A Journey of Hard Work and Resilience with MyFitRx

Written by 5HF Wellness Center staff

This is Marty Overholser. At age 58, he was told by his physician that he needed to make a lifestyle change after a cardiac stent procedure. He successfully completed the hospital’s Cardiac rehabilitation program, but he wanted to continue his exercise program and needed a qualified personal trainer who would give him some guidance and supervision to help him reach his goals.

At the Chelsea Wellness Center, Marty inquired about the MyFitRx program. He got a physician referral and met with wellness center staff to begin his 8-week journey.

The comprehensive pre-assessment included several measurements to determine Marty’s current fitness capacity. “During the assessment, Brenda reviewed my medical history, and we discussed my priorities. Taking all this information into consideration, she created a personalized program for me that included cardiac fitness, strength training, flexibility and core strengthening.”

“It was a very positive experience, but I won’t lie – it was hard work,” reports Marty. “The detailed instructions made me feel very confident and more in control of my own health.” Marty shared that as the program progressed, he lost some weight, his energy level increased, and he felt better than he had in a long time.

“The trainers were great. They answered all my questions (and I had a lot!) and gave me the extra boost to keep going.”

MyFitRx was only the beginning for Marty. After the program, he joined the wellness center and his workouts are now at the top of his daily list. He keeps in regular touch with his personal trainer Tyler because they work together well to maintain his progress.”

At his annual physical, Marty’s physician was very happy with the positive results of his labs, weight loss and his overall health.

“I recommend MyFitRx to everyone who needs some guidance, inspiration, and encouragement for getting back on track. I now feel more optimistic about my health and know that I can maintain the positive changes I have made.”

Hope. The feeling that what is wanted can be achieved, and that events will turn out for the best. For the 39 residents and 11 families of Andy’s Place in Jackson, hope and optimism are the cornerstones of each journey of recovery.

Andy’s Place opened in 2021 and has been a model of care and recovery around the state. Residents are recommended through the Michigan Drug Court System and are referred to the supportive living community to continue their treatment and recovery from opioid addiction. As the first of several permanent supportive recovery housing projects planned in Michigan to address recovery holistically, Andy’s Place has proven that hope provides community, connections, and a sense of belonging.

Mike Hirst, the founder of Andy’s Angels Foundation, says that “You can’t succeed after incarceration, probation, and drug treatment by returning to an environment that triggered your addiction. Andy’s Place offers the structure that its members need to overcome the destructive odds of opiates.”

The building was quiet during our tour in February. Kids were at school, and many residents were at work. We heard a dog bark since small pets are encouraged in the apartments. One resident offered us a cookie as she passed in the hallway that she made to share with the front office.

The 50-unit campus offers onsite supportive services including case management, recreational and life skills programs, financial health and employment classes, sober and wellness activities, a garden, food and clothing pantry, and a fitness room. Local organizations who support recovery also have free satellite office space here. Residents can form their own support groups, host substance free events such as graduation and birthday parties, and holiday meals.