ABOUT WORDS OF WELLNESS

In the United States, 68 percent of adults age 20 and older are overweight or obese, while 31.7% of the nation’s children and adolescents age two to 19 are overweight or obese. Obesity contributes to five of the 10 leading causes of death in America, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, many cancers and stroke.

As part of its effort to help combat the obesity epidemic in our community, Shannon Medical Center brought together community advocates and experts in the health field willing to take up the charge and work together for local change.

Bringing together community members passionate about health and wellness was the first step. Taking community action, including the creation of this blog, has become the next step. The contributors to this site are committed to being a resource for health information and inspiration for positive change. Our aim is for individuals, families, schools and worksites to embrace actions to enable them to live healthier, happier lives.

COALITION MEMBERS:

Holly Foreman

As a member of Shannon Health & Wellness, Holly is dedicated to providing education and developing programs to encourage wellness initiatives that promote healthier lifestyles. She believes wellness matters and it is important to find ways to maintain and optimize our health and quality of life. “My goal is to encourage individuals to invest in your own well-being for lasting positive change. From moving more to stressing less, we must understand our well-being impacts everything we do and small changes have the opportunity to make a big impact!”

September Summers

September has many years of experience with physical activity and health promotion. With a background in personal training, September strives to motivate others to a healthier lifestyle. She is a motivation to many and encourages people around her to move more each day. Her ability to work with others on health-promotion events and education is an asset to this community!

Starr Long

As a member of the Shannon Health & Wellness team, Starr participates in encouraging and helping others in their journey to maintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle. Starr understands first-hand the challenges of juggling a family, a career, and maintaining a healthy well-being. She has hopes of empowering others to transform the relationship with their mind, their body, and their health. She believes that the right combination of education, motivation, and dedication can lead to healthier habits and a more rewarding lifestyle.