In cities all across the United States, those affected by obesity, will walk to raise awareness of this disease. Oklahoma City will host a walk, sponsored by INTEGRIS Health, on Saturday, September 26 at 9:00 a.m. in Bricktown.

“The event has generated interest very early this year and we also expect many onsite Walk registrants the day of the event. This is a great opportunity for everyone to join forces and raise money for research, education, prevention and treatment for this disease,” said Tiffany Bozarth, Walk from Obesity coordinator.

The cost to participate in the Walk and show your support for all those affected by obesity and morbid obesity is $25. Registration is free for children ages 12 and under. To register for the 2009 Walk from Obesity, please visit www.walkfromobesity.com.

Funds raised through this event will support the American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS) Foundation and the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) in their efforts to increase research funding for obesity, improve awareness of the negative stigma associated with obesity and provide educational resources for all those affected by this disease.

The OAC and ASMBS Foundation’s Walk from Obesity was established to raise awareness of the obesity epidemic and to support initiatives focusing on prevention, education, research, treatment and advocacy. Walkers raise money by asking friends, family, and co-workers to sponsor them. In addition to walker income, funds are raised through sponsorship, matching gifts, corporate contributions and other fundraising activities.