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Orlando, Fla. — After being diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes in January 2024, U.S. Air Force Veteran George Lopez knew he had to make serious changes to his lifestyle. That’s when his VA
primary care team introduced him to the Healthy Teaching Kitchen (HTK) at the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS). “Cooking has always been a passion of mine,” shared Lopez, who served
from 1984 to 1990. Lopez went on to say, “However, I realized that my diet was negatively impacting my health. I needed guidance toward a healthier way of eating.” Through the HTK program,
Veterans like Lopez learn how to prepare nutritious, affordable meals with hands-on instruction and easy-to-follow recipes. Lopez says the experience has been transformative—not just
physically, but emotionally. “When I began the class, my blood sugar was over 400,” Lopez said. “It didn’t take long to lower that number to 130," Lopez continued. "Most people
don’t consider the stress that comes with poor health, and these classes really help reduce that.” Led by Registered Dietitian’s Madison Ranew and Melinda Rudisill, the program provides
practical skills and support for Veterans managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease. “There could not be better instructors,” Lopez said. “They’re knowledgeable and
supportive,” Lopez added, “and they show you healthier alternatives that are simple and effective.” Ranew said Lopez’s success is a testament to what the program is all about. According to
Ranew, Mr. Lopez embraced the education and made meaningful changes “We’re proud to support Veterans like Mr. Lopez on their journey to better health,” stated Ranew. Rudisill echoed that
sentiment, adding, “It’s incredibly rewarding to see Veterans like Mr. Lopez take what they’ve learned and apply it in their daily lives. We’re not just teaching recipes—we’re helping them
reclaim control of their health in a way that’s sustainable.” One of the biggest takeaways for Lopez has been learning how to modify his favorite dishes using healthier ingredients. “There
are so many ways to enjoy the foods you love with just a few simple changes,” Lopez said. “Once you have the knowledge, it becomes easy.” As the full-time caregiver for his 91-year-old
father and living 45 minutes from the VA, Lopez said the virtual class option has been essential. “I don’t have time to attend in-person classes,” said Lopez. “The online sessions allow me
to stay engaged and still take care of my dad.” Beyond nutrition, Lopez values the connection with fellow Veterans in the program. “As we age, isolation sets in,” Lopez said. “Meeting other
Veterans brings back that sense of camaraderie from our service days.” Lopez encourages every Veteran to give HTK a try. “Attend just one class, It feels more like a group of friends sharing
good times—and healthy recipes that can change your life,” Lopez shared. Lopez believes strongly in the program’s value and hopes it continues to grow. Lopez emphasizes, “This class is
very important at the VA, It provides real tools to improve your health, reduce stress, and promote longevity.” For Lopez, HTK didn’t just help him manage his diabetes—it gave him a new
outlook on life. If you are interested in participating in the Healthy Teaching Kitchen program, talk with your PACT team dietitian. Media representatives interested in attending and hosting
media engagements are encouraged to contact the Office of Public Affairs by emailing [email protected] or by calling 407-840-6967. For more information please visit: VA Orlando
Health Care | Veterans Affairs, subscribe to receive email updates by clicking here, like us on Facebook at: @OVAHCS, follow us on Instagram at: @OVAHCS or on Twitter at: @OVAHCS.
### ESTABLISHED IN OCTOBER 2006, THE ORLANDO VA HEALTHCARE SYSTEM (VAHCS) WAS
DESIGNATED A 1A FACILITY (MOST COMPLEX) IN 2021, WITH MORE THAN 5,660 EMPLOYEES AND AN ANNUAL BUDGET OF $1.5B AND SERVES MORE THAN 131,000 VETERANS IN CENTRAL FLORIDA. THE ORLANDO VA MEDICAL
CENTER AT LAKE NONA PROVIDES OUTPATIENT, INPATIENT AND EMERGENCY SERVICES. LAKE NONA’S 65-ACRE MEDICAL CAMPUS ENCOMPASSES 134 ACUTE INPATIENT BEDS, PROVIDING COMPLEX MEDICAL/SURGICAL/MENTAL
HEALTH SPECIALTY CARE, ADVANCED DIAGNOSTIC SERVICES, AND A LARGE MULTISPECIALTY OUTPATIENT CLINIC AS WELL AS A 120-BED COMMUNITY LIVING CENTER, TWO MENTAL HEALTH RESIDENTIAL REHABILITATION
TREATMENT PROGRAMS/DOMICILIARIES (60-BEDS LOCATED AT THE LAKE NONA CAMPUS AND 58-BEDS AT THE LAKE BALDWIN CAMPUS). OUTPATIENT SERVICES ARE PROVIDED AT A HEALTH CARE CENTER IN VIERA, A
MULTISPECIALTY COMMUNITY BASED OUTPATIENT CLINIC IN DAYTONA BEACH, AND FIVE COMMUNITY-BASED OUTPATIENT CLINICS LOCATED IN CLERMONT, KISSIMMEE, DELTONA, PALM BAY AND TAVARES.