Reflections on 2014

Like many people during the Christmas season, I like to reflect on the year gone by. I’m reminded of how blessed I am to have a family that I love, a job that brings me fulfillment, and a practice where I feel we truly make  a difference in people’s lives.

As part of my reflection, I go back through the emails, messages and letters I’ve received from people and organizations who I’ve done my very best to help over the course of the year. This not only puts a smile on my face, but it strengthens my faith in God and the mission of Proodian Healthcare.

It also motivates me to push forward in 2015 and continue the movement toward true health and wellness that is slowly but surely being embraced in our country. We can only combat the chronic illness epidemic in our country if education leads to motivation, and motivation leads to real behavioral change.

Here are a few examples of feedback that serve as motivation for my staff and me.

I had fallen into a rut, and I had become resolved to accept my post-menopausal elevated blood levels, increasing weight gain, stress, and fatigue until I attended a By Design Ministries seminar, where Dr. Proodian offered very practical and sensible information and solutions.

My thinking became liberated. I realized that I am “too young to be old.” Since then, I have been taking necessary personal steps to become physically stronger and mentally sharper. I am continuing to lose body fat weight and have dropped four dress sizes.

I’ve been told that I look better, I know that I function better, and I want to live longer, enjoying this wonderful season of my life.

Dr. Proodian is a forthright, articulate and amicable speaker. He educates with spoonfuls of empathy, humor, and hope. The Q&A session was a safe environment for women to be comfortable enough to openly participate and be satisfied with his uncompromised responses. 

–Johanna Astuto, N.J.A.G. ReaLife Women’s Department

In October, I delivered a Wellness At Work seminar about women’s health in support of the Pink Plunge Challenge at Gold’s Gym of Long Branch:

First of all, thank you again for being a part of our October Pink Plunge Challenge month. It was a successful month filled with great opportunities to raise awareness for Breast Cancer! I am still waiting on our final fundraising tally, but know that our collective impact was significant on every level.  Your dedication and support is most appreciated.

–Jennifer Borenius, Pink Plunge Challenge

I’m proud to serve as the health educator for CityWell, a free resource created to help city of Long Branch employees and their dependents lead healthier lives. At a recent CityWell event, I had pleasure of speaking with Captain Somers of the Long Branch Fire Department:

It was refreshing to hear you speak yesterday.  I have been expounding many of those same beliefs for years and was energized by your passion and enthusiasm on the subject. I believe, as we discussed, that the Uniform Fire Division could benefit greatly from a presentation at our building on the subject matter you covered today. Starting our young members now with a healthier alternative to what they experience regularly might make a huge difference in their careers.

–Captain Timothy Somers, Long Branch Fire Department

I’m very humbled by the comments of patients, people who work so hard to raise awareness of important community events, and true heroes like Captain Somers. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank you and all of my patients, staff and supporters for making 2014 such a fantastic and rewarding year.

May God bless you and your families this holiday season and throughout 2015!