Fashion Designer Set To Lose 1 Million Kg’s To Raise $1m

Press Release

Fashion Designer Set To Lose 1 Million Kg’s To Raise 1 Million Dollars

One million kgs for one million dollars… achievable? Let’s hope so!

Influential fashion designer and entrepreneur, Annah Stretton is heading a campaign to improve the nation’s wellbeing and ‘fight the fat’ Kiwis carry with her new Million for a Million promotion launched today.

“I want to take a million kgs off the total weight of this nation,” says Stretton.

“Approximately one in two New Zealanders are obese or overweight and I’m asking for one in every four adults to take part and lose a kilo each.

“Being overweight often has a big impact on your general wellbeing and heart health. With one New Zealander dying from coronary heart disease every 90 minutes and with the obesity epidemic hitting all ages of society we are creating awareness around the need to take a positive step in the right direction and lose a kilo. While the campaign might not change lives, we are asking people to commit to changing habits that will kick start a new direction around healthier eating and getting out and being more active.

“The result may be just one kilo off,” says Stretton, “but many people have already said they will use this as a launch pad for continuing to lose more. Even if each participant puts into practice just one healthy habit into their daily life we will have been successful.”

The ‘Million for a Million’ campaign will run for one month from October 1st and will culminate in a wall of fame web page with one million names and photos, showing those who have each lost a kilo.

Million for a Million is supported by Zeald, Westpac, Mediaworks, Foodstuffs (New World and PAK’nSAVE) and the Heart Foundation who are excited to be encouraging New Zealanders and their own staff to think about their health and lose a kilo for the cause.

Heart Foundation Medical Director, Norman Sharpe commends Annah on her enthusiasm to get right to the heart of the nation’s increasing ill-health and galvanise New Zealanders into action.

“Despite medical advances, heart disease continues to be the single biggest killer of our men and women because of complex changes in the way New Zealanders live, work, eat and exercise,” says Professor Sharpe. “The journey towards heart health is about making small but achievable lifestyle changes – something that I’m certain this campaign can help inspire. We’re a charity and need public support more than ever. We’re very grateful for Annah for leading this initiative and being such a positive champion for change.”

The inspiration for the charitable project surfaced after Annah’s recent Dry July 30-day hiatus from alcohol – a stellar effort that saw her contribute to the $500,000 raised for Northern Regional Cancer and Blood Service at Auckland City Hospital.

“The first two nights were definitely the hardest but by the end of it I was feeling amazing. I couldn’t believe how much time I had back and how great I felt. That was a testimony to me of how a small change to what you drink or eat can make a big difference to how you feel.”

The figure – one million – resonates well with the Waikato-based designer. In 1992 her company, which coincidentally celebrates its 20th year in 2012 achieved a massive $1 million turnover in its first year of operation. Annah herself is a great example of what can be achieved when you truly dedicate yourself to something.

“Losing weight is problematic for men and women alike and I believe one month to lose 1 kg is a very doable goal,” says Stretton. “It’s simply about making a start.”

“If anyone has any medical concerns they should consult their doctor first and ask if they can take part,” Stretton advises.

People should first sign up to be an official ‘million for a million winner’ for $1 each at www.millionforamillion.co.nz. Payment can be made online and families and individuals are welcome to register. You must be 18 to join.

Once participants join they will have access to the online Million for a Million Facebook community where they can share their stories and photos.

All proceeds will be donated to the New Zealand Heart Foundation.

www.annahstretton.co.nz

www.heartfoundation.org.nz

www.zeald.com

www.westpac.co.nz

www.foodstuffs.co.nz

www.mediaworks.co.nz

ENDS

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