Veteran gains new purpose and drive through Whole Health journey at Salisbury VA

Like many people, she would begin each new year determined to lose weight and improve her health, only to lose momentum a few weeks later.

However, 2026 was different.

After routine lab work revealed concerns with her kidney health, Hill knew it was time to make lasting changes.

“I went on a really serious health journey,” she said. “My doctor recommended that I lose weight, and I stopped drinking. I started putting things in place that really initiated my journey.”

Hill, who served eight years on active-duty in the U.S. Air Force as a medical technician, began researching weight loss resources available at VA. That search led her to the Salisbury VA's Whole Health program, where she connected with Whole Health Nurse Coach and U.S. Army Veteran Monika Mills.

Rather than focusing solely on a particular diet or exercise regimen, Whole Health encouraged Hill to look at every aspect of her well-being.

“It wasn’t just looking at what I eat,” Hill recalled. “It was my thoughts, my spirituality, exercising, and really looking at my health from a holistic point of view. All of it is connected.”

Since beginning the program in January 2026, Hill has lost more than 20 pounds and has developed healthier habits that continue to keep her moving toward her weight goal.

She credits much of that success to having someone who held her accountable.

“That accountability helps keep me really focused. I travel for work, so sometimes it’s difficult. I kind of fell off with one of my trips, but after speaking with Monika, I got refocused. Just having that coach, constantly reminding me of my goals and where I want to be, has made all the difference.”

Before starting her Whole Health journey at VA, Hill’s regular exercise routine was almost nonexistent.

She had joined her local YMCA but rarely used the membership. That changed after one visit introduced her to pickleball.

“I dragged myself into the Y one day and found out they had pickleball,” Hill said with a laugh. “Once I found that, it really prompted me to start going more.”

Today, Hill works out three days a week, plays pickleball regularly, and has expanded her routine to include step classes, yoga and swimming. When work keeps her away from the gym, she makes sure to stay active by walking for about 40 minutes daily.

Her nutrition has changed just as dramatically.

Hill now focuses on lean proteins, fish, vegetables, oatmeal, yogurt, and protein shakes while significantly reducing her consumption of sweets, alcohol, beef, and pork.

Those lifestyle changes improved more than just her physical health.

“I definitely have fewer days where I’m struggling. Life is always going to happen, but now I know what helps me feel better. I know I’ll feel good if I go play pickleball or spend time with friends. Instead of letting one bad moment become the center of everything, I focus on what’s important.”

Hill’s family and friends have noticed the transformation as well.

“They’re always encouraging me. People tell me they can see the weight I’ve lost. Friends will randomly text me and say, ‘You’re doing so well. Keep up the good work.’ I’m happier, more positive and always talking about working out.”

For Mills, watching Veterans discover their own acumen to create lasting change through VA Whole Health is one of the most rewarding parts of her job.

“Being a Veteran myself and having the opportunity to advocate for Veterans really means the world to me,” Mills said. “Many Veterans come in not knowing where to start or not believing change is possible. Being able to give them hope and show them that they can do it is incredibly meaningful.”

As a Whole Health nurse coach, Mills helps Veterans identify what matters most to them and reminds them that they are in the driver’s seat of their own health journey at VA.

“With Ms. Hill, she initially focused on the things she felt she couldn’t do. By asking what mattered most to her, she was able to meet herself where she was and begin making changes one step at a time.”

Hill believes that mindset, combined with a renewed sense of accountability, is what finally helped her break a cycle she had battled with for years.

“I had never made it past my first 20 pounds. Now that I’ve reached that milestone, I know I can keep going. I feel more driven and more determined than ever.”

Although she acknowledges the journey isn’t always easy, Hill said the Whole Health program has given her the support and encouragement she needed to stay committed, even after previous setbacks.

“There were times I fell off, like around my birthday. But talking with Monika helped me get back focused. That’s what [Whole Health] does. It helps redirect you and keeps you moving forward.”

Hill encourages other Veterans who may be struggling to remember that meaningful change takes time and commitment.

“It’s a fight. You have to be determined to stay in the fight. Even if you only accomplish one thing that week, keep doing that one thing. Keep seeking. Keep fighting. Eventually, something will click, and something will motivate you.”

As she continues working toward her goal of reaching the 170-pound range, Hill remains excited about what lies ahead and grateful for the support she found through Whole Health at VA.

“I think these programs are so valuable for Veterans. They provide motivation, focus and accountability, but they also remind you that you’re not in this fight alone.”

For more information on this story or the Whole Health program, email the Office of Strategic Communications & Public Affairs at salisburyvapublicaffairs@va.gov.