Will County residents share their stories in Healing With Nature series

Nature-related stories often include statements on how the outdoors can improve mental and physical health, but what does that mean in the real world and in people’s lives?

The Forest Preserve District of Will County’s Healing with Nature series features Will County residents and their stories:

Outdoor walks help Naperville woman lose 100 pounds

Julie Jacobsen, a 54-year-old Naperville resident, said being outside was essential to her 100-pound weight-loss journey. In the process, she said, she has become healthier, happier and more fulfilled than she ever has as an adult.

Combat veteran finds his flow on forest preserve paths

Combat veteran Nick Wallace picked up 70 bags of trash at a preserve and said being in nature helps him reduce his anxiety and provides pure enjoyment.

As time ticks by, ‘Harmonica Jack’ makes beautiful music in nature

Beecher resident John Keslin is still having fun playing the harmonica in nature, even though he is facing serious heart issues.

Easing life’s transitions with the calmness of forest bathing

Barbara Collins, a Bolingbrook retiree, turned to nature and her history with plants to find a new purpose in life after retirement. She now practices forest bathing and it has helped her transition into her new life.

Crete man battling cancer finds health and hope of paths of Goodenow Grove

Tom Scott of Crete is giving thanks this year to the people who pushed him to start walking at Goodenow Grove Nature Preserve as he was recovering from cancer surgery. The daily hikes have given him better health, hope for the future and a new appreciation of nature.