Nearly a year ago, Dr. Anne Zink, Alaska’s Chief Medical Officer, encouraged people via ADN’s opinion page to enroll in one of the lifestyle-changing programs offered at freshstart.alaska.gov. I felt like Zink was speaking directly to me: “You’re not too old. It’s not too late.”
After reading Zink’s words, I thought, “It’s free! I can do it on my phone. What have I got to lose?”
I was accepted into the hypertension/weight loss program. (There are also programs for diabetes, tobacco use, and increasing activity with your kids.)
By April, I was able to stop my blood pressure medication. This by itself is enough for me to want to continue with my new habits. But I also sleep better. I have more energy and fewer aches, and I’m getting stronger.
I’m writing this with profound gratitude for Zink and Alaska’s Fresh Start programs. Best wishes to everyone for great health in 2024.
— Jen Huvar
Anchorage
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