Walk with a Doc Newsletter
Good morning!
Rachael, Bryan and I received this fictional letter this Tuesday. It is from a make-believe physician who lives in Louisiana and is pictured here to the right.
Dear ‘Walk’ team,
My name is Kevin Holland and I’m a family practice doc in Shreveport, LA. The obesity rate I see down here is unbelievable. It’s taking a toll not only my patients but on their families. With the hectic life of practicing medicine, shuttling kids to practice, and just trying to keep my head above water – I, too, have become overweight. As I’ve gained, I’ve become more and more hesitant to bring the subject up in the office. I of course address their blood pressure, cholesterol, diabetes, arthritis and coronary disease, but I have struggled to bring up the root of the problem – sedentary lifestyle. I’m afraid that if I bring it up they’ll throw it right back at me. I know this is not the right way to handle this.
That’s why I want to start a Walk with a Doc in Shreveport. I hear it’s very cheap and you’ll provide everything I need. I also heard that the founder is really bright, a blast to work with and extremely good-looking.
Anyway, the next time obesity is brought up in the office, this is what I want to be able to say.
“You’re right. I’m struggling with my weight just like you are. Now, I’ve decided to work on it. Every morning before I come in to the office my wife, dog, and I go for a 25 minute walk. It clears my head and has put me on the right course. I’ve lost 7 pounds in 3 weeks and now I can see the light. I’d like you to join us this Saturday morning at the park. Together we can make this happen.”
I’d love to hear more about joining Walk with a Doc (
www.walkwithadoc.org) and please tell Rachael I think she’s doing a fantastic job but should allow more snacks in WWAD World HQ. I bet there are times when David is hungry and would love some snacks – like mixed nuts.
Sincerely,
Kevin
Kevin Holland Jr. MD
Medicine on the Bayou, LLC
LSU School of Medicine Class of ’85
