Founded by Bryan G. Woodward, MPH, the Walk from Obesity (WFO) has become an annual staple in communities across the United States. As a member of the Foundation’s Board of Directors, Bryan wanted to create an obesity walkathon similar to events held for cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. With hard work and determination, Bryan and his colleagues organized the first WFO in Nashville, TN in 2003. That event became the pilot for many events to come, because the next year the number of Walks went from 1 to 55 across the United States! To this day, the WFO remains the only national event of its kind, focused on raising awareness and funds for the treatment and prevention of obesity.

Sadly, in October of 2007, Bryan lost his battle with Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia. As a member of ASMBS, he dedicated his life’s work to care for those affected by the disease of obesity. With his persistence, the initial steps taken at that first WFO lead to what would be the Foundation’s largest awareness and fundraising program to date.

Over the past 20 years, ASMBS members have continued Bryan’s passion by volunteering to host Walk’s in their communities. With the support from countless volunteers and sponsors, the Foundation has held over 737 WFO events, with an estimated 75,000+ participants, and raised millions of dollars to support its mission.

Funds raised has allowed the Foundation to support:

  • $1.5M to over 38 ASMBS research grants focused on obesity and treatment
  • $500k to professional Educational Programs for obesity treatment
  • $615k to access to care initiatives of the ASMBS
  • 10 Bryan Woodward Community Grants – supporting initiatives to address the obesity epidemic in communities where Walks are held – returning this year!
  • and more!

Other highlights over the years include:

  • Walk on the Capitol – held in 2008, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., with over 2,000 participants.
  • Celebrity guests attended Walks, including Carnie Wilson, Vince Gill, Dr. Oz, Caitlin VanZandt, and more.
  • Featured in various news articles and local broadcasting segments where events are held.
  • Special events held in conjunction with ASMBS meetings, including the WFO Jazz March in New Orleans and the March with the Surgeons in Chicago.
  • Partnership and funding for the Obesity Action Coalition.
  • Published the WFO Cookbook.
  • National Walk from Obesity Day – a virtual Walk held from 2020-2022, which funded a research grant on COVID-19 and obesity.

Though the Walk from Obesity has allowed the TREO Foundation (formerly ASMBS Foundation) to accomplish great things, there is still work to be done! With continued support, we can make a real difference for those affected by obesity for many years to come.