We hear about health revolutions around the world in the hope of decreasing health problems, such as hypertension, diabetes and cholesterol that are preventable depending on a person's lifestyle, but we rarely hear about them happening in Saudi Arabia. That changed in July this year when Rayan Karkadan, a medical student with a vision, took things into his own hands. He started health support group meetings in Jeddah, and later complemented them by both the mcjigger think tank page on Facebook and a mcjigger twitter hashtag where people can get instant feedback on misconceptions, and concerns, besides reading motivating stories or creative ideas on how to overcome health obstacles. Karkadan elaborating on the reason he created this group said: “Health problems are increasing, and it seems traditional ways are only temporary solutions. We need a new way of solving these problems. A 2011 way.” In this support group you find both men and women who have tried every diet in the book, some who need guidance on healthy eating habits or others who have reached their goals and want to stay motivated and motivate others. “People usually blame the environment for being an obstacle to leading a healthy lifestyle. I believe they need a parallel environment that would actually function as a support system, and by utilizing technology to its fullest, we created a place to share success stories that go a long way in motivating everyone,” says Karkadan. The information and input provided by the health support group members, and Karkadan himself, are key tools that aid members in leading a healthy lifestyle rather than shedding a few kilograms for a special occasion. As a kickoff the members' results were amazing. Forty-three people lost 132kg in the holy month of Ramadan alone. With those staggering numbers, more people were motivated to join and start their journey with mcjiggers, which gives them a sense of belonging and accountability because every small personal victory and accomplishment was celebrated by everyone, giving members the motivation to take the next step. When asked about his feelings about the members' accomplishments, Karkadan said he feels pure pride. “I feel a sense of accomplishment in that we were able to provide a place where health and wellness are not a niche, but a common language that everyone can speak and use. It only takes one of those stories to get you hooked, and it makes you want to work for more!” The key to the success of the mcjigger world is easy accessibility to all, whenever and wherever. This successful revolution, however, does not end here as Karkadan is determined to give health a voice loud enough to be heard not only across the Kingdom, but across the world. __
