A Healthier Future for Anthony

Sometimes change begins with something small, like writing your name on a signup sheet. When Anthony first joined I Choose Wellness in third grade, he wasn’t really thinking about his health. He just wanted a fun place to hang out after school with friends.

What he didn’t realize was that five years later, he’d still be showing up but with new purpose and a whole new outlook on life.

His whole life, healthy food hasn’t always been easy to come by. Anthony and his sister are being raised by their single mom, who works long hours to keep a roof over their heads and make sure they’re safe and cared for. With little time or money to spare, quick and processed meals have often been the only option.

In I Choose Wellness, Anthony began to discover how food and activity affected his weight, energy, and confidence. He learned to pay attention to portion sizes, recognize the difference between real hunger and emotional eating, and keep moving even when exercise felt tough.

With encouragement from his counselor, he started setting small goals and making little changes like choosing more nutritious foods in the school cafeteria and participating more during PE.

Over time, Anthony’s perspective shifted. He felt so much better when he made healthier choices, and those wins motivated him to keep going. He participated in I Choose Wellness again in fifth grade, and once more in eighth, each time bringing a little more focus and maturity to his goals.

Now, as he prepares for high school, Anthony is stronger, more confident, and proud to be setting an example for his sister. He knows that small choices add up and that the decisions he makes today can shape a healthier, more hopeful tomorrow.

Anthony’s story is a reminder that when kids are given support, encouragement, and the right tools, they can build a healthier, happier future. For countless kids who haven’t yet had that chance, your gift can set change in motion… helping them learn, grow, and take charge of their health, one choice at a time.