6/16/08

With membership nearing 1000 members, STR's Senior Circle Program proves that there is strength in numbers. By strength, we can include physical strength thanks to the many exercise programs available at Senior Circle.

On such exercise regimen offered through Senior Circle is a Texas favorite, line dancing.

Just ask Elida Salazar, Senior Circle member since August 2007. She joined when her friend Minnie Polasek, who is a Senior Circle member herself, described to Salazar the program. One of the fun exercise activities that Polasek mentioned was the SC Line Dance Classes. Salazar decided to enroll for membership and try the Beginners Line Dance class with her husband Rudy. The couple greatly enjoys the class and Elida Salazar says, "I feel that this exercise gives me a great cardio workout."

Member Connection Leads to Hospital Connection
Early in 2008 Elida Salazar was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through her membership with Senior Circle, she had been introduced to a number of local physicians at the monthly Lunch-N-Learn. She also received a regular copy of STR's Local Physician Directory, coupled with an article on Dr. Angie Palafox, General Surgeon, in her Senior Circle newsletter. After learning that she would need surgery to treat the cancer, Salazar called Dr. Palafox's offices to set up an initial consultation. Salazar was so very pleased with her meeting with Dr. Palafox that she chose her to perform the surgery.

Dr. Palafox successfully completed Elida Salazar's surgery. Now, Salazar attributes her good health to Dr. Palafox, who she says, "put her on the road to recovery." Salazar says, "I'm so very happy to be back at line dance class because it makes me feel so good, and I adore the fellowship."

Program Offers Benefits that Surpass Discounts
Elida Salazar is a testament to the variety of benefits that members of STR's Senior Circle Program can gain. Members receive travel, medical, prescription eye glass and even dining discounts. That coupled with the fun activities such as exercise, arts and crafts, and game day, make the program fun and enticing. But even more valuable than these activities and discounts is the benefit of forging vital health connections with the hospital and its physicians which may prove to be a lifesaving reference down the road.

Men and women ages 50 and up are encouraged to join. Join today with a friend or spouse and receive a membership discount, complimentary tote bag and member t-shirt. Or purchase an annual membership for someone you love for only $15! To reach STR's Senior Circle group, please call 569-8000.