Johnetta Goldsmith, a Montgomery, Alabama resident, is a recent participant in our no-cost HeartLink wellness program. She agreed to share her story so others could learn about the benefits programs such as these can offer.
Johnetta, how did you learn about the HeartLink program and what inspired you to join?
While at a doctor’s appointment, my doctor told me about the program after having an elevated blood pressure and cholesterol reading. Later, I received a call from The Wellness Coalition with more specifics about the program. I became inspired after learning about all of the benefits of the program.
What health improvements are you hoping to achieve? Have you seen results from the program so far?
My health has made lots of improvements since starting the program. I have lost over 20 pounds. At my last doctor’s appointment, I was told by my physician that my blood pressure, as well as my cholesterol, was improving. Before starting this program, I did not exercise. Now, I am exercising daily, reaching at least 10,000 steps a day.
What has your experience been with the program?
I have enjoyed coming together and sharing with others that have similar struggles. My coach has made a difference in the way that I see how I can help myself with my health. The vision board activity that we completed gave me another way of being accountable and goal-setting. This program
has been great virtually, and I believe it would be even better in person
Have you experienced any unexpected benefits from the program?
I realized that I can prepare foods differently and still enjoy them. I also learned that being accountable has helped me with my weight loss.
Have you shared what you have learned with others?
I have shared what I have learned with family, friends, and former co-workers. Several have expressed an interest to join and a few of them have joined other classes.
What have you heard in the class that you use as a mantra?
“Write EVERYTHING Down” and “Make everything Accountable”.
After completing the program, are you planning to continue your efforts to improve your heart health?
After completing this program, I plan to continue using what I have learned to continue being healthy.
About Heartlink
CDC’s 500 Cities Project shows the City of Montgomery had higher prevalence than the nation on cardiovascular-related issues for adults. The Wellness Coalition’s HeartLink program seeks to improve the cardiovascular health and health behaviors of uninsured and under-insured adults in the River Region, through:
- Access to primary care
- Health insurance
- Free/low-cost medications
- Community resources
- Self-management of cardiovascular disease
These services are delivered by trained Wellness Navigators who provide wellness case management and chronic disease self-management education. The program is available to adult residents of Autauga, Elmore, Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery counties.
HeartLink is made possible with a grant from the AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation. The AstraZeneca HealthCare Foundation’s Connections for Cardiovascular HealthSM program has reached more than 1.7 million people, and over 63,000 people have had their heart health progress tracked through a variety of Connections for Cardiovascular HealthSM Grant Awardees’ programs. Participant results include losing weight, reducing body mass index, lowering blood pressure and hemoglobin A1C levels, making healthier food choices, and exercising more.
Learn more at thewellnesscoalition.org/heartlink.