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AARP Georgia hosts first "Walk With A Doc"

Free monthly program brings doctors and community together to promote health and wellness.

Bryce Ethridge,

AARP Georgia

Published April 01, 2026

AARP

You can call it a walk in the park, but AARP Georgia calls it, Walk With A Doc.

AARP Georgia held the first session of this free monthly event on March 14, 2026, at Newtown Park in Johns Creek.

The event aimed to meet the community where they are and encourage steps toward a healthier lifestyle. It simultaneously gave participants the chance to take a relaxing walk and make new friends.

Walk With A Doc began with Dr. David Sabgir in Columbus, Ohio, circa 2005. Sabgir, wanting to inspire a healthier lifestyle, invited his patients to walk with him rather than simply explaining the benefits of doing so after each visit.

Doctor Elaine Thomas Talking at Walk with a Doc

AARP

Dr. Elaine Thomas, AARP Georgia’s resident “Doc”, said the benefit of walking with the community is readily apparent.

“It is absolutely essential for our physical and our mental health that we move, and that we stay connected with others,” she said. “Having the opportunity to walk with others and connect with others is a very important part of why I wanted to be involved.”

Thomas preceded the walk with an explanation of the health benefits walking offered, one of which being the camaraderie and safety you find amongst walking with others.

Participant Christina said Walk With A Doc became a more fun experience because of the friend she made along the trail.

“The woman I was walking with was very social – very talkative – and I really enjoyed her company,” she said. “I’m not very much of an extrovert, so it was nice having someone who engaged with me.”

Christina enjoyed the walk so much that she plans to bring her mom with her next time.

The next Walk With a Doc will be on April 11, 2026, at 8:30 am at Newtown Park in Johns Creek.