In the last edition of our newsletter we introduced you to Albert who used the program to help him prepare for knee surgery. This edition we meet Kerstin (right) from the Sunshine Coast who took the time to pen her own account of the program.

Since the beginning of my ‘My health for life journey’ I have felt significant benefits, particularly increased self-confidence. I am now more attuned to my body, enabling me to change life-long habits. I was well supported within the program and through discussions with my group, felt empowered to at first make small lifestyle changes then larger adjustments without pressure. I realise this is a life-long journey.

Our facilitator (Erica) is such an inspiration with lots of knowledge and years of her own personal experience as an elite sports woman. She understands challenges, the body and how small changes can make a difference. Our sessions are warm, welcoming, strongly supportive and encouraging. The content assists you to maintain a healthy focus and to build knowledge and skills for making educated choices about food, the body and the importance of moving.

My strategies to stay motivated are to remain moving more, to continue to eat well and to keep anxiety/stress levels low and manage them through exercise and breathing. I am committed to a healthy living lifestyle – a lifelong learning journey – knowing it can be challenging at times, and that there will be some setbacks. I feel incredibly empowered from the knowledge I have gained and the choices I now make.

To date I have been able to pre-plan food with home cooking, fresh ingredients and eating better with quality, nutritious foods. I have incorporated brisk walks and jogging with a goal to drop two dress sizes which I am adamant I will achieve. I am now facing a new challenge of working full-time in an office environment while juggling a young family. Currently my group is on a three-month break. (Kerstin is yet to complete her final appointment)

Although the program is in its infancy it is a highly regarded and exciting initiative. It is a leading program that is free for those at high risk. It is a success story that has already improved people’s lives dramatically, while reducing the levels of future chronic disease within our Queensland communities.

Thanks Kerstin. It has been a pleasure to have you in the program.