As the New Year unfolds, many individuals find themselves struggling to maintain their resolutions. The second Friday of January has been dubbed “Quitter’s Day,” when a significant number of people abandon their goals. Yet, some have defied the odds, achieving remarkable health milestones through determination and realistic strategies. Members of the Start TODAY community shared their inspiring journeys, highlighting how small daily habits and adjustments helped them overcome personal challenges in 2025.
Melissa Archer’s Journey to Non-Scale Victories
Melissa Archer, a 46-year-old from Buffalo, NY, embarked on her health journey on July 1, 2022, determined to reclaim her vitality. Tired of feeling exhausted and disconnected from her children, she took her first step by walking a half mile. “I was done not smiling like I used to,” Archer recalls. By incorporating simple changes, such as portion control and increased water intake, she shifted her focus from weight to health.
Her goal of achieving 100 non-scale victories (NSVs) became her guiding light. From drinking water instead of soda to hiking and using heavier weights, Archer’s list expanded dramatically. “My list grew by leaps and bounds because it wasn’t about the numbers,” she emphasizes. Her focus on mental well-being and gradual improvements ultimately transformed her relationship with food and health.
Jean Marmo’s Recovery After Surgery
At 72, Jean Marmo faced her own health hurdles after years of enjoying long walks. Pain in her hip led to a diagnosis requiring hip replacement surgery, which she underwent in October 2025. “I am so glad it is done and I can now get back to moving as I did,” Marmo states. Within weeks of her surgery, she was walking a mile without assistance.
By progressively increasing her distance, she quickly returned to her beloved three-mile walks. Marmo plans to compete in a 5k race in mid-January, marking a significant recovery milestone. “The more effort you put in, the better the result,” she advises, underscoring the importance of gradual progress.
Jenny L. Harrell Catron’s Commitment to Daily Walking
Jenny L. Harrell Catron, 57, set a goal of walking for two hours every day. Residing in Fredericksburg, VA, she began her fitness journey ahead of the New Year, ensuring she was already in the habit by January 1. When inclement weather threatened her outdoor plans, she adapted by joining a gym to maintain her routine.
Catron’s dedication paid off as she lost 74 pounds and began incorporating running into her walks. She emphasizes the importance of establishing habits before committing to a New Year’s resolution. Alongside her physical goals, she also focused on improving her overall lifestyle, including her financial health and spiritual commitments.
Heather Harne’s Resilience Despite Disability
Heather Harne, who became blind after battling eye cancer, faced unique challenges in her fitness journey. At 52, she adapted her exercise routine to accommodate her disabilities, initially standing for just a minute at a time. Gradually, she increased her stamina and began walking both at home and in local parks.
Harne highlights that everyone has obstacles, whether physical or emotional. Her commitment to yoga and walking has kept her active throughout 2025, proving that movement can be tailored to individual needs. “We can all build strength and get movement in throughout the day,” she asserts, inspiring others facing similar challenges.
Trisha Stringer’s Path Through Grief
Trisha Stringer, a nurse from Sandy Hook, MS, found herself grappling with profound grief after losing her son, Dakota. Following his tragic death in June 2024, she faced a critical choice: to succumb to despair or to take a stand for her health. “I chose to stand and asked God to help me,” she recalls.
Stringer rejoined her walking routine and incorporated group fitness classes into her life. Although the journey was difficult, engaging with others helped combat her loneliness. By October 2025, she began to see her weight decline, and she dedicated herself to personal training sessions. Stringer is also advocating for safety regulations in memory of her son, aiming to prevent future tragedies.
Sue Englander’s Recovery Journey
After undergoing spine surgery in November 2025, Sue Englander, 70, reflected on her commitment to fitness. Following a health scare in 2021, she had lost 40 pounds and developed a consistent walking routine. Yet, chronic back pain led to her surgery.
Post-surgery, Englander approached her recovery with patience and respect for her body. “Every step is forward,” she emphasizes. Her journey illustrates that health is not solely about achieving perfection but about participating in one’s well-being.
These six individuals from the Start TODAY community exemplify resilience and determination in the face of personal challenges. Their stories serve as a reminder that with the right mindset and support, achieving health goals is possible, no matter the setbacks.
