Meet a Health Hero: Sue Weldon

» You can vote for Sue here September 27th through October 3rd. Mark your calendar! 

Name: Sue Weldon

Role: Founder and president of Unite for HER, a nonprofit organization that helps to bridge the gap between the medical and wellness communities for breast cancer patients. 

Who or what motivates you to be healthy?
My journey battling breast cancer has been a primary motivator. As I focused on surviving and restoring my health for my family, it helped me find the strength and determination I needed during tough times. I am continuing to learn new ways to improve my health and wellness, and sharing that information with other women facing the same diagnosis led me to create Unite for HER nonprofit organization. Now, I have the privilege of supporting and empowering hundreds of women annually battling breast cancer in the Philadelphia area by providing healing resources, programs and services. They are a precious motivator for me every day. Women who I am honored to serve, inspire and be a symbol of hope and empowerment to.

Describe a health or fitness-related turning point in your life.
I clearly remember the day I received my breast cancer diagnosis. It was a turning point in my life and caused me to evaluate my overall health and wellness. During my treatment and recovery, I felt empowered to seek out healing treatments such as yoga, acupuncture, massage therapy, and nutrition. Taking those steps helped me feel some control during a time when my body was at the mercy of cancer. Now, as a 12-year survivor, I better understand and appreciate how to care for my body, mind, and spirit. My personal mission is to pass on what I learned to the people I come in contact with through Unite for HER.

What policy would you institute to make Greater Philadelphia a healthier region?
I would love to see complementary therapies covered by insurance and used in partnership with western medicine so everyone could experience the healing benefits. Treatments such as acupuncture, massage therapy, Reiki, yoga, and improved nutrition provide patients with relief from medication side effects and symptoms, reduce anxiety and stress, provide comfort, and alleviate pain.

What’s the most important part of your health or fitness regimen?
Hands down, my food — real, whole food. “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.” It is where I found control each and every day as I navigated the “new normal” of being a cancer survivor, understanding the healing properties of food and how they restore the body and mind and allow it to thrive. Food not only nourishes, but it brings people together, creates joy, inspires and heals. My food is a “FARMacy” where I have discovered a wealth of knowledge, not only for me personally, but for the women we serve.

What is your number one piece of health-related advice or encouragement?
A healthy lifestyle is not once size fits all. We are all unique and what works for one person may not work for another. There is no right or wrong, but instead many opportunities for growth, learning, and empowerment along the way. Knowledge is power, whether it is discovering the importance of eating real foods, understanding the effects of toxins found in products we use, or identifying better ways to reduce stress and manage pain. Be gentle with yourself as you explore healthy upgrades you can implement easily, be willing to challenge yourself, and celebrate your successes along the way.

Like what you’re reading? Stay in touch with Be Well Philly—here’s how:

• Like Be Well Philly on Facebook
• Follow Be Well Philly on Twitter
• Follow Be Well Philly on Pinterest
• Get the Be Well Philly Newsletter