By: Staff
As 2025 draws to a close, Irvington is not simply stepping into a new year.
It is stepping into clarity.
At a time when health conversations are often avoided, politicized, or oversimplified, Mayor Tony Vauss chose honesty over silence — and in doing so, delivered one of the most powerful, human, and educational messages this township has seen in years.
This is not a political success story.
This is a public health moment, a leadership moment, and a community awakening.
The Diagnosis That Became a Lesson for Everyone
The turning point did not come with applause.
It came with a medical chart.
A routine doctor’s visit revealed a truth too many ignore: diabetes was demanding attention. Not later. Not someday. Now.
Instead of retreating from that reality, the Mayor leaned into it — and then did something rare for an elected official:
He explained it.
Plainly. Clearly. Without shame.
Understanding Diabetes & A1c — Why This Matters
Many people hear the words “diabetes” and “A1c” but never receive a clear explanation. Mayor Vauss made sure Irvington did.
Diabetes, he explained, is a condition that affects how the body processes sugar (glucose).
Left unmanaged, it can damage the heart, kidneys, eyes, and nerves. Managed properly, however, people can live long, full, healthy lives.
A1c is not a complicated mystery.
It is a simple blood test that shows your average blood sugar over the past two to three months.
The numbers matter:
- Below 5.7% — Normal
- 5.7%–6.4% — Prediabetes
- 6.5% and above — Diabetes
Today, after one year of discipline, medical care, and lifestyle change, Mayor Vauss’s A1c stands at 5.5%.
Not shared to boast.
Shared to prove what is possible.
“Knowledge is power,” he told residents.
“And power begins with knowing your numbers.”
Ninety Pounds Lost — But a Community Gained
Over the course of one year, the Mayor lost 90 pounds.
But the real weight lifted was something else entirely:
- Fatigue
- Fog
- Fear
- And the quiet pressure leaders carry in silence
In its place came clarity, energy, and peace.
And through it all, Irvington walked with him.
Neighbors waved.
Seniors gathered.
Children ran forward — full of promise.
The message became unmistakable:
This wasn’t an individual journey. It was a communal one.
A Call to Health — Not Because You’re Broken, But Because You’re Worth It
As Irvington enters 2026, the Mayor’s message is not alarmist.
It is affirming.
He is not asking residents to change because something is wrong —
but because they deserve to feel their best.
Simple Steps Toward a Healthier You
Not perfection. Just progress.
✔ Regular Check-Ups
Schedule your annual physical. Early awareness saves lives.
✔ Healthy Eating
More fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains.
Less processed food and added sugar.
✔ Stay Active
Thirty minutes most days — walking, stretching, dancing — it all counts.
✔ Hydration
Drink more water. A small choice with big impact.
✔ Support One Another
Share goals. Walk together. Encourage each other.
Health is easier when it’s shared.
You Are Not Alone — And You Never Were
This message did not end with inspiration.
It came with infrastructure.
The Irvington Department of Health & Senior Services stands ready with:
- Screenings
- Education
- Nutritional guidance
- Senior support services
- Wellness resources
If residents need direction, encouragement, or help — it is already here.
Why This Moment Will Endure
In an era of slogans, Mayor Vauss offered substance.
In a season of fatigue, he offered hope grounded in action.
In a town that has weathered much, he offered proof.
Proof that leadership can be human.
Proof that health conversations can be empowering.
Proof that one person’s discipline can ripple outward and strengthen thousands.
COMMUNITY HEALTH RESOURCES — HELP IS HERE
Mayor Tony Vauss was clear in his message: no one is expected to walk this health journey alone.
📞 Irvington Health & Senior Services
Baffour Asare, MPH, REHS, LI/RA
Director of Health & Senior Services
📍 1 Civic Square, Room 109
Irvington, NJ 07111
📞 Main: 973-399-6647
📧 basare@irvingtonnj.gov
Shante Barr
Manager, Senior Services
📞 Main: 973-399-6501
ABOUT THE IRVINGTON DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH & SENIOR SERVICES
Serving the Township of Irvington, the Department of Health & Senior Services works every day to:
- Protect public health
- Promote wellness
- Prevent disease
- Support families with dignity and compassion
The Department is staffed by dedicated professionals, including:
Public Health Nurses • Health Educators • Environmental Specialists • Lead Inspectors • Animal Control Officers • Certified Registrars • Volunteers — and more
Together, they form the backbone of Irvington’s commitment to healthy people, strong families, and a thriving community.
THE FINAL WORD
As Irvington enters 2026, this moment stands as a reminder that leadership is not just about policy —
it’s about care.
And when a mayor leads by example, educates with clarity, and opens the door for others to follow, the result is not just a healthier individual —
it’s a healthier town.
For Irvington, the message is clear:
Help is here. Hope is real. And the future is within reach.
As Irvington steps into 2026, it does so reminded of something essential:
We rise together.
We heal together.
We move forward together.
And sometimes, all it takes to ignite a community is one leader willing to say:
“This is my story — and it can be yours too.”
That is the true spirit of this season.