Aberdeen, SD - The February “Walk for Wellness” program will feature Avera St. Luke’s Hospital’s physical therapist Amanda VanHatten and occupational therapist Janae Hughes, who are both certified in wound care, talking about “Need a Reason for New Shoes?” The public is invited to this free presentation at 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 16, in Aberdeen’s Lakewood Mall Community Room. Please bring walking shoes!
 
“Walk for Wellness” invites participants to use the controlled environment of Lakewood Mall for a regular walking program. A one-mile course has been measured out at the mall. Avera St. Luke’s Hospital and Lakewood Mall are co-sponsors of this program. Free monthly educational programs by health care professionals from Avera St. Luke’s are offered on the third Thursday evening of each month. For more information, call (605) 622-5533.
 
People interested in participating in “Walk for Wellness” may pick up a brochure at the Lakewood Mall office or the hospital. Those who participate will receive starter packets from the Cardiac Rehab program at Avera St. Luke’s that contain information on walking, diet, stress, cardiac risk factors and stretching exercises. Packets are also available at Bur Mar’s Shoes at the mall. Before beginning a walking program, it is wise to consult your physician, especially when special medical problems exist.
 
Lakewood Mall is open to walkers from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.
 
Walkers are asked to log their miles, since special recognition will be given to participants when they reach their first 100 miles and each 100 miles after that.