Walk with a Doc: Step toward a Healthier You

In an age where health information is abundant yet often overwhelming, a simple, effective and engaging initiative is gaining traction: Walk with a Doc (WWAD). This global program offers a relaxed, informal setting for individuals to connect with doctors, ask questions and most importantly, get moving.

Walk with a Doc’s inspired beginning

Walk with a Doc was started in 2005 by Dr. David Sabgir, a cardiologist in Columbus, Ohio. Frustrated with his inability to affect behavior change in the clinical setting, Dr. Sabgir invited his patients to go for a walk with him in a local park on a spring Saturday morning. To his surprise, many patients and community members showed up, energized and ready to move.

Since that first event in 2005, Walk with a Doc has grown as a grassroots effort with a model based on sustainability and simplicity. A health care provider gives a brief presentation on a health topic and then leads participants on a walk at their own pace. In 2009, WWAD became an official 501(c)(3) and the team focused on building a program that could easily be implemented in other cities around the country. As a result of these efforts, the reach of Walk with a Doc now extends all-around the globe with over 500 chapters worldwide.

Walking or rolling, the benefits are significant

One of the key benefits of Walk with a Doc lies in its emphasis on walking (or rolling) –  a universally accessible and highly beneficial form of exercise. Regular physical activity is a cornerstone of good health, playing a crucial role in preventing and managing a wide array of chronic conditions, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity and even certain cancers. It also has profound positive impacts on mental well-being, reducing stress, improving mood and enhancing cognitive function.

Impactful, informal, on-the-spot education

Beyond the physical activity, Walk with a Doc serves as an invaluable educational platform. Doctors often share insights on topics relevant to the community, such as managing blood pressure, understanding nutrition labels or recognizing symptoms of common ailments. This on-the-spot education can be far more impactful than information gleaned from brochures or abstract online articles, as participants can immediately clarify doubts and receive personalized guidance. The informal setting encourages a two-way dialogue, allowing doctors to understand the specific health concerns of their community members, thereby tailoring their advice to be more relevant and impactful.

Walk with a Doc – social, emotional and physical medicine

The social aspect of Walk with a Doc is another significant advantage. Walking in a group provides motivation and accountability, making it easier for individuals to stick to an exercise routine. It also fosters a sense of community, allowing participants to connect with like-minded individuals who share similar health goals. This social support can be particularly beneficial for those who may feel isolated or struggle with self-motivation. The camaraderie built during these walks can extend beyond the event itself, creating a supportive network that encourages ongoing healthy habits.

Walk with a Doc believes that walking is medicine! At any age and any ability level, the simple act of walking and rolling has the power to change lives. We believe in humanizing the health care experience by improving patient-physician relationships and disrupting the white-coat barrier. Our physician leaders connect with their communities outside of the office and walk directly beside them on their journey to better health. We believe in empowering members of our global community with power and agency to take charge of their own health through preventative and lifestyle medicine. We believe that opportunities to learn about and improve health must be accessible for all, regardless of race, gender, socioeconomic background or disability status.

Mercy Foundation North alongside Mercy Medical Center Mt. Shasta is proud to offer Walk with a Doc in Mount Shasta! This chapter meets once a month in the morning or evening for a walk with Dr. Levine, general surgeon at Mercy Mt. Shasta. We meet at the Lake Siskiyou Trail Parking lot on W A Barr Rd, across the street from the tennis courts.

For more information visit our chapter webpage walkwithadoc.org/join-a-walk/locations/mt-shasta-california/. We update walk dates, times and topics here regularly. You also can reach out to Shayna Cassidy at Mercy Foundation North shayna.cassidy@commonspirit.org 530.261.2433. Information can also be found on Mercy Foundation North’s Facebook page, Next Door and North State Parent Magazine’s Community Calendar (northstateparent.com/calendar)