Dr. Jennifer Hone is an Endocrinologist specializing in the treatment of Type 2 diabetes and other hormonal disorders. Knowing that increased physical activity and weight loss can be key factors in the prevention and management of these conditions, she started Walk with a Doc in 2014 to inspire her patients to take steps to better health.

Speaking on her motivation to start a Walk with a Doc chapter, Dr. Hone said, “I didn’t want to be the kind of doctor who just prescribes pills and insulin. I wanted to help people live healthier lives by making lifestyle choices.”

Over the years Dr. Hone’s tight-knit group in Santa Barbara has walked nearly every week, celebrating friendships, holidays, and even new relationships along the way.

“Anytime somebody new comes, it gives me butterflies. We hope that it’s going to be the first day of the rest of that person’s life as a more active person and perhaps a new friend.”

Dr. Hone says that her community of walkers has come to feel like a family. In fact, for years before COVID-19 began, a number of chapter members would come to her house each year for Thanksgiving. From a personal standpoint, the Walk has provided value by keeping her committed to spending time in the outdoors and walking in addition to the incredible relationships she’s made.

“It’s a great feeling to know that you’re contributing something to the community above and beyond what we do in the office and let them see you as a person and not just a doctor in a white coat. We hold a privileged position in our communities and it’s really an honor to get to do something like this and give back.”

If you’d like to learn more about Dr. Hone’s Walk with a Doc Chapter, visit their webpage here or join their group on Facebook.