The Team

Theresa Gries

Role with Mercy
Theresa is currently an Ideal Protein Coach at MercyCare North Liberty, MercyCare Edgewood, MercyCare Blairs Ferry, Hiawatha and Mercy Hospital.

Background with Ideal Protein
Theresa has a background in fitness and nutrition. Theresa previously managed a fitness club and earned her personal training certification and group fitness certification. She has now been an Ideal Protein Coach for five years.
“I have always had a passion for nutrition, enjoyed teaching, coaching and encouraging a healthy lifestyle,” Theresa said. “I enjoy helping others reach their personal goals, helping them make healthy lifestyle changes, and providing daily support and encouragement to clients. Most clients experience immediate results within the first week which is motivation alone.”

What Inspires Theresa
The daily satisfaction of knowing she is making a positive lifestyle change in someone else’s life is what inspires Theresa. A lot of times, the families experience healthy eating habits as well.

What Motivates Theresa
With everything going on in the world today, the one positive thing you have some control over is what you eat and drink daily and being the healthiest version of you that you can be.

Personal Interests
Theresa enjoys spending time with her three daughters and going to their extra-curricular activities. Theresa likes just about any outdoor activity – walking, biking, golfing, paddle-boarding and kayaking to name a few – and spending quality time with friends and family.

Carolyn Hanson

Role with Mercy
Carolyn is currently an Ideal Protein Coach at various MercyCare locations.

Background with Ideal Protein
Carolyn has a background in fitness and nutrition. She has previously managed the fitness department in a senior community and is a certified personal trainer with a specialty in Senior Fitness and Rock Steady Boxing. She graduated with an associate degree in Exercise Science and Wellness in 2018 from Kirkwood Community College.
“I have always had a passion for Health and Wellness. I enjoy helping individuals accomplish their goals and to become independent in maintaining their Health and Wellness through exercise and nutrition.”

What Inspires Carolyn
Gratitude and the fact that she’s healthy is her source of inspiration. It makes her want to help others take charge of their personal health and wellbeing and accomplish their goals through proper nutrition and healthy eating habits.

What Motivates Carolyn
Making the most of every day, enjoying every day and never taking anything for granted.

Personal Interests
Carolyn enjoys spending time with family and friends, especially her two children. She likes to bike, hike, kayak, work out and go to concerts as well as travel and experience new places. She is all about making memories that last a lifetime.