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CHARLOTTE, N.C. The Presbyterian Bariatric Center and Southeast Bariatrics are sponsoring Charlotte's inaugural Walk from Obesity on Saturday, September 29, 2007. Proceeds from this event benefit the American Society for Bariatric Surgery and the Obesity Action Coalition to fund research, advocacy and education for all those affected by obesity. The Walk from Obesity is a national event and this is the first year the Walk has reached the Charlotte community.

Walkers participating in the event can choose from a 3.1 mile or 1.2 mile route beginning and ending in the front of Presbyterian Hospital's uptown campus at 200 Hawthorne Lane. After the race, there will be prizes, a silent auction and music as part of the finish line celebration. This year's event will also include a health fair on the hospital lawn featuring blood pressure and blood sugar screenings and information booths.

"In the past, obesity has been a taboo subject and people were not comfortable discussing it," said Jamie Griggs, administrator for the Presbyterian Bariatric Center. "Fortunately, those days have changed and many are now recognizing the severity of the problem, reacting to it with events such as the 'Walk from Obesity'," said Griggs.

"We are reaching out to the community to educate and promote awareness of rising obesity rates in every age, gender and ethnicity. The Walk is an exciting event that raises funds for a worthy cause that continues to impact more of the Charlotte community each year," said Griggs. Individuals interested in participating in the Walk from Obesity should contact the Presbyterian Bariatric Center.

For more information on the Walk from Obesity or the Presbyterian Bariatric Center, please call 704-384-CARE.