Well-dressed people holding a giant check, with balloons festooned over an entrance way.
Community
4 months ago
HCA Healthcare Foundation present’s a $25,000 Check to the United Way of Marion County

HCA Healthcare Foundation’s Healthier Tomorrow Fund presented the United Way of Marion County with a check for $25,000 at the HCA Florida West Marion Hospital on Aug. 26, 2025. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

The starting line at the 2024 Walk to End Alzheimer's
Health & Wellness
4 months ago
Catch the Purple Wave Pep Rally on Aug. 27 for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Ocala

The Alzheimer’s Association is bringing the community together for Catch the Purple Wave, a pep rally set for Wednesday, August 27 at 5:30 p.m. in Ocala. The event offers a first look at this year’s walk, opportunities to get involved, and a chance to connect with others dedicated to ending Alzheimer’s. Attendees are encouraged to wear purple and show their support in the fight against this devastating disease.

Local
4 months ago
Picking Up The Pieces to Host Annual Overdose Awareness Event in Ocala on August 30th

Picking up the Pieces will host its annual Overdose Awareness Event on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Compassion United Methodist Church in Ocala. The day begins with a Memorial Ride in Belleview before the community gathers for speakers, resource tables, children’s activities, and a united moment of remembrance. Coinciding with International Overdose Awareness Day, the event honors lives lost to addiction while offering hope, support, and awareness for prevention and recovery.

Community
4 months ago
Catch the Purple Wave Pep Rally on Aug. 27 for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Ocala

Get ready to cheer for a cause! The “Purple Wave” Pep Rally rolls into Ocala on Aug. 27, rallying excitement and support for the upcoming Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Join the community for an afternoon of energy, inspiration, and unity as we take steps toward a world without Alzheimer’s.

Community
4 months ago
HCA Florida Ocala Hospital awarded designations as Center of Excellence in Biomarker Testing and Center of Excellence in Incidental Pulmonary Nodules

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital has been named a Center of Excellence by GO2 for Lung Cancer, highlighting its leadership in early lung cancer detection, biomarker testing, and personalized treatment. This designation reinforces the hospital’s commitment to delivering top-tier, life-saving care to patients in Ocala and surrounding communities.

A diverse group of smiling school-aged children stand in front of a colorful “Back to School Immunizations” banner, promoting free vaccines offered by the Florida Department of Health in Marion County.
Health & Wellness
5 months ago
DOH-Marion hosts back-to-school immunization clinics across county

The Florida Department of Health in Marion County is offering free back-to-school immunizations for children at its Ocala clinic and mobile units throughout the county.

Close-up of a person using a glucose monitor to check blood sugar levels.
Health & Wellness
5 months ago
Free diabetes self-management series begins Aug. 7 in Ocala

Marion County Hospital District’s Community Home Project hosts 8-week program at Howard Academy to empower residents with tools to manage diabetes.

View of Lake Weir with houses and trees along the shoreline under a partly cloudy sky
Community
5 months ago
Blue-green algae detected at Lake Weir boat ramp, health officials urge caution

No toxins found during July 28 testing, but DOH-Marion advises residents and visitors to avoid contact with water near visible blooms.

HCA Florida Ocala Hospital staff pose with cupcakes in celebration of stroke care award.
Local
5 months ago
HCA Florida Ocala and West Marion Hospitals earn national stroke care awards for excellence

Recognized by the American Heart Association, both Ocala hospitals have received Gold Plus honors for stroke treatment and diabetes care, marking over a decade of life-saving commitment.

Exterior of the Marion County Sexual Assault Center building in Ocala, Florida.
Local
5 months ago
Marion County Sexual Assault Center earns state certification as official rape crisis center

Less than two years after opening, MCSAC meets Florida standards for 24/7 survivor support, advocacy, and trauma-informed care.