Herminia's Story

Herminia Fagundes had become depressed, her weight had spiraled out of control, she had a hard time completing daily activities and knew her health was suffering, too. In February 2018, Herminia was diagnosed with kidney disease, sleep apnea and an enlarged heart due to stress, poor diet and lack of exercise. She was prescribed medications and was told she would need open-heart surgery.

Herminia, already a member of The Kaweah Health Lifestyle Fitness Center, decided to schedule a Fitness Profile with Monica Soto, an Exercise Physiologist at The Kaweah Health Lifestyle Fitness Center. Monica performed some basic fitness testing to determine Herminia’s baseline fitness and helped develop a workout regimen for her that she enjoyed. Herminia loves the water so aquatic exercise classes were just the fit to get her excited about coming to the gym. Monica also referred Herminia to meet with Registered Dietitian Alana Unger who helped her clean up her nutrition and make healthier food choices. Six months later, Herminia had eliminated the need for diabetes and blood pressure medications after successfully modifying her diet and exercise habits. Best of all, her Doctor was impressed with her progress and no longer felt that open-heart surgery was necessary.

“Exercise has changed my life and improved my overall morale. I feel better, I am happier and was able to come off many of my medications. The staff at The Kaweah Health Lifestyle Fitness Center has given me courage and support. My aquatics instructors have really inspired me. Monica has helped me with accountability and Alana with my nutrition,” said Herminia. “It is important to take care of yourself and to take advantage of the services available. It really helps to see your progress.”

Herminia still comes in two times a week for water aerobics and some light treadmill work. She meets regularly with Monica Soto for Fitness Profile appointments to check her progress and update her exercise routine. Herminia enjoys the social aspects of The Kaweah Health Lifestyle Fitness Center as well by participating regularly in Aquatic potlucks, incentive programs at the pool and SilverSneakers Bunco Nights. She is down over 43 pounds, feels great and is thankful for friends she’s met along the way like Monica Soto.