When you really think about it, all we have is our health. Ever have a runny nose and wish for the days when you could breathe easily and took it for granted? And those dealing with serious illness, or if you know someone who is, it can be a real challenge.

Sullivan County has long struggled with health—often placing second to last in state health rankings.

There are many factors to what makes someone “healthy,” too many to get into here.

But what we want to do is highlight the people and organizations working to make this county healthier.

One is of course Sullivan 180, a non-profit that fosters community efforts. They held their annual celebration last week (see article on page 1A) highlighting the many programs and work that they’ve accomplished—from making school lunches more nutritious, to hosting walking challenges to encourage people to get their steps in.

It’s a worthy endeavor and one that appears to be working, as Sullivan County rose through the ranks of health outcomes in New York.

We applaud their work, including the hundreds of volunteers, as they continue to keep moving forward.

Also on display was the reality of rural healthcare settings, where doctor’s offices and hospitals are closing, forcing people to travel farther away from home just to see a doctor.

Four documentary films were shown at the start of the Big Eddy Film Festival in Narrowsburg on Thursday night, showcasing the very real impacts of a lack of healthcare in rural areas across the country (see article on page 1A).

From a doula in Texas to a mobile clinic in Virginia, the films showed the people who are working to make it better—something we can relate to right here in Sullivan County.

But that doesn’t mean that the barriers don’t exist, many people travel two hours to see a doctor or can’t afford health insurance.

The stories that were shown in those films was a heartbreaking reminder of the disparity that exists.

And the health of our youth is also important, and the EverGreen Academy is working toward opening a facility to support young girls who are experiencing mental health issues.

The brand new facility in Rock Hill has received the support from many local officials and organizations, and is on track to open in 2027 (see article on page 1A).

It is clear that when all people want is to be healthy, we need support systems in place.