Timothy Yette back on track thanks to HealthyOptions
Before enrolling in the program, Timothy Yette was weak, lacked energy and had a slew of health problems. He ate fast food and drank one gallon of soda every day; he knew he needed to do some things differently but didn’t take the first step until after a near-death experience behind the wheel.
In February 2020 Yette had a sharp pain while driving, luckily, he was able to stay conscious long enough to get off the main road. The sharp pain he felt was an aneurysm in his aorta. He was taken to the hospital for an emergency aortic dissection. His near-death experience was the catalyst Yette needed to start adopting healthier habits.
His first step to making changes was enrolling in the HealthyOptions disease and wellness management program for heart disease. He first learned about the program in a letter he received in the mail.
Quote from Timothy Yette
During our monthly calls, my nurse, Ruby, was very supportive and helpful. I honestly felt like she cared about my well-being.
"Ruby was very familiar with my limitations and helped me set goals, a few of them were to eat more healthfully and stop drinking caffeine because it does a number on my blood pressure. She usually sends me useful information following our calls; one of my favorites thus far has been the cookbook she sent, it is specifically geared to heart patients. My wife and I make quite a bit from the cookbook.
She also explained the importance of getting routine exercise – even for someone with heart disease. I started small, but now I walk or slow jog up to 2 ½ miles every day. Now my blood pressure is under control, I drink water or juice instead of soda, and eat low-fat and low-sodium foods. Thanks to Ruby, my wife and self-discipline, I’m in the best shape of my life.”
One of our nurses can help you
BCBSKS offers programs for asthma, diabetes, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), high blood pressure, high cholesterol, maternity, tobacco cessation, stress management and weight management. When you enroll in one of these programs, our registered nurses will provide one-on-one support, coaching and education to you as well!
To enroll, call 800-520-3137 or visit bcbsks.com/Enroll. These programs are available to members who have BCBSKS as the primary carrier.