According to Kentucky by the Numbers: COVID-19 at Risk report, 56.1% of adults in Owsley County struggle with obesity, 17.9% have diabetes, and 66.2% have hypertension. People with immunocompromising conditions, including the ones previously listed, are at a higher risk for COVID-19 and severe illness, particularly if the underlying conditions are not well controlled. Physical activity has been proven to be an effective strategy to control chronic disease.

In an effort to address this issue, Owsley County Extension Agent for Family and Consumer Sciences in collaboration with Mountain Comprehensive Health Corporation and the Letcher and Perry County FCS Agents hosted a virtual 5K event to get community members physically active.  Twenty-seven Owsley County residents participated and completed this virtual event with the following results:  Ninety-nine percent of participants completed a goal by participating, four participants completed their first ever 5K, and one participant set a personal best.  One participant stated that a proud moment included, “Taking time out of my day to exercise for my well-being.  Prioritizing that time.”  Another one included, “Meeting goal to run under 24 minutes.”