Each year, countless individuals set health goals, only to abandon them shortly after the New Year. This trend is so prevalent that the second Friday of January is often referred to as ‘Quitter’s Day.’ Yet, amidst this statistic, there are those who not only pursue their resolutions but also triumph over significant challenges. In 2025, six members of the Start TODAY community shared their remarkable stories of resilience, showcasing how realistic plans and small daily habits can lead to transformative health achievements.
Melissa Archer: Celebrating Non-Scale Victories
Achieving her 100th non-scale victory (NSV) was a major milestone for Melissa Archer, who began her health journey on July 1, 2022. Frustrated with feeling unhealthy and unable to keep up with her children in Buffalo, New York, she committed to daily walks, starting with just a half mile. “I was done not smiling like I used to,” Archer reflected.
She focused on NSVs—small victories that emphasized health over weight. Initially, she aimed for ten NSVs, which included drinking water instead of soda and gradually increasing her walking distance. Over time, her list expanded to remarkable achievements, such as hiking while camping and using heavier weights. “My list grew by leaps and bounds because it wasn’t about the numbers; it was about being proud of my progress,” she said. In 2026, her goal is to walk two miles in under 30 minutes, demonstrating her commitment to health over mere numbers.
Jean Marmo: A Journey Back to Fitness
At 72 years old, Jean Marmo faced significant challenges after hip pain limited her beloved daily walks in Arizona. By April 2025, she was unable to walk a mile without assistance. Following hip replacement surgery in October, she eagerly anticipated returning to her routine.
Within two weeks of her surgery, Marmo was walking a mile unassisted. “Every week I added a bit more,” she commented, noting that by the seventh week, she was back to walking three miles. Her determination is evident as she prepares for a 5k race in January, a goal she is excited to achieve with greater ease.
Jenny L. Harrell Catron: Two Hours of Daily Walking
In Fredericksburg, Virginia, Jenny L. Harrell Catron committed to walking for two hours daily, a goal she set long before January. She adeptly navigated weather-related obstacles by joining a gym, ensuring her progress was not hindered. “I’ve stayed with the same two hours every day since January first,” she stated, having lost 74 pounds and even incorporating running into her routine.
Catron’s success is not limited to physical achievements; she also adopted healthier lifestyle practices, establishing a bedtime routine and attending church regularly.
Heather Harne: Overcoming Blindness Through Movement
Despite significant physical challenges, Heather Harne, aged 52, exemplifies resilience. After losing her vision due to cancer and undergoing back surgery, she initially struggled to find ways to stay active.
Harne began by standing for one minute each hour and gradually progressed to walking in her local park. She now practices yoga daily and remains committed to her health journey. “Everyone has something, and we can all build strength and get movement in throughout the day,” she emphasized.
Trisha Stringer: Finding Strength in Grief
The loss of her 24-year-old son Dakota in June 2024 profoundly affected Trisha Stringer. Faced with an overwhelming choice between succumbing to grief or moving forward, she chose the latter. Stringer re-engaged in her walking routine and sought support through fitness classes.
By October 2025, she had lost weight and found solace in a community that helped her during her darkest days. “It was hard, but the group classes helped me get social activities on my darkest days,” she recalled. Stringer is also advocating for safety regulations in her son’s memory, working towards ‘Dakota’s Law’ to prevent future tragedies.
Sue Englander: Resilience After Spine Surgery
After undergoing spine surgery in November 2025, Sue Englander faced significant hurdles. At 70 years old, she had already transformed her life through consistent walking and healthier nutrition, leading to a weight loss of 40 pounds.
Post-surgery, Englander approached her recovery with determination. “Every step is forward,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of respecting her body. Her journey reflects a broader understanding that health is not about perfection but participation, showing that it is never too late to prioritize one’s wellbeing.
These stories from the Start TODAY community serve as a reminder that setbacks can lead to powerful comebacks. By sharing their journeys, these individuals hope to inspire others to take small steps toward achieving their own health goals.
