Healthy Teaching Kitchen Helps Veteran Tackle Diabetes, Improve Health
Orlando, Fla. — After being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in January 2024, U.S. Air Force Veteran George Lopez knew he had to make serious changes to his lifestyle.
That’s when his VA primary care team introduced him to the Healthy Teaching Kitchen (HTK) at the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS).
“Cooking has always been a passion of mine,” shared Lopez, who served from 1984 to 1990.
Lopez went on to say, “However, I realized that my diet was negatively impacting my health. I needed guidance toward a healthier way of eating.”
Through the HTK program, Veterans like Lopez learn how to prepare nutritious, affordable meals with hands-on instruction and easy-to-follow recipes. Lopez says the experience has been transformative—not just physically, but emotionally.
“When I began the class, my blood sugar was over 400,” Lopez said.
“It didn’t take long to lower that number to 130," Lopez continued. "Most people don’t consider the stress that comes with poor health, and these classes really help reduce that.”
Led by Registered Dietitian’s Madison Ranew and Melinda Rudisill, the program provides practical skills and support for Veterans managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
“There could not be better instructors,” Lopez said.
“They’re knowledgeable and supportive,” Lopez added, “and they show you healthier alternatives that are simple and effective.”
Ranew said Lopez’s success is a testament to what the program is all about.
According to Ranew, Mr. Lopez embraced the education and made meaningful changes
“We’re proud to support Veterans like Mr. Lopez on their journey to better health,” stated Ranew.
Rudisill echoed that sentiment, adding, “It’s incredibly rewarding to see Veterans like Mr. Lopez take what they’ve learned and apply it in their daily lives. We’re not just teaching recipes—we’re helping them reclaim control of their health in a way that’s sustainable.”
One of the biggest takeaways for Lopez has been learning how to modify his favorite dishes using healthier ingredients.
“There are so many ways to enjoy the foods you love with just a few simple changes,” Lopez said. “Once you have the knowledge, it becomes easy.”
As the full-time caregiver for his 91-year-old father and living 45 minutes from the VA, Lopez said the virtual class option has been essential.
“I don’t have time to attend in-person classes,” said Lopez. “The online sessions allow me to stay engaged and still take care of my dad.”
Beyond nutrition, Lopez values the connection with fellow Veterans in the program.
“As we age, isolation sets in,” Lopez said. “Meeting other Veterans brings back that sense of camaraderie from our service days.”
Lopez encourages every Veteran to give HTK a try.
“Attend just one class, It feels more like a group of friends sharing good times—and healthy recipes that can change your life,” Lopez shared.
Lopez believes strongly in the program’s value and hopes it continues to grow.
Lopez emphasizes, “This class is very important at the VA, It provides real tools to improve your health, reduce stress, and promote longevity.”
For Lopez, HTK didn’t just help him manage his diabetes—it gave him a new outlook on life.
If you are interested in participating in the Healthy Teaching Kitchen program, talk with your PACT team dietitian.
Media representatives interested in attending and hosting media engagements are encouraged to contact the Office of Public Affairs by emailing vhaorlpublicaffairs@va.go or by calling 407-840-6967.
For more information please visit: VA Orlando Health Care | Veterans Affairs, subscribe to receive email updates by clicking here, like us on Facebook at: @OVAHCS, follow us on Instagram at: @OVAHCS or on Twitter at: @OVAHCS.
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Established in October 2006, the Orlando VA Healthcare System (VAHCS) was designated a 1a facility (most complex) in 2021, with more than 5,660 employees and an annual budget of $1.5B and serves more than 131,000 Veterans in Central Florida. The Orlando VA Medical Center at Lake Nona provides outpatient, inpatient and emergency services. Lake Nona’s 65-acre medical campus encompasses 134 acute inpatient beds, providing complex Medical/Surgical/Mental Health specialty care, advanced diagnostic services, and a large multispecialty outpatient clinic as well as a 120-bed Community Living Center, two Mental Health Residential Rehabilitation Treatment Programs/Domiciliaries (60-beds located at the Lake Nona Campus and 58-beds at the Lake Baldwin Campus). Outpatient services are provided at a Health Care Center in Viera, a Multispecialty Community Based Outpatient Clinic in Daytona Beach, and five Community-Based Outpatient Clinics located in Clermont, Kissimmee, Deltona, Palm Bay and Tavares.