Struggling with polysystic ovaries, weight gain and low fitness levels, Mary Hamill was feeling unwell, unfit and unmotivated. She not only wanted to feel healthier again, she wanted to be able to run around with her two children, aged 9 and 10, and enjoy a better quality of life with them. So when Mary approached her doctor in February of this year, she knew she needed help to start making changes in her lifestyle.
Mary's Green Prescription support person, Vanessa Hughey, based at Sport Southland, contacted her within a few days and they discussed Mary's physical activity options and interests. Through the GRx programme, Mary received guidance and encouragement, aquajogging and gym passes and regular exercise tips and motivational exercise articles. Three months on, Mary has a whole new attitude and a whole new way of living life. She started attending the gym and received a personalised programme from one of the instructors at the YMCA. She now attends the gym five days a week and aquajogs once during the week for variety.
Since starting on the GRx programme, Mary says she feels 100%, she is sleeping and breathing easier, has lost over 20kg and can do all her housework so much easier. If Mary was to label the one thing that has helped her to make positive, healthy changes in her life, it would be support from others. Support from the GRx support person, support from the gym and support from family and friends. "Don't do it alone", Mary says, "just do something".
