Fight the Winter Workout Woes

Lori M. Noble, MD, a primary care physician at Spruce Internal Medicine, located at the new Penn Medicine Washington Square building, discusses ways to keep active during the colder months.

Lori M. Noble, MD

When it’s cold and blustery outside, your warm and fluffy slippers have a tendency to look much more enticing than your running shoes. Before you know it, one day off turns into two and, eventually, that short exercise holiday has turned into an outright sabbatical.

This doesn’t have to be the case, though. Some simple tips to help stay active this winter:

1. Switch it up: Who says you have to exercise the same way throughout the year? If you enjoy jogging or biking, there are great indoor alternatives to these activities.
   
   Try an exercise DVD series, sign up for an up-tempo Zoomba class, or try honing your swimming skills at the local YMCA. If you want to continue biking, get a stand that allows you to turn your road bike into a stationary one.


2. Squeeze it in when and where you can: You can burn calories by making small changes to your daily routine. Did you know that an individual weighing 200 pounds can burn up to 12 calories an hour simply by choosing to stand rather than sit? That adds up to about 100 calories in an 8-hour workday, which is about the same as running a mile!
   
   And we often forget that there is a built-in gym in every office building - the stairs. Take them whenever you need to go between floors. Take it a “step” farther and carve out part of your lunch break to walk or run a few flights.


3. Dress the part: If you know you won’t be able to get past the distractions at home or work to make exercising indoors possible, make exercising outside easier.
   
   You’ll need breathable, but fitted attire to keep warm and help reduce sweat. Because the body is mainly focused on warming your core, a hat, gloves, and warm socks are critical to feeling comfortable when the cold really hits.



4. There’s power in numbers: When motivation is lacking, nothing is more powerful than the support of a friend. Try organizing a neighborhood walking club, or reach out to that person with whom you just never have enough time to catch up. Time flies when you’re having fun, so that 30-minute jog will inevitably feel much shorter in the company of friends.


5. Track your progress: Setting goals is a great way to keep yourself motivated. Jot down your exercise plan for the month while keeping in mind the progress you hope to make. Keep the goals attainable, like increasing your workout by a few minutes each day. It's also nice to have a little reward planned once you've met your goal, like buying that new pair of sneakers you've had your eye on.

This winter, don’t let workout woes slow you down. Keep it interesting, and you’ll find it easier to keep moving.

Got an exercise tip you want to share? Let us know how you plan to stay active, indoors and out.

I Got the Flu Vaccine. Now I Have the Flu.

Alicia Travis, CRNP, from the Penn Adolescent and Young Adult Medicine practice discusses some known – and not-so-known – drawbacks to flu season.

Alicia Travis, CRNP

As is required for all health care workers, I got my flu vaccine in October and figured this would protect me throughout this flu season. As I am writing this, though, I am under my heated blanket with a cup of green tea in one hand and a box of tissues in the other. My throat is sore, my nose is dripping, my temperature is 100.8° F, I have a deep chest cough, and worst of all, my body aches all over.

I have the flu and I am miserable!

The reality is that influenza is an ever-changing virus with several common strains that can cause an array of troublesome symptoms. These symptoms include fever, cough, congestion, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting and generalized malaise. In immunocompromised patients, or people whose immune system is not capable of resisting the infection, influenza can be a much more severe, even fatal, illness. It is for this reason that every fall, your doctor and/or nurse recommends you get that pesky needle pinch (or inconvenient intranasal spray) to be protected.

Unfortunately, like most things in life, the flu vaccine is not 100% effective. When vaccine researchers formulate the components of the vaccine, they are speculating months in advance as to which strains will be dominant that year. Therefore, the effectiveness of the flu vaccine can vary year to year based on viral resistance patterns and the accuracy of vaccine researchers’ predictions.

According to an article published by the Center for Disease Control, researchers approximate the flu vaccine is around 60% effective most years. Meaning, this leaves me, and roughly 40% of the vaccinated population, at risk of contracting influenza despite getting the vaccine. That may seem like unfavorable odds, but 60% is better than nothing.

To put this in perspective, as a nurse practitioner in a busy adolescent and young adult practice, I have seen upwards of 100 patients in the past couple months with flu-like symptoms. Influenza is very contagious and, if I had not received the vaccine, I would have certainly been at a higher risk of contracting influenza.

The key to staying flu-free is to wash your hands frequently, stay away from anyone who has flu-like symptoms, stay well rested and get your flu vaccine.

Need to see a physician?
Schedule an appointment today.

Managing Holiday Stress

Elizabeth Y. Fung, DO, a primary care physician at Spruce Internal Medicine, located at the new Penn Medicine Washington Square building, discusses healthy tips for managing stress during the holiday season.

As the brilliant colors of the fall foliage fade and the crisp winter air settles in, a flurry of activities begin and it is now time to prepare for the holidays.

The holiday tradition started as a period of time set aside for religious or cultural celebrations. Today, many of us have an unrealistic or overly romantic notion of what the holidays should be, and often aren’t.

To help, here are a few tips to rekindle the holiday spirit:

Planning

• Put together a list of what you expect from the holidays and be realistic with what can be accomplished.
• If you’re looking to take it easy over the holidays, consider a vacation or simply a ‘stay-cation.’ Take it easy and relax, refresh and re-energize.
• If family, friends and feasts are on your holiday horizon, prioritize commitments and schedule them on your calendar. Don’t forget to include time for rest and relaxation.
• Plan your travels – purchase tickets in advance and arrive early for departure.

Holiday Gatherings

• If you’re hosting a holiday party, divide up the menu and give guests an opportunity to prepare and “show off” one of their favorite dishes.
• Prepare in advance – I have a patient who bakes 20 pies the week before her holiday parties in preparation to give to friends and relatives.
• Those who break bread make bread together - Share in the peeling, dicing, chopping and cleanup in the kitchen. It is a great opportunity for everyone to catch up while preparing the meal.
• Purchase prepared menu items to reduce the amount of cooking and increase the amount of family time.
• Avoid overindulgence - have a healthy snack before your holiday parties, continue to exercise and get a good night’s sleep.

Gift Giving

• Set a budget. You will be surprised how creative you can be with a budget in place.
• Ask people what they want for the holidays. This eliminates the guesswork and holiday returns.
• Online shopping – Shop at your leisure. Last year, I did most of my shopping online while on the train to/from work!
• Get creative with gift-giving. During my medical training, I gave my brother and his wife a “gift certificate” redeemable for a weekend of babysitting my nieces and nephews.

Holiday Blues

• Surround yourself with family and friends if you’re feeling lonely and sad. Reminiscing about the past, the loss of loved ones or being away from home during this time of the year can be difficult.
• Volunteer – Helping others can help us better appreciate what we have.
• Despite your best efforts, if you find yourself feeling severely anxious, persistently sad or hopeless and these feelings are affecting your daily activities, please talk to your doctor.

The holidays are an exciting time celebrating with family and friends. With some planning and a positive attitude, it is possible to be jolly during this season and to find peace and joy as we celebrate.

Happy Holidays!

Any tips you'd like to add?
Leave your thoughts below.

Healthy Eating Tips for the Holiday Season

Lori M. Noble, MD, a primary care physician at Spruce Internal Medicine, located at the new Penn Medicine Washington Square building, discusses some healthy eating tips for the holiday season.

As winter arrives, if you're anything like me, you just can't wait to put on that cozy, bulky sweater to keep warm. It also helps to camouflage those few extra holiday pounds the sweet potato casserole and stuffing are likely to leave behind.

But, have no fear; this season can still be enjoyed without needing to buy a new wardrobe when it's over. With a few simple tips and some pre-meal planning, you can still eat the foods you love without sacrificing taste or your waistline.

Keep Your Plate Green

This is actually a great tip for any meal, not just around the holidays! If you dedicate half of your plate to healthy veggies, you've already won half the battle. You can’t give in though. If you go back for seconds, remember the half-plate rule. Veggies are high in fiber, so they will keep you feeling fuller longer and help to prevent over-indulging on some of the less healthy options.

If you intend on bringing a dish to someone’s home, volunteer to bring roasted veggies or a big salad. This way, you know you will like the healthy option.

Don't Leave the House Hungry

One of the most common mistakes individuals make during the holidays is skipping breakfast in an attempt to "save up" calories for big meals. This tactic actually slows your metabolism to a halt. When you do eat, your body wants to hold onto every last calorie it can. Plus, when all that delicious food is put in front of an empty, growling stomach, it becomes an irresistible temptation to overeat. Be sure to eat a healthy, satisfying breakfast, such as oatmeal with a handful of dried fruits and nuts or egg whites with veggies and low-fat cheese.

Pick your "Poison"

We all have our "Achilles heels" when it comes to holiday meals - mine happens to be...well, anything on the dessert table. If you know what you're likely to over-indulge in, you can make a plan to keep yourself on track. For instance, if you're a sweets or carbohydrate-lover like me, you might avoid the "pre-dinner" snack foods and limit the stuffing and sweet potatoes at dinner to one serving each (~1/2 cup). This allows you to have that nice piece of pie for dessert without any guilt!

Keep the Food off the Table

This is a sneaky trick that I have used for years. If the food isn't kept on the table, grazing isn't nearly as easy. In order to get seconds, you have to make the conscious effort to get up from the table, get more food and maybe even heat it up if it's gotten cold. You'll be forced to ask yourself, "do I really want to get up from the table?" rather than just picking at whatever tasty treat is casually left in front of you.

Don’t Forget about Liquid Calories 

Holiday cocktails and wine with friends add up to a lot of empty calories. For example:

• One cup of eggnog – without added liquor – has about 350 calories and 19 grams of fat.
• One cup of champagne has about 182 calories.
• One, four-ounce serving of red wine has about 100 calories.

Try to stick to water or unsweetened tea. If you do choose to have “a drink”, stick to wine, low-carb beer or spirits.

So, enjoy your holidays. Just remember, a little preparation and a modest amount of self-control can go a long way. What better way to start the New Year than with a positive resolution.
 

Any questions? Any tips you'd like to add?
Leave your thoughts below.

On the Move: The Health Benefits of Running

Whether it's a 5K, 10K, Color Run, Tough Mudder or Marathon, it seems as though everyone is out for a run. Once reserved only for die-hards, more and more people are running for the experience and the fun than ever before. Many also see it as a way to relieve stress after a busy day, an opportunity to get a group of friends together or to simply help out a good cause.

Regardless of the reasons or motivations, there are many health benefits for those that pick up this sport.

Read the full article.

Halloween Safety Tips for Parents

Halloween is fast approaching. Soon, the streets will be filled with ghosts, goblins, princesses and cowboys. To help make this year's festivities a trick-free treat, follow these simple safety tips:

For the Young Ones

• Going out at night? Find a costume that has bright colors or add reflective tape to the front and back of the costume and to the trick-or-treat bag.
• If the costume has wigs or beards, make sure they don’t cover your child’s eyes, noses, or mouths.
• If your child wants to wear a mask, make sure it allows them to easily see and breathe.
• Consider using nontoxic face paint or makeup. It is good practice to test the face paint or makeup on your child's arm or hand before applying. This will allow you to make sure the paint doesn't irritate the skin.
• Try to avoid oversized and high-heeled shoes and costumes that have long fabric that can cause children to trip.
• When your kids get home, check all treats to make sure they are sealed. Throw out any candy with holes in the packages, spoiled items and any homemade foods from individuals you do not know.

For Parents with Older Kids

• If your child is trick-or-treating on their own, find out the route they'll be taking.
• Make sure they go in a group and stress that they stay together.
• Advise them to only go to houses with porch lights on and walk on sidewalks on lit streets. 
• Steer clear from candles and other flames.
• Equip your child with a flashlight with new batteries.

Finally, make sure trick-or-treaters will be safe when visiting your home as well. Remove anything that could cause kids to trip or fall on your walkway or lawn. Double check to see if the lights are on outside your house and light the walkway to your door, if possible.

Have a safe and fun Halloween!

Any other tips you’d like to share? Add them to the comments section.

Is it Fall Allergies or a Cold?

Fall Allergies or a Cold?

The cooler temperatures have arrived and you aren’t feeling too well. You can’t stop sneezing, sniffing and coughing?

So, what’s the deal? Is it allergies? Are you sick? Should you be scheduling an appointment with your doctor?

Before picking up the phone, it’s important to know the difference between the two. The common cold is typically the result of a viral respiratory tract infection, but an allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder when a person’s immune system reacts to normally harmless substances in the environment.

“You should make an appointment to see your doctor for any cold symptoms that last more than 1-2 weeks, or for any persistent allergy symptoms that do not respond to over-the-counter antihistamines,” said Lauren Strohm, DO, of Penn Medicine Valley Forge.

Contrary to what many think, spring is not the only allergy-prone season. As the temperatures begin to dip, many experience the effects of allergies similar to how they would in the spring.

Ragweed is the biggest culprit as it can travel hundreds of miles in the wind. While the yellow-flowering weed usually starts releasing pollen in August, it can last well into September and October. Nearly three-quarters of people who are allergic to spring plants are also allergic to ragweed.

Another fall trigger is mold. Many think of mold growing in their basement or bathroom, but mold spores also love outdoor wet spots such as piles of damp leaves.

Dust mites tend to get overlooked this time of the year, but can be allergy trigger for many. Although they are more common during the humid summer months, they can get mixed into the air when the individuals begin to use their heat.

Tips to Tell the Difference 

• Do you have a fever? If yes, you are dealing with something more than allergies. A fever is never a feature of an allergy.
• Itchiness and watery eyes? Although not always the case, this usually points to an allergy rather than a cold.
• A cold is usually self limiting (symptoms cease in a predictable manner), but an allergy needs interventions and treatment.
• Are others around you sick? A cold is contagious, while an allergy is not.
• How long have you not been feeling yourself? Colds can last a long time, usually between 1-3 weeks. Allergies, though, can stick around for a few days or months if an individual is continuously exposed to the allergen.
• When did the symptoms start? Symptoms of a cold take a few days to develop after the viral infection, but allergic symptoms begin immediately after the exposure.

Need to see a physician?
Schedule an appointment today.

Penn Orthopaedics and Coach Dick Vermeil: A Perfect Match

More than 30 years have passed since one of the most distinguished coaches in NFL history paced the sidelines of Veteran’s Stadium each game day. His legacy has only grown since his departure. An impeccable work ethic, a burning passion to succeed, a positive attitude and a drive for perfection has made Coach Dick Vermeil one of the most beloved sports figures in Philadelphia history.

Dick Vermeil

Similarly, Penn Orthopaedics has used those same attributes that led Coach Vermeil to his on-field success to become one of the best in the nation for outstanding orthopaedic care. A team with years of experience, the highly skilled and highly specialized team at Penn Orthopaedics treats each patient with a personalized approach.

A few years ago, Coach Vermeil was one of those patients. He was experiencing severe pain in his right hip due to arthritis. Just as fans turn to the Coach for his football expertise, Coach Vermeil turned to the pros at Penn Orthopaedics for his hip replacement.

Now, in the weekly feature, Ask the Coach sponsored by Penn Orthopaedics, Coach Vermeil will give his thoughts on a variety of topics during the Eagles Countdown to Kickoff show on SportsRadio 94 WIP. Listen to the show to hear more about Coach Vermeil’s thoughts on the Eagles, coaching decisions, and the NFL standings.

And be sure to check out the new Coach Vermeil website for exclusive interview excerpts and the story of his successful hip operation.

Tips To Stay Active This Fall

It seems as though everything is just a bit easier during the summer. People tend to be a little more laid back at work, there are less people on the road because many are on vacation and, with the added sunlight and warm temperatures, being active seems to be much less of a hassle.

Autumn, though, is fast approaching. Say goodbye to the warm temperatures and hello to shorter days and cooler weather. Perhaps it’s the fewer hours of sunlight, but this time of the year seems to be when many go into hibernation and ease up on their active summer lifestyles.

This doesn’t have to be the case as there are many fun things to do to stay fit during the cooler months.

“The change of seasons is a good time to focus on health and wellness goals," said Ngozi Onuoha, MD, FACP, of Penn Internal Medicine Mayfair. "Autumn is a great season to walk. Walking is a great form of exercise that does not require much preparation."

Here are some other tips to keep you moving and feeling healthy this fall.

• Make exercise fun: Autumn is synonymous with harvest season. What better way to stay active than to go pumpkin or apple picking with your family or friends? For the younger ones (or those simply young at heart, take part in physical activities such as corn mazes and haunted trails.
• Sign up for a holiday run: Fall is the season in which many fun runs and events occur. Participate in Halloween runs, turkey trots, reindeer romps, etc. Setting a specific goal, such as a race to train for, increases adherence to an exercise program. Signing up with friends or family will motivate you even more.
• Enjoy the colors: Grab a friend, and find a local park that has great trails to walk, run, or ride a bike on.
• Go to a farmer’s market: Many of the root vegetables are in season and are inexpensive. Grab some apples while you’re at it as they’re rich in antioxidants and flavanoids, both of which can reduce cholesterol.
• Take advantage of the cooler weather: Play catch, walk the dog, get a group of friends together to play ultimate Frisbee or touch football.
•  Make Fall chores fun: Raking your lawn can be a real workout. Have fun with it (perhaps by jumping in the leaves??).


Tell us how you plan on staying active this Fall.
Leave your thoughts below.

Back to School Health Tips for Parents

It’s almost that time of the year again - leading to a collective sigh of relief from parents everywhere.

For children across the country, school will soon be back in session. This is a difficult time as schedules become filled and new pressures are put on children and parents. Making sure your child gets off to a good start is crucial and can influence your child’s confidence, attitude and performance in the classroom.

Here are a few suggestions to help get your child on the right track to having a successful school year:

• Get your forms ready: There may be certain vaccinations your child needs prior to the start of the new school year. Most fall sports programs require completed medical forms prior to student participation.
• Don't hit snooze: Help your child get used to the back-to-school routine by beginning the transition to earlier-wake up times and bedtimes during the end of summer. This will ensure your child is ready for when the school year starts. Proper rest is vital for a healthy and productive school year.
• Feed their bodies and brains: Good nutrition influences your child’s school performance. Studies show that children who eat healthy, balanced breakfasts and lunches do better in school.
• Pick the right size pack: Ensure your child is carrying a backpack which is the right weight and reduces stress on their back.
• Wash hands: Before your child goes back to school, make sure he or she understands the health importance of proper hand washing, especially before eating and after using the restroom.
• Exercise: Fitness will help your child sleep easier and allow them to better handle physical and emotional challenges - from running to catch a bus to studying for a test.

Has your child received a back-to-school physical
and all required vaccinations?
Schedule an appointment today.

Penn Medicine In the Community: Upcoming Events

This fall, Penn Medicine will host or take part in numerous events throughout the tri-state area. These events provide our physicians and staff an opportunity to be closer to the people we serve and allow us to be more than simply a health care provider; it allows us to be part of the community.

Click here for a downloadable calendar

September 8-9: Kennett Square Mushroom Festival
September 19: Street Fare
September 21: Penn Medicine Valley Forge Fall Festival
September 21: Yardley Harvest Day
September 28-29: Woodbury Fall Arts Fest

Penn Primary Care Practices at Kennett Square Mushroom Festival: Sept. 7-8

Voted one of the top festivals in Pennsylvania, the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival returns for the 28th consecutive year. Mushroom lovers from across the country come to celebrate with a two-day festival of food and family fungi, which includes a parade, competitions, music and over 200 vendors.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Taste soups and other mushroom dishes
• Meet celebrity chefs
• Tour local farms

While enjoying the festivities, be sure to visit one of the several participating Penn Medicine practices. Meet Penn physicians and staff and learn how each practice can help you and your family members stay healthy.

Practices in attendance:

Penn Family Medicine Kennett: With an emphasis on disease prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles, this practice provides care for the whole family, from childhood on.

Penn Internal Medicine East Marshall Street: Comprised of six board-certified internal medicine physicians and a physician’s assistant, this practice offers the personal attention patients deserve. Several physicians are bilingual and the practice offers same day appointments.

Penn Family Medicine West Chester: This team of board-certified physicians offers quality care and excellent service for men, women and children.

Date: Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8
Time: Saturday: 10:00 am-7 pm Sunday: 10:00 am-5 pm
Location: 114 W. State Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348

Penn Medicine Chestnut Hill at Mt. Airy Street Fare: Sept. 19

For the third year in a row, Mt. Airy will host a fantastic food-centric evening street festival. Come out to Street Fare and sample tasty food and beverages from gourmet food trucks and local restaurants along historic Germantown Avenue.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Check out over 40 food trucks and restaurants
• Sip on craft-brewed beer, wine and cocktails
• Meet local crafters and enjoy live entertainment

While enjoying these great street eats, stop by our Penn Medicine Chestnut Hill table to chat with physicians and staff about all of the health care services Penn has to offer in Chestnut Hill.

Penn Medicine Chestnut Hill has been a part of the community for over 20 years and the physicians and staff pride themselves on developing long-term, meaningful relationships with their patients.

Date: Thursday, September 19
Time: 6:00-10:30 pm
Location: 7000-7200 Germantown Ave Mt. Airy, Pa. 19119

Penn Medicine Valley Forge Fall Festival on Sept. 21

Join physicians and staff of Penn Medicine Valley Forge for the 3rd annual Fall Festival. The day will be filled with fun for all ages as kids can enjoy a bounce house, games, music, face painting and more! Numerous local vendors, including the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, the Valley Forge Running Company and others, will also be there with giveaways and activities.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Take a tour of the state-of-the art facility
• Check their blood pressure
• Enjoy tasty food and drinks
• Talk with physicians from a number of departments

Are you a runner? An early riser?
Begin the day by joining Penn Medicine Valley Forge in support of the TE/Conestoga Football Scholarship 5K Run/2K Walk. The event starts at 9:00 am. Sign up at: www.runtheday.com search: Conestoga

Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Penn Medicine Valley Forge 1001 Chesterbrook Boulevard Berwyn, Pa. 19312

About Penn Medicine Valley Forge

Penn Medicine Valley Forge is a state-of-the art facility providing expert primary and specialty health care, plus a full range of services. Penn Medicine Valley Forge has primary care and specialty care physicians; as well as an on-site laboratory, radiology services and, now, the Abramson Cancer Center at Valley Forge.

Penn Medicine Bucks County at Yardley Harvest Day: Sept. 21

Check out one-of-a-kind craft artwork and handmade pieces offered by over 100 exhibitors, delicious food vendors, entertainment and community-sponsored booths at the 44th annual Yardley Harvest Day Festival.

While enjoying the festivities, visit the Penn Medicine Bucks County physicians and staff table to learn about the multiple health care services offered at one convenient site, located in Yardley, Pa. Patients and their families can see their primary care physician, consult with a specialist, get lab work and radiology services all in one place.

Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Location: Downtown Yardley Pa. 19067

Penn Medicine Woodbury Heights at Woodbury Fall Arts Fest: Sept. 28-29

Stop by and visit Penn Medicine Woodbury Heights physicians and staff at the 2nd annual Woodbury Fall Arts Fest! The FAF is a weekend-long, free celebration of the arts, consisting of over 300 artists, artisans & craftsmen. There will be a special Starlight Concert on Saturday evening, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Check out five stages of music, including solo acoustic artist Meghan Knight and Philadelphia-based alternative folk band The Hundred Acre Woods
• Enjoy gourmet foods, a wine and cheese experience and a chili cook-off
• Participate in craft beer tasting
• Enjoy interactive fun for kids and adults 

At the Penn Medicine tent, check your blood pressure and learn more about Penn Medicine Woodbury Heights. As a multi-specialty location, this site includes primary care and specialty care physicians, on-site laboratory services, and physical therapy.

Date: Saturday and Sunday, September 28-29
Time: Saturday: 11:00 am-6:00 pm | Starlight Concert 7:00 pm-10:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
Location: Woodbury, NJ 08096

Penn Medicine Radnor Run: Join the Fight for Clean Air on Oct. 27

Join Penn Medicine and the rest of the Philadelphia Main Line community in support of the 36th Annual Penn Medicine Radnor Run. This family fun event supports the American Lung Association in Pennsylvania and their effort to help improve the lives of the Pennsylvanians currently living with chronic lung diseases. Money raised will help to provide important programs, including asthma camp, clean air in schools and smoking prevention/cessation for teens and adults.

Runners, companies, schools, families, friends and community partners will take on this challenging five mile, USA Track and Field sanctioned and certified course. The top female runner will win Jody’s Cup, the award in memory of Radnor Township resident Jody Lynn Sack and the top male runner will receive The Penn Medicine Award.

Awards will also be given to the second- and third-place frontrunners of the five-mile run in each age group and the first 100 children.

Not a runner? There will still be plenty to participate in. Some of the festivities include face painting, balloon sculptures, music, harvest-themed fun and many goodies. Penn Medicine Radnor will also be on hand at the start/finish area to provide educational information and giveaways to keep you healthy.

EVENT DETAILS

When: Sunday, October 27, 2013
Where: Radnor Township building, 301 Iven Avenue, Wayne Pa.
Register for the Penn Medicine Radnor Run today.

Why the Fight for Clean Air is so important:

It is estimated that close to 342,000 Americans die of lung disease each year, responsible for one in seven deaths. The American Lung Association and partner organizations are fighting to protect the Clean Air Act, a law that protects public health by reducing harmful pollution and gives the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) the ability to clean up the air.

Air pollution has very serious health effects including shortness of breath, asthma attacks, heart attacks, strokes, lung disease and even premature death. The Clean Air Act helps to reduce the pollutants that lead to these types of health issues.

Learn more about the Fight for Clean Air.

Learn more about this event or register online.