Dwayne 100lbs ~ A Successful Weight Loss Story

Two years ago I was working in New York (overweight) when I received a call from my doctor in the middle of my day, stating he was going to put me on a cholesterol medication named Lipitor because my levels had risen to 252. To add fuel to the fire my weight had jumped up to over 315lbs along with my blood pressure being out of control. Basically, to make a long story short I was in pretty bad shape. At 32 years old, life had taken a progressively bad turn. What was more disturbing is that I am a Registered Nurse who is supposed to be an example of a healthy lifestyle but at this point I had contradicted this concept.

Growing up I had struggled with my weight, but what I realize now is that I had a very overpowering addiction to food. This addiction carried over into my adult years and got worse over time. At one time, I was able to lose a significant amount of weight while in college because of competing in Athletics (Judo and Taekwondo). My physical activity combined with my youth assisted with my initial weight loss, but when you are going up against time it always catches up. Thus, I found myself a working adult who was still able to engage in a physical workout regimen, but had horrific eating habits (especially after Midnight!!). So here I was engaging in a mental game and thinking that as long as I workout and eat what I think is a “healthy diet” I would be okay. I also believed that even if I am “big” at least I could move and be active.

Well at 33 years old at the time, my body was telling something else. Along with myself, my wife was also struggling with her own health and weight issues and was desperately seeking answers to rid ourselves of these problems. Since we were new to the state of Connecticut and unaware of the resources available to help with our issues, my wife began to do some research. My wife, being the internet GURU, was able to find Connecticut Weight and Wellness (while looking for Dietitian). I, at the time, was still insistent that exercise alone was my savior. After attending an information session at CWW, my wife came to me with the idea of joining this program together. Upon looking into what this program was all about, I was sold on the idea of trying this venture together. So on February 5, 2007 we made a decision that would change our lives for good. At this point in time I have lost 100lbs in six months and most important I have reclaimed my health as well as my life. I am no longer on cholesterol medication and I am slowly weaning off my blood pressure medications. My energy level is as good as it has ever been just like it was when I was in college.

Since joining Connecticut Weight and Wellness I have developed better nutritional habits and a sound exercise program. The experience has allowed me to change my initial mindset and make positive lifestyle changes. As a result, I exercise smarter and make informed nutritional decisions. The staff at Connecticut Weight and Wellness (in particular “Jackie”) has been supportive during the entire weight loss process, including the maintenance phase.