www.WellnessCenterMagazine.com | 15 Throughout its 30-year history, the MUSC Wellness Center has swiftly reacted as people’s needs have evolved. So when Director Dusty Jackson and his team consider future ventures for the Center, they do as they tell others: They consider the “why.” The Center’s leaders listen to the community, talk to experts and identify which needs are the greatest. These needs drive the Center's growth. When there was an uptick in concern about the lack of community for breast cancer survivors, the Survivors’ Fit Program was launched. When a growing number of Parkinson’s patients battled fears as their capabilities diminished and their caregivers grew weary, the Rock Steady Boxing Program rescued them. The Prostate Cancer Survivors' Strength Camp, Chronic Disease Management Program and personalized nutrition counseling are additional examples of need-based growth that often unfolds at the Center. “The landscape is ever-changing, and we have a team of experts with diverse skills and a common passion – to help others reach their health goals and live a better life,” said Jackson. “As we move forward, we will keep up that passion and remain innovative for current and future members.” Jackson rarely discusses the Wellness Center without calling attention to its singularity. His entire professional career has been in fitness and wellness settings, and he knows unique when he experiences it. “I have never seen anything like this Center,” Jackson said. “The populations we serve, the programming, the space and the use of space – these are all unique.” The Wellness Center caters to three population groups, or “buckets,” as Jackson puts it: students at MUSC’s six colleges; MUSC employees and community members; and health care professionals with memberships. Guest passes and day passes also are available for out-of-towners. “People who come through the doors may have different motivations and goals,” Jackson said.“Our focus is to be the best part of everyone’s day.” "We want this to be an exciting place to be from the moment people walk in the door," Jackson added. "Any changes we make to clinical programs, general health resources or the use of the Center's space will be linked to helping people live healthier and feel better." Jackson and the Wellness Center team have no doubt that there is more success to come. “There are more lives to be changed,” Jackson said. ◆ ON THE WELLNESS CENTER’S HORIZON By Lisa Moody Breslin
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