Anita's Journey to Fit Chick

In 2006 I weighed over 250 pounds. I had diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and triglycerides. My diabetes was out of control. I was tired all the time. I was depressed. I didn’t exercise and my diet was full of too much fat, carbohydrates and calories. I was 43 years old and I was killing myself.

I used all the excuses in the world not to exercise. I was too tired. I didn’t have time. I couldn’t exercise in the morning. I couldn’t exercise in the evening. I didn’t want to exercise by myself and the best one, I was too overweight. Actually, I was afraid to exercise for fear of passing out or having a heart attack because I was so overweight.
Diabetes runs in my family. My paternal grandmother had it and so did my father. I saw my father die too soon because of this disease, so I knew I had to start taking control and change what I was doing to myself.

In the fall of 2006, when my daughter started back to school, she entered the 9th grade academy. The school was right beside the health department where I was working. She wanted to be at school at 7:30 a.m. and since I didn’t have to be at work until 8:00 a.m., I would drop her off at school and walk around the parking lot. I started off slow walking about 15 or 20 minutes at first. Over time, I gradually increased the length of time and distance of my walking.

I also changed my eating habits. I began to eat less fat, carbohydrates and overall calories and in addition, I started eating several, smaller meals a day. A little later, I sought the care of a diabetes specialist who got me on the right combination of medicines to get my diabetes under control.
Today, I am happy to report that I have lost over 100 pounds! My A1C (test for blood glucose) is in the normal range. My blood pressure is great and my cholesterol and triglycerides are in the normal range without medication!

During the week, I walk over seven miles each day and four miles on each weekend day. Typically, I walk for an hour in the morning before I get ready for work, and then walk an hour and twenty minutes after work. I love walking! Walking is what “I do” now. I walk in the rain, snow, hail, wind, cold and heat. I very, very rarely miss a day. I am passionate about trying to stay as healthy and fit as I can and I think my family and co- workers are proud of my commitment.

Everything I have done and continue to do can be done by anyone. You just have to get started, be committed to doing it and sticking with it. I hope my story can inspire someone to take control of their health. It takes work and time but it is well worth it!

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