Before coming to the Lifestyle Medicine Center, Mary was feeling increasingly frustrated. The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted her active lifestyle, which included playing and refereeing soccer for over 40 years. With the lack of activity, she began to feel stiff and tight, eventually giving up on her favorite activities. This change led to an emotional flatline, where she no longer wanted to be involved in the things she once loved. Additionally, Mary experienced a scare with thyroid cancer, which turned out to be a false alarm but was emotionally taxing. Mary, a 76-year-old soccer enthusiast who started playing at 30, found herself in an unfamiliar and disheartening situation.
In her quest for answers, Mary decided to seek help from the Lifestyle Medicine Center. Initially hesitant, she bravely scheduled an appointment, swallowing her pride as she thought it was only for older, weak people. She soon realized the program was exactly what she needed, making her stronger and more limber every day. Mary visited Nurse Practitioner Julie Roberts, a specialist in lifestyle medicine, who recommended an allergy test. The results revealed 25 things Mary couldn't eat. Following these results, Julie and the team, including Jefferson, an expert physiologist, provided comprehensive support. Jefferson suggested physical therapy, while Julie worked closely with Mary to help her manage this new challenge.
“My experience with the team was outstanding,” says Mary. “Everyone listened attentively to my concerns and trusted my observations about my body. The staff, from the front desk to the specialists, were always courteous and caring, contributing to a positive and supportive atmosphere. I never felt like I was just another patient; the team saw me as an individual, which made a significant difference in my healthcare journey.”
In addition to the support from Julie and Jefferson, Dr. Veigel, another specialist in lifestyle medicine, played a crucial role in Mary's recovery. Recognizing the persistent pain in Mary's knees, Dr. Veigel recommended a specific treatment plan. He skillfully drained fluid from Mary’s knees and administered targeted shots to relieve the inflammation and pain. This provided almost immediate relief, allowing Mary to regain her mobility and continue her physical therapy without constant discomfort. “My knees were really bothering me, and Dr. Veigel was amazing. The procedure he performed made a world of difference. I could feel the improvement right away, and it gave me the boost I needed to stay active and committed to my wellness journey,” Mary shares with gratitude.
Since working with the Lifestyle Medicine Center, Mary has noticed numerous positive changes. Physically, she can now raise her hands over her head, a significant improvement in her flexibility and strength. Tasks that used to cause pain and frustration, like moving boxes, have become easy. Mentally, Mary’s health has also improved. “I now enjoy morning walks with my husband and play the guitar again,” says Mary. “I feel a sense of contentment and peace with myself. I am able to start and finish tasks with anticipation rather than dread.”
Looking ahead, Mary feels optimistic about continuing her work with the Lifestyle Medicine Center. She is grateful for Julie’s encouragement and the comprehensive care she received. Mary plans to focus on getting stronger and more flexible, having already lost five pounds by being mindful of her diet. Regular check-ins with Julie keep her on track, and she is determined to maintain her mental and physical health. Mary reflects on her journey with gratitude, acknowledging that things wouldn’t be as good without the center’s support. It has been a joy, and she looks forward to even more progress in the future.
Her advice to those considering the center is to make a list of their physical and emotional concerns because the team can help with a wide range of issues. “Whatever your problem is, when you talk to them, they really listen. They've got this amazing team with all sorts of expertise. So, no matter what you're dealing with, they can figure it out and I bet they can help. And if they don't have the exact right fit on their team, they'll track down someone who does. These are dynamite people who truly care about their patients.”