Pam Johnson is well aware that the word exercise is a dirty word for many people.
And in over 33 years as a pharmacist she has seen how not exercising can impact your health.
"The incidence of diabetes has been rocketing , especially in the past few years. Some is hereditary, but inactivity and dietary choices are big factors. Lifestyle modification can reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 60 per cent.So I decided to learn more to help my patients."
So five years ago Johnson became a certified diabetes educator.
She learned about the disease and became more confident about passing on her knowledge to her patients.
"I could help people look at the bigger picture of their health, including exercise and diet. I wasn't just talking to them about their meds anymore. "
And it certainly helps that Johnson is a runner.
She didn't start running until she was 46 and has logged quite a few races on her shoes over the past nine years .
"What I like about running is that it is accessible, you can go anytime and work around your schedule."
Johnson says she often fields questions from seniors who don't realize that they can still participate in some form of exercise.
"Everyone should check with their doctor first before starting to exercise, but really, you don't have to start full out running right away. Don't be overwhelmed. Get out for a walk."
Now that Johnson is part of the running community her message can be delivered even more loud and clear.
And in full colour spandex for all of Dartmouth to see.
The knowledgeable pharmacist, educating her patients, then trading the professional white coat for her sneakers.
She is showing the world how it can be done.
One step at a time.
After participating in Sole Sisters last year she even inspired her own sister.
"I am volunteering this year but am excited that my sister Faith will be running her first race then. She is looking forward to the hunky firefighters at the end and the chocolate stops. She asked me if we would run out of chocolate before she reached the finish line, and I told her no, not a chance."
weeklydartmouth@hfxnews.ca
