Jesse Shotwell, Jo Story administrative assistant, left, and West-Hudson.

Although Brenda retired from full-time nursing at the Halifax County Health Department in 2010, she has continued her lifelong quest for knowledge and her love of sharing new skills.

Trained and certified in Tai Chi for Arthritis, Brenda has donated her time to instruct seniors at the Jo Story Senior Center since 2011.
After eight weeks of practice, Tai Chi for Arthritis has been proven with clinical studies to reduce falls by 35 percent.
The hour-long class has a structured lesson plan which includes warm ups, rest pause, Tai Chi practice and cool down.
Along with her enjoyment of teaching, Brenda brings 30 plus years of nursing experience to the center and frequently suggests attendees consult with their doctors if there is any change in health conditions.
Brenda also provides Tai Chi presentations in the community, at churches and at diabetes support groups.
She and Mary Coates, a fellow Tai Chi instructor, recently voluntarily presented Benefits of Tai Chi Exercise to NC Diabetes Educators at the East Carolina Heart Institute. “Volunteering is an exciting part of life and an opportunity to give back, share new information, and have fun with friends.”
She continues to work two days a week with Home Health and Hospice of Halifax.
Family and church remain her first priority and she enjoys discussing the effects of Tai Chi exercise and the value of volunteering.
A testament to these principles which she adheres to in her own life, Brenda invites those 55 and older to come by the center and check out the classes.
Although retired, she never stopped working and believes in helping others and contributing to her community.