So far, a lot of what we've shown on this site are the big events where hundreds of people show up to be a part of the Million Step March.

This short video is different. Kathy, Gary and a few companions made their way, step by step, through the countryside recently. Videographer Rod Rich captured the moment along N.C. 42 and other roads outside Wilson.

Posted by Kyle Marshall on May 23, 2008

Great weather, ideal location, lots of activities – sounds like the perfect equation for a successful stop on the Million Step March. And that’s what it was, as about 400 people turned out at East Carolina University to hear the message on walking, physical activity and healthy living.

You can get a feel for the event through today’s story in The Daily Reflector, Greenville’s newspaper.

Thanks to everyone for coming out. For encouragement in your efforts to get – and stay – fit, remember that you can write a brief account of how it’s going through our Share Your Story feature on this site. We hope to hear from you.

Posted by Kyle Marshall on May 22, 2008

Through Share Your Story, Frances wants to let the Million Step March community know about the dramatic improvements in her lifestyle - and an improved outlook on life:

"I just became active nine months ago. I had gastric bypass surgery. Before the surgery I was 412 pounds, now I am 260 pounds. Before my surgery, if I could take 1,000 steps it was a miracle. Now I average 8,000 per day.

"Being active has made me feel better about my life and my surroundings. There are times when I am walking that tears form in my eyes because you never know how much you appreciate something until it is no longer a part of your life. And walking was so painful for me that the fewer steps I took, the better. I used to look for the closet parking space when it came time to shop, now I intentionally park at the end of the row, just so I can walk.

"People always ask me what I am doing to lose the weight, and when I say walking they look somewhat puzzled. I then begin to explain to them that walking is the best way for me. All it takes is a good pair of walking shoes, and of course, an MP3 player, and you are off to enjoy the outdoors. Here's to getting healthy, and as the old cliche says, 'The taste of this old food is never as good as being healthy feels.'"

Shared on May 22, 2008 Share your story

The next big Million Step March event is less than 24 hours away. If you’re in the Greenville area, please join us Wednesday, May 21, at East Carolina University’s Student Recreation Center at 11 a.m.

What’s in it for me, you ask? For starters, there are giveaways (including pedometers and T-shirts), plus the full lineup of interactive wellness activities that have accompanied the statewide Million Step March tour. Kathy Higgins and Gary Marino will be on hand to pump up the Greenville and ECU crowds. And there’s a chance to enter a drawing for an iPod.

The timing couldn’t be better. Wednesday is National Employee Health and Fitness Day, sponsored by the National Association for Health & Fitness. Employers have held National Employee Health and Fitness Day observances since 1989 to promote a healthy workforce.

If you go, you can find free parking in the “A” lot behind the Mendenhall Student Center. See you there.

Posted by Kyle Marshall on May 20, 2008