Kelly’s story: motivation was the key to get moving

When Brisbane-based Kelly M reached a challenging point in life, she knew something had to change.

“I felt so run down, both physically and mentally. I knew the answer was to get on top of my health, but I needed something to motivate me,” says Kelly.

Five years ago, at the age of 32, Kelly was diagnosed with endometriosis. Endometriosis is a progressive, chronic condition that affects up to 1 in 9 women in Australia by the time they reach their 40s. The condition can cause pain, heavy or irregular periods and infertility.

“It took a long time to get a diagnosis because my symptoms had been masked by taking the pill.”

Kelly underwent two excision surgical procedures, and she battled misinformation about the condition. Some people think hysterectomy can cure endometriosis, but there isn’t a cure for endometriosis. The focus when treating endometriosis is to try and reduce the severity of the symptoms through pain relief, surgery, hormone-based medication and diet and exercise.

Kelly works for CBA in assurance engagement governance and, like most people, has worked largely from home during the pandemic. “I’ve been going into the office once a month, and I noticed my work clothes were getting tighter each time.”

The ‘accidental’ exercise Kelly had done in the past - getting to and from work every day, walking to lunch, walking around the office – had been replaced by hours spent sitting at her desk.

“The fridge and the kitchen pantry were far too easy to reach,” she adds.

Then two things happened: CBA Staff Deals ran an offer on Apple watches, and CBHS ran a Health Hub Spring into Summer challenge.

Kelly signed up to both. “I set goals on my watch to make me stand, move and exercise every day, and I relied on the Health Hub challenge to help me reach my goals.”

The third thing Kelly did was to create an inspirational ‘vision board’ above her computer. “I had post-it notes, affirming my values, why my health mattered, and how much better I knew I’d feel.”

Kelly used the calendar invites she was sent for the month-long challenge, and stuck to her guns when other meeting invites came in. “It was hard saying no at first, but it got easier. I was open about the challenge, and I always suggested alternative meeting times.”

The daily Health Hub sessions on nutrition, health and exercise made Kelly feel she was part of a supportive community. “The presenters were excellent, and so encouraging.”

They were also open to feedback. “I mentioned it would be good to have alternative movements for people less flexible, and the following week every class had those options.”

At the end of the month-long challenge, Kelly’s physical and mental health had noticeably improved. “I feel so much better, and I’m grateful to all of the presenters for their input and encouragement.”

The Health Hub Wellness Consultants stressed that their Spring into Summer challenge wasn’t about numbers on a set of scales, it was about overall health and wellness.

“But I’m analytical, I love numbers!” Kelly laughs, before admitting that she measured herself before and after the challenge. And the result? “I lost a total of 30 centimetres.”

The greater benefits were the improvements in Kelly’s health and her sense of achievement. “I’m proud of myself for sticking to my goals, and I’m now committed to doing everything I can to stay physically and mentally well.”

If you think you might be impacted by endometriosis, see your GP for further investigation. Endometriosis is a common health condition, and treatment and support are available.

See what’s on this month at the Health Hubs or book a one-on-one consultation.

All information contained in this article is intended for general information purposes only. The information provided should not be relied upon as medical advice and does not supersede or replace a consultation with a suitably qualified healthcare professional.