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Two Women Changed Their Lives by Walking, Walking, Walking!

Two Tucson Indian Center women walkers.

Two Tucson Indian Center women walkers.

Native people living in and near Tucson, Arizona, are finding a way to become fit, or keep their fitness regimens going strong. Once a week they can join a walking group held at the Tucson Indian Center in downtown Tucson.

Both Isabella Enriquez, Tohono O'odham Nation, and Erolinda Ramon, Tohono O'odham Nation, started regular walking about two years ago. Isabella was in the Center's Lifestyle Balance class when she joined the walking group. For a while she was the only client in the group. She walked the over 2-mile course with the Diabetes Prevention Program Coordinator, Arcenio Trujillo.

"She would show up even when it was freezing cold!" recalls Arcenio.

Erolinda started walking when she was in the SDPI Healthy Heart Program at the San Xavier Health Clinic. She has diabetes, and, at that time, had severe pain in her feet. "I've had a hard time controlling my diabetes. But the walking helps me," she says.

Tucson Indian Center staff and clients.

Tucson Indian Center staff and clients.

Erolinda has lost weight, no longer needs insulin shots, and eats more fruits and vegetables and fewer sweets. "My blood sugar has come down and I've been feeling real good," she says.

Isabella walks up to seven miles a day. She has become stronger and improved her balance. She has lost weight, and eats more fruits and vegetables and less high-fat food. She cut back on soda and drinks more water.

These lifestyle changes have helped Isabella feel better. "At one time, I couldn't even move. But now I don't feel pain so much. I don't feel depressed. I don't have diabetes. I'm 67, and feel like I'm getting younger!"

Every week Isabella and Erolinda join the Center's walking group, which has grown from one participant to about 20. The two women have made regular walking a part of their lives.