The Blog

Many people believe it’s too late to take control of their health, especially after facing mobility challenges. But for Shirley Baysinger, a 69-year-old retiree from Henrietta, Texas, a simple decision to try Healthier Texas’ free Health Coaching program changed everything. 

At first, Shirley was skeptical. 

“I thought I’d just do it once or twice,” she admitted. She wasn’t sure coaching could make a real difference in her life. But after her first session, something changed. 

Her health coach took time to listen, assess her needs, and develop a personalized plan—one that felt realistic and doable. Week by week, session by session, Shirley found herself on a path to transformation. 

From Cane to Confidence: Shirley’s Mobility Breakthrough 

When Shirley started coaching in November, daily life felt like an uphill battle. She relied on a walker and cane for nearly all movement, and even short walks left her exhausted. The idea of exercising, let alone regaining her mobility, seemed impossible. 

But her coaches, Natalie and Debbie, saw potential in her that she couldn’t yet see in herself. 

Instead of overwhelming her with drastic changes, they started small—setting tiny, achievable goals that built her confidence. 

As weeks passed, Shirley’s strength began to return. She could stand up more easily. She took more steps. And then came the breakthrough she never expected: 

Today, Shirley goes to water aerobics at the YMCA three times a week—without needing her walker. 

“They saved my life! I am so much better physically and mentally,” she says. 

These may seem like small victories, but for Shirley, each step forward represented a major milestone.

A New Relationship With Food & Health 

Shirley’s progress wasn’t just physical. 

For years, she had struggled with bouts of depression that lasted weeks or even months. Some days, getting out of bed felt like a challenge in itself. But with the constant encouragement and optimism from her health coaches, something shifted. 

She felt supported, motivated, and seen. Instead of feeling stuck, she started looking forward to each coaching session as a source of inspiration and accountability. 

With her coaches’ guidance, she also made key changes to her eating habits. 

She reduced her intake of sweets—not by forcing herself to, but because the healthier foods she was eating made her feel better. 

She felt more energized. More in control. More excited about her future. 

Why Health Coaching Works 

What made the difference for Shirley? 

• Personalized Support – Her coaches didn’t give her a generic plan. They worked with her, making sure each step felt right for her goals and abilities. 
• Encouragement & Accountability – Having someone to check in with each week kept her motivated, even on tough days. 
• A Flexible & Free Program – Shirley could attend coaching sessions from home, making it easy to stay committed. 
• Whole-Person Approach – It wasn’t just about exercise or food—coaching helped her mindfulness, confidence, and overall well-being. 

Shirley’s Message to You: “Do It Now!” 

If you’ve ever thought about trying health coaching but felt unsure, Shirley has one piece of advice: 

“Do it now, don’t wait! It won’t hurt you!” 

Her story is proof that it’s never too late to take control of your health. With the right support, anyone—at any stage of life—can achieve greater strength, independence, and a renewed sense of possibility. 

Get Free Health Coaching Today! 

Healthier Texas offers free one-on-one and group Health Coaching in English and Spanish to help you: 

• Set and achieve your health goals
• Build lasting healthy habits
• Manage chronic conditions with expert guidance
• Improve mindfulness and physical well-being 

If you’re ready to start your own success story, sign up for free coaching today! 

Final Thoughts 

Shirley’s transformation didn’t happen overnight. But with patience, guidance, and the right support, she went from relying on a walker to thriving in her daily life. 

Her journey is a powerful reminder that small steps lead to big changes. 

If you or someone you know could benefit from free virtual health coaching, don’t wait. Take the first step today.