Lakshmi’s Story

Thirty women and men are waiting for Iona’s free Farmer’s Market to open at our Active Wellness Program at St. Alban’s, which offers a nutritious lunch and diverse activities to older adults in the neighborhood and beyond. Leading their line with her reusable bags in tow is Lakshmi Hettihewa.

Lakshmi Hettihewa has been a huge fan of the Active Wellness Program at St. Alban’s since she first decided to check it out last summer. The timing, says Lakshmi, was meant to be. “Last year, my doctor ordered a glucose blood test, and she discovered that I’m on the borderline for high blood sugar. I was so panicky and upset. I needed to make some changes.”

For Lakshmi, that meant exercising more and paying closer attention to her diet. The Active Wellness Program at St. Alban’s was able to help with both.

“I love Dr. Eileen’s exercise program and the yoga. Then, I came to know the Farmer’s Market and my whole world opened up. I simply, simply love the program,” Lakshmi says.

A native of Sri Lanka, Lakshmi was accustomed to eating mostly rice with only a few vegetables or some protein. But after learning of her high blood sugar, she knew that she needed to eat more greens. The cost of this change, however, was worrying to Lakshmi. “Fresh produce, and high-quality especially, is expensive,” she explains. “I would not be eating this many vegetables if not for your market.”

In addition to getting access to fresh and local produce — for free — Lakshmi also praises the educational aspect of the Farmer’s Market and, in particular, Ashlea Steiner, Iona’s Food Access Coordinator.

“Ms. Steiner is inspiring,” Lakshmi says. “She’s introduced us to new produce and makes it interesting and exciting. I had never had kale before the market, and now I’m hooked!”

Now, after nearly a year participating in Iona’s Active Wellness Program at St. Alban’s, Lakshmi feels healthier and has even lost some weight. And her blood sugar? “After six months, it has declined,” says Lakshmi proudly. “You have expanded my world to include fruits and vegetables. Thank you to Iona and to Ms. Steiner for this positive experience.”