I have a dear friend who has completely changed her health picture over the last six months. I’m amazed by her and so proud of what she’s done.
I feel that her story is worth sharing. I hope it will encourage you to make healthy changes and take control your life.
Char’s Story:
I had always had a “normal” blood pressure reading of 120/80 until last Thanksgiving when I visited the doctor and we discovered that it was 180/120. For those of you who have not experienced this reading, be thankful. It is stage 3 hypertension and the reading is in “stroke range”!
There were no major symptoms that jumped out at me at the time, but looking back I recall experiencing frequent headaches and dizziness at times. The doctor was obviously concerned, and immediately insisted that I begin taking blood pressure medicine.
I left the doctor’s office feeling totally humiliated and ashamed that I had allowed this to happen. I knew that I had a choice: continue the path I was on and spend the remainder of my life dependent upon others for my health, or take responsibility and choose to take “the road less traveled.”
I chose the latter. I also knew that this was not a battle in which I would be able to engage alone. First, I confessed my failure to God and asked His forgiveness; that was the easy part.
Next I knew that I needed someone to help me, and who would hold me accountable. I called Lisa Graham. I cannot thank her enough for her compassion and wisdom that she shared so graciously with me.
After answering a few questions, I received a “sample menu” and 30 minute/day exercise routine from Lisa. I would receive regular emails and see her on the weekends as well to remain accountable. I clung to her suggestions as my lifeline and refused for months to deviate at all from what she had suggested. (The exercise was a bit more difficult for me, but eventually I was able to engage willingly and I am now an avid walker!)
Today, my blood pressure is down to 135/85 and I feel great. I have lost 73 pounds and have 32 more to lose to reach my goal weight. I am learning that while it is okay to engage in a “planned splurge” there are still consequences. I have finally reached the point where the price of the spurge is usually higher than I am willing to pay, and it is much easier to resist the
temptation to indulge.
One of the greatest joys for me is that I realize that for the first time in my life, I actually like me. I am no longer trapped inside a body that I hides who I am. I finally feel free to sincerely care about others around me.
