More than 100 Healthcare Workers and Patients Take the National Walking Challenge at St. Francis Hospital with a Goal of Reaching 1/4 Million Steps

Roslyn, New York - Doctors, nurses, managers, healthcare providers and patients will put a “Spring in their Step” on April 20 at 11:30 a.m. as part of the National Walking Challenge. The lunchtime event is aimed promoting good heart health and the benefits of exercise during Medical Fitness Week.

Experts say 10,000 steps a day-- the equivalent of 5 miles-- should be everyone’s daily goal. Team leaders will guide groups around designated locations during their lunch hours at three St. Francis locations. A tote board at the main Hospital will continuously tally the steps walked by the participants. The Hospital will provide free pedometers and bottles of water as an incentive.

“Walking is one of the best and easiest ways of maintaining good heart health,” says Richard Shlofmitz, M.D., Chairman of Cardiology. “If you don’t have the time or money to go to a gym and dread the sight of a treadmill, walking can help you get your daily dose of exercise.”

Alan D. Guerci, M.D., President and CEO, will make the opening remarks and there will be a ribbon-cutting by the walking path of the Chapel. Jack Soterakis, M.D., VP of Medical Affairs, and Ruth Hennessey, EVP and Chief Operating Officer, will lead the first walk.

In addition to helping to educate the public about the importance of walking for cardiac wellness, the event will also help encourage people all across Long Island to take the first step. By walking throughout Medical Fitness Week (April 19-25) each person can reach a goal of 70,000 steps in 7 days.

Contact:
Paul Barry, 516-705-6657, paul.barry@chsli.org
Rosemary Gomez, 516-705-6656, rosemary.gomez@chsli.org