Let Get A Healthy Lifestyle Together

It is an honor for me to kick off National Men’s Health Week for Kauai and Niihau!

Building a strong, resilient and healthy community has been the cornerstone of my administration. Our Holo Holo 2020 program embraces health and wellness in so many ways:

The Holo Holo 2020 vision calls for all organizations, businesses, residents and visitors on Kaua’i to be part of creating an island that is sustainable, values our native culture, has a thriving and healthy economy, cares for all — keiki to kupuna — and has a responsible and user-friendly local government.

Let’s face it: if our health suffers, all areas of our life are affected. It’s a responsibility of each and every one of us to take ownership for creating and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

When I was growing up, it was much easier to stay physically fit. We walked or biked almost everywhere. Much of our food came from local farms and ranches. Our recreation consisted of running, hiking and swimming. Electronic entertainment was not a distraction from good, old fashioned exercise.

I feel fortunate to have grown up as I did, in the ranching town of Kealia, and I’m committed to making these healthy lifestyle choices much easier for people of all generations to access.
Although Hawaii is a relatively healthy state, we have many challenges. Men in Hawaii are less healthy than women in many ways. According to the Hawaii Health Survey of 2010, there is a much greater prevalence of obesity, asthma, diabetes, high blood cholesterol and hypertension among men versus women.
So, let’s get up and moving guys! Let’s take control of what we’re eating and what we’re doing and commit to making healthier choices today every day moving forward!

And here’s a great start: Join us on Saturday, June 22 for the fifth annual Kauai “Mayor a Thon.” You’ll join hundreds of residents and visitors in a brisk walk, jog or bike ride on Ke Ala Hele Makalae, starting at Kapaa Beach Park.

When you’re pau, you’ll be rewarded with a healthy breakfast, great fellowship, and the satisfaction of knowing you did something positive for yourself and your ‘ohana!

In the words of my good friend, Bev Brody, let’s “Get Fit” Kauai!