Tampa, FL – The Walk on the Capitol is proud to announce Caitlin Van Zandt, star of Guiding Light and The Sopranos, as special guest speaker for our National obesity awareness event in Washington, DC. The Walk from Obesity – Walk on the Capitol is a history-making awareness event that will gather thousands of individuals impacted by obesity to bring National attention to the obesity epidemic and the need for expanded efforts in prevention and treatment.

Having struggled with obesity all her life, Ms. Van Zandt encompasses a true understanding of the many facets of obesity, such as health concerns, self-body image and much more. “I decided to make a big change, because, I wanted to avoid potential health problems that could arise from this condition. My goal is to become healthy and happy. By participating in this event, I want to help others understand the physical and emotional impact of this disease and to give people hope that their lives do not need to be compromised by obesity,” said Ms. Van Zandt.

“We are truly excited to have Ms. Van Zandt host the Walk on the Capitol. She has expressed deep passion in advocating for those affected by obesity. It is our goal on June 17 to unite and stand, and send a strong and powerful message to our government regarding the importance of addressing the obesity epidemic,” said Joseph Nadglowski, Jr., OAC President and CEO and ASMBS Foundation Executive Director.

The Walk on the Capitol will take place on the National Mall in Washington, DC, at 6:30 pm. The event is FREE and open to the public. Every individual impacted by obesity, along with family, friends and healthcare professionals, are encouraged and invited to attend. For more information on the Walk on the Capitol, please visit www.walkonthecapitol.com.

Obesity is a serious health epidemic that targets one in three Americans. It is estimated that more than 93 million Americans are affected by obesity, with that number predicted to climb to 120 million in the next five years. In order to address this epidemic, the Walk on the Capitol aims to recognize and promote increasing prevention efforts and improving access to safe and effective treatment options.

The Walk on the Capitol is a National awareness event designed to draw attention to the need for expanded efforts in both prevention and treatment. The Walk is hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) and ASMBS Foundation and supported by various partnering nonprofit organizations. For more information on the hosts and the partnering organizations, please visit www.walkonthecapitol.com.