Proceeds from Second Annual Event Will Benefit Brenner FIT Program
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Aug. 8, 2012 – The second annual Brenner Walk and Bike Race will be held Saturday, Sept. 8, at Old Salem Museum and Gardens. The event raises awareness about childhood obesity and raises funds to benefit the Brenner FIT (Families In Training) program at Brenner Children’s Hospital, part of Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center.
The race, which is open to all ages, encourages families to get more exercise, learn about healthy eating and help fight childhood obesity. An interactive walk begins at 9 a.m., with a professional bike race/criterium at 11 a.m. and entertaining activities in Salem Square.
Childhood obesity is a known health concern in our region. According to the N.C. Center for Health Statistics, in Forsyth County as of 2009, significant percentages of children were overweight or obese: 32 percent of children ages 2 to 18, and 37 to 44 percent of students in the first, fourth, seventh and ninth grades.
Brenner FIT is one of the nation’s most comprehensive programs for combating childhood obesity. It uses a family-centered, evidence-based approach to weight management, and relies on the latest in research-proven methods to improve the weight and health of children and their families. The program includes the whole family in the treatment process, and focuses on changing habits and behaviors, rather than simply promoting diets and exercises.
The program is directed by Joseph Skelton, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics, and includes a team of pediatricians, behavioral counselors, dietitians, physical therapists, social workers and exercise specialists.
More information on the event, including links to registration forms, is available at BrennerChildrens.org or by contacting the Office of Development and Alumni Affairs at 336-716-7985.
Event sponsors are Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center, First Community Bank, the law firm of Bell Davis and Pitt, Northwest Pediatrics, Winston-Salem Pediatrics, Walgreen’s, the Winston-Salem Journal, WXII-TV, Fairway Advertising, WSJS-AM, Mountain Park Spring Water, Hanesbrands and Hauser Rental.
Media Relations
Eric Whittington: ewhittin@wakehealth.edu, 336-716-5318
Chad Campbell: news@wakehealth.edu, 336-713-4587