More than a program: MOVE! community is changing Veterans’ lives

A supportive group helping Veterans stay engaged and motivated

At the Orlando VA Healthcare System, the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans (MOVE!) has become more than a health initiative, it’s a community of Veterans whose weight management journeys have changed lives in extraordinary ways. 

MOVE! Program Coordinator Kristin Van Workum has witnessed that transformation firsthand, supporting the MOVE! Alumni Maintenance Group at the Viera, Florida, Community-Based Outpatient Clinic (CBOC)

This diverse and spirited group brings together Veterans ranging from those who first participated in MOVE! many years ago to others who started more recently. No matter when the Veterans embark on their journeys, they all continue to show up, month after month, ready to support and inspire one another. Through sharing experiences, tackling challenges and celebrating victories of any size, they have built a supportive family devoted to maintaining a healthy weight, good health and happiness.

Community and convenience

The comments shared by the Veterans in this Maintenance Group speak for themselves.

Veterans participate in person or through VA Video Connect, depending on their individual preference and needs.

“It has been a great experience for me as I have lost an additional 20 pounds and kept my A1C low,” said Veteran Margaret Evans.

The sense of community and accountability has made all the difference in maintaining motivation and success.

“I like MOVE! because it keeps me moving. I gained accountability partners and the knowledge of nutrition has changed my quality of life,” said another Veteran.

Collaboration and teamwork

Highlighting the comprehensive lifestyle intervention, Veterans share that the combination of movement and making healthy food choices has transformed the way they think about healthy living.

“MOVE! taught me to look at the labels of food and to keep track of sodium and sugar in food which caused my A1C to improve a great deal,” one Veteran said.

Using the MOVE! maintenance materials and including perspectives from mental health, adaptive sports and more, Veterans are encouraged to stay engaged in their choice of physical activity to support their weight and health goals.

“MOVE! motivated me to exercise daily,” said Veteran Dave Riley. “My blood pressure numbers have improved significantly, and I am much more conscious of how and what I eat.”

Keeping active is a staple of the MOVE! approach, and many have found new joy and purpose in movement. Another Veteran discovered a variety of movement options, sharing, “I have been walking, swimming, exercising my pets and kayaking. MOVE! has helped me feel better, look better and lose weight.”

Motivation and milestones

Several other group members noted the results of their efforts and impressive milestones achieved.

“The MOVE! program has helped me to lose 17% of my starting body weight and be more mindful about what I eat,” said one. A second, Alex Moreno, shared that “Two years ago, my A1C was at 6.0, and now it’s down to normal at 5.4.”

These Veterans are grateful that even when the process isn’t easy, the greatest victories have been learning and sustaining new, healthy habits. “MOVE! has made me aware of my eating habits and educated me to work on healthier ones. Working on portion sizes is not easy, but it helps,” one Veteran said.

Empowering tools and guidance

The tools and support of MOVE! empower Veterans to manage their health for the long term, with meaningful improvements seen in weight, lab results and overall well-being.

“I joined MOVE! and it has been a blessing. The tools and tips from the program helped me to lose 35 pounds in six months,” said Veteran Chip Hanson.

“The dietitian at VA keeps me up to date on what food is good for me,” added Veteran Doug Douget.

The experience of Veterans in the Viera group shows that lasting change starts with small steps, and with the right support, every journey is possible. The MOVE! Program helps Veterans improve their health, build lifelong habits and find a community that supports them every step of the way.