Name: Charles McClelland
Church: Ben Salem Presbyterian Church
Risk Factors: Life Style
His Story:
Charles McClelland had been dealing with a drug addiction for quite some time. Then, four years ago, he decided it was time to turn his life around. After going through a Narcotics Anonymous program, he wanted his outside body to match the healing he felt within.
Around that same time, McClelland said, he heard a presentation at his church about Village HeartBEAT. What better way to get started? he thought.
McClelland said joining the program has boosted his confidence and outlook. He now sees in the mirror a reflection of the new man he had become within. McClelland said he also feels that he is now a better father and grandfather.
He’s also captain for his Village HeartBEAT team, which, he said, has given him confidence to be a leader at work. McClelland says the program has brought members of the church closer as they work collectively to improve their health. (To date, he has lost nearly 25 pounds.)
His Advice:
Don’t worry about looking like a supermodel or body builder. Work from the inside out by eating healthy and giving your body the nutrients it needs. The exercise is an important part of healing, too, he said.
Editor’s Note: This story is part of a series profiling some of the success story of Village HeartBEAT, a faith-based wellness program operated by the Mecklenburg County Health Department.
