Olympic ambition
Who doesn't dream of a gold medal? I used to. After the Olympics, I thought back to my youth as a gymnast, dreaming of Olympic glory. At the same time I called myself to order, yes Jackelien ... this was your ambition, that doesn't mean others share it. Because for how many people is the Olympics not a dream at all and hate sports and exercise or don't think they have the body for it? For example, I came across this article from Saturday's Financial Telegraph about tackling obesity. Liesbeth van Rossum emphasizes the importance of prevention, and I more than agree with her. The key question: how do we reach precisely those people who don't want to do anything about it (consciously or unconsciously for whatever reason). In my prevention work in the Hague region, and specifically in Zoetermeer, we already work from an integral vision of (Positive) health. Health in all policies' as it is so beautifully called. And this involves much more than nutrition and exercise.... but particularly about feelings like... I belong, I do meaningful things or I meet nice people.
We understand that addressing obesity is not just a healthcare issue, but a broader societal challenge that requires fundamental transformation. We work with a wide range of partners - from healthcare providers and schools to businesses and networks - to create an environment that supports and encourages healthy choices. See also the fantastic NPO series "Teens Against Illnesses: episode goals and dreams," which really touched me. But yes, it is indeed a long-term thing....
Am I an idealist? Maybe I am. But no healthy future without ideals. We need more wind in our sails: political windfall and societal support for a long-term vision (and especially action) beyond the next election. Beautifully articulated in this article. So Vincent Karremans, we are counting on you in the development of the outline agreement.
