The American Heart Association and St. John Providence Health System completed its free ‘BetterU’ challenge, which encourages individuals to live a healthier life. The challenge was designed to motivate women to improve their overall heart health over a 12-week period.
“It’s never too late to change your life,” said Dr. Joan Crawford, cardiologist at St John Macomb-Oakland Hospitals. “This challenge can potentially be the first step in improving an individual’s cardiac health. Every small change can get you closer to a better you.”
Here’s what a few challengers had to share about their experience:
Why did you decide to participate in the Go Red BetterU program?
“I wanted to be an example of overcoming obstacles,” said Erika Singleton, 35, of Harrison Township, who suffered a stroke in the fourth grade. Singleton said her entire family is more active and trying new things such as mountain climbing and running.
What are you doing differently as a result of the program?
“Knowing I have signed up for the BetterU program has made me more accountable not only to myself but to others I have recruited to participate with me,” said Oak Park resident Danielle Wilder. 42. She was looking for resources to help her stay on track after weight loss surgery. She has to work harder at incorporating exercise because parenting and a sedentary job keeps her inconsistent.
What advice would you give to women wanting to begin a journey to better health?
“It’s important to let women know their risks for heart disease and stroke, especially African-American women because the battle is very personal to me,” said Wilder. “Prior to weight loss surgery I had a cardiac catherization due to repeat angina and my risk factors for heart disease. Luckily for me, the results came back negative but it certainly was a wake-up call.” She witnessed a friend endure open heart surgery and a stroke at a young age, which served as a wake-up call. “My friend’s experience led me to the decision to have weight loss surgery to rid my body of high blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea and high cholesterol, which I battled most of my adult life,” she said.
Why should women get involved with Go Red For Women?
“Women should get involved in Go Red because knowing your risks for heart disease and stroke will help keep you from becoming a statistic,” said Wilder. “Women should get involved because it’s all about you. There is a ton of support and you are never alone. This experience encouraged me to spend more time with my family.”
For more info about BetterU or Go Red For Women, visit www.goredforwomen.org.
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