Anne Abbott, professor of Health Promotion and Human Development at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and founder of the "Choice to Renew" weekend retreat, has received a $2,500 Lisa J. Cudahy Community Health Grant to further her work.

The Wisconsin Women�s Health Foundation makes four such grants annually to assist nonprofit community organizations committed to women�s health education.

The Choice to Renew retreat is an annual event at which heart patients experience a lifestyle that follows medical guidelines recommended by the American Heart Association.

Abbott has worked for more than 25 years in clinical exercise physiology, cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation and wellness programming. Nine years ago, she founded the retreat and directs it each spring with the support of UWSP�s Health Promotion and Wellness program. She believes the low cost, short-term program provides long-term benefits for chronic heart disease patients and their families.

This year�s retreat will be from Friday, April 20, through Sunday, April 22. Details of the program are available by calling Abbott at (715) 346-4420.

A total of 139 patients participated in the retreats from 1992 to 1997. Ninety-one percent of all participants reported an increased perception of well-being and 64 percent reported a decrease in anger at the completion of the retreat. She found that 78 percent of the participants reported increased meaning of life and confidence in handling problems.

Cardiac rehabilitation professionals travel from throughout the U.S. to volunteer to help participants at the retreat. Using volunteer staff, Abbott has kept the registration fee for the weekend at about $200 per person. "This is an affordable alternative compared to commercial programs often priced at more than $600 per day," Abbott said.

Among this year�s volunteers is Abbott�s mentor, Karl Stoedefalke, a professor emeritus in exercise science at Pennsylvania State University. Although retired from teaching, Stoedefalke is still active in the American College of Sports Medicine and remains a leading philosopher and teacher.

Held at Treehaven, UWSP�s field station near Tomahawk, the weekend offers participants an opportunity to escape to a peaceful, natural setting. "Both beginners and those wishing to renew their commitment to healthy choices are welcome," Abbott said.

Cardiac support group leaders and family members of patients also attend. Abbott has made presentations on her findings throughtout the U.S. Last year she took the Choice to Renew program to Colorado.

UWSP�s Department of Health Promotion and Human Development, the primary supporter of the retreat, is nationally known for its wellness program. The Wisconsin Education Association Trust, several clinics and hospitals provide scholarships for staff and patients. In the past, Copps Foods, Lands� End and other organizations have sponsored participation by several employees.

Abbott holds a bachelor�s degree from East Tennessee State University, a master�s degree from Florida State University and a doctorate from the University of Pittsburgh.

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