C.H.O.I.C.E. = Choosing Health over Obesity Inspiring Change through Empowerment

Remember the word that I chose as my word of 2010 back in early January? Yep, that word was CHOICE.

Coincidentally, the folks over at Allergan (the company that makes our lap bands), is jumping on the band wagon (pun intended!) and using the word "choice" for an educational campaign that began this week.

Here are the details:

MAKE A C.H.O.I.C.E. about obesity

Obesity is a disease, NOT a choice. But we have the choice to make a difference. Obesity is the key public health threat in the United States – approximately 70 million adults are obese, obesity is the second-leading cause of preventable death and costs our healthcare system $147 billion per year.¹ These startling facts highlight the health crisis we face, but also opens the dialogue for change we can create together by addressing the epidemic and accepting all solutions. To tackle the obesity epidemic requires a commitment to both prevention and treatment and it will only happen with the help of consumers, healthcare professionals and Congress.

Allergan is trying to gather 250,000 signatures on their petition to Congress. Check it out HERE

There is also a contest for us bandsters! Check it out HERE

Allergan is sponsoring the Voice My C.H.O.I.C.E. contest program to provide bandsters with the opportunity to have their voices heard! When we made the choice to have weight-loss surgery, we made the decision to choose health over obesity. Now is your chance to inspire others and to make a difference on Capitol Hill, by entering the Voice My C.H.O.I.C.E. contest program

Through a video or essay, you tell how the band has impacted your weight, your health and your life, and you'll be entered for a chance to win a 3-night/2-day trip for you and a guest to Washington, D.C. where you’ll have the opportunity to speak with members of Congress and the media about your weight-loss journey and be the voice for others.