Success Stories - Chris

Earlier this year Chris attended a Diabetes NZ (Nelson) Education Course as he was keen to learn more about managing his diabetes now he was living in New Zealand.  Originally from the UK Chris knew he needed to make some changes in order to feel healthier. He wanted to lose some weight and feel better mentally as well as physically - he knew some support with motivation was what he really needed.

Chris's GP Pip Reeve of Tasman Medical agreed Chris would benefit from referral to the Green Prescription service, and in July Chris had his first meeting with his support person, Leigh.  At their first meeting Chris identified he was feeling tired and stressed, and was managing walking the dog for only 15 minutes about 5 days a week.  Together Chris and Leigh looked at his daily routine, likes and dislikes, and worked on a Step by Step plan, including looking at Chris's nutrition which he identified as being "pretty good - but I could probably have smaller helpings!". Chris was guided to make his own choices for small changes and after his first meeting Chris felt a bit more motivated.

He decided his first action on his Step by Step plan would be to find out about aqua sessions at Riverside Pool - not only did he find out about it but he went and did some aqua jogging and really enjoyed it! Chris discovered that he preferred the water exercise to the pool gym so persevered with aqua jogging and walking the dog for progressively longer, brisker walks. The dog felt better too!

Regular emails from Leigh helped keep Chris focused on maintaining attendance at his new found activities, and monthly face to face consultations meant Chris was guided to reflect on the good work he was doing, the changes he was feeling and,  in Chris's words  "my GRx support person was a mine of information and a great motivator - after our regular meetings I felt very positive and energetic".

Feeling happier and less stressed, together with wife Heather, Chris started a beginner's Tai Chi class.  He now generally has a more positive attitude, has lost weight, his blood sugar levels are stable and he has
more energy - things are looking good!

In his own words to anybody who knows they could benefit from some support to get moving more, Chris says   "Do it! Ask for a Green Prescription referral. The activities I have been introduced to have improved my wellbeing and this would not have been possible without the support and encouragement of Green Prescription - thank you".