Martin Memorial Programs Help Lead to Healthy New Habits for One Woman

Meet Terry Kish! She’s full of energy and a joy to be around. Terry successfully completed Martin Memorial’s Living Tobacco Free program last April. The program was life changing for Terry, whose motivation to quit smoking was to feel better and to be healthy. The program not only provided excellent peer support, it provided an opportunity to bond with her “smoking group” and they still meet monthly for dinner. Terry kicked the habit but the extra bonus was that she has a new group of friends.

One of the biggest fears people face when they decide to quit smoking is that they will gain weight. Although Terry kicked the habit, she did gain a few extra pounds along the way. Now, Terry is on her way to becoming another success story.

She is participating in Martin Memorial’s 52-week weight management program. Once again, she has the support group that meets weekly, and she meets with a nutritionist and is weighed monthly to help her stay on track.

Terry’s new healthy habit is exercising. You’ll find her working out at least four times per week at the Treasure Coast Health and Fitness Center.

As part of the 52-week program, Terry works with a personal trainer twice per week. The trainer plays a very important role in the weight-loss process. Terry said her personal trainer keeps her motivated by providing a variety of safe, effective exercises that keep her coming back for more.

When she’s not working with her trainer, you’ll find Terry taking full advantage of all the programs we have to offer. Terry participates in Tai Chi classes, aqua aerobics classes and uses the rowing and elliptical machines for cardiovascular exercise. Terry says she’s never felt better since she quit smoking and started working out.

Terry is no longer lighting up, but she sure lights up a room when she enters!

--Jane Reynolds
Health and Fitness Technician
Hospital South Health and Fitness