On the road. . .

. . .to find a cure and to better health.

At the 2009 Rifle Area Relay For Life several of us pledged, in addition to our commitment to raising money for the American Cancer Society and finding a cure, we pledged to trim our waistlines prior to Relay.

My commitment was to try to lose 40 pounds by the Rifle Area Relay on June 12 & 13. Why?

Well, besides the obvious, the American Cancer Society says:

• Poor nutrition and physical inactivity are a leading cause of cancer death. Scientific evidence suggests that about one-third of cancer deaths are due to nutrition and physical activity factors, including excess weight.
• Accumulating evidence indicates that for the majority of individuals who don’t smoke, consuming a mostly plant-based diet (including five or more servings of vegetables and fruit), being physically active, and maintaining a healthy weight are the most important means to reduce cancer risk.
• Nutrition and physical activity directly affect cancer risk. Physical activity reduces the risk of breast, colon, and, possibly, endometrial and prostate cancers. Eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables is associated with lower risk of cancers of the mouth and pharynx, esophagus, lung, stomach, colon and rectum.

So, in being accountable to each other and the cause, I began this blog so we can track our progress, create a network of support and work together both to lose the weight, but also to raise money to find a cure.

Since I've been sick with bronchitis for the last 4 days and in bed and not eating much, I'm happy to report that I've lost 5 pounds in the last several days. So I guess I've got my jump start!

How are the rest of you doing?

Theresa