Success Stories: Kathleen Dussault
Department of Public Service
ADA Design Manager
.png "Kathleen Dussault")
Kathleen serves as a wellness ambassador with the
wellness program. As an ambassador, Kathleen encourages fellow employees to take
advantage of the program’s many opportunities, including fitness programs,
sports leagues and health fairs. She has improved her health and potentially added
years to her life with the help of the city’s Healthy Columbus Employee
Wellness program. Kathleen has faced challenges managing her health and
weight since she was a child. For years, she tried countless support programs
and diets, but none offered long-term success.
When Kathleen joined the department in 2007,
she signed up for an employee yoga class. Not long after that she started
integrating some of the healthy eating ideas provided by the city to reframe
her eating habits. She continues her lunchtime yoga classes, two classes a
week, one that focuses on building strength, and another one that promotes
relaxation and peace. The classes are offered near her workplace at 77 N. Front
Street and at the Division of Police headquarters.
Today, for the first time in many years,
Kathleen is more than 100 pounds below her top weight. Her health numbers,
including her cholesterol level and blood pressure are in a stable and healthy
range.
The credit for her health transformation lies
with Kathleen, but tools and inspiration from the city’s employee wellness
program encouraged and empowered her on her journey. Kathleen reports that her
healthier lifestyle and stress management skills have improved her productivity
on the job.