Health Hero Profile 6.4.12........I Used to be Fat~Eric Hanson

What is your age and where are you from?
I was born December 22^nd. 1970. At the time of writing, I am 41 years young.

What was your beginning weight?

During the holiday season of 2009, I topped out above 350 pounds.

What is your current weight and how long have you

maintained it?

My current weight ranges between 198 and 204. I reached 205 in just one year of dieting. I have maintained a weight in the previously mentioned range now for 16 months.


What made you want to lose weight and exercise; was

there something specific that happened or was it a


combination of things?

I had been a big guy my entire life. Generally I was ok with it, as most of my life was spent in the regular overweight range (for me, 240-275). Unfortunately things began to get out of hand in my mid 30's. The wake-up call for me was a physical I had at age 39. My bathroom scale had long since stopped reporting my weight , it only went to 325. I knew I was fat, but I didn't know how fat. When the scale tipped at 350, I was dumbfounded. My doctor explained that at that weight, I was a ticking time bomb. I don't think my doctor thought I was taking the problem seriously, later he would angrily tell me that though my measurable numbers (cholesterol, etc) were not that out of line, my 40’s would be a decade of sharply declining health and that in all likelihood if I kept a weight at 350 or higher, I would not see 60.

I was looking at turning 40, and I knew he was right. My clock was ticking. I had seen my best days.

Over the next couple of months, I couldn't get it out of my head. I had to lose weight, or I was going to die far too young.

Depressed after the obscene amount of eating I had done over the Christmas holiday and learning that I had continued to gain weight , I was now 356. I decided to give download the app -Lose it-and give it a try.

What diets, supplements, and fitness programs have you

tried in the past?

Starvation, Atkins, exercise overkill, fads- none worked long term.


How'd you lose your weight?

I lost my weight by calorie counting. I used an iPhone application called Lose It.  I still use it every day.


Did you share your plans with other people? How did

your family, friends and co-workers influence and

support you?

Not at first. For the first several months I kept my diet close and personal. Only my wife knew and was good enough to not make a big deal out of it. Like most heavy people, I had started down the diet path MANY times and had quit every time. Most of the time long before I had lost any amount of weight whatsoever. After I had managed to stay on the diet for about four months, and people began to notice, I knew I could do it and began to open up a bit about my journey, but still kept it a relatively personal journey.  My wife supported me by allowing me to begin changing the food we had in the house and the way we ate. This was a critical piece. I'm not sure I could have done it if we had kept all the same junk food in the house.

 

What were some of the challenges that you experienced


on your weight loss journey?

Hunger! At first when you transition from eating 7,000-10,000 calories a day to 3,500ish, it's a shock! It got worse too, with each pound I lost, the amount I could eat each day went down! It was also hard learning how to eat.



If you have dieted in the past and regained the

weight, what did you do differently this time?

I had lost weight many times before. The most notable was getting down to about 240 on Atkins. The MOMENT I stopped eating that crazy way, the weight FLEW back on! WORSE, I gained even more!

This time, I focused on a very important word - sustainability.  I knew if I was going to lose weight and keep it off, I had to make choices and do things that I was SURE I could do forever. When I started, I didn't know if I could give up fast food, so I continued to eat it , but it had to fit into my caloric budget.  I didn't think I could give up the occasional beer, so at first I didn't. But again it had to fit. I took my changes gradually, and ate what I wanted as long as it fit in my budget. I wouldn't commit to any new exclusions or big changes unless I knew I could live with it.

Eventually, I learned that I could live without fast food (except Subway, can't live without it!), that I could live without beer (today I don't drink a drop of any kind of alcohol and I don't miss it). Eventually I learned to LOVE fruits and vegetables and now I crave healthy food.

I don't eat the perfect diet. I'm still too high on sodium, my foods are often too processed, and I consume more artificial sweetener than anyone ought to. I have left almost every vice in my life behind, diet pop and artificial sweetener will be next.  It will be tough, but I will get it done. Right now though, I'm not ready. It wouldn't be sustainable yet. I haven't taught myself to drink only water, and plain tea, and coffee yet. I will.

In what ways has your life changed?

I don't think you can understand unless you've been through it. Until age 39, my life had revolved around food. I wasn't eating out of pain or emotional duress, I was just a pig. I laughed at being fat, it didn't THINK it bothered me. But at 350 pounds that was changing. I suddenly found that I couldn't see my shoes when I looked down from a standing position. In order to tie my shoes, I had to exhale and have my foot propped on something. I had let myself grow out of clothing that could be purchased from a regular store. Size 46 (or higher) pants are just not something you pick up at a boutique. I started to have problems with my feet (plantar fasciitis), and my doctor was giving me dire warnings for my morbid obesity. Age and increasing obesity don't go well together. I could literally feel my health slipping away.

Now, I can even begin to tell you how much better life is. I am 41, but feel 25, maybe younger. No kidding. . I have almost unlimited energy, I am healthy  in a good way!

I have become addicted to running and I am more driven than ever to keep the weight off. I am planning on a retirement full of activity and good health.  In twenty years, I fully expect to feel great and be loving my active life.

I do things for fun now that would have killed me two years ago. Chores and yard work that once left me exhausted now take almost no effort to complete in half the time.

My life has changed and I can't even begin to describe how it feels!


What are some moments-accomplishments that you are

most proud of?

Losing 150+ pounds, and keeping it off. Becoming a runner, and maybe the best of all - though I don't overtly try to do so, I have inspired others to lose weight and get healthy too.


What are your ultimate "must haves"///favorites: foods,

fitness routines, music and training gear?

My iPhone and Lose it. I still log my foods EVERY DAY!

Food: Subway! Fruit, especially apples (I eat up to four a day), healthy cereal/granola bars

Exercise gear: Under Armour (especially Cold Gear). If you think you won't wear stretchy clothes when you get thin , I promise you that you are wrong. You will.

Fitness routines: RACING! I love to run and races keep me in it and motivated.


Eating a balanced diet and exercise go hand in hand for



permanent weight loss. What do you do for fitness-to


stay in shape?

RUN! I now proudly call myself a runner. I have run well over 1000 miles this year and have completed 15 half marathons so far (including the Sporty Diva Half of course!), and will complete 20-25 half marathons in 365 days. (see my running website for more info)


What motivates you to stick with your healthy lifestyle?

Being thin and fit! I had no idea how it felt to be thin and fit. It is GREAT! I can't even begin to tell you how worth all of the work it is to get here. I have NEVER been happier! If you are just starting down your path, I promise you, you can't begin to imagine how worth the pain and discomfort it all is!

This may cost me a few macho points, but looking good in clothes is huge! I had NEVER liked what I saw in a mirror. I do now! I actually love to shop and buy clothes. After a lifetime of frustration associated with shopping, suddenly, everything fits. Seriously, I don't think there is much I can't wear and I really dig that!


Do you have any positive quotes you'd like to share?

I like being thin more than I like ________. (cake, cookies, whatever). I remind myself of this fact a lot when temptation arises.


What words of advice can you give to someone who is

struggling to lose weight and exercise?

I have written lots on the topic. See my websites

But here's a few: Be honest with yourself. Don't look for excuses.  As soon as you can admit to the fact that 99% of people are fat because they eat too much..... waaaay too much, then you are ready to lose weight.

Understand this: it IS as simple as people say. Weight loss is very simple.   It's all about calories in and calories out.

Believe that it will be worth it. It is.


What are your best life lessons and the keys to your

success?

Life lesson: It's never too late. Even after a lifetime of obesity and failed attempts, it can be done.

Keys to my success: Routine, honesty, drive

And lastly, do you have any short term (3 months or less) and long term goals?

Run faster and farther. Become even more fit! Finish a marathon!

Click on and read more about Eric's story and success:

http://fatbassman.fatcow.com/fatstory.html

https://sites.google.com/site/ericsfavoritehobbies/home/150pounds

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Rosie's Note: 

I received Eric's profile in April and he's accomplished his short term goal already! 
On May 28th here's what he wrote about his first full marathon:

First Call Spring Half that morning. Finished with a time of 1:43:01. Drove to Marysville and started running with the 1 mile fun run group but kept going. Did laps around the campus totaling 7 miles. The 45 minute break in between was not a help... I was pretty tight and sore before I began, but settled into a nice an easy 9 ish min mile pace. The treadmill was delivered and I had to stop running and transfer inside. After 15 minutes or more of waiting the tightness and soreness were back ... Worse than ever. By the time I started the last 10k, I was feeling it. Though that last part was a struggle, I finished. As soon as I was done my attitude magically improved, and I remembered why I had done it - for my school, for the kids. Totally worth it!

We were raising money in order to provide a charitable fund for some of our families that have the greatest need as we move to become an iPad school. We have applied for grants that will hopefully provide the infrastructure, and special 0% financing will provide families the mechanism for ownership. It's a huge undertaking, but we are all-in! We have put hundreds of hours into research and planning to make this work. We believe that this will be a paradigm shift on learning and it's impact will be profoundly positive on student achievement.
http://www.10thstreetboosters.org/10th_Street_Boosters/Hansons_Run.html

Eric, congratulations on accomplishing your first marathon!! Thank you for being a wonderful role model to the students at 10th Street Middle School and your local community.  Your personal comittment to your health and running is astonishing and impressive.   You are a powerhouse!    Stay in touch and let us know how we can help you with the fundraising efforts for your school's  technology program, RR


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Did Someone Say Diet?

Yowsaay, yowsaay with summer right around the corner, it's hard to find someone who isn't on a diet, going on a diet or who hasn't been on a diet. Have you noticed that the largest weight loss chains have Divas marketing-rocking  their brand?

Weight Watchers has the beautiful singer Jennifer Hudson.   NutriSystem has the forever sexy Janet Jackson.   And for Jenny Craig, there's the dazzling beauty Mariah Carey.

But will these programs really work permanently for the average person who doesn't have the time or money to pay for the packaged meals or a personal trainer?  Weight Watchers is a reasonable choice out of all three because they teach you about portion control, how to grocery shop, cook and exerise. 

Phooey, enough already!!   I don't want to be a Negative Nellie on this subject but I believe most "diets" only work in the short term because of the reduction in calories.   And typically dieters tend to think of following a diet plan and losing weight as a short term-temporary plan and may eventually  revert to their old eating habits which will cause weight gain once again. 

I honestly think branded diets are overrated.  I visited Jenny Craig once about 20 years ago when I was desparately trying to find a "cure" for being overweight.  I ended up crying during my consultation with the counselor and saying to her " I know I can do better.  I use to weigh a lot less, I have to lose the weight."  Of course I took my  broke ass home and cried for days and continued to feel like a failure because I couldn't afford the program.  I couldn't figure out how to lose weight and keep it off. 

By March 2002, I was tired of being sick and tired and feeling sorry for myself.  And I realized that I had to take responsibility for my health and wellness.

Since then, I've lost a significant amount of weight and have kept it off for 10 years by trimming my portions, eating regular foods and  exercising.

The real deal is to find or develop an eating plan that will allow you to eat in a way that will keep the weight off for the rest of your life without starvation or deprivation and to incorporate some form of exercise on a regular basis.

Here's a brief synopsis of the steps that I took to create my personalized approach-program to losing weight.

Steps to Creating and Maintaining a Personalized Approach to Fitness and Nutrition

STEP ONE:   For 7-10 days observe your current eating habits. Do nothing to change your eating during this time. Keeping a food log will help you identify what your food triggers are: stress, boredom, anger, sadness, loneliness, depression etc.   Seek professional help if you need it.

STEP TWO:   Identify what foods you are willing to cut back on……no deprivation needed. For example if you typically have three candy bars per day, try eating two a day. Repeat this with all foods that YOU deem that you should. Begin rethinking about how you dine out, examine the menu and make the best choices you can-no deprivation.

STEP THREE: Begin eating breakfast. Have a breakfast bar, glass of juice, and an apple. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. You choose what to eat, choose something to get your system going in the morning.

STEP FOUR: Do some experimental cooking. Try baking your chicken instead of frying it……..have your toast without butter……..low calorie salad dressing instead of the regular.   Read magazines and books that focus on nutrition.   Educate yourself.

STEP FIVE: Try to eat smaller and more frequent meals. Instead of having three large meals, aim for six with two snacks. This takes some practice and can be obtained quickly by eating breakfast every morning. Eating when hungry and stopping when full.

STEP SIX:   Become a scientist and use all of the information that you have to decide how you are going to eat on a daily basis. In order to lose weight you must eat. Begin to develop an organized food plan. Give yourself a break every now and then. Have an evening out with family and friends and choose to eat the most fattening foods or it can be a candy bar every day. The point is you decide when and how often you have a meal or day off. Don’t punish yourself for having a day off.

 STEP SEVEN: Acknowledge that you are an individual and that no one can do the hard work for you. Technically, you can lose weight simply by reducing your daily calorie intake. But the truth is for long term weight loss success, EXERCISE and NUTRITION go hand in hand.

NEVER, EVER STARVE YOURSELF OR DEPRIVE YOURSELF. THE GOAL IS TO REEXAMINE HOW YOU ARE CURRENTLY EATING, PHASE OUT THE FOOD THAT YOU THINK IS NOT SO GOOD FOR YOU, BEGIN EATING EVERY COUPLE OF HOURS AND CONSUME SMALLER PORTIONS OF HEALTHIER FOODS.

PLEASE NOTE: When a person who has been dieting returns to her old eating habits, she tends to gain more weight as body fat and can end up having a higher percentage of body fat, even if she does not return to her previous body weight. Therefore it is better to slowly reduce food consumption and increase activity level and adopt habits that will lead to a change in OVERALL LIFESTYLE. Therefore the word DIET should perhaps be replaced with LIFESTYLE CHANGE to indicate that a commitment to change is made and will last for the rest of her life.

Health Hero Profile 5.28.12........One Day He Just Stopped Eating So Much~Gregg McBride

What is your age and where are you from?

I have lived all over the world. My father was in the Air Force, so we traveled quite a bit. I was born in Germany and have lived and visited places all around the globe (including India, Singapore and even the good ol’ U.S. of A.).

What was your beginning weight?

I made my debut weighing 8 pounds and 6 ounces (at birth). I started putting on excess weight in the first grade and continued to do so through and after college. My all time high was over 450 pounds (I don’t know how much over, as the scale I had at the time wouldn’t register any weight over 450 pounds and instead registered “ERR” for ‘Error’).

What is your current weight and how long have you maintained it?

I currently weigh around 175 pounds. I don’t weigh myself anymore. I put too much mental pressure on myself based on whatever number the scale was registering. So I judge whether I’m staying at my goal weight by how my clothes are fitting, my energy level, etc. I have maintained my weight loss for well over a decade.

What made you want to lose weight and exercise; was there something specific that happened or was it a combination of things?

I had a lot of “Low moments” while overweight (breaking a movie theater seat while on a date, having to ask for seat belt extensions on airplanes and having my scale register “ERR” for ‘Error,’ as mentioned earlier). But it wasn’t until a friend at work glibly suggested that I “Just stop eating so much” that something ‘clicked’ in my head and I began to not only take off the pounds, but also keep them off. (Up to this moment I’d been on diets my entire life and had some success, but would always end up cheating and gain back even more weight than I’d lost.)

What diets, supplements, and fitness programs have you tried in the past?

I’ve tried all the diets -- the group ones, the crazy ones, the fad ones and the wacky ones. You name it, I’ve tried it.

How'd you lose your weight?

The old fashioned way: Eating less, working out more. I also made sure I was drinking plenty of water as well as getting plenty of sleep. The moments I stopped trying to trick my body, my body responded in kind and I lost over 275 pounds.

Did you share your plans with other people? How did your family, friends and co-workers influence and support you?

I had a habit of always announcing my new diet (usually starting on a Monday morning) to anyone who would listen. But the time that I began the diet that took and kept all the excess weight off, I was more centered and quiet about. It wasn’t long before people noticed I was losing weight and that my clothes were looser, so they would then ask if I was dieting. I would tell them then. But up to that point, I told a precious few people, deciding this time I was going to do it, rather than just talk about it.

What were some of the challenges that you experienced on your weight loss journey?

There were all sorts of adventures along the way (or weigh, one might say). And certainly there were lots of challenges. I especially had a hard time with social occasions. I could be true to my diet at home, but once out at a party or restaurant, my will power ran low. For a while, I found it was easier to forego the social occasions and just stay true to my eating plan. There were friends who were appalled at this decision. But there were also friends who understood. After some mental struggle, I realized there was nothing wrong with doing what I had to do -- even if some people viewed it as extreme. I liken myself to a racing horse with blinders on. I set a goal and never lost focus of that goal.

If you have dieted in the past and regained the weight, what did you do differently this time?

I wasn’t trying anything wacky, fad-ish or crazy. I was eating healthy foods (from all food groups) and working out regularly. I was doing healthy things for my body, rather than potentially harmful things (like crash dieting, etc.).

In what ways has your life changed?

My life has changed in so many ways. For starters, I no longer run out of breath from just talking on the phone. I also don’t overeat to the point that I would have to lie in bed, holding my stomach, sweating and in terrible pain. But one of the biggest changes is my attitude. I realize that while overweight, I was a somewhat judgmental and even nasty person. I was so paranoid about others seeing my flaw (my huge belly), that I would immediately look for (or even assign) a flaw in them. After losing the weight, I became much more accepting of myself and (thankfully) of others. Looking back on my journey, I realize I’ve lost as much ‘mental weight’ as physical weight.

What are some moments-accomplishments that you are most proud of?

I remember being able to walk into The Gap (what I considered to be a “Normal sized persons store” at the time) and buying my first pair of normal-sized jeans. Up until then I’d been wearing a Size 60-inch waist pant. When I bought my first 42-inch waist pair of jeans, I swear I could hear the Hallelujah Chorus playing in the background.

What are your ultimate "must haves"///favorites: foods, fitness routines, music and training gear?

I make sure that my eating and exercise regimes are both balanced and done in moderation. I know that too much of the same thing (be it exercise or food) can lead to boredom. These days if I want some ice cream, I have some. (“Some” being the key word, as opposed to a whole carton or more, like I used to have.) I then make sure I don’t have ice cream for several days. I’ve learned to eat in a balanced way. But I never say, “Never.” In the past, thinking I had to totally cut out certain foods or food groups always led to bingeing as a way of rebellion.

Eating a balanced diet and exercise go hand in hand for permanent weight loss. What do you do for fitness-to stay in shape?

After years of yo-yo dieting, I have definitely weakened my metabolism. Thus I find I need to workout 7 days a week. Although it’s tough to get up around 4:30am every day of the week (I prefer to workout first thing in the morning), I know that I feel so good when my workout is complete. I always combine cardio with some weight lifting. And then I continue to do some light physical activity throughout the day (walking from the far end of a parking lot, taking the stairs instead of an elevator, etc.)

What motivates you to stick with your healthy lifestyle?

When I can wear my skinny jeans and not have to think about being in pain when I sit down (or putting an eye out if a button or snap were to pop off), I know I’m having a good day. I love being in shape, being healthy and being in control.

Do you have any positive quotes you'd like to share?

I have found that age-old saying to be true: “Nothing tastes as good as being thin feels.”

What words of advice can you give to someone who is struggling to lose weight and exercise?

To be kind to yourself, mentally. Too often us dieters bask ourselves (to others and even inside our own heads). Think about it: Whom would you want to help more? Someone you love? Or someone you hate. The answer is obvious, right? And yet as overweight people, we are very hard on ourselves and often belittle ourselves. Work on positive self-talk and encourage yourself. Love yourself in the moment. You are perfect in this moment. And you’ll be just as perfect after you meet your weight loss goals.

What are your best life lessons and the keys to your success?

Never give up. No matter how many times you’ve tried to diet and then given up in the past, this next time you try might just be the time you succeed. There’s no shame in trying again and again. You have the power inside you to succeed. If I can do it, anyone can do it. Surround yourself with pictures and words that inspire you, set your goals and then do what you need to in order to achieve them. The payoff is incredible -- and you’ll find that all the work will have been worth it.

And lastly, do you have any short term (3 months or less) and long term goals?

I usually don’t assign time limits to my goals, although I always have goals I’m working toward. These days, I work to enjoy the journey to the goals as much as the achievement. Life is about being in and living in the NOW. If we’re happy in this moment, anything and everything is possible.

 

Gregg's Blog: http://blog.juststopeatingsomuch.com/

Gregg on Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/gregg-mcbride

Gregg's Just Stop Eating So Much! Facebook Fan Page: https://www.facebook.com/juststopeatingsomuch

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Rosie's Note:   Gregg is an author, producer, blogger and motivator!  He's also profiled in Joy Bauer's latest release-  Joy Fit Club Book,  What I find incredible about Gregg is that he never gave up trying to lose weight, he has a terrific sense of humor and his light bulb moment was triggered by five simple words from a co-worker.  It was an absolute joy and blast meeting Gregg in April as a guest on the Today Show with Joy Bauer. Although our meeting was brief, we connected quickly and have been in touch ever since.  I firmly believe that the universe provided the opportunity for us to meet because there's a project that we will join forces and work on together.  We just don't know which one yet!!!!  Gregg, thank you for sharing your story and being a friend, RR.

Health Hero Profile 5.21.12........The Little Old Lady Rocks~ Gordon Miller

What is your age and where are you from?

71 ½. Born on Maui and lived In Hawaii until 25 years ago. Lived in Olympia ever since.

What was your beginning weight? 170 lbs.

What is your current weight and how long have you maintained it?
155 lbs. I’ve been working on it for at least 9 years. A very slow process. I had gotten down to 139 but surgery and illness put me on the couch and it crept up again. But am now back on track and losing again.


What made you want to lose weight and exercise; was there something specific that happened or was it a combination of things?
Grandchildren! Although I have always been active, my weight did not reflect it. My diet was the biggest culprit. When my grandchildren started to arrive I realized that I wanted to be around for a lot longer. So I started my journey in earnest and continue to challenge myself to get betterJ

What diets, supplements, and fitness programs have you tried in the past?
In my 30’s and 40’s I tried Slimfast products and a low carb diet. It worked mostly because I limited my calories. I was not that active at that time. I never took supplements except for calcium .

How'd you lose your weight?

Sparkpeople.com—a free website dedicated to helping people become healthier. I logged my food every day as well as my exercise. I tried to work out at least 3, then 5 times a week. Activity was key.


Did you share your plans with other people? How did your family, friends and co-workers influence and support you?
I did share with a few people, but if they were not on the same track they often would sabotage my efforts. I am happy to say, however, that most of my family is now living more healthily and actively and so it is easier to stay on track. I also found friends to bike with and joined a gym close to the house so that during the winter months, especially, I could get both my physical and social needs met.


What were some of the challenges that you experienced on your weight loss journey?
One of my biggest challenges is overcoming the debilitating depression that takes over my life sometimes. It becomes hard to move or get motivated. I also crave carbs during these challenges so my diet takes a hit. If I can get myself out the door, it makes a huge difference.


If you have dieted in the past and regained the weight, what did you do differently this time?
This time I don’t let setbacks keep discouraging me from getting up and trying again. The key for me is just getting out the door to exercise, even if it is just a walk around the block. The more I move, the healthier my appetite is. Just weird. I crave healthy foods when I work out. I keep a bike jersey hanging where I can see it to motivate myself. Someday I will look awesome in it!

In what ways has your life changed?
I’m happier and able to do more things that I enjoy. I am able to motivate others to pursue healthier activities also. I have more outlets for exercise and friendship.

What are some moments-accomplishments that you are most proud of?
An 80 mile bike ride a few years ago. It started with about 20 miles of constant hills. Someday I’ll do it again. Climbing a hard hike that I had not finished in a previous attempt and making it to the top. Every time I top a hill on my bikeJ


What are your ultimate "must haves"///favorites: foods, fitness routines, music and training gear?
First and foremost: A good fast bike!! Good equipment for whatever activity I am engaged in. Hiking and running shoes. Rain gear, etc. I keep a log of my running and biking miles and routes. I have also begun to use a heart rate monitor to give me a more accurate calorie count for my exercise. Eye opening!! I don’t use music when I am outdoors so that I can remain aware of my surroundings. Plus, I like the sounds of the world around me and it gives me time to think.


Eating a balanced diet and exercise go hand in hand for permanent weight loss. What do you do for fitness-to stay in shape?
I look for as many opportunities to be active as possible. I bike (my first love), I hike when I can, and I have just started “running”. I belong to a gym and take advantage of the classes –body pump and spinning are the most frequent—and equipment they offer.

What motivates you to stick with your healthy lifestyle?
I LOVE to be outdoors so any activity that takes me outside motivates me. Although I do make use of the gym on the days when it is nasty outside, it’s the thought of being able to be strong when I bike or hike that keeps me moving. I also feel so much better when I exercise. It makes me smile just thinking about it.


Do you have any positive quotes you'd like to share?
My personal favorite when seeing a hill loom in front of me as I’m biking is: I have never met a hill I can’t walk up. I guess you could transpose that to many other challenges too.


What words of advice can you give to someone who is struggling to lose weight and exercise?
Just start. Find supportive people and exercise you enjoy. Log that food!! That was an eye opener for me. Even when you don’t feel like it, tell yourself that you can do just 10 minutes of a stroll through the neighborhood. You will be surprised at how far that “stroll” will take you. Accept where you are right now and love yourself. And one thing I learned from Guerilla Running: “No trash talking, even to yourself. “ A positive attitude is miraculous.


What are your best life lessons and the keys to your success?
Sadly, I don’t see myself as successful yet. That’s my honest answer. I’d like to sugar coat it but then it wouldn’t be useful, would it? However, I don’t let that stop me from moving forward and working on positive changes.


And lastly, do you have any short term (3 months or less) and long term goals?
My short term goals: bike 100 miles, lose 5 pounds, find a way to get organization back into my routine. Sigh.
Long term: Hmmmm. Live healthily and actively until I’m over 100. Learn to love myself.


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Rosie's Note:  I met Ms. Gordon at a Diva event last year and she is absolutely incredible and I consider her a true hero and role model.  She lives an active lifestyle, is positive and can bike like it's nobody's business.  We did a biking event together last June and the first question she asked me how many miles could I cover per hour.......huuuhh??  Not a question I was expecting and was at a lost for words....... she had my full attention.  Ms. Gordon is a runner, avid-elite.......heck competitive biker with a good spirit.   Thank you for
showing us all how to get the job done and for reminding us that age is really
just a number and we that we should not use it as an excuse for not being active.  Little Old Lady Who Rocks, you are bad to the bone, xoxo  RR 

p.s.  This month  Ms. Gordon raced in The Rainbow Run.  And she will be running in the Moon Run in July  and biking in the Twin County Bike Ride in June!!!!  Whooty Whoot and tooty toot for you girlfriend!!!
 

Health Hero Profile 5.14.12..... From Eat, Eat, Eat to Elite and Petite ~Lisa Wrobel

What is your age and where are you from?

45 years old. Born in August of 1966. Live in Apache Junction, Arizona. Spent most of my life in the mountains of Southern California.

What was your beginning weight?

My known beginning weight was 340. I have a feeling I had been higher than that, but I rarely got on the scale, basically because I didn’t have one that would read that high and I was never sick so I wasn’t going to the doctor.

What is your current weight and how long have you maintained it?

My current weight is 140. I had gotten as low as 132, but my current trainer determined that I was not eating enough for how I was working out, so we changed my nutrition plan. When my weight went up to the 140’s he had to convince me that apparently that weight is where I needed to be for the level I was performing at in the gym. I have been at this weight since February of 2011.

What made you want to lose weight and exercise; was there something specific that happened or was it a combination of things?

On Christmas Eve of 2007, I was told I had uterine cancer. On Jan. 2, 2008, I saw an gynecologic oncologist who told me that he recommended having a total hysterectomy, but he didn’t want to perform the surgery if he didn’t have to because of the risks involved with my weight. He tried hormone therapy first, hoping to bring the condition back to hyperplasia. It didn’t work. I had decided that if surgery was going to get the cancer out of my body, I was going to do whatever I needed to to have that surgery. That meant losing weight. I had the surgery after I had dropped 60 pounds. I am happy to say that I have been cancer-free for four years.

What diets, supplements, and fitness programs have you tried in the past?

When I was younger, I tried the Weight Watchers program, but never attended the meetings. I also tried Richard Simmons’ Deal-a-Meal plan and some other program I saw on television that based what you eat on your body shape. They worked for a while, then I lost interest.


How'd you lose your weight?

I have an apparent addiction to chocolate, so the first thing I did was make a New Year's resolution to not eat chocolate. I went four years without having any :)I also started by cutting back on fat and calories, cut my meal portions, stopped eating out and I started walking, walking, walking…every day. I read Dr. Oz’s book “You On A Diet,“ which gave me a good foundation of nutritional knowledge and the motivation to get out and walk every day. Once my fitness level rose a little, I joined Curves. When I had lost 110 pounds, I hit a plateau and found that I had maxed out at Curves, so I joined a full-service gym. It was there where I was approached by a personal trainer…one awesome human being…who shook up my nutrition plan (five meals instead of three, paying more attention to carb/protein combinations and amounts). Once the weight started coming off again, I started taking the boot camp classes at the gym. That is when my fitness level really took off. I then started running.

Did you share your plans with other people? How did your family, friends and co-workers influence and support you?



Absolutely!! I let everybody know. And everybody was awesome! Co-workers who used to eat out every day at lunch, stopped asking me to join them. My supervisor started bringing healthy food to our staff meetings. My friends would join me at the gym. My family was very supportive as well. At the time my sister, my mother and I all lived together and we would alternated preparing dinner for each other during the week. They changed up what they would cook to something they knew I could have. Family visiting from out of town would either go out and get their food and allow me to each my health stuff that I prepared at home without making me feel guilty or they would ask, “where can you get something to eat from” and we would go there. Church members also checked in with me and cheered me along the way. And my trainers (my Godsends) took more of an interest in me than was professionally expected of them.


What were some of the challenges that you experienced on your weight loss journey?

Once I started, I really didn’t have any challenges until I hit 110 pounds lost. The weight was coming off fairly easily and I was excited by the way I felt physically. But then I hit my plateau, one that ended up lasting eight months. It would have been easy to give up at that point, but you know what? Giving up never entered my mind. My support system wouldn’t have let me anyway!


If you have dieted in the past and regained the weight, what did you do differently this time?

In the past, when I dieted, I was not ready to make a change for the rest of my life. I loved to eat. I wanted to be able to eat what everybody else was eating. It made me feel isolated. It was hard work. And, I don’t think anybody took me seriously. And, I didn’t have the kind of support I did this time.

This time, I went into it with a different goal. My goal in the past had been to lose “X amount” of weight. When I didn’t reach that goal, I became discouraged and so the next time I dieted, in the back of my mind, I didn’t really think I could do it. This time I didn’t set a number goal. My goal was to drop enough weight to have a safe surgery. Once I had the surgery, I realized that I felt good about what I was doing and I wanted to keep that feeling going. Since I was being successful at losing the weight and I was able to do more things, it motivated me to keep going.

Along the way, I kept telling myself that I would be happy if I could get to 250 pounds (a 90-pound drop). When I got there it was that I would be happy if I could just see the 100’s again. Then it was wearing an XL shirt instead of a 4x. The more successful I was, the more I wanted. I never dreamed I would ever get to this weight. I now weigh less that I did when I graduated from high school, where I was an athlete.

Finally, my support system would not have let me quit! And I didn’t want to let them down. It was almost like people started feeling like my success was their success. The trainers that I worked with at the gym, including those that taught the boot camp, had my back. They went above and beyond what was expected. Several are now among my best friends and are still there for me mentally and emotionally, even though they have no financial obligation. A good support system is critical!!!

In what ways has your life changed?

I am much more confident in myself, which led to me going for and receiving a better position at my work. I am looked up to by others (even though I am only 5’0” tall). I no longer sit on the sidelines, I am the one friends and family go to watch compete. I am enjoying life!

What are some moments-accomplishments that you are most proud of?

Oddly, one of my proudest moments was the day that I finally believed in myself enough to do a single box jump. I had to convince my mind that I could leave the ground with both feet and land on a platform. Once I did that, there was not stopping me!

I have competed in several obstacle course 5-10K’s, which included overcoming some fears (being in a tunnel underground). I live for those obstacle courses now.

But probably my greatest accomplishment was running miles 11-13.1 of a half marathon. I ran the rest of it too, but once I hit mile 11 all I wanted to do was stop and sit down. It was no longer fun. But, I was not going to give up! This was a moment where I had to dig deep and find an inner strength. I don’t enjoy running long distances. And while others kept telling me that it would be okay to walk during the race if I needed to, it wasn’t okay with me. My goal was to RUN ever step of that race, and I did! I am proud of myself because I trained myself for that race. I was the one responsible for lacing up my shoes and getting out there and training. There was nobody to account to. I had to motivate myself and make myself believe that I could do it. It was HARD! There were many times while I was running during training that I questioned why I was doing it. My legs were tired, the arthritis in my knee hurt, and like I said, I don’t really enjoy running. It is a very lonely sport. Well, at least training for races is lonely. But, I overcame all of that negativity and did it.

What are your ultimate "must haves"///favorites: foods, fitness routines, music and training gear?

My only must have is related to my fitness routine itself. I still have a personal trainer, Andrew at Alpha Elite Training, and I won't give him up. But, more than needing him to push me physically, which he does a heck of a job of, I lean on him for the mental and emotional support I often need as a result of being a different person now. That mental and emotional support is a critical component to weight loss.

Eating a balanced diet and exercise go hand in hand for permanent weight loss. What do you do for fitness-to stay in shape?

I attend a boot camp at a trainer’s apartment complex three times a week. I attend personal training sessions at least once a week. I run once or twice a week. I bike, hike, swim, occasionally do yoga, and anything else to keep me moving. I live to exercise now.

What motivates you to stick with your healthy lifestyle?

I love my life now. I missed out on so many opportunities as a result of my weight. I wouldn’t go back to the other lifestyle for anything.

Do you have any positive quotes you'd like to share?

“Excuses are the nails used to build a house of failure.”  ~Don Wilder and Bill Rechin

“Nothing is impossible. The word itself says 'I'm possible'!” ~Audrey Hepburn

What words of advice can you give to someone who is struggling to lose weight and exercise?

You have to believe that you are worth it! You have to believe that you are worth any sacrifice you make in order to gain control of your life. Find an activity you enjoy and do it. And, don’t get caught up in the numbers on the scale. Do not get into the habit of weighing yourself all the time. Scale addiction can be an ugly thing and it can definitely cause doubt and discouragement. The numbers on the scale are just that, numbers. They don’t define you. Instead, judge how you are doing by your increased fitness level, your shrinking measurements, how you feel, etc.

What are your best life lessons and the keys to your success?

Stay positive! Stay focused! Stay Motivated! Believe in yourself! Surround yourself with positive people!

And lastly, do you have any short term (3 months or less) and long term goals?

Short-term goals: do my first pull up, learn to do double unders, take the exam to be a certified personal trainer, publish my book about my journey.

Long-term goals: hike the Grand Canyon rim to rim (after the heat of the summer), compete in a triathlon.

Check out www.theteamelite.com to find out more about Lisa's trainer and facility

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Rosie's Note:  I loved reading Lisa's profile because I kept thinking "you go girl".  Lisa is a magnificent example of someone who didn't let her life circumstances get in her way and used them to get back on track and is now living a healthy life.  She is a victorious cancer survivor with a new lease on life.  Lisa, you are a force to be reckoned with girlfriend, way to go on having community support and a trainer!!  Thank you for sharing your incredible story and I know that you will inspire folks who read it!  Be well and keep us posted on your journey and adventures.