Turkey Trot 5K/10K.

Wobble Wobble Before You Gobble Gobble

with Celebrity Trainer Donna Richardson Joyner and the First Familys Trainer Cornell McClellan

Wellness Awareness Building Campaign Calling for Physical Activity Mixed with Philanthropy Kicks Off 30-Day Move to Live, Move to Give

Dallas, TX-(November 23, 2011) – The United States is the most overweight country in the world.  Over 68 percent of Americans are overweight and one out of every three children is overweight or obese.  These alarming numbers are what inspired celebrity trainer Donna Richardson Joyner and First Familys personal trainer, Cornell McClellan, to sound the alarm and start a new holiday tradition.  Wobble Wobble Before You Gobble Gobble is a 30-day family fitness campaign inspired by the Wobble Line Dance by rapper V.I.C.  The goal of Wobble Wobble Before You Gobble Gobble and the companion Move to Live, Move to Give campaign is to encourage families to become engaged in daily physical activity and service in their community during Thanksgiving and through the holidays.

Lets be thankful for the food we are about to receive and be appreciative that we can move our bodies, said Donna Joyner. We are going into one of the most sedentary times of the year and one of the most difficult periods for struggling families. There has never been more of a need for optimal awareness regarding combating obesity and helping those less fortunate, added Joyner. With the Move to Live and Move to Give campaign, our mission is to change lifestyles; its more than just the holidays but about all days.  We want America to know they win once they begin moving every day, said Cornell McClellan.

This Thursday morning, Thanksgiving Day 2011, Donna Richardson Joyner will Move to Live and Move to Give by leading the Wobble Line Dance with over 6,000 adult and child runners and walkers and will be giving out 500 Thanksgiving turkeys to military families at the ING Run Miamis 5K/10K Turkey Trot at 7:30 a.m. 

The Move to Live Move to Give 30-day family fitness campaign also includes a You Tube contest that encourages families, friends, and co-workers to record themselves doing the Wobble Line Dance.  The family, individual, or company that records the most people doing the Wobble Line Dance will win the grand prize.  Entries must be submitted to TheDonnaRJoyner You Tube channel by Christmas Day.

You can now download the Wobble Line Dance led by McClellan and Joyner on
You Tube here.

About Donna Richardson Joyner

Donna Richardson Joyner is a celebrity and TV fitness expert and the star of award winning fitness videos including Body Gospel, Buns of Steel, ESPN, and Nike.

 Donna serves as a Council Member on the Presidents Council on Fitness Sports and Nutrition which supports the First Lady Michelle Obamas Lets Move initiative. Recently, she was inducted into the Fitness Hall of Fame and was named by Essence Magazine for being one of the twenty five most inspiring women in America. 

For more information about Donna Richardson Joyner please go to:

www.donnarichardson.com

http://twitter.com/donnarjoyner

www.facebook.com/donnarichardson.joyner

About Cornell McClellan

Cornell McClellan is a Fitness Consultant and Personal Trainer to the First Family of United States. Cornell serves as a Council Member on the Presidents Council on Fitness Sports and Nutrition which supports the First Lady Michelle Obamas Lets Move initiative. He is also the owner of Naturally Fit, Inc. a training and wellness facility in Chicago. He is a recipient of the Fit to Serve Service Award, presented by the African-American Association of Fitness Professionals and Creativity United, Inc.s Award of Excellence. 

For more information about Cornell McClellan please go to:

http://www.naturallyfitinc.com

http://twitter.com/naturallyfitinc

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Lisa Endicott - Endicott & Company - Intuitive PR

855-4Endicott toll-free
214-526-3848 off
972-989-9113 cell
lisa@endicottpr.com 
www.endicottpr.com

Please join First Lady Michelle Obama and myself in signing up for the last 6 weeks for President Active Lifestyle Challenge (PALA) to get your signed certificate from the White House. Signup your entire family just as we have to rid the epidemic of obesity. Help me to turn our nation around to a healthier household, community and country.

Run Miamis Turkey Trot Tradition Sells Out At 4,500

The Thanksgiving morning tradition of running prior to eating turkey continues to grow as runners as young as two years of age showed up at Tropical Park for the annual Turkey Trot 5K/10K. The family oriented event featured a sold out crowd of 4,500 in the 5K and 10K and had a record number of over 350 children between the ages of 2-9 for its highly recognized Chobani Champions Kids Trot. Participants were welcomed by clear skies and 70 degrees weather with a morning warm-up and stretch by Miami Fit Body Boot Camp.  Donna Richardson-Joyner, got the race started at 7:30 AM accompanied by the events kid-friendly Timmy the Turkey mascot.

Participants ran throughout the park, its equestrian center, and ending in the stadium which is best known for hosting events as prestigious as the Junior Olympics and USA National Track and Field Championships. Upon crossing the finish line, participants were welcomed into a post-race festival featuring live music, delicious Flan deserts from Pollo Tropical, Chobani Champions yogurt among many other celebratory components. The event concluded with an award ceremony honoring all overall and age-group award winners. Immediately following the event, a Ryder van full of canned foods was delivered to Camillus House following another Thanksgiving tradition of this event.

When asked about the event, Race Director Javo Cruz commented. Thank you to all participants for making this event as joyous as it was. The environment was positive and festive from beginning to end.  It has been great to watch this event grow and become a part of so many families' Thanksgiving Day tradition. Cruz added on the Chobani Champions Kids Trot, Seeing kids running across that finish line with a huge smile on their face was definitely the highlight of the event.

"Winning the 10k was an amazing experience! It's a healthy and fun tradition to celebrate Thanksgiving with each other by staying fit and being part of the vibrant, beautiful Miami runner community." Huberty commented following his win. Bryan is well known for winning several of South Floridas races.

The US Road Sports of Florida team uses this event as a warm-up for their largest race, the ING Miami Marathon and Half Marathon in January expecting a record setting 25,000 runners.

We had a blast at the Turkey Trot in Miami

We gave away turkeys to Military families and ran in the Turkey Trot!

It was great to see 6000 runners at the Turkey Trot.The special part was 500 military families received turkeys!

Happy Thanksgiving! Wobble Wobble before you Gobble Gobble. Just finished the Kids Turkey Trot in Miami!

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Complete Results visit - www.MiamiTurkeyTrot.com

10K Overall Male Winners

1 – Bryan Huberty - 34:04
2 – Alex Shaw - 34:43
3 – Myles Murphy - 34:47
4 – Soekeer Fajardo - 35:48
5 – Caleb Wishart - 35:49

10K Overall Female Winners

1 – Laura Jorgensen - 42:43
2 – Rita Linville - 43:01
3 – Trish Evans - 43:27
4 – Cheryl Davies - 44:18
5 – Maggie Carmona - 44:32

5K Overall Male Winners

1 – Javier Zamparelli - 16:21
2 – Lewis Price - 16:43
3 – Angelous Serna - 16:47
4 – Alex Ceril - 16:52
5 – Christian Saporta - 16:58

5K Overall Female Winners

1 – Daniela Espino - 17:44
2 – Casey Crist - 19:19
3 – Calyope Ortega - 19:36
4 – Martha Merz - 19:43
5 – Sabrina Quijano - 19:55
 

About US Road Sports US Road Sports & Entertainment Group is a health and wellness company dedicated to the production of world-class endurance events. The mission of US Road Sports is to offer an unparalleled participant sports experience that showcases host communities and endures as a deeply valued local asset through events that are a part of the citys culture, identity and brand. For each participant, US Road Sports strives to offer events that allow participants of all skill levels the opportunity to improve their physical and mental health and accomplish life-altering goals while having fun. US Road Sports provides sponsors and municipalities highly effective exposure to help maximize their presence and message in the community.

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American Diabetes Month

November is American Diabetes Month, a time to communicate the seriousness of diabetes and the importance of diabetes prevention and control. For years, the American Diabetes Association has used this month as an opportunity to raise awareness of the disease and its serious complications.

 

Overall Theme – I Raise My Hand to Stop Diabetes¨

The American Diabetes Association will pay tribute those who have raised their hand and work to Stop Diabetes¨ every day. People, places and programs that are working hard to change the future of diabetes will be highlighted. At the same time, Americans will be rallied to join these champions in the Stop Diabetes movement by pledging to take actions against diabetes.

 

Each week, a different focus in the Stop Diabetes movement will be featured.

Week 1: Fighting for the Future – Giving a voice to those denied their rights because of diabetes and fighting for diabetes funding.

Week 2: Impacting Communities – Building relationships around the country to empower people to take control of their health.

Week 3: Celebrating Health – Recognizing courageous people who have overcome the obstacles of living with diabetes and the places that have helped them.

Weeks 4 & 5: Commitment to a Cure – Spotlighting the important research taking place that will lead us toward an eventual cure.

 

Key Messages

The American Diabetes Association is behind the largest national movement to Stop Diabetes and it's deadly consequences.

During American Diabetes Month 2011, the Association encourages Americans to take action and Raise Their Hand to Stop Diabetes.

Learn all the ways you can take action during American Diabetes Month by visiting facebook.com/AmericanDiabetesAssociation, stopdiabetes.com, calling 1-800-DIABETES, or texting JOIN to 69866 (standard data and message rates apply).

Read our blog (www.diabetesstopshere.org) and follow us on Twitter (@AmDiabetesAssn) to receive updates all month long.

 

Home Office 1701 North Beauregard Street Alexandria, VA 22311 Tel: 703.549.1500

 

About Diabetes

Prevalence

Nearly 26 million children and adults in the United States have diabetes.

Another 79 million Americans have prediabetes and are at risk for developing type 2 diabetes.

Recent estimates project that as many as 1 in 3 American adults will have diabetes in 2050 unless we take steps to Stop Diabetes.

 

The Toll on Health

Two out of three people with diabetes die from heart disease or stroke.

Diabetes is the leading cause of kidney failure.

Diabetes is the leading cause of new cases of blindness among adults.

The rate of amputation for people with diabetes is 10 times higher than for people without diabetes.

About 60-70% of people with diabetes have mild to severe forms of nerve damage that could result in pain in the feet or hands, slowed digestion, sexual dysfunction, and other nerve problems.

 

Cost of Diabetes

The American Diabetes Association estimates that the total national cost of diagnosed diabetes in the United States is $174 billion.

• Direct medical costs reach $116 billion, and the average medical expenditure among people with diabetes is 2.3 times higher than those without the disease.

• Indirect costs amount to $58 billion (disability, work loss, premature mortality).

• Further published studies suggest that when additional costs for gestational diabetes, prediabetes, and undiagnosed diabetes are included, the total diabetes-related costs in the U.S. could exceed $218 billion.

The cost of caring for someone with diabetes is $1 out of every $5 in total healthcare costs.

 

For more information in English and Spanish
call 1-800-DIABETES or visit stopdiabetes.com.
Also, please follow us on:
Facebook (www.facebook.com/AmericanDiabetesAssociation) &
Twitter (www.twitter.com/AmDiabetesAssn)

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Texas Southern University - Excellence in Achievement

  

  

 

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Comfortable Chains: by Dr Thema bryant-Davis

A Call for Rihanna and Other Black Women to Break Out

As a psychologist and a Black woman, I acknowledge the commonly held perception that to be a Black woman means we have to be super strong, invincible, and without feelings. In essence, this perception robs us of our humanity.

Social scientists have developed the term the Strong Black Woman Syndrome which refers to Black women who feel the need to handle everything alone without ever showing any sign of need or vulnerability. I was reminded of this syndrome as I read Rihanna’s recent interview with Rolling Stone magazine. In the interview, she talks about not wanting to look like a victim and not wanting to be perceived as weak. She stated that she worked to present herself as strong until it felt true. This is common for many Black women, including those who have survived trauma, violence, and abuse. It is not that we are immune to pain; rather, we believe it is unacceptable to show our pain. Black women receive the message from people outside of and within our community that we should not reveal our scars. In fact, one study with Black women who have survived intimate partner violence indicated that the women perceived that the Black community overall views them as weak and undeserving of care. This fear of being dismissed as weak silences many women. Audre Lorde wrote the poignant words, “This woman is Black so her blood is shed into silence.”

This concept can be witnessed in Rihanna’s testimonial in that, regardless of the very public way in which her story was told, her actual narrative and perspective have been silenced. Rihanna stated she felt the need to figure it out by herself after just one session of therapy. What keeps her and others silent?

We have seen what happens to Black women who speak of their pain, especially if the person who caused the pain is also Black. In fact, there has yet to be an instance in contemporary times where a Black woman has been harmed by a Black male and the Black community collectively rallied to her defense. Whether it is Anita Hill, Robin Givens, the adolescent violated by R. Kelly, or, more recently, the 11 year old girl gang-raped in Texas, Black women and girls receive the message that their pain is their problem and fundamentally their fault. As a result, they are encouraged to remain silent. Rihanna has learned this lesson well. As a young witness to domestic violence and now a survivor of dating violence, Rihanna has altered her mindset to the point where she can silently find “pleasure” in the pain, comfort in the chains.

The challenge is to extinguish the pressure for Black women to wear the silent mask of superhuman strength in the most dangerous and dehumanizing situations. As I read Rihanna’s interview, I thought of all the Black women who work daily to do the impossible, bear the unbearable, and carry loads that would break any woman’s back. Yes, I celebrate those who show resilience in the eye of the storm. However, it is not enough to simply survive and just get through it. Black women need to be whole. We need to know real happiness and authentic peace. Maya Angelou says, “Survival is important. Thriving is elegant.” To get to a point of thriving, we have to heal. We have to have space to breathe, tell our stories, and tend to the broken pieces. This is not a process that we can rush. It is not a process we should have to do alone. And, it is not a process we should endure in silence. I hope more Black women will get uncomfortable with the physical and psychological chains that bind us so we can break free and live. We do have the right to remain silent, but we have a stronger, more constructive right to speak up about the abuse we have survived and the wounds that still need to be healed.

 

To write a comment about this article please go to Psychologist, Dr. Thema Bryant-Davis blog at http://drthema.blogspot.com We welcome your comments.

 

 

Dr Martin Luther King Jr Memorial~ a must see

US Surgeon General Dr Regina Benjamin and Elder Tarra Reown
as I receive my award from Essence 2011

Walk to end Alzheimer's disease with my dad and friends

Women walking to end Breast Cancer disease Washington, DC

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By Dr. Jeff Patton of Tennessee Oncology

Inflammatory breast cancer is a unique and uncommon type of breast cancer.

It is unique in that inflammatory breast cancer does not produce a distinct mass or lump that can be felt within the breast. The lack of a lump or mass also makes inflammatory breast cancer difficult to detect by mammograms. Inflammatory breast cancer cells infiltrate the skin and lymph vessels of the breast. When the lymph vessels become blocked by the breast cancer cells the breast typically becomes red, swollen, and warm. The skin changes associated with inflammatory can cause the breast skin to look like the skin of an orange, a finding called peau d'orange. The appearance of the breast is similar to other inflammatory conditions such as cellulitis or mastitis. Other possible associate symptoms include enlarged lymph nodes under the arm or above the collar bone on the affected side.
Inflammatory breast cancer is diagnosed based upon the results of a biopsy and the clinical judgment of the treating physician. Typically, inflammatory breast cancer grows rapidly and requires aggressive treatment. There are two aspects to treating all breast cancer, local treatment and systemic or total body treatment. Because inflammatory breast cancer is aggressive, most oncologists recommend both systemic and local treatment. The typical sequence of treatment is to start with chemotherapy, systemic treatment, followed by surgery and radiation therapy, which are the local treatments, often followed by additional chemotherapy and possibly hormone treatments. With aggressive treatment using this multimodality approach, the 5 year survival for inflammatory breast cancer has improved significantly from an average survival of 18 months to an approximately 50% survival rate at 5 years.

INFLAMMATORY BREAST CANCER

How many cases of IBC are diagnosed each year?
The numbers vary, but approximately 1% to 2% of newly diagnosed invasive breast cancers (that have spread beyond the breast) in the United States are described as inflammatory breast cancers.
What are the symptoms of IBC?
• One breast larger than the other
• Red or pink skin
• Swelling
• Rash (entire breast or small patches)
• Orange-like texture (peau d' orange)
• Skin hot to the touch
• Pain and/or itchiness
• Ridges or thickened areas of breast
• Nipple discharge
• Nipples that appear inverted or flattened
• Swollen lymph nodes under the armpit
• Swollen lymph nodes of the neck (sometimes)

What should you do if you have these symptoms?
If symptoms continue for more than a week, schedule an appointment with a physician who has experience with this disease. You can also prepare a list of questions by reading through this section and watching our in-depth video Beyond the Shock®.

What is the typical age of IBC patients at diagnosis?
The median age is between 45 and 55, but patients can be younger or older. In each individual case, the symptoms should guide the diagnosis rather than age.

How well do diagnostic tests work in identifying IBC?
IBC typically CANNOT be identified through:
• Mammogram: Because IBC usually does not occur in the form of a lump (the cancer is spread throughout breast tissue), it is difficult to detect with a mammogram. The most characteristic mammography findings consist of swelling of the skin.
• Ultrasound:This test confirms the swelling (edema) of the skin and can better identify breast nodules (if present). It also is the most appropriate test for the evaluation of lymph nodes.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging(MRI):This is probably the most sensitive test because it includes a functional description of the abnormal findings. It should be included among the diagnostic tests once the pathological diagnosis is confirmed. It is extremely useful in evaluating the clinical response to chemotherapy.
• Core biopsy:A core biopsy, or fine-needle aspiration (removal of tissue with a needle) is performed to obtain a pathological diagnosis of invasive disease, but these diagnostic procedures are not appropriate for IBC because of the peculiar growth pattern in the breast lymphatic system.
What diagnostic tests identify IBC?

IBC CAN be identified through:
• Surgical biopsy: Most of the time a surgical or skin biopsy is necessary. These procedures are able to collect larger samples that include the skin and underlying tissue to better identify cancer cells.
• Positron Emission Tomography (PET Scans): In the near future, this could be one of the most important diagnostic/staging tests for IBC, though it still is under study. Findings show that a PET scan enables clinicians to see more of the disease, for example:
•
— PET scans show lymph nodes far from the breast that can indicate a metastatic cancer at the time of diagnosis. If staging is limited to mammograms, CT (computed tomography or computerized X-rays) and bone scans, different components of this inflammatory spreading may be missed, resulting in significant consequences for treatment and the way in which a patient is processed.

What is the survival rate for IBC?

The 5-year median survival rate for inflammatory breast cancer is approximately 40%. The main reasons for such a disappointing outcome include: a delay in diagnosis, the lack of expertise in treating IBC (because it is so rare) and the relative resistance the disease has to standard chemotherapeutic agents.

With regard to the first critical issue, it is important to keep in mind that IBC is a fast-growing cancer (it can spread within weeks), and it is often mistaken for something other than breast cancer, such as a rash or infection.

What are common mistakes in treating IBC?
A surgeon might want to remove the breast too early, which would increase the chance of local recurrence (return of the disease).

A radiation oncologist with experience in treating IBC also is important. IBC might require a different schedule than most breast cancers. You might need two treatments a day, instead of one, because this is a highly aggressive tumor. Patients also need a specific chemotherapy dose.
A particular challenge with treating IBC is that it is difficult to measure response since a nodule or mass is usually not present.

If patients have had incorrect treatment, it may be hard to go back and improve the prognosis (outcome).

How is IBC currently treated?
IBC is typically treated with chemotherapy before surgery. Drugs like Herceptin® (trastuzumab) or Tykerb™ (lapatinib) are also used in a subset of IBC patients who have the HER-2 gene. One of the challenges is to improve current treatments. Efforts are focused on finding ways to eliminate microscopic disease to prolong survival.

 

Note: To read more on Inflammatory Breast Cancer: go to
http://www.nationalbreastcancer.org/about-breast-cancer/inflammatory-breast-cancer.aspx

Event Pictures

President Council Member Kickoff: Is Black America Fit For Life with Rep Marcia L. Fudge, Honorary Host at the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) Annual Legislative Conference

Tom and I receive an award of Excellence Presented by Essence and Southern Company for our service to the community. We love what we do and that is serving others!

Some of the 2011 President Council Members with Secretary Sebelius as we celebrate with First Lady Michelle Obama and the Nickelodeon Worldwide Day of Play in Washington, D.C.

Receiving an award presented from the President Council for PALA.

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Get Motivated!

How often have you set goals and threw in the towel before achieving your goals? How many times have you started an exercise program and you before know it you have fallen off the wagon? Use this tips to help you get and stay motivated to living a healthier lifestyle.

First consult your doctor before starting any fitness program. Especially if you are over forty years olds and you have a medical condition. Or if you are pregnant and aren’t sure what exercise you can do before pregnancy and after you have given birth.

Be clear about what you want. Set realistic goals; short term and long term. Decide what you wish to accomplish and why. A simple formula to use when setting goals for your fitness program is the easy-to-remember phrase: “Think S.M.A.R.T.” S.M.A.R.T. stands for ¬Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timed. By including all of these elements into your goal-setting process, your chances for success improve tremendously. Saying, “I am going to lose weight” is not a S.M.A.R.T. goal. It is not specific enough, not measurable (how much weight?), and not timed. A better thing to say would be, “I am going to lose ten pounds over the next two months by eating less fat and exercising at least three times a week.” This is definitely a S.M.A.R.T. goal, since it is specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timed.

Develop an action plan to help you achieve your goals. Choose activities that will help you meet your goals. A good fitness plan should consist of cardiovascular, strength training and stretching exercises. If you are trying to lose weight you need to exercise 4-6 days a weeks but if you are trying to maintain your current weight, you should exercise 3 days a week. Remember to combine healthy eating with daily physical activity. Consult a dietitian or nutritionist to help you determine a good nutritional program to meet your needs. Also there are great nutrition and healthy cooking books that would provide information for your new journey. I said journey because exercising and eating healthy isn't a destination. It has to be a way of life. You do it because it will help you have a strong and healthy temple. It's a daily dedication...a glorification to God...a lifestyle.

Once you have your goal and a plan, visualize yourself accomplishing your goal. A technique that I use to help me achieve my goals is visualization. I mentally envision-in exact detail-what it is I want to achieve, and then I map out a plan as to how I’m going to make it a reality. Professional leaders often use this technique to put themselves in a winning frame of mind, but it can be applied to pretty much any situation in life. You can picture yourself crossing the finish line of a 5K walk, losing weight, becoming healthier fitting into that party dress, or sitting in the pulpit pasturing the congregation. Once you’ve visualized what it is you want to accomplish, sit down and figure out exactly what you have to do to make it happen (jot down notes if it helps). Whatever your goal is, I really believe that if you live it mentally, you can achieve it physically.

Get support and professional help if you need to have proper guidance. To help you reach your goals consider hiring a personal trainer. Make sure they are trained, certified and their personality will motivate you to successfully achieve your goals. Also enlist support by having family and friends join you in your efforts to reach your goals. They can provide motivation and encouragement to keep you on track. I can inspire and encourage you but you must motivate yourself. As James 2:17 states: “In the same way, Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead”. Are you ready, let’s get motivated by embodying 1 Corinthians 6:19 where you learn to create a lifestyle and nourish your soul where…..”your body is the temple of the holy spirit which is in you.

God Bless
Donna

 

Elder Tarra, Tammy, First Lady Pamela, Elder Cathy, Tara and myself at Pat Smith's Treasure YOU Retreat! 2011

First Lady Joy, Elder Tarra and myself

First Lady Joy, Nena, Elder Tarra, Sarah and myself

 

 

First Lady Pamela Hines, Elder Cathy Moffett, and Elder Tarra Reown

_____________________________________________________________

Last but not least, share your feedback and results with us here at healthfinder.gov. You can contact us at info@nhic.org or send us a tweet @healthfinder (http://twitter.com/healthfinder). 

To find out more information on this subject copy the link into your address bar.

http://www.healthfinder.gov/nho/PDFs/AugustNHOtoolkit.pdf

Get Motivated!


Donna and Pappa J.R. completes PALA signed by President Obama 07/11



Donna in Miami with Honey Shine Camp sharing PALA to challenge the girls


Donna shares with family exercising, eating healthy and about PALA


Oliver &Tarra Reown Family joins First Lady Michelle Obama and Donna R Joyner by completing PALA 2011


Akil Omri and Zoe completed PALA 2011

Alzheimers

Alzheimer’s is a debilitating disease; one that has hit so many families including mine. My dad has dementia but he is sharp on a lot of things he chooses to remember. For instance, he remembers who owes him money and all the beautiful women in church.

Alzheimer's is a type of dementia that causes problems with memory, thinking and behavior. Symptoms usually develop slowly and get worse over time, becoming severe enough to interfere with daily tasks.

Alzheimer's and dementia basics

Alzheimer's is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss and other intellectual abilities serious enough to interfere with daily life. Alzheimer's disease accounts for 50 to 80 percent of dementia cases.

Alzheimer's is not a normal part of aging, although the greatest known risk factor is increasing age, and the majority of people with Alzheimer's are 65 and older. But Alzheimer's is not just a disease of old age. Up to 5 percent of people with the disease have early-onset Alzheimer's (also known as younger-onset), which often appears when someone is in their 40s or 50s.

Many people have trouble with memory — this does NOT mean they have Alzheimer's. There are many different causes of memory loss. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dementia, it is best to visit a doctor so the cause can be determined.

Alzheimer's worsens over time. Alzheimer's is a progressive disease, where dementia symptoms gradually worsen over a number of years. In its early stages, memory loss is mild, but with late-stage Alzheimer's, individuals lose the ability to carry on a conversation and respond to their environment. Alzheimer's is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. Those with Alzheimer's live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable to others, but survival can range from four to 20 years, depending on age and other health conditions.
Learn more: 10 Warning Signs and Stages of Alzheimer's Disease.

Alzheimer's has no current cure, but treatments for symptoms are available and research continues. Although current Alzheimer's treatments cannot stop Alzheimer's from progressing, they can temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life for those with Alzheimer's and their caregivers. Today, there is a worldwide effort under way to find better ways to treat the disease, delay its onset, and prevent it from developing.
Learn more: Standard Treatments, Treatment Horizon, Prevention and Clinical Trials.

Help is available

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer's or a related dementia, you are not alone. The Alzheimer's Association is the trusted resource for reliable information, education, referral and support to millions of people affected by the disease.

Call our 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900
Locate a chapter in your community

For more information on this topic go to: www.alz.org

Sharing some Body Gospel love with Courtney
A Yale University Graduate who will start her first job with PBS. WOW!
So proud of you Courtney. Set your goals and never stop dreaming!

Did you know that mental illness is a leading cause of disability?

July is National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. Almost two-thirds of people who have been diagnosed do not get treatment. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), racial ethnic and minorities in America hardly ever get help. Declare today that you can do all things through Christ. You mind is alert and you have the power to overcome any illness with Christ. You have a sharp mind to do exceedingly, abundantly, above all you could ever ask or think.

Join us as we get families across the country to support our First Lady Michelle Obama, “Let’s Move” Initiative and Join Forces with military families. As we head up this campaign to get our country healthy, please sign up for (PALA) President Active Lifestyle Challenge today. Get your families signed up by clicking the link today.

For more details and information on this subject, please go to the website below:

http://news.yahoo.com/july-national-minority-mental-health-awareness-month-090856578

Five Choices that Ruin Black Men’s Health
&
Five Great Habits to Improve It

By Donna Richardson

African-American men have more health problems than any other racial group in the United States. The reasons are many, including sustained stress caused by discrimination, poor health coverage and services in areas where there are high concentrations of African-Americans, and resistance to preventive health care maintenance. I’d like to share some research from the National Men’s Health Foundation and the National Center for Health Statistics . These are the types of statistics that motivate me to keep inspiring people in our community to engage in healthier habits:

• One-third of African-American men are overweight. Twenty percent are obese.

• The incidence of prostate cancer among African-American men is nearly double that of white men.

• The death rate from cardiovascular disease is 83 percent higher for African-American males than for white males.

• African-American men have higher rates of diabetes, cancer and stroke.

While statistics show that the average African-American man’s life is 7.1 years shorter than men in other racial group, there are some simple, but powerful steps every black man can take to beat this average and enjoy more energy and good health on a daily basis. Here are five of the choices that many men make that lead to major health problems:

1. Not going to the doctor. Black men go to the doctor less regularly than men of other races and women of all races, including black men. As a result, they often miss out on the preventive care that can save their lives in the event of a health problem such as cancer or diabetes.

2. Not educating themselves about their health. John 8:32 tells us that, “the truth will set you free.” Jesus was referring to the truth of His word, but the truth will set you free when it comes to your health as well. Get knowledge about how to honor God with your temple. Many men do not truly understand the importance of eating well, cutting salt, fat and sugar from their diet, and getting regular exercise. These are essential elements for good health, and understanding and taking action based on what you know, can literally save your life.

3. Ignoring warning signs. Too many men ignore warning signs that something is wrong. If you feel fatigued or unusual in some way, go to the doctor. Your inkling that something is wrong may be God’s way of prompting you to check it out. Trust Him. Rather than procrastinating out of fear that you may have a problem, take care of yourself by insuring that if something is wrong, the problem will be discovered early. This will give you the best chance of completely overcoming health problems.

4. Being a “couch” potato. Being sedentary leads to all sorts of problems. Get up and get moving! When your heart starts pumping, it’s good for nearly every part of your body. It improves your physical and your mental health.

5. Internalizing stress. Many men don’t talk about their emotions or stress. This often leads to a build up of stress that can be detrimental to men’s health. Find healthy ways to release stress so that it does not build up and cause problems such as ulcers, high blood pressure and chronic pain.

Here are five choices that you can make to dramatically improve your chances of living longer and healthier:

1. Get moving! Everyday, make it a goal to be active. Exercise is one of the most important steps you can take to prevent a variety of health problems – from stress to stroke, exercise is key.

2. Drink plenty of water. So many men fill their bodies with carbonated soft drinks, sugary drinks, alcohol and caffeine-rich drinks. Your body needs pure, clean water on a daily basis – at least 8, 8-oz glasses. Before you reach for that soft drink, ask yourself, “Have I had enough water today?”

3. Eat “living” foods. Processed foods and high-fat, sugar-filled snacks provide empty energy for your body. Whenever possible, eat foods that God Himself created – fruits, vegetables, whole grain breads, nuts, fish and lean meats. Stay away from potato chips, cakes, cookies and other processed foods with lots of preservatives and artificial ingredients.

4. Choose less stress. If your life is causing you constant stress, look for better ways of handling everyday life. Whether it’s a less stressful job or lightening up about your goals and aspirations, make sure that you are not under the kind of stress that causes high blood pressure and other health problems.

5. Get a good night’s sleep. It’s simple, but important. Those who live long lives are often those who report getting more sleep throughout their lives than the average person. Take your rest seriously and get into a routine of sleeping eight hours each night.

The Bible is clear that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit. We are to honor God with our bodies. Make good choices about your health so that God can be glorified through your good health and your body’s ability to heal. Make sure your body is in shape and pleasing to the Lord!

Stay fit,
Donna

Turn your light on!

God needs you to lead by example when it comes to your family’s health

By Donna Richardson Joyner

As Christians, shouldn’t we set a positive example of what it means to honor one’s temple?  After all, good health is one of the most important blessings one can receive.  This month, take a look at your body, your food choices and your exercise habits and make a decision to let your light shine brighter for God, so that He can use you to inspire others to healthier habits.  Worship Him by honoring your body and being a role model of good health.

We all know that our community is in a state of crisis in the area of health and wellness.  The mission the Lord has placed in my heart is to help people make healthier, wiser choices consistently so they can live in abundant health.  Christ came that we may have life and life more abundantly (John 10:10).  Abundant living is not simply about doing well financially or professionally, though certainly God wants those things for us.  Abundant life is also about being able to enjoy life fully – having the energy to pursue your purpose, long life to enjoy your loved ones and the faithfulness to care for the one and only temple He blessed you with.  When you do that, I believe God uses your example to inspire others to also take better care of themselves.  “… Let your light shine before [others], that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven,” Matthew 5:16 says.

How can you be a brighter light for God to positively impact the health of your family – and ultimately, your community?  Follow these seven steps:

1. Lead by example.

Accept your role as a role model.  I believe you are reading this column for a purpose.  God wants you to be a walking model of good health!  It’s no small standard to live up to, but I know you can do it.  What do you need to do differently in the area of your health?  What are you willing to do and when?

Do what’s healthy, even if you don’t feel like it.  We cannot live based upon our feelings.  We must live according to the word of God!

2. Do not be judgmental.

While it is important to lead by example, it is equally important not to make others feel “less than” for not following your example.  Sometimes, we have to lead quietly, praying that the Lord will transform the hearts of those around us.  At other times, it is important to speak the truth in a spirit of love.  For example, “I care about you and I’m really concerned about your health.  I don’t want you suffering from illnesses that can be prevented with a few changes.  What can I do to support you in taking better care of yourself?  I want you to be for years to come!”

3. Share your struggles.

People sometimes say to me, “Donna, it’s easy for you to stay fit.  You’re small,” or “You must have good genes.”  The truth is, it’s not easy to work out consistently and eat right.  It’s a choice.  I’m tempted just like you.  I’ve just learned to resist temptation more often than not.  I’ve learned that discipline is something you must practice daily.  On some days, you’ll do better than others.  Persevere, though, and you will see positive results.  One of the best ways to be a light of inspiration for others is to admit your struggles and mistakes – then share how you overcome them.

4. Take your health seriously.

For too many in our community, the importance of eating in moderation, exercising and going to the doctor when something doesn’t feel right is taken too lightly.  Don’t wait until you are having health problems to believe that your lifestyle and eating habits will catch up to you!  Get annual exams (and make sure your children and spouse get them, too!).  Go to the doctor when you are sick.  Lose weight if you are overweight.  You know what to do.  Now is the time to develop the discipline to do it!  God will reward your discipline.

5. Invite a family member to work out with you.

Some people find that working out with someone else is uplifting and encouraging.  If you sense that a family member is willing to try improving their health, offer to support them in a tangible way such as taking a class together, joining a local sports league or taking power walks in the morning, at lunch time or after dinner.  Combining physical activity and fellowship is a wonderful way to strengthen your bond with those you love.

6. Cook healthy.  Buy healthy.

In our fast-paced world, sometimes it’s challenging to eat healthy when you are always on the go.  Take a moment right now and consider how you could do just one thing differently to ensure healthy meals for you and your family.  If you insist that fast food is your best option, what could you eat at your favorite fast food restaurants that would be a healthier option?  Many restaurants carry salads, grilled chicken instead of fried, bottled water and fruit cups.  If fast food isn’t your thing, what change could you make to reduce fat and increase fresh fruits and vegetables at home?

7. Be an encourager.

One of the best things we can do for family members is encourage them.  No matter how much weight a family member needs to lose, how strong their addiction to cigarettes or how down they feel about their struggle to eat right, always find words of encouragement.  With God all things are possible.  That includes overcoming the challenge to improve one’s health.  Your encouraging words may be the only ones they hear.  “Life and death is in the power of the tongue,” says Proverbs 29:18.  Speak life – abundant life – into your family!

Stay Fit!

Donna

Donna and Daddy June 2011
Happy Fathers Day

Here I am in the pool with my last physical therapy and I am ready
for business with my workout and of course to golf! Praise the Lord!

We are encouraging our children to exercise 60 minutes a day, 5 days a week, for 6 consecutive weeks.  Yusef Reown, a 14 year old and his family have taken on
the President's Active Lifestyle Challenge.  Keep swimming Yusef!

With June being National Safety Month,
play it safe and get fit with your family and friends
with some outdoor activities.
We can all walk, swim, jump rope, ride a bike, go to the park;
Let's Move!

Covenant Girls at Christian Faith Fellowship Church kicking off the President's Challenge

Embassies of Christ Church working out as we kick off the President's Challenge

First Lady Joyce Oliver, her lovely daughter Joy and myself as we kick off The President's Challenge

Pastor Pam, Elder Tarra and I kick off the President's Challenge at Christian Faith Fellowship Church

here is always love for the children. The children are all getting fit with the President's Challenge

Get Fit with Family Fun

by Donna Richardson

First Lady Michelle Obama activities with Joining Forces for military families