H.E.L.P. is here to help people stay healthy Published Sept. 21, 2009 By Master Sgt. Bill Gomez 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs SPANGDAHLEM AIR BASE, Germany -- Volunteers from the Spangdahlem community with knowledge in various health-related topics have started a Healthy Eating Lifestyle Program support group to teach people to eat better, live better and become healthier. The group meets Wednesdays from 4:45 to 5:45 p.m. at the Spangdahlem Chapel. The support group offers fitness demonstrations with certified instructors, weight management discussions to help achieve a healthy weight goal, lessons in proper cardio exercise techniques and guest speakers who discuss health improvement topics. Linsha Wingate, a former Health and Wellness Center volunteer, noticed that people referred to the HAWC to complete a health program did not have anywhere to follow up or continue once their program goals were achieved. "Good support is the key to a successful long-term program. As a volunteer I had nowhere to send people after they completed a health program which gave me the idea to start a support group," Mrs. Wingate said. "We started the group in August and are helping individuals with health issues such as obesity and diabetes to adapt to a healthier lifestyle through healthy eating and exercise." "Mrs. Wingate is very caring and keeps me on track. She is straightforward, and since attending the meetings in August I have lost 14 pounds just by getting real, useful information and sharing sound health tips with others in our group" shared Lori Schichler, a program attendee. Master Sgt. Joseph Santiago was the guest speaker during the Sept. 16 meeting. He spoke to a group of twelve about adding variety to their exercise routine to stimulate different muscle groups. H.E.L.P. is open to servicemembers, family members, civilians and foreign nationals in any age group, and it is free. For more information, call Mrs. Wingate at 452-8138.