The year has certainly flown by.
I "celebrated" our one year anniversary on Friday, February 29, at the Go Red For Women Luncheon in New York City at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel.
l to r, Sophie Pachella, Dr. Jennifer Mieres, and me.
During a pre-session educational workshop sponsored by Merck entitled, "Get Your Engine Going--Choose to Move", Dr. Jennifer Mieres, co-author of Heart Smart for Black Women and Latinas, presented a historical overview on the impact of the Go Red For Women campaign, Sophie Pachella, founder of EatStrong, offered nutritional advice on foods that compliment the body, and I shared my Choose To Move journey.
At the luncheon, Yvette Fields, a heart disease survivor, told "her story" about suffering from a stroke at the early age of 42 in addition to being diagnosed with diabetes at 21.
The National Sponsors of the event were Merck and Macy's and the Local Sponsor was NYU Cardiac & Vascular Institute.
More pics follow...
I feel truly blessed to be able to share my heart-health challenges and successes with others.
Martha Stewart received the2008 Woman With Heart Award. Dr. Maryann McLaughlin, a cardiologist from Mount Sinai Medical Center, presented the award.
Looks are not deceiving here - the food was very tasty.
RED is in.
Comedian Judy Gold shared her family history of heart disease.
Tim Gunn of Project Runway was "styled" at the luncheon.
Angie (on the left) coordinated the day's events and Amy was one of the many hard working volunteers who helped make it all happen.
~ Vernita
Posts
At the end of any journey, it’s always nice to reflect on the experience and enjoy the exhilaration that comes with accomplishment. During the past 12 weeks, seven real women have opened their hearts and minds to women across the country. They’ve revealed struggles, shared empowering messages, offered valuable tips and served as genuine advocates for this program.
During the Choose To Move challenge, these women not only engaged in physical activity, they discovered a community of women who share a common goal – increase physical activity in order to develop a healthier lifestyle. Their success is a direct result of determination, commitment and the support they received from those in the Choose To Move community.
From a mom with three kids to a full-time college student to women in the workplace, our real women take on many important roles. And as women juggling multiple responsibilities, we want to be the best we can be - a common thread among women in America. However, in order to be the best for our families, we must do what’s best for ourselves. Our seven real women did exactly that! Each woman, in her own way, learned how to make time for physical activity and develop better eating habits!
For Ruann, Kara, Lisa, Melanie, Vernita, Kathleen and Zulema, the 12-week challenge has come to an end. However, the ultimate reality is that their life-long journey to maintain a healthy lifestyle has only begun. No matter where you are in this journey, I encourage you to rely on women in the Choose To Move community, as well as those around you. Take advantage of the Choose To Move program and turn this challenge into a way of life.
Dear Dr. Mieres:
About the only time I can find to walk is during my lunch break. Is it better to eat prior to or following a vigerous walk?
Thank you,
Ruth
Dr. Mieres,
I saw you on TV several months ago and while the face has changed some, the name surely was very familiar. I finally found out that you are a native of Trinidad and just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and the great job you are doing.
I believe we attended the same high school in Curepe, Trinidad, SAGHS.
Keep up the good work.
Denise Baptiste formerly Charles
(Math Teacher/College Instructor)
Dr. Mieres,
I saw you on TV several months ago and while the face has changed some, the name surely was very familiar. I finally found out that you are a native of Trinidad and just wanted to tell you how proud I am of you and the great job you are doing.
I believe we attended the same high school in Curepe, Trinidad, SAGHS.
Keep up the good work.
Denise Baptiste formerly Charles
(Math Teacher/College Instructor)
Comments
Mar 05 | kathleen said …
Happy Anniversary Vernita, to us all. You deserve all your success, it took alot of hard work I know, and there is always more to do. Have a great year in 2008.
Mar 05 | Vernita said …
Happy "Choose To Move" Birthday, Kathleen!!! And here’s to many more "Choose To Move" years of spreading the heart-healthy message about the benefits of moving!!
~ Vernita
Mar 05 | oneda said …
Kudos! to you Vernita and the C2M participants. You have done well in your heart healthy journey. Keep doing positive things and all your dreams will come true.
Your #1 Supporters,
Dad & Mom
Mar 05 | Vernita said …
Hello Dad and Mom!!
Thank you for remaining steadfast, honest, and true.
Much love,
~ Vernita
Mar 05 | Sarah Eikleberry said …
I cannot believe you met Gunn! I am glad you looked outstanding for that occasion alone. Cheers Vernita.
Mar 06 | Vernita said …
Hello Sarah,
I considered asking Tim for his opinion regarding my outfit selection for the afternoon, but suppose Tim's response would have been, "You didn't MAKE IT HAPPEN this time..." [smiling]
~ Vernita
Mar 19 | Linda said …
Congratulations Vernita. All of your hard work has certainly paid off. You look fantastic and I know you feel better. You are certainly an inspiration to to others. I pray you will continue to be blessed and be a blessing to others.
Apr 01 | Ann said …
Vernita,
Tim would not have said that, since you looked fabulous. Not that I think I would have asked him either, but you do look great! As of this morning I'm at 181. Remember when we talked about getting under 200 - and it was in the future for both of us? Happy Anniversary and thanks for taking good care of yourself and being a wonderful inspiration!
Ann
Apr 02 | Vernita said …
Hello Linda!
Thank you for the support.
Truly everyday, the last few weeks, have been a REAL CHALLENGE for me. I fell off the way side a couple of times but I'm back now, full speed ahead...
~Vernita
Apr 05 | Vernita said …
Hello Ann,
Congratulations of being a "loser." You have done SO well with sticking to your goal. I salute you!!!
I sort of lost "direction" on my journey but I'm finally back on the road again. Thank you for inspiring me as well.
~Vernita
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