Nashville, TN – On September 14, 2007, Tennessee Governor Phil Bredesen declared September 29, 2007 as “Walk to Prevent Obesity Day.” The proclamation details Tennessee’s ranking nationally as sixth in regards to obesity with 28.8 percent of the population considered to have obesity. In addition, it discusses the efforts of the American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Foundation and Obesity Action Coalition’s (OAC) “Walk from Obesity.”

The “Walk from Obesity” was established to give hope to those needing it most. Walkers raise money by asking friends, family and co-workers to sponsor them. In addition to walker income, funds are raised through sponsorship, matching gifts, corporate contributions and other fundraising activities. All funds support the ASMBS Foundation and OAC’s independent educational missions and fund programs focused on research, education and advocacy for all those affected by obesity.

Both the ASMBS Foundation and OAC applaud Governor Bredesen for his efforts in addressing obesity in the state of Tennessee. “Governor Bredesen’s proclamation is exemplary of the proactive efforts needed by all leaders to combat obesity in the United States. We greatly appreciate and thank him for his efforts. It is the hope of the ASMBS Foundation and OAC that governmental officials nationwide will follow-suit and proactively address the obesity/childhood obesity epidemic in their state,” said Joseph Nadglowski, Jr., OAC President and CEO.

The state of Tennessee is taking part in this year’s Walk by hosting a “Walk for Children’s Health.” The event will take place at Hall of Fame Park in Nashville. Onsite registration begins at 9:30 am and the Walk begins at 10 am. The cost to participate in the Walk and show your support for all those affected by obesity, morbid obesity and childhood obesity is $25. To register for the Nashville “Walk for Children’s Health,” please visit www.walkfromobesity.com.

Please click here to view the proclamation from Governor Bredesen.

The ASMBS Foundation and Obesity Action Coalition’s “Walk from Obesity” was established in 2003 to give hope to those needing it most. Walkers raise money by asking friends, family, and co-workers to sponsor them. In addition to walker income, funds are raised through sponsorship, matching gifts, corporate contributions and other fundraising activities.