My personal journey on THWN program has not been unique. I was, like
many who have put on weight over a period of many years, suddenly
finding myself a bit slower in my walking, or a little more tired at
the end of each day. My weight reduction efforts were not successful,
at least not for long.

I had a history of heart disease in my family. Mild high blood
pressure and higher cholesterol readings had been the norm for some
time. I had a right Carotid Endarterectomy in 2010. My vascular
surgeon commented after my surgery that I was obese! I was surprised,
but we agreed that I should lose weight. Over the next 5 plus years, I
bounced between 200 and 190. But, again, there was no real change in
my diet.

In the summer of 2016, my new cardiologist, Dr. Jonathan Yager,
encouraged me to get serious about losing weight, and asked me to
consider the THWN program. After much soul searching and encouragement
from my wife and family, I went to the presentation, and made the
commitment to take the challenge.

On September 9, 2016, I weighed in with my coach, Stephy, at
200.2 lbs. My original target weight was 170.0 lbs. On November 2, 2016 my
weight was 171.2 lbs. My wife and I departed for our home in Florida,
and I agreed that I would “call in” for our appointments while we
were away. Dr Yager and Stephy both agreed I should reduce the target
weight to 165.0 lbs, to get my BMI in the 25 range. That was my college
weight in 1964. I returned to Virginia for the December 7, 2016
appointment, and hit the target weight of 165.0 lbs. Victory!!

Stephy and I continued to talk on the phone while my wife and I were
in Florida throughout the winter. In April, I weighed in again
at 165.8 lbs. I continued to check in for weigh-ins and
updates every 2 or 3 months. I am still doing well with the target
weight we agreed upon almost one year ago.

As I reflect on this journey, what do I feel were the keys?

1. Any weight loss program requires a total commitment. THWN is no
different. Following the program “exactly" as prescribed is required to achieve
the results. There are no shortcuts. No cheating is allowed to obtain
the results that are promised.

2. It took time to become confident in knowing I could manage my food
intake to “stay” in the target range. Initially going up 2 or 3 lbs
was scary. But, recording my food daily, either in an app or just on
paper, allowed me to see patterns and make adjustments to get back on
track.

3. Developing a relationship with a coach is critical. I counted on my
Coach. I plan to check in with Stephy as long as I can. That
relationship has been positive in my personal journey. I feel great.
I’m healthier. I’ve eliminated some medication altogether, and reduced
others. I work out more, and I’ve learned to eat healthy.

As the tee shirts I wear these days say: “Life is Good.” It is good indeed!

Sincerely,
BG