Nanette is one of 86 UNC Health Care employees participating in the Healthy Heels Weight Loss Program this year. She says tracking her food intake as one of the most useful tools she picked up in the program, along with the accountability that the group setting provides.

Last summer, UNC Health Care employee Nanette Coulon became one of the 75 million Americans to receive a diagnosis of high blood pressure. As a new grandmother, she wanted to take charge of her health and knew she needed to lose some weight.

To help her on her path, Nanette joined the Healthy Heels Weight Loss Program (HHWLP) and has since lost 40 pounds. Her blood pressure has improved and she is finding it easier to be physically active again. In fact, she is now able play tag with her grandchildren and run around in the backyard.

“It’s not just about the weight,” she says. “It’s about feeling better.”

Nanette is one of 86 UNC Health Care employees who have participated in the HHWLP so far this year. Nanette credits tracking and bringing awareness to her food intake as one of the most useful tools she picked up in the program. She also enjoys the accountability that the group setting provides.

Nanette says she appreciates being able to get accurate information and share ideas with people who are dealing with the same issues.

Health Heels groups meet once a week. Counselors provide information about healthy eating and physical activity, and are available for individual consultations. Group members report high satisfaction and appreciate the nonjudgmental support and accountability the program provides.

Any employee with a BMI ≥25 and health insurance through UNC Hospitals can participate.

Interested in joining? To enroll, please call 984-974-6519. Please direct any further questions to Stephanie Wilhoit-Reeves.