Tamera Manzanares
Community Outreach Specialist
Northwest Colorado Visiting Nurse Association

There is no shortage of debate about healthcare in the U.S., but one thing is for certain, taking a more active role in our own health can help many of us live healthier and avoid excessive medical costs. This often is easier said than done, especially for people who have, or are at risk for developing, a chronic condition or persistent health problem such as high-blood pressure, arthritis, diabetes, high cholesterol, obesity, multiple schlerosis, Parkinson’s disease, depression and COPD. Regardless of what prompts a condition, there are things a person can do to improve symptoms, slow the progression of a disease and develop more confidence to live better. Healthier Living Colorado is a chronic disease self-management workshop that offers practical tips about nutrition, exercise and coping with stress, pain and fatigue. Most importantly, the program provides participants realistic strategies for implementing these tools into their lives. Healthier Living Colorado is for anyone who is overwhelmed by seemingly unattainable weight-loss, exercise or health goals, frustrated by symptoms that keep them from enjoying activities with family and friends and tired of feeling powerless in their own health. Low cost (nonprofit) workshops will be held in the evenings in Steamboat Springs and Craig beginning the week of Oct. 3. To learn more, call 871-7676.