Sometimes the biggest changes in health happen quietly—one conversation, one class, one connection at a time. At Wider Circle, we see those changes every day. That’s why we share stories like this: to remind ourselves of the power of showing up for one another.
In this edition of Stories from the Circle, you’ll meet Berni – someone whose health and outlook transformed through the power of connection.
With meaningful friendships and steady support, she found renewed independence, fewer medical visits, and a renewed sense of joy.
Check out Berni’s story on Youtube as well to learn more about Berni’s inspiring transformation and discover the true power of community support.
We hope her journey inspires you and highlights the incredible difference connection and care can make.
Berni P.
From Emergency Visits to Empowered Living Through Community
Facing repeated health crises, Berni found relief and renewal, thanks to the support, movement, and friendship she discovered through Wider Circle.
Before joining Wider Circle, Berni found herself frequently in the emergency room – sometimes two or three times a year, due to sudden and recurring illnesses. “My medical costs were astronomical,” she recalled. “I was not in a good place health-wise.”
Everything began to shift when Berni joined Wider Circle and found a supportive community around her. Through regular check-ins, group activities, and encouragement from facilitators, she started showing up more, and leaning into her health.
For Berni, it was the people that kept her coming back. “I’ve met so many wonderful people with similar health issues,” she said.
Having others check in, listen, and understand what she was going through gave her a sense of belonging she hadn’t felt in years. “I’ve met so many wonderful people with similar health issues,” she said.
That sense of connection was a turning point in her healing.
And for Berni, one connection made all the difference. A fellow member living with diabetes introduced Berni to a Medtronic insulin pump – a treatment she’d heard about but wasn’t sure she could trust.
“She encouraged me to try it and shared how it worked for her,” Berni said. “That gave me the confidence to move forward.”
The new pump is working, and Berni’s blood sugar levels are now regularly 80% range up from just 40% before. What once felt like a cycle of illness and stress has been replaced with calm, confidence, and a sense of control she never thought possible.
Since joining Wider Circle, Berni hasn’t had a single emergency room visit. “I feel so much better,” she affirmed. “I can move, I can take care of myself, and I do.”
One of the most valuable aspects of joining Wider Circle has been the friendships she’s formed. Berni particularly treasures the bond she’s created with a fellow member who, she believes, will be a lifelong friend.
Connecting with others facing similar challenges has been transformative. “It’s good to feel part of a community, and Wider Circle does that for people,” Berni expressed warmly.
Berni’s story reminds us all of the profound difference preventative care and genuine connection can make. With the support of a caring community, health and happiness become truly achievable goals.
Thank you, Berni, for sharing your inspiring journey with us. Your story highlights the real-life impact community can have on health and wellness.
Want to hear more of Berni’s story? Check out the video below:
About the author: Jamie Zale
Wider Circle
