Sally Konopka found SilverSneakers helped with pain reduction

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The moment that changed everything:

 

At age 30, I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, which continued to progress, leaving my joints very stiff and my hands and feet deformed. Last year while doing housework I fell and broke my hip. But I was determined not to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair. After I had my hip replaced I did everything possible to continue my normal daily activities. Eventually I was able to walk without assistance, but I was exhausted all the time from the constant pain.

 

Small steps, big changes:

 

I began researching ways to decrease my arthritis and hip pain and found that a healthier diet and regular physical activity were supposed to help. Then I found SilverSneakers and began going to my local fitness location twice a week. I started slowly using elastic bands, small exercise balls and light weight training and kept progressing.

 

Where I am today:

 

Healthy eating habits and attending SilverSneakers classes have helped me improve my strength and energy level. My husband saw how much better I was doing and he now goes with me to the classes and our friend who also has arthritis started going with us too!

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Plans with her granddaughter fuel Priscilla Farrell

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The moment that changed everything

I got a call from my health plan saying it included the SilverSneakers Fitness Program. I was told the program was designed just for people like me.

I had nothing to lose, so I hung up the phone and made up my mind to change my situation.

 

Small steps, big changes

While still using oxygen, I decided to go to the gym near me and join SilverSneakers. I couldn’t climb the stairs, so I took the elevator. After starting SilverSneakers

classes, I also began working with a trainer; I got nutrition training and began eating healthier too.

 

Where I am today

I’ve lost 74 pounds, got my diabetes under control and got rid of numerous aches and pains. The best part is that my doctor reduced my oxygen use to nighttime only.

He continues to encourage me to keep eating healthier and getting daily exercise. I’ve already achieved one of my main goals, to reduce reliance

on an oxygen tank, and I know walking with my granddaughter on the beach isn’t far behind.

 

Words for others

You are responsible for your own life choices, and joining a program like SilverSneakers is a life-saving choice. You can do it! All you need to do is go at your own

pace surrounded by wonderful, supportive people.

 

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