The Better Living Center, a health ministry of Haven company, was created by Terence Tay, who envisioned a place for the community to learn and make lifestyle changes by adapting Hans Diehl’s research and principles in lifestyle medicine. The YOU-TURN Wellness Program is a community-based program designed to arrest and reverse society’s most common chronic diseases.
This spring, 38 graduates, including Haven company Pastor Edbert Carceler, were recognized for their completion of the YOU-TURN program. At the graduation ceremony, three graduates shared their testimonies:
Delphyne’s story
Delphyne was invited to join this program by a friend she’d met at a nutrition class more than 10 years ago. She was determined to lower her high cholesterol. “I’ve always taken classes and been curious, but this was the most comprehensive class I’ve ever taken,” she said. “The teachers were friendly; everyone has been loving and supportive. I look forward to my journey.”
Pamela’s story
Last fall was a difficult time in Pamela’s life. Soon after retiring, her mother passed away. When Pamela was hospitalized from the stress, she prayed, “How do I help myself, Lord? How do I make myself a priority?” As she waited, she got a call from a friend who told her about the program. “I knew in my heart it was worth me stepping out in faith to see for myself,” Pamela recalled. That first day, she knew she was in the right place. Since she began the program, her cholesterol has lowered, her strength has returned, she sleeps soundly through the night, and she’s found joy in cooking healthy, beautiful, and colorful foods.
Violet’s story
Violet, who has had issues with her heart, joined the program to help get her blood pressure under control. She has maintained a vegan diet since 2016, but she wasn’t making healthy choices. The program helped her to lower her sugar and salt intake. “I believe this is a change I will keep forever,” she said.
Schubert Palmer, M.D., FACC, FSCAI cardiology section chief and cardiac rehab director, Adventist Health White Memorial, was a featured lecturer of the program and keynote speaker of the graduation ceremony. His message was about how lifestyle changes are a marathon, not a sprint, and he encouraged attendees to run their race. “Don’t run mine; don’t run your neighbor’s,” Palmer said. “Just run your race.”
