“THE greatest happiness of life is the conviction that we are loved,” wrote Victor Hugo.
This timeless truth finds scientific backing in modern science. Research has consistently shown links between strong relationships and better health outcomes. Multiple studies over the past decades have found that people in healthy, supportive relationships often experience better physical and mental health compared to those without such support systems.
Brad and Kathy Ruszala
Three power couples share their stories of how love nurtures both physical and mental well-being. Their experiences reveal how partnerships can become the foundation for a healthier, more fulfilling life.
The power of mutual support and accountability
Sharleen and Joe Villacrusis
For Sharleen Villacrusis, having a strong relationship creates a safe space for honest health discussions. “The biggest thing that having a strong relationship does for healthy living allows us to feel safe in being accountable,” she shares. “If I’m stress eating and my husband questions it, I know he’s asking out of concern.”
Wedding day, Chang and Alvin Iglesias
This accountability extends beyond just dietary habits. The Villacrusis couple maintains their physical health through regular gym sessions and various physical activities. But what sets their relationship apart is their understanding that physical and mental health are deeply interconnected.
“We agree that good physical health contributes to good mental health,” Sharleen explains, “but we also just give each other space to share what’s bothering us and support what helps us get through it.”
Adventure and active living: A shared journey
Chang and Alvin Iglesias
Chang Iglesias and her husband, Alvin, have found their rhythm in the great outdoors. “We do lots of outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, hiking, and gardening, which helps us stay active and reset our minds from the world’s demands,” Chang explains. Their approach combines physical activity with mental refreshment, showing how shared adventures can strengthen both body and relationship.
Brad and Kathy Ruszala
The Ruszala family takes a unique approach to fitness, demonstrating how couples can support each other while maintaining individual pursuits.
Brad and Kathy with kids
Kathy Ruszala shares, “Brad and I support each other by respecting the time and space we need for our individual fitness routines.” While Brad prefers the gym, Katy enjoys outdoor activities, but their mutual commitment to stay active keeps them aligned.
Their participation in events like the Trinity Race and Race Across the Islands organized by Run Saipan has become a family affair. “These experiences keep us active as a family and deepen our bond,” Kathy notes. Their story shows how couples can support each other’s individual fitness journeys while maintaining shared wellness objectives.
Faith, culture, and community bonds
The intersection of faith, culture, and health emerges as a powerful theme among these couples. The Villacrusis family finds strength in their religious practices, creating a legacy for their children.
Sharleen and Joe Villacrusis
“Our faith is such a positive part of our relationship,” Sharleen explains. “We grew up with church traditions and it’s nice to do the same for our kids. When we practice our faith together as a family, it gives us such a sense of unity while creating memories.”
Chang and Alvin share this spiritual foundation. “We both come from the same background, having the same beliefs and practicing the same cultural traditions,” Chang shares.
Their belief that “the family that prays together stays together” is complemented by their emphasis on respect, which “shapes how we treat and speak to each other.”
Supporting each other through health challenges
The true test of a relationship often comes during health challenges, and each couple demonstrates unique approaches to caregiving and support:
The Villacrusis couple emphasizes practical teamwork: “If I get sick,” Sharleen shares, “my husband takes on my responsibilities so I can rest and recover. The same goes for any other instance where one of us can’t do our part; it’s teamwork.”
Sharleen and Joe Villacrusis
Chang approaches health support with both commitment and wisdom. “Our motto is if you fall, I fall with you and if you rise, I rise with you too… so think before you do!” she explains. She takes on a protective role, “always stopping him from making any bad choices that would jeopardize his whole well-being.”
Brad and Kathy Ruszala
Kathy’s story particularly highlights the importance of emotional support during recovery. After her bike race accident in December, Brad’s unwavering confidence in her recovery made all the difference. “His belief in me—saying, ‘I think you’ll ride again’—helped me regain confidence,” she shares.
The CNMI advantage: Community and connection
Living in the CNMI provides these couples with unique advantages for maintaining healthy relationships. The close-knit community offers constant support and encouragement. As Sharleen notes, “Having friends and family close means we always have support,” adding a shout out to the ‘Pending Adventures & Shenanigans Crew!’”
Sharleen and Joe Villacrusis
The island’s culture of generosity particularly affects the Ruszalas. “It’s a place where pros and amateurs alike can borrow a bike without a second thought,” Kathy shares, “inspiring us to embrace the same supportive mindset within our family.”
This community spirit extends to their participation in local sports, where they prioritize showing up for their children’s activities and celebrating victories together.
The supportive and nonjudgmental culture of Saipan encourages families to stay active together and embrace challenges as one. Whether it’s borrowing gear or sharing advice, the generosity of the community inspires couples to be equally supportive of one another.
Love’s little gestures
Brad’s first yoga session with Kathy.
Sometimes, it’s the small things that make the biggest impact. Kathy shares how Brad’s thoughtful approach to gift-giving reflects their shared commitment to health: “His thoughtful gestures, like gifting running shoes or sports gear instead of flowers on Valentine’s Day, remind me how much he values my fitness journey.”
These power couples demonstrate that the path to wellness is often walked hand in hand. Their stories reveal how strong relationships create environments where healthy choices become natural, challenges become manageable, and well-being becomes a shared journey. In the words of Chang, “Think before you do,” because a strong relationship means every health decision affects both partners.
Sharleen and Joe Villacrusis
Whether through active adventures, spiritual practices, or simple daily support, these couples show that love and health are beautifully intertwined, creating a foundation for lasting wellness in body, mind, and spirit. Their experiences in the CNMI demonstrate how the combination of strong partnerships and a supportive community can create the perfect environment for both relationship and health to flourish.
