As dawn breaks at Delta Wellness Center in Leland, Myisha Stovall walks into the room and infuses it with a palpable sense of hope and promise for the day ahead.
She greets customers with a warm smile and each interaction is driven by an unwavering dedication to her clients’ overall wellness.
Among them is Tarkevious Shells of Leland, who moves gracefully through the gym despite being blind, with Stovall’s steady presence and encouraging words guiding him.
Delta Wellness Center is part of Leland Medical Clinic and an initiative supported by Delta Health Alliance, a nonprofit dedicated to improving health and education in the Mississippi Delta. Operated by Delta Health Alliance since 2013, Leland Medical Clinic provides primary health care and behavioral health care to Bolivar, Sharkey, Sunflower and Washington counties.
The clinic offers a sliding scale discount program that makes medical care affordable based on household income and family structure, benefiting uninsured patients and those with limited insurance coverage.
The Wellness Center charges membership fees of $10 per month for youth and seniors, $15 per month for adults, $30 per month for families and $20 per month for senior households. The organization tackles health issues such as obesity, chronic disease and infant mortality by improving access to health care and promoting healthier lifestyles through education.
Stovall’s journey from running her own fitness business to her key role at the center reflects her dedication to making a tangible difference.
“I got certified as a personal trainer while I was at Mississippi State University and I’ve been using it ever since,” Stovall said. Her passion for helping others was born from her experience caring for her elderly aunt. Working with a diverse clientele that includes seniors, athletes and those suffering from chronic illnesses, Stovall emphasizes the importance of connecting on both a physical and emotional level.
Her holistic approach extends to clients like Schells, who find solace and progress in Stovall’s tutelage despite their challenges.
“Myisha’s patience and humor made my training both fun and effective,” Schells says.
Carol Sue Billingsley, also of Leland, is pre-diabetic and a client of Stovall’s, and credits Stovall with the positive impact he has had on her overall health.
“Myisha is more than just a trainer to me. She’s a lifeline,” she said.
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