Jackie

Age: 38

Lost: 30 pounds

Completed Program: August 2007

As a teenager, I had always been very active. I was very involved in dance and actually was even quite thin. However, as I got older I completely stopped working out and no longer was watching what I ate. Even though I was no longer competing, I continued to "carbo-load"!

I was in complete denial about my declining health and well-being. I just kept saying to myself, "it's no big deal; I'll start my new diet tomorrow." Well, that tomorrow never came. One day I was looking through some holiday photos of myself and didn't even recognize the person that was staring back at me. I knew in that moment that I needed serious help. The situation had gotten to the point where I needed some outside intervention.

After I attended the introductory seminar, I knew that this was the program for me. The notion of a comprehensive support team, a trainer, dietitian, and counselor, all working with me towards the same goal was an opportunity too wonderful to pass up.

For me, the nutrition aspect of the program was the most challenging component, however logging what I was eating was a real eye-opener. In the early program stages, I would think "it is just one cookie, why do I need to write it down?" Then I would think, "If I do eat this I would have to explain it to my dietitian." It just became easier to not eat the cookie in the first place.

On the other hand, I really enjoyed exercising. I am a natural athlete and my trainer was able to build upon my previous experience to make my workouts both fun and demanding. It was hard work though; at times I would be incredibly sore because I was using muscles that hadn't been used in years. The immediate gratification I received from working out was amazing. I am on a constant lookout for physically challenging activities, even if it is simply taking the stairs instead of hopping on the elevator.

I am now completely off cholesterol medication and my blood pressure is the best that it has been in years. It was eye-opening to realize that I have control over these health risks. This program has taught me that I have the ability to determine my own health and destiny. All around, I just feel so much more healthy and confident now.