Angela Stockdale smiling in a close-up portrait, wearing pink lipstick and a nose ring, with blue-highlighted dark hair

Getting back on track after a health setback isn't easy—especially when stress, weight gain, and old habits stack up at once. Angela's story shows what's possible when whole-person care meets a provider who truly listens. From quitting smoking to losing over 20 pounds, her experience reflects the kind of lasting change that comes from addressing all aspects of health—not just the obvious ones. If you've ever wondered whether primary care can do more than treat symptoms, this story answers that question.

PATIENT STORY

When real support changes everything

During the COVID-19 pandemic, I started smoking again and gained a lot of weight. I was tired all the time, none of my clothes fit anymore, and I just didn’t feel good about myself.

I made an appointment with Family Nurse Practitioner Sally Anderson at the HealthQuest Health Center, my Marathon Health benefit offered by the State of Kansas. Sally was the key to my success! She listened to me and understood my goals.

Sally helped me devise a schedule and plan that took into account my strengths, weaknesses, and what had worked for me in the past. Sally treated me as a whole person, not just my health issue. She went above and beyond to make sure all aspects of my life and stress were addressed so I could be successful.

I quit smoking. I also started eating better and exercising again. I’ve lost over 20 pounds and I feel amazing. I have more energy, I feel good about myself, and my clothes fit again! This success has definitely helped me be more positive every day.

Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The COVID-19 pandemic was a time of unprecedented stress for everyone, especially working moms. It was easy to let my healthy habits fall by the wayside. I needed help to get back on the right track, and Sally made that easy for me. She provided support for all aspects of my life and stuck with me through the entire process.

If you’re ready to make a change, I highly recommend reaching out to Marathon Health. — Member Angela Stockdale

She went above and beyond to make sure all aspects of my life and stress were addressed so I could be successful.