Taking Charge Of His Health

“Your life will become better by making other lives better.” While many of us may believe in that sentiment, Carlos is living proof that those who help others often end up helping themselves in the process.

For more than 25 years Carlos has managed the food pantry at Father English Community Center in Paterson. As a leader, he’s been instrumental in encouraging pantry clients to participate in our Healthy Tomorrows Community Outreach program which offers free medical screenings and education. In order to lead the way Carlos offered to be one of the first to get screened. And that’s when he learned his dangerously high blood pressure meant he needed to make some important changes to take charge of his own health.

The reality is that Carlos is not alone. 1 in 3 adults in New Jersey has dangerously high blood pressure – a leading cause of heart attacks, heart failure, stroke and kidney failure. There are many steps people can take to manage high blood pressure if you know you have it. High blood pressure usually has no symptoms – that’s why it’s called “THE SILENT KILLER.”

Just one year later Carlos has learned how to maintain a healthier lifestyle and has significantly lowered his blood pressure. He’s lost nearly 50 pounds, has more energy and continues to inspire others to participate in this life-changing program to make their lives better.

Often people like Carlos do not know they have high blood pressure until they are told by their healthcare professional. And sadly, many of the clients we work with at food pantries in northern New Jersey often must choose between spending money on healthcare or food. This is why we go out into our community to provide free medical screenings – so that our neighbors in need don’t have to make that difficult choice.