Maria

Age: 28

Lost 76 pounds

Completed Program June 2007

Since moving to Seattle from Argentina, I suffered from SAD (seasonal affective disorder) and began gaining weight with new foods I wasn’t accustomed to. I had high cholesterol and was also starting to have problems with my back and neck. Any activity that required any level of exertion left me exhausted and out of breath.

The decision to join 20/20 Lifestyles came when I went on vacation to New York with my husband. Looking at a picture that had been taken of me, I felt afraid. I didn’t see myself in that photo. I felt it was somebody else. I realized at that point that I had to take some action and get my life back in control.

20/20 appealed to me because I liked the idea of a lifetime change rather than a diet which wouldn’t help me address the reasons behind why I was in my current state. I had considered and tried many different solutions – from starving myself to getting a surgery. I think 20/20 worked because it’s comprehensive. I got help medically, nutritionally, emotionally, and physically. The whole team was by my side and made my change of lifestyle possible.

I now feel I can do a lot of things I never imagined I would have been able to do. For example, I’m planning to run my first 5K in August. And my goal for next year is to participate in a triathlon.

Not only are my cholesterol and blood pressure lower, but I feel less stressful and sleep better. I’m more confident in keeping pace with my husband and friends, who are active. I feel I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to. Despite all of the other things going on in my life and facing some stressful situations during the program like going on vacation for a month in the middle of the program and buying our first house, I was able to lose weight and become more fit. The program always kept me motivated. No matter where I go or what my circumstances might be, it will always be with me. It’s part of who I am and what I believe in.

I’d like to thank all of my 20/20 team, my husband, and my friends for supporting me and giving me strength when I needed it. Without all of you, my life wouldn’t be as happy, healthy, and fit as it is today.