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Idols runner-up L’loyd Cele took a brave leap from the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban recently to show his support and encourage people to make the most of their lives - the Big Rush jump showed that this new South African Idol finalist is more than a big voice on stage, but also a big voice for change.
He is one of the several ambassadors for the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa’s (HSFSA) awareness campaign this month called "I Love This", joining Gareth Cliff, Jo-Ann Strauss, Simba Mhere, Michelle Garforth-Venter, Saskia Falken and Mark Pilgrim.
The I Love This campaign is one of the biggest heart and stroke awareness campaigns launched in the country yet and aims to raise funds for the Foundation’s national community programmes, support research and save lives.
L’loyd says that South Africans need to encourage their children to start leading healthy lives from early; getting them off the couch and onto the courts and fields of sport.
The South African public can buy the campaign’s “I Love This” stickers at Clicks stores around the country and at Life Healthcare hospitals in Cape Town. Each sticker costs R5 - members of the public can then place their sticker on something they really love, take a pic, and upload it on the campaign’s Facebook site to stand a chance to win a R10 000 experience of their choice.
Q&A with L'loyd Cele
How have you prioritised a healthy lifestyle and what does that entail?
I make sure I eat the right foods and get enough exercise. Taking a break is important to me and it’s vital to manage your stress levels. I think doing something as simple as switching one’s cellphone off and playing with the kids can make a great difference; it’s a moment to reflect, and for me it is a special time just between me and my son.
It is difficult to live a healthy lifestyle – what kind of advice would you give people who are looking to change the way they live but don’t know where to start.
Making a positive difference to your health does not mean major changes necessarily. It can start with what you eat – be cautious about what you put in your body, and you can walk for a few minutes each day.
What kind of advice would you give to parents who want their children to live healthy lifestyles?
When I was growing up we went outside and played sports; today kids spend a huge amount of time indoors instead and we need to help promote some participation in sports. We need to make sure we help our kids develop healthy minds and healthy bodies.
Why do you support the I Love This campaign?
It’s something I believe is quite important, to look after your health and live to the fullest. This is a good, worthy cause and it encourages South Africans to join hands and help take a stand against the biggest killers in the country.
(Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa press release)
- (Health24, April 2011)
Read more:
Heart attack survivor Mark Pilgrim says 'I love this'
Heart attack: warning signs
Smoking and your heart
