Although a cold, windy day, local residents flocked to the Adams County State Lake to Walk with a Doc this past Saturday.
Adams County Regional Medical Center (ACRMC) and the Adams County Medical Foundation hosted their first “Walk with a Doc” a community event, encouraging local residents to take a step toward better health. The health program brings doctors and patients together once a month to walk at the Adams County State Lake.
“This program has had tremendous participation and success in hundreds of cities around the world,” said Alan Bird, CEO of Adams County Regional Medical Center. “We are very pleased to bring this exciting and simple program to Adams County as it has shown such improved health results for countless people around the world. In addition, ACRMC would like to thank the Adams County Medical Foundation for partnering with us to provide this service to our community.”
The walk featured Dr. Emily Roflow, a board-certified physical therapist. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Roflow provides primary pediatric physical therapy as well as continuing her interest in orthopedic and neurologic conditions. She also is an industrial rehabilitation expert and assists within the community for ergonomic assessments, return to work screens, and functional assessments.
“There’s no question that increasing exercise, even moderately, reduces the risks of many diseases, including coronary heart disease, breast and colon cancer and Type 2 diabetes,” said Dr. Roflow. “Research has even shown that you could gain two hours of life for each hour that you exercise regularly.” Dr. Roflow leads the rehabilitation program at ACRMC, where physical, occupational, speech therapies are available.
Adams County joins a growing list of communities worldwide that have started local Walk with a Doc (WWAD) programs. WWAD was started by Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist in Columbus, OH. He has walked with patients and community members nearly every weekend since 2005.
The next walk will be held on April 9that 9:00 a.m. Participants will meet at the playground area at the Adams County State Lake located at 14633 State Rte 41 in West Union. Walks will also take place May 21st, June 18th, July 12th at the Adams County Fair, August 20th, September 17th, October 15th, and November 19th. Participation is free and pre-registration is not required.
Learn more about Walk with a Doc at www.walkwithadoc.org.
