Media Release

ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Alachua County's CHOICES Health Services will hold a Community Health Walk on Saturday, November 14, 2009. The 1.2-mile walk begins at the Alachua County School District�s Kirby Smith Building (620 East University Avenue, Gainesville). Registration and activities begin at 7:30 a.m. The inaugural Community Health Walk will kick off "Alachua County on the Move" to begin in January.

This Community Health Initiative aims to raise awareness about the County's high rates of death and disability from diabetes and other preventable chronic diseases. "Alachua County on the Move" will feature activities and information to help citizens understand that the risks of diabetes, heart disease, stroke and asthma can be reduced with simple lifestyle changes: increased activity, improved diet, avoiding tobacco and preventative health care. The intention is to help residents take the first steps toward being part of a healthier community.

In partnership with the University of Florida Diabetes Center of Excellence, the walk is being held on World Diabetes Day to highlight the importance of prevention and early detection of diabetes.

Those who wish to participate in the walk may pre-register by calling 352-334-8889, or visiting www.acCHOICES.com.  

Activities will include events for kids, free blood sugar and blood pressure screenings, free chair massages and Zumba and Salsa instruction. The walk begins at 9 a.m. and ends at the Downtown Fall Arts Festival, only a few blocks from the event start.

For more information or to apply for CHOICES Health Services, call 352-264-6772 or visit www.acCHOICES.com. Click here for more information about the CHOICES Health Education & Wellness Program.