By: Angel Bell, CPT
It’s 10:00 a.m. and Maurice enters Oklahoma City Indian Clinic’s (OKCIC) Wellness Center with excitement and a strong willingness to work. He greets the day with a bright smile and big personality. The idea of a healthy life motivates him to increase his effort in each session with his certified personal trainer, Angel.
Maurice puts his complete focus into each exercise he is instructed to complete, ensuring his form is proper, his grip is steady, and he has energy and power to complete his sets. A bead of sweat falls as he steps back and admires all he has accomplished so far today.
Maurice was born and raised in Oklahoma, and is a proud member of the Choctaw Nation. He has been a patient at OKCIC for many years, and finds the support he receives from the clinic significantly aids him in his life journey. Despite the adversity Maurice has faced throughout his life, he maintains a positive outlook moving forward.
“I believe the main obstacle is my self esteem and anxiety,” Maurice said. “I do have a history of addiction, but I never let that stop me. I’ve been able to experience work as a police officer, truck driver, heavy equipment operator, machinist, and most recently I have had the opportunity to teach sermons and share my faith.”
Initially seeking out a personal trainer for health concerns, he found himself surprised to find comfort in fitness, and in a safe space to relieve stress. Since training he has shed over 20 pounds, gained muscle and grown confident within himself.
“I am proud to have a patient as passionate as Maurice,” Angel said. “It’s been an honor to see him grow and witness his progress first hand. He makes each session fun and new, and is incredibly hard working. I truly believe he makes me a better trainer with each experience.”
Maurice did not let his history define him. He wakes up each morning with the idea to live each day better than the next, and uses his past as a stepping stool to his goals. He lights up every room he enters and brings a smile to everyone he encounters.
“What I enjoy most about training with Angel is that at the end of the day, I made the effort to better my health,” Maurice said. “It’s very exciting to be highlighted, which gives me hope and encouragement to continue reaching for a better life.”
To set up free training sessions with any of OKCIC’s certified personal trainers, come by the Wellness Center to speak to our staff or call (405) 948-4900 ext. 618.