Stormont Vail Health Launches Walk with a Doc Program in Topeka

Stormont Vail Health is encouraging Topeka residents to take a step toward better health with Walk with a Doc (WWAD), a health program that brings doctors and patients together to walk Saturday, Sept. 18, 2021 from 9 to 10 a.m.

WWAD is an international non-profit organization whose mission is to inspire communities through movement and conversation.

The Walk is open to the community and participation is free. Pre-registration is not required. Walkers will enjoy a refreshing and rejuvenating walk with Drs. Betsy Johns and Karen Bruce as well as other health care professionals who will provide support to participants and answer questions during the Walk.

Topeka joins a growing list of communities worldwide that have started local WWAD programs. WWAD was started by Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist in Columbus, Ohio. He has walked with patients and community members nearly every weekend since 2005.

“Walk with a Doc is honored to team up with Stormont Vail Health,” said Dr. Sabgir. “By incorporating this program into the practice, Stormont Vail is demonstrating an exceptional level of care and commitment to their community.”

According to the American Heart Association, walking as little as 30 minutes a day can provide the following benefits:

• Improve blood pressure and blood sugar levels

• Help maintain a healthy body weight and lower the risk of obesity

• Enhance mental well-being

• Reduce the risk of osteoporosis

In addition, moderate exercising such as walking has been shown to reduce the risk of diseases such as coronary heart disease, breast and colon cancer and Type 2 diabetes. Research has also shown that active individuals can add up to two hours of life for each hour of regular exercise.

Learn more about Walk with a Doc at www.walkwithadoc.org.