1010 Liawen Court
Atlanta, Georgia, 30329-4122
July 20, 1999
Jill Tucker
Tuckerj@heart.org
Dear Ms. Tucker,
My mother suffered with heart disease and eventually succumbed to a stroke five years ago. She was very physically fit in her 20’s and 30’s, but her activity declined in her later years due to job and family responsibilities. Now that I am in my 50’s, I have started walking regularly and taking an aerobics class a couple of times a week. I feel stronger and better, and hope to live longer as a result! This poem was inspired by the benefits of exercise…maybe the AHA can use it to challenge those with a sedentary lifestyle.
Sincerely,
Susan Rochat
By Susan Rochat, April 1, 1999
Be kind to your heart, it’s a most vital part
And something you can’t do without
Just an ounce of prevention is your only redemption
And that’s what this poem’s about.
Instead of talking, go walking; from computerizing to exercising
You’ve heard all this before, I agree
Take your children out biking, or maybe go hiking
Run away from that ugly TV
Your heart will get better, the plaque will unfetter
Your lungs and your legs will grow strong
Your children will love you, your spouse will adore you
Because you may now live twice as long!