Zoey McKenzie, 14 years old, lost 135 pounds after she decided to change her lifestyle.
Zoey’s mom passed away when Zoey was 12 from weight related complications. Zoey then moved in with her Aunt Debbie who is a nurse and knows all about how obesity can kill people. She could see that Zoey was going down that path so she decided to help. Debbie portions everything they eat and she taught Zoey healthy habits.
Then, Zoey joined the Healthy Us program offered at the YMCA. It is an 8 week program focused on youth ages 6-16 who has been diagnosed as obese or overweight. The group of kids can talk to each other and relate because they are all going through the same struggles.
Amy Sorg helps Zoey at the YMCA and motivates her. Zoey was diagnosed with diabetes at 7 years old and finally has it under control. Debbie is so proud of Zoey and the accomplishments that she has made so far.
Zoey offers the advice to never give up and find your inspiration to keep going.
Through grants, the Healthy Us program is free to participants. To learn more about the program, contact Amy Sorg, Wellness Coordinator at Richard A. Henson YMCA in Salisbury at 410-749-0101.
