Gwinnett Medical Center celebrated National Heart Month by presenting “Get Heart Smart - an interactive heart health expo” on Saturday, Feb. 9, at the Gwinnett Center in Duluth. The free community event attracted hundreds of participants.

The expo featured educational seminars, fitness classes, a heart-healthy cooking contest, and discounted medical screenings. Giveaways to participants included iPods, local gym memberships and other ways to encourage improving heart health.

GMC’s Strickland Heart Center sponsored the “Fired Up for Heart Health” cooking contest. Local firefighters and GMC employees prepared heart-healthy meals and competed for the prize of best dish. Chef/owner Michael Ganley of Duluth’s Park Café and the Payne-Corley House served as celebrity guest judge. Dallas McCade of Kicks 101.5  emceed the event and announced the winners.

The Ripe Peaches from GMC’s Intensive Care Unit won for “best-tasting, heart-smart dish.” The team of ICU nurses prepared fajita crepes and sweet potato chili lime soup.

Gwinnett Medical Center has campuses in Lawrenceville and Duluth.