A Healthier Future: Kellie’s Journey with THCFA’s Diabetes Program

Collarenebri woman Kellie Henderson has transformed her health, shedding more than 25kg and regaining her energy thanks to The Healthy Communities Foundation Australia’s innovative diabetes program.

A Turning Point

Just over a year ago, Kellie’s blood sugar levels were dangerously high and she was doing little to no activity. Today, her blood sugar levels are close to normal, her energy has returned, and she feels proud of how far she has come.

Small Changes, Big Impact

THCFA’s Client Services Manager and program creator, Rishoniy Caine educates participants that it is possible to make healthy food choices and to incorporate activity, even when resources are limited. 

With the support of Rishoniy, Kellie has embraced simple but powerful lifestyle changes:

• Cutting portion sizes at mealtimes

• Swapping sugar for stevia

• Saying goodbye to fast food

• Limiting alcohol to an occasional treat

She has also found new ways to manage stress. Instead of turning to food, Kellie takes a walk or spends time with her much-loved animals.

“Previously I hated walking. I wasn’t getting much exercise at all. But now when I go for a walk I’m not as out of breath, and I’ve just stuck with it,” Kellie says.

The Power of Support

Rishoniy Caine (L) shares some tips with Kellie Henderson (R) on how to incorporate home-grown ingredients to add healthy flavour to meals.

Community and peer encouragement are central to the program, and Kellie says that support has made all the difference.

“Now that I have the support, I really want to keep going. Previously I tried to lose weight but would end up falling off the rails.”

Rishoniy says Kellie’s success is a reflection of her determination:

“Kellie has worked incredibly hard to get where she is, and that’s a credit to her. I’ve just given her the tools.”