Dad Makes Kids Proud

Rocky River Mayor Pam Bobst visits with David Gabe and his family at the Rocky River Recreation Center

A Rocky River family of five celebrated with a healthier dad on Father’s Day.

David Gabe, 47, of Rocky River wrapped up Fairview and Lakewood Hospital’s 8-week fitness challenge in June by tying for third place after saying goodbye to almost 20 pounds. He suffered from chest pains and acid reflux, and his family was concerned about his health. His wife encouraged him to compete in the Adult Fitness Challenge to kick start a better lifestyle. “The challenge was the kick in the pants I needed to make some healthy changes,” Gabe said. “I feel as though it was a chance to change my life in ways that were long overdue.”

The Rocky River Adult Fitness Challenge is part of the Healthy Community Initiative—a collaborative effort between Cleveland Clinic and community partners to promote optimal health and wellness. The fitness challenge included weekly programming on health-related topics, followed by a Walk with a Health Professional—with gradually increasing mileage each week—plus before-and-after screenings of cholesterol panel numbers, blood pressure, BMI and blood glucose levels.

“My kids are my motivators,” Gabe said. “They clapped for me the first time I got on the treadmill.” His three children continued to be his primary source of encouragement throughout the entire process. Thanks to all of that encouragement over the past two months, Gabe has changed his diet, increased his exercise from 60 to over 250 minutes per week, has more energy, and feels better about himself.  He now joins his wife at Boot Camp class every Sunday morning in Rocky River.

Rocky River Mayor Pam Bobst attended the final assessment on June 7 to thank the residents for participating and to congratulate them on their new lifestyles. The winners are as follows: William Holder of Rocky River in first place, Anne Sako of North Olmsted in second, and Kathy Bryda of Rocky River in third, alongside Gabe.