AIRnyc Patient Story

Tyrone is a 72-year-old Queens resident and a patient at a Sun River Health clinic. He is currently diagnosed with hypertension, type 2 diabetes, and other comorbidities. When Tyrone joined the AIRnyc health coaching program in April 2023, he worked with Jennifer Arcila, an AIRnyc community health worker, for three months to achieve better self-management of his chronic conditions.

"Since I retired, I have been procrastinating. I say I will do something, and I don't do it. AIRnyc’s health coaching program has helped me to focus on my health and get the things I need done," Tyrone said. He credits the program for helping him to keep up with his appointments and medication and to be more engaged in his care.

Arcila made sure Tyrone had all his prescriptions, called before and after his doctors’ visits, and inspired him to get his blood pressure and blood sugar checked regularly. She also assisted Tyron with transportation needs and advised him on dietary tips and how to make better food choices. “He was committed to changing his diet and was very motivated to learn more about nutrition and how to take charge with his health,” Arcila explained. During follow-up calls, Tyrone proudly shared his progress. “He would tell me about trying new recipes and explained the thorough research he did to learn more about the ingredients and nutrients,” she said.

Tyrone expressed gratitude for Arcila’s help, care, and guidance. “I appreciate that Jennifer gave me a little push to start making some changes I wanted to make a long time ago, but did not know where to start,” Tyrone explained. He now eats more vegetables than before and opts for better carbohydrates. Tyrone also reduced his dairy intake and now eats whole fruit instead of drinking sugary juices. Changes in Tyrone’s diet have also helped him to lose weight and get his diabetes and blood pressure under control.

"Healthy food is essential because it keeps you from being sick,” Tyrone pointed out, adding, “We will all go down one day, but good food can make you live better and longer until that day arrives."

He recommends AIRnyc’s health coaching program to other New Yorkers and emphasizes that the services provided by AIRnyc are helpful and convenient. “This kind of program is very important because there are many people who may be procrastinating with their health needs, or who are experiencing issues related to chronic illness, depression, and other health challenges,” Tyrone pointed out. He hopes AIRnyc’s program continues for a long time and that it helps to reach many more people in the future. “One thoughtful call to check on a patient can make a big difference in our lives,” Tyrone said.