At Wider Circle, we know connection transforms lives – especially during health challenges.
This National Immunization Awareness Month, meet Jorge: an 83-year-old community leader who turned health setbacks into powerful lessons for his entire community.
After recovering from preventable shingles, Jorge became a passionate advocate for vaccines and a top walker in Wider Circle Walks. When plantar fasciitis slowed Jorge down and forced him to step back from the walks, fellow members helped him get back on his feet – taking Jorge to the YMCA and cheering on his comeback.
His story reminds us that prevention and community support can keep us moving forward, no matter the setback.
Jorge S.
From Setback to Strength:
How Community Helped Jorge Stay Active
After health setbacks, Jorge feared slowing down and until his Wider Circle community kept him moving
At 83, Jorge has always sought ways to stay active and build local communities, from his early days in Peru to his current home in San Mateo, CA. When Wider Circle launched in his neighborhood, Jorge saw a new opportunity: a chance to help build and lead a community that lifts each other up
Jorge quickly became a driving force in the Wider Circle community, leading events, driving members to activities, and mentoring new ambassadors. “He truly embodies what it means to be an ambassador and heart of the community,” said his Wider Circle Area Manager Jessamyn Ochoa.
But about a year ago, Jorge faced an unexpected setback. He came down with shingles – a painful illness he might have prevented had he received his vaccine. The complications kept him sidelined for weeks. During that time, his Wider Circle community checked in on him regularly, reminding him he wasn’t alone. As he was recovering, he checked in with his Area Manager, Jessamyn Ochoa, “Tell the group,” Jorge told Jessamyn “Maybe if I had gotten my shot, I wouldn’t have gotten sick.”
When Jorge recovered, he made a powerful decision: he got up to date on all his vaccines. He became a vocal advocate, encouraging other members to do the same, and several were so inspired that they went out and got their shingles shots too. “He really motivates other members.” Jessamyn said, “He is just so inspiring to me.”
This year, Jorge also became one of the most active participants in Wider Circle Walks. He logged steps with his Wider Circle community and joined every walk, and encouraged others to lace up and join him. His enthusiasm made him one of the top walkers in his community.
However, plantar fasciitis slowed Jorge down and prevented him from participating in the walks, leaving him worried he wouldn’t be able to stay active.
With encouragement from fellow Wider Circle member Jorge Rivas, they went to the YMCA together through HPSM’s free benefit, where Rivas taught Jorge how to use the machines. Jorge was so inspired that he made a video of them working out and shared it with other members to inspire them.
Today, Jorge continues to cheer for his Wider Circle community “I can only congratulate my Wider Circle friends who continue. Let’s keep working hard and I hope to be back soon!” Jorge told his group.
Jorge says he is a true believer in the power of his Wider Circle community. Participating in the group, he believes, makes it possible to “achieve the joy of living and longevity.”
Thank you, Jorge, for showing us how prevention, resilience, and community can transform lives. Your story is a reminder that even in the face of setbacks, support and connection can help us keep moving forward.
And thank you to our sponsors, whose support makes it possible to share life-changing stories like Jorge’s every day.
About the author: Jamie Zale
Wider Circle
