I would like to bring to your attention to the issue of youth obesity and an organization that is actively helping address these concerns in our state. Studies show that obesity rates and diseases related to living a sedentary lifestyle are at an all time high and are increasing among America’s youth.  Some diseases such as type II diabetes and heart disease that were initially thought of as problems only adults faced have now become more commonly found in our children as well. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports show Alabama to have one of the highest obesity rates in America. An estimated 340,000 Alabama children are overweight and it is my hope as First Lady of Alabama that we can make a difference in the lives of Alabama youth and reverse this trend. 

As First Lady of Alabama, I have become aware of many outstanding organizations that focus on improving the lives of Alabamians in various and unique ways. One program that has made great strides in youth obesity awareness and education efforts is an organization called H.E.A.L., Healthy Exercise And Living.  Through H.E.A.L., students ages K-8 are given the opportunity to learn about healthy living habits and how to practice them on a daily basis making lifestyle changes that can improve their health for the future. The program is taught in Physical Education classes in combination with the Alabama State Standards.  

It is possible that obese children are likely to become obese adults and have a higher risk for heart disease, high blood pressure, stroke, diabetes, cancers, and gall bladder disease.  By investing our time, attention, and resources toward enhancing the health of our children we are investing in the future of Alabama.

For more information about Healthy Exercise And Living and the H.E.A.L. 2005 summer workshop, contact the staff via e-mail at alabamaheal@aol.com. 
 
Sincerely,
Patsy Riley