Dr. Ian Smith, Celebrity Physician and Diet Expert, Launches The Makeover Mile to Raise Health and Wellness Awareness in Underserved Communities

NEW YORK, Feb. 28, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Seeking to turn back the deadly toll of obesity-related diseases that threaten two-thirds of Americans, Dr. Ian Smith announced today the launch of The Makeover Mile. This grassroots initiative stages a one-mile walk and FREE health fair in communities across the United States that are most adversely affected by weight-related illnesses and lack of access to health care. This day devoted to health – sponsored by CVS/pharmacy and The Coca-Cola Company's Live Positively Initiative includes FREE health screenings by CVS/pharmacy for all adult participants.  There will also be fitness and healthy cooking demonstrations, music, fitness equipment giveaways and plenty of fun and educational activities for children.

As the creator of the 50 Million Pound Challenge, an online weight loss community with over 1.6 million members, and a recently appointed member of the President's Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, Dr. Ian Smith has witnessed first-hand the health struggles plaguing Americans in underserved communities.  Dr. Ian remarked, "The first step in altering one's behavior is awareness, which is exactly what most people suffering from weight-related diseases lack. We can't expect to reverse the rapidly declining health of the population without first giving Americans the necessary tools to do so for themselves. The Makeover Mile will empower people to take control of their health by demonstrating how incorporating simple changes into their daily routine can greatly improve their quality of life. We plan to remind America that in many cases your health is in your own hands and it's never too late to take the first steps toward a healthier you."

The Makeover Mile will canvas the following seven cities:

• Houston, TX – March 5
• Dallas, TX – March 12
• Los Angeles, CA – March 26
• Washington, D.C. – April 2
• Atlanta, GA – April 9
• Philadelphia, PA – May 21
• Chicago, IL – June 4

For more information about The Makeover Mile, please visit www.makeovermile.com.

About CVS/pharmacy

CVS/pharmacy, the retail division of CVS Caremark Corporation (NYSE: CVS), is America's leading retail pharmacy with more than 7,100 CVS/pharmacy and Longs Drug stores. CVS/pharmacy is committed to improving the lives of those it serves by making innovative and high-quality health and pharmacy services safe, affordable and easy to access, both in its stores and online at CVS.com. General information about CVS/pharmacy and CVS Caremark is available at info.cvscaremark.com.

About The Coca-Cola Company

The Coca-Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is the world's largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with more than 500 sparkling and still brands.  The Company's portfolio includes 14 billion dollar brands, including Coca-Cola, recognized as the world's most valuable brand, as well as Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, Powerade, Minute Maid, Simply and Georgia. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world's largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company's beverages at a rate of 1.7 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our website at www.thecoca-colacompany.com.

About Dr. Ian Smith

Dr. Ian Smith has served as the medical/diet expert for six seasons on VH1's highly-rated "Celebrity Fit Club", is the creator and founder of The 50 Million Pound Challenge and is a medical contributor on the nationally syndicated television show, "Rachael Ray."  Dr. Ian was recently appointed by President Obama to the President's Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. He is also the author of eight books, including the New York Times Bestsellers, The Fat Smash Diet, The Extreme Fat Smash Diet and The 4 Day Diet. His eighth book, EAT, will be available in April 2011.

SOURCE The Makeover Mile