Walk from Obesity Scheduled for Saturday, October 14

BROWNSVILLE — In an effort to raise awareness regarding obesity in our community, the Valley Baptist Surgical and Medical Weight Loss Program is sponsoring a “Walk From Obesity” on Saturday, October 14 at Linear Park at Sixth Street in Brownsville from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m.

A special early registration price of $15 will be available through Thursday, September 14. Starting Friday, September 15, registration for the event is $25 for adults, and children less than 12 years of age are admitted free with a registered adult. To register, visit www.walkfromobesity.com. Those interested in the event can also register on location the morning of the walk for $35. This is an event of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery Foundation, and proceeds will benefit the mission of this important organization. 

The goal of the second-annual Walk From Obesity is to raise awareness regarding the health complications associated with obesity. Obesity can be associated with potentially serious complications such as metabolic syndrome, which can affect the entire body and increase the risk of stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. The walk is also designed to enhance the community’s knowledge regarding weight loss options.

Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about other health issues potentially related to obesity, including hypertension, sleep apnea, and diabetes.

Another objective of the event is to help calm the apprehension that can be associated with taking the initial steps on the path to leading a healthier lifestyle. Education regarding surgical weight loss procedures can help individuals make decisions that can benefit their lives. Treatments for obesity include dieting, exercise, medication, and behavior changes. 

For more information about the Walk From Obesity, contact Marcela Montemayor, Program Director for the Valley Baptist-Brownsville Surgical and Medical Weight Loss Program, at (956) 698-5220 or by e-mail at [email protected], or Aurora Ybarra, Program Director for the Valley Baptist-Harlingen Surgical and Medical Weight Loss Program, at (956) 389-1246 or by e-mail at [email protected].