Goldwing
I am a 42 year old professional. Married for 16 years to the love of my life and my biggest supporter - Cheryl. We enjoy riding our Goldwings (even if hers is a trike – I still let her tag along!) Some of my other hobbies include travel, bowling and spending time with my family (especially the other loves of my life – my nieces… Sarah and Hannah.)
My story starts out very similar to so many others… been overweight my whole life. Also similar to others, I’ve tried many diets (Atkins, Slimfast, Weight loss Medication) the one program that worked best for me (until I was banded of course) was in the late ‘90’s, it was a hospital sponsored program called Bene-FIT. I lost a total of 70 pounds. The program consisted of counting calories/food logs, increased exercise, weekly meetings with a nutritionist and weighing in often. This was explained as a not being a diet, but rather a ‘lifestyle change’. All those things seemed so simple to say – yet so difficult to do! After a job change and other personal goings-on, I gained the 70 pounds back, plus some.
Mid-February 2007 I was ready for yet another ‘lifestyle change’ and that was to pursue the Lap-Band procedure. After researching insurance options and acquiring my latest co-morbidity (sleep apnea), I decided to attend an informational seminar at MMPC in Grand Rapids. After attending the seminar, I knew this was a decision I had to make if I intended to make the best of my life. Dr. Baker, his staff, my insurance Nurse Advocate and all the staff at Blodgett Hospital are top notch in my book!
I’m looking forward to the journey ahead and am confident that this is a change for the better and something I’ll be able to integrate into my lifestyle once and for all!
