Amy Gannon is a registered dietitian who lives and practices in Charleston. She earned an undergraduate degree in human nutrition and foods from West Virginia University and completed a master’s degree and dietetic internship at Marshall University. In 2005, she earned a Certificate of Training in Pediatric and Adolescent Weight Management from the American Dietetic Association. She has been a consultant dietitian for the HealthyKids Weight Management Program at Charleston Area Medical Center for five years. She has experience in clinical dietetics, sales, community nutrition and higher education. She is currently serving as president of the W.Va. Dietetic Association and works as a youth specialist for WVU Extension Service- Family Nutrition Programs. In addition, Gannon is an adjunct professor for the Marshall University School of Medicine and owns a private consultative nutrition practice in Charleston.

What was the fourth episode’s theme?
Coming together as a community.

What wasn’t addressed?
I would like to have seen Jamie teach the people of Huntington how to cook a healthier version of some of our favorite foods- pinto beans and cornbread, for example. I loved the idea of the stir fry, but it would be nice to let people see that there are easy ways to incorporate small changes to make our favorite dishes healthy as well. I would have also liked to have an update from last week's show. What happened as a result of the fund-raising dinner? Was it a success finanacially? Did the high school students from last week's show recruit people to be a part of the 1000 person cook-off?

How were Huntington/ the school system portrayed?
This week's episode had little to do with the school system. This week was all about the community, which I feel was very positively portrayed. The community really came together to show support for the changes that Jamie was trying to make. I love that the students of Marshall were an integral part of getting the city jazzed up about the 1000 people cook-off. The dance scene at the student center was energizing. Marshall is such an important part of the Huntington landscape, and I think the students' involvement was perfectly suited for this episode.

Any progress made?
Obviously progress was made convincing DJ Rod that making healthier changes isn't just about lettuce and carrots. Jamie made two very important points- No. 1 DJ Rod has the ability to influence more people than any Senator or other public spokesperson can. His opinion is important because he can truly help inspire change and encourage people to adopt better eating habits. No 1- Jamie said, "it's not just about what's happening with the dead, it is what's happening with the living". This point is poignant for several reasons. Obesity is the number one public health crisis today. If we don't make changes, we will die faster and more expensive deaths. But, it's not just about dying- it's about living better! Feeling better, living stronger and achieving a greater quality of life are the most important reasons to adopt healthier eating and exercise habits.