"In My Opinion . . ."
Nov. 3, 2001
In the last 11 months I have steadily and safely lost 85 pounds, and I plan to continue my downward spiral in the next year until I reach a comfortable, maintainable weight. My journey began when I was diagnosed with severe sleep apnea and put on a CPAP machine. That single act caused a chain reaction: deep sleep reduced depression and increased stamina; my positive outlook and physical activity kicked in those "happy endorphins;" I joined Weight Watchers on Nov. 30, 2000 because I could finally make it through an evening meeting and had the energy to deal with lifestyle changes.
I have taken to the program well. The recommended exercise regime is not possible for me (because of my arthritis and Ehlers-Danlos), but my work day and normal household chores provide enough activity to keep my weekly weight losses respectable. Carol, my meeting leader, genuinely cares about her attendees, and her gentle approach and realistic attitude towards weight issues keep the meetings interesting for me, no easy task. After all, many people come and go, so it would be easy to become redundant as a leader. Carol keeps zoning in on the major points of the program while incorporating new ideas into her messages. I don't bemoan my Thursday routine. In fact, I look forward to another year of weekly meetings and then to attending often to keep healthy.
My hope is that by this time next year I will be stepping lightly, not just because of my new "bionic" knees, but because of my rejuvenated body. Then I'll be on my way to visit my friends in other parts of the world so I can finally REALLY enjoy their homelands.