Verona Man Seeks Donations For Charity Bike Ride | Community Spirit

A Verona man approaching 50-years-old has a new outlook on life and he's hoping his story will inspire others to a healthier lifestyle.

Over the past year and a half, Michael Hammond has dropped 75 pounds.  He's eaten better and has made exercise part of his daily routine. 

Hammond committed himself to 50 minutes of exercise a day and he gave himself 50 weeks to lose weight and get in shape for a 150-mile bike ride across Wisconsin to raise money for heart health education.

The father of two said his lifestyle changes were not optional.

"My mother died of heart disease at age 64 after a life long battle with it", said Hammond.  "My grandmother died of heart disease in her late 30’s.  My family history is scary."

When Hammond first arrived in the office of Dr. Timothy Lechmaier, of Internal Medicine at Dean Clinic, he had serious concerns about his heart health.  Together, they came up with a plan.

"I tell all my patients at-risk for heart disease that risk reduction is a marathon," said Dr. Lechmaier.  "Changes don’t happen overnight.  Living a lifestyle that includes a healthy diet and regular exercise takes commitment."

Hammond will turn 50 in mid-July.  The week of his birthday he plans to begin his 150 mile journey, biking from Verona to La Crosse. 

"I’m collecting donations for the ride now.  All the money raised goes to the American Heart Association," said Hammond.  "There can never be enough education on the subject.  50to50forheart.com is a place people can turn for information, plus support and encouragement from others with heart disease or others trying to make healthy lifestyle changes."

He hopes his story will help inspire others.  Hammond has a lot of support, including that of his doctor.

"It’s wonderful," said Dr. Lechmaier.  "As a physician, when someone takes the steps to change their life, and you can see the progress they are making, it absolutely makes your day."