Cool runnings

I hope you’re sitting down, because I’m about to tell you something that contradicts most of what I write on a weekly basis.

This Thursday, all of you need to eat some ice cream.

You heard (read?) me right. This Thursday, Aug. 5, is Miracle Treat Day. By purchasing a Blizzard from a participating Dairy Queen location, you are helping the sick and injured children of your community. For each Blizzard sold, DQ will give $1 or more to Children’s Miracle Network, which supports local pediatric hospitals. For all of us in north Georgia, that’s our very own Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.

Now, I talk a lot about moderation. And I wouldn’t encourage you to eat ice cream every day (not full-fat ice cream, anyway), but in order for us to provide the wonderful programs and services to our patients and families, our not-for-profit organization needs fundraisers like this. Since 1984, DQ has raised more than $81 million for Children's Miracle Network hospitals.

This year, DQ is offering Mini Blizzards—they’re about half the size of a small. That’s moderation for you. Get one and split it with a friend, or save up a few calories just for the occasion. After all, ice cream once a year—for the kids—is worth it, right?

Visit www.miracletreatday.com to find a participating DQ near you.

I’m also going to encourage you to do something healthier. The Kaiser Permanente Corporate 5K Run/Walk is at 7 p.m., Thursday, Sept. 16, at Turner Field. Children’s is trying to get a team of 500 participants. I’m no runner, but I’ve signed up to walk. I participated two years ago, about 60 pounds heavier than I am now. I was so proud to make it across the finish line. I hope this year is a little easier for me. Employees of Children’s can find more info on Careforce. Join me. It will be fun!

P.S. Weigh-in details for this week: I’m down another 2 pounds, for 64.7 total.