For Immediate Release
June 18, 2008

For More Information:
James Zervios
Director of Communications
jzervios@obesityaction.org

Thousands Gather for the Walk from Obesity - Walk on the Capitol in Washington, DC, to Raise Awareness of Obesity

Washington, DC – In what was the largest gathering in the history of those affected by obesity, thousands gathered on the National Mall in Washington, DC, yesterday evening to raise awareness of the disease of obesity.

Attendees traveled from all over the world to join in the Walk on the Capitol. Ranging from the United States to Australia, everyone in attendance represented one voice, one cause - the disease of obesity. In addition, Caitlin VanZandt, television star of Guiding Light and The Sopranos, was featured as the guest speaker for the event. Caitlin discussed her own battle with obesity and expressed a deep and true concern for those affected by the disease.

"The Walk on the Capitol was truly a historic event for those affected by obesity. Looking out at the National Mall and seeing the thousands in attendance symbolically walking for their health, patient rights and most importantly, obesity awareness, was amazing," said Joseph Nadglowski, Jr., Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) President and CEO and Executive Director of the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Foundation.

In addition to the Walk, earlier in the week, the OAC was fortunate to take part in a very important legislative briefing on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC. The briefing had presenters who discussed the impact of obesity and its treatments, and also included two patients who shared their personal struggles with obesity. More than 50 legislative aides, leaving standing-room only, were present at the briefing. Throughout the week, the OAC has also been visiting legislators to bring their attention to the need for expanded efforts in prevention and treatment programs.

The “Walk on the Capitol” is a National awareness event designed to draw attention to the need for expanded efforts in both prevention and treatment. The Walk is hosted by the OAC and ASMBS Foundation and supported by various partnering non profit organizations. For more information on the hosts and the partnering organizations, please visit www.walkonthecapitol.com.

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