Walk for Williams

Friendly, compassionate, loving, and gentle. These are the first words that come to mind when I think of my friend Jodie. I met Jodie through a program in college where I met with her on a weekly basis to improve her overall health.  Jodie has a condition called Williams syndrome, a rare genetic condition present at birth and characterized by medical problems including, cardiovascular disease and developmental delays. The minute I met Jodie I knew our relationship would be special. She warmed up to me right away, told me I was her best friend 5 minutes after meeting her and would always give me the biggest hug every time I saw her, along with “Heyyyyy girl!”. She was the little social butterfly of the program.

This year marks the second annual Williams syndrome awareness week, May 8-14th. I am so thrilled because more and more people are becoming aware of what this condition is and how to help. There are walks all throughout the country during Williams syndrome awareness week. I will be walking the second weekend and can’t wait to see all the smiling faces out there! If you’d like to participate in a walk near you, online registration is open until 2 weeks prior to the walk date or you can register on-site.

Despite Jodie’s upbeat attitude, she struggled daily with debilitating medical issues. Some days were worse than others but her positive spirit always shined through. Although Jodie lived a happy, fulfilled life it broke my heart to see her in pain. This year will be the first year I participate in the walk. I’ll walk to raise awareness of Williams syndrome, and to raise funding for WSA programs that help the lives of individuals with Williams syndrome and their families.

Find out more about Williams syndrome and how you can help.

Get Your Walk On

As spring approaches and the weather gets warmer, I always look forward to taking my exercise regimen outside. Long walks and adventures are at the top of my list of outdoor activities. There are some days you just don’t have the mindset for an intense workout that requires a lot of attention. A long walk with the company of a friend or two is a great way to get out and get active. Whether you’re an avid runner or trying to abandon your sedentary lifestyle, walking works for everyone and can significantly reduce your risk for cardiovascular disease.

There are a few friends of mine who I always know are up for a long trek, and we have our designated route. You don’t have to restrict yourself to somewhere within walking distance of where you live. Usually we hop in the car go to a specific area where it’s scenic, relaxing, and beautiful architecture. You would be surprised how much further you’ll walk when you’re in an environment or area that’s scenic and enjoyable.

 

A 6 mile stroll.

And there’s even more to look forward to! The American Heart Association has developed a Walking Path App for the Android and iPhone- the app for iPhone coming in early May. I’m VERY excited about this. This is not your average  pedometer app, some of the features include: find a walking path near you, track your walk/path, share your walking route with other people, and save all your walking info through syncing with your American Heart Association Start! Account. How cool is that?! I for one, cannot wait to check it out and share my walking routes with all of you!

To find the app, search American Heart Association Walking Path App in the App Store on your mobile device. Get it just in time for National Start Walking Day on April 6th- always the first Wednesday in April. So lace up, and get out walkin’!