Attention! Attention! Have you heard the news? Are you aware of what is going on? Today, our Surgeon General has just asked you to do something that not that many people get asked to do.On September 9, 2015, if you are person with a disability then I hope you were able to get the news right from the Surgeon General of the United States of America when he stated that it is time for you to Step it UP! Now, what does that exactly mean? It means that he, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy, wants you to get moving. Why is this so important that it is news?

Well, if you are one of the 53 million Americans with a disability, then there is a good chance that you are part of the 50% of adults that are not involved in aerobic physical activity. Furthermore if you are one of the 50% percent then your chance of having health issues due to lack of exercise and recreation can become an unfortunate reality. To compound the problem, we have children with disabilities that are only 34% active but that should not be an issue since there are 5.3 million of them, right? Wrong. This the right time to send a message to all youth with disabilities on the importance of staying active.

So, what is so important you ask, that all people with disabilities are part of a Call to Action to get moving to “Step It Up” on there activity level? It is incumbent for the 53 million people with disabilities to seek ways to engage in exercise and adaptive sport. You are on the radar of the Surgeon General, which means now is your time to answer an important call that is our responsibility.

One of the ways to respond to this call is to be part of the “How I Walk” campaign. This campaign is directed to all people who want to address physical fitness and wellness issues. It is through this campaign that everyone who is seeking to find activity or is already active can participate in this rebranding of walking.

I am a wheelchair user, but physical fitness is an important part of addressing my aerobic and cardio conditioning. Since 50% of people with disabilities do not address this important component of health and wellness then the chances of having secondary health issues such as diabetes, cancer, heart and lung can increase.  According to the Surgeon General if you average 22 minutes a day of physical activity you can reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.

Remember that you are not alone in this Call to Action. City leaders, public health officials and community directors are part of this call to make sure that streets are made safe for your participation. It is through improved streets and safe areas that people with disabilities can be part of community endeavors. So, what are we waiting for please sign up with the “How I Walk” campaign and get moving.

There are 53 million people with disabilities who are now put on notice. It is your time to “Step It Up.”