Virta helps Kyle Penn live today for tomorrow
Tomorrow’s quality of life is worth the investment. Virta helps make it possible.
And she’s learning that firsthand as she cares for her aging mom.
“I’m living with my mom temporarily as she recovers from surgery,” says Kyle. “Between heart problems, edema, and weight issues, it’s hard to watch her suffer. It’s marked me. I’m very motivated now to take care of myself. I want to be there for my son.”
During the height of the pandemic, with isolation at its peak, Kyle decided to make a move toward a healthier life. After some discussion with a co-worker, together they joined Virta, a program offered to GE Appliances employees free-of-charge to manage weight and diabetes.
“Having a partner-in-crime made it easier,” says Kyle.” We could hold each other accountable and share tips and struggles. A support system is so helpful.”
With health coaches, meal plans, and testing kits included, health management became a little simpler. Kyle learned quickly that you must be willing to put in the work.
“I was very committed at first and checked all the boxes,” says Kyle. “But I had to learn to do the next right thing even when life gets busy.”
Meeting with her health coach every other week provided both education and motivation.
“The work isn’t just physical,” says Kyle. “You have to become a learner and be willing to ask questions. It’s learning a whole new way of living. You get out what you put in.”
One life-changing tip she’s carried with her?
“My coach taught me to take my blood sugar religiously,” says Kyle. “It teaches you how your body responds to certain foods.”
This way, if Kyle eats something that spikes her blood sugar, she can balance it out. She’s even discovered her body’s powerhouse food that always stabilizes her glucose levels.
“Broccoli,” says Kyle. “My body loves broccoli. While I didn’t love it at first, I’ve seen the benefits it provides me, and I can use it in a pinch to correct my blood sugar if things go south.”
Results are great, but Kyle sees the power is in feeling good.
“Progress is progress no matter how small,” says Kyle. “Every little decision counts. I get to decide what kind of life I live.”
And Virta is helping her live it well.
Learn more about Virta and find out if you qualify. Program available at no cost to GEA employees enrolled in the health plan.