“I felt like I’d died and went to heaven,” says Elise Brisco, O.D., F.A.A.O., C.C.H., F.C.O.V.D., recalling being crowned Ms. Woman California this past August. Now, Dr. Brisco — also a working mom, influencer and soon-to-be author—is preparing to compete in October’s Miss United States pageant in Las Vegas.

While the Miss California pageant was Dr. Brisco’s first as a contestant, she says she was introduced to the pageant world as a judge.

“I fell in love with the whole community,” she says. “I didn’t realize that pageantry isn’t just about looking fabulous. It’s about strength, inner beauty and the goal to do as much good in the world as possible,” she explains.

Dr. Brisco’s platform is to educate and motivate people to live healthier lives.

“I’ve moved into this role of being a spokesperson for the healthy aging movement,” she says.

Dr. Brisco is currently expanding that role to include authoring an eBook — “Live Your Best Life at Any Age.”

“I realized that I have this ability to change lives,” she says. “I hope to encourage people to live healthier lives and invest in themselves, so they can age gracefully and with dignity.”

Dr. Brisco’s biggest tip on healthy aging? “Keep moving. It’s never too late to start, and it’s never too early to start.” OM