WS Chronicle

James rewarded for efforts to improve his health

Dozier James receives some custom fitted sneakers from Fleet Feet’s Keith Davis (left) and Rick Brandon (center) for his hard work.

Among the many stars who emerged from a 2012 church fitness program, Dozier James is among the brightest.

He took full advantage of “Church and Community Fitness Day,” a wellness program designed by U-Fit2 Health and Wellness for people of faith. The program, which attracted dozens of people, was held last August at Union Baptist Church.

Cunningham

In addition to taking part in cardiovascular exercises led by U-Fit2 founder Sharon Cunningham, particpants received a bevy of useful information. Many of the wellness tips were provided by Dr. Joanette McClain and students in her accelerated nursing class at Winston-Salem State University. The nursing students also gave participants blood pressure, BMI (body-mass index) and other screenings. WSSU’s participation in Church and Community Fitness Day was part of a much larger university initiative. McClain’s students led a yearlong wellness program at Union, carefully monitoring and tracking the progress of participants.

All of this served as motivation for James, who has been diligent in exercising regularly and eating better. His hard work has paid off; James has shed pounds and lowered his blood pressure.

Dozier tries on his specialty sneakers.

The icing on the cake for James came just recently when Fleet Feet Sports gave him a new pair of custom-fitted sneakers as a pat on the back for all of his hard work.

Fleet Feet, located off Miller Street, is known for custom fitting each customer who walks through its doors. The store is also known for its community service and generosity. Last summer, Keith and Emily Davis, owners of the local Fleet Feet franchise, gave nearly 100 pairs of new sneakers to men at the Winston-Salem Rescue Mission, a local shelter. Like any other customers, the Rescue Mission residents received custom fitting services in order to find their perfect fit and shoe.