Mary’s Hospital Mission Committee. Anyone is welcome to contact us if they have a volunteer job or would like to contribute financially or to donate an item for the upcoming Bingo fundraiser,” said Hasselstrom. “These boys can be proud of their accomplishments. I am sure everyone wishes them well at the national competition. It will be a tremendous experience for them.” |
 |