Editor:
I commend The Guardian for its editorial ‘Keeping fit and staying
Healthy’ (Sept. 17, 2010) and keeping the topic in the front of those who can do something about it.
For years now, the provincial home and school federation, the
Medical Society of P.E.I., and teachers, among others, have been strong advocates for not only better physical education programs in our schools but also an overall healthier lifestyle for our families.
We've been told time and time again, more now than ever before, that our young people are developing diabetes at an alarming rate; the incidence of obesity is near epidemic status as is cardiovascular conditions in young children. What was missing is the acknowledged fact that our young people will be the first generation to not live as long as their parents. That alone should frighten our young people to take better care of themselves.
They are, however, only following their parental examples.
You are right to say that we need to press the issue with school officials but where is the "will" to do it? It should not be left to the schools to figure it out; it is up to the parents to apply pressure and be examples for their children. It is the parents that need to get off the couch and it is the parents that need to adopt a healthier lifestyle. When that happens, and only then, will there be real changes in our system.
One last comment. When talking about this to parents, many say they are too busy and don't have the time. How ironic that when they are sick all of sudden, they can find the time to be sick. If you can find the time to be sick, you can find the time to be healthy.
Ken Williams,
Ebenezer
