Celebrating King County Health Heroes

Laura McCollum Wallace, Sr. Desktop Support Specialist
Department of Development and Environmental Services
Renton

“My health coach really made me think and held me accountable”









Laura McCollum Wallace is a computer nerd by day, a belly dancer by night and a health hero to her colleagues at DDES.  She was named DDES’ 2007 Employee of the Year in large part for how her health improvements inspired others.

Laura’s “aha” moment came when she saw a picture of herself belly dancing in a parade.

Watch Laura's story

During the Live Well Challenge Laura wrote a blog about her struggles and triumphs and has also become a certified instructor and is pushing the message of the power of belly dancing throughout the DDES workplace.

Watch more of Laura's story

Laura’s success has moved her co-workers to improve their health.  Walking, hula hooping and weight loss are some of the ways her co-workers have pursued their goals for good health. All have been inspired by Laura’s message to “find something you are passionate about and follow it.” She also offers bellydancing classes at DDES on Mondays.

What they see in Laura is a confidence and spirit that comes from good health. “She is expressing her beauty from inside, not just outside."