NASHVILLE, TN, Jan. 5, 2009 — Tennessee Titans All-Pro and Pro-Bowl star strong safety, Chris Hope, has joined Get Fit Tennessee as a volunteer spokesperson for the statewide program dedicated to improving the health of Tennesseans.
Health Commissioner Susan R. Cooper, MSN, RN, is delighted to welcome Hope to Team Tennessee.
"Chris sets a wonderful example for everyone by living healthy every day," said Cooper, who leads the Get Fit Tennessee effort. "He's already a positive role model for adults and children alike. Not only is he physically fit, but Chris' positive attitude and lifestyle will help show all Tennesseans that starting where they are today, everyone can make small changes on their journey toward better health."
Chris Hope is one of the premiere safeties in the NFL, having played a key role in the dominant Titans defense throughout 2008. The strong safety is set to make his first Pro Bowl appearance, representing the league's fifth-ranked pass defense. He said he's eager to begin working with Get Fit Tennessee to make a difference in the health of Tennesseans. Current statistics show more than 30 percent of Tennesseans are obese, and nearly 726,000 of the state's residents are living with diabetes.
"Now is the time to show Tennesseans how important it is to make healthy choices," Hope said. "I'm excited to play a role on the Get Fit Tennessee team and help educate Tennesseans on the importance of moving more and eating healthier every day."
Hope was recently nominated for the 2008 Titans Community Man of the Year, and was chosen by teammates to receive the 2008 Ed Block Courage Award. He joins the ranks of several other celebrity members of Team Tennessee, including former Tennessee Titans running back Eddie George and NBC's "The Biggest Loser" contestant and Tennessee resident David Griffin.
As a Get Fit Tennessee spokesperson, Hope will participate in events and promotional activities across the state. Along with being one of the premiere safeties in the National Football League, Hope is the host of "Offense/Defense with Chris Hope," a weekly radio show on ESPN 106.7 The Fan. He is also a national spokesperson for Soles4Souls, a nonprofit charity dedicated to providing shoes to children worldwide.
Get Fit Tennessee is a statewide awareness program developed by Governor Phil Bredesen to address the rising epidemic of Type 2 diabetes and risk factors that lead to diabetes, like obesity. This initiative is aimed at educating both adults and children that Type 2 diabetes can be delayed or even prevented with modest lifestyle changes like increasing physical activity and eating healthier. For more information on Get Fit Tennessee, including free fitness and nutrition tools, visit www.GetFitTN.com.
