Eva Balint, MD: Success Story
I got to HIP because I had lots of STAP funds left, and could not use them for the purpose I was saving them for, and had to spend them quickly. So I signed up for wellness coaching, a luxury item that I was considering for some time, but never pursued. One of my main goals has been to add more activity to my lifestyle, and explore how to overcome lack of time and other constraints. As one of my coaching goals, I wanted to look into biking to work, but didn't know how to get started. I have biked to work before, but I encountered new barriers: some days I work late, and I have to wear a more formal attire.
I decided to take HIP's recent bicycle class, and it was great! I learned how to keep myself safe (to see and be seen), what to pay attention to when riding during wet weather conditions, and tips on how to keep my bike safe. The workshop was such a great source of information and tips, and removed many barriers and enabled me to better prepare for riding. The positive, encouraging environment raised my confidence in riding my bike again. I also learned that not even the pros necessarily ride in inclement weather, and learned from the coaching that I don't have to ride all the time, which really lowered my barrier to entering the riding community.
After the workshop I started riding again, and I find that I look at the road differently, and this made my ride safer. I hope to ride to work on a regular basis, something I really didn't think I was able to do. I am very excited about all the positive changes I was able to make towards a healthier, more active lifestyle. I am very thankful to Jane for her guidance, encouragement and practical insights in coaching, and to various members of the Stanford University community for their support of the HIP program, coaching and the workshops, and for allowing me to use STAP funds to take advantage of these opportunities.
Eva Balint, MD
Instructor of Medicine
Division of Endocrinology
