My L A Weight Loss Diary

Daily musings for and about real women and men who are reshaping their bodies and their lives on the LA Weight Loss program. To become one of our bloggers, write to Blogger@myLAweightlossdiary.com

Wednesday, July 11, 2007

Oklahoma mom nurses herself back to health

Nurses know what's best for their patients. They can make them feel better when they're sick, and show them how to stay healthy. But what if nurses don't follow their own advice?

Take Gwen Rose, a home care and hospice nurse. She never had weight issues until she started packing on the pounds during her three pregnancies. She traveled in the car every day to patients' houses, and usually stopped for a fast food meal along the way.

Gwen knew she was leading an unhealthy lifestyle. At 230 pounds, she didn't have any energy to play with her children. She worried about the heart disease that ran in her family. But her registered nurse title gave her a false sense of security, so the bad habits stayed.

The deciding moment: when Gwen was put on anti-depressants and medication for heart palpitations. She knew she had to get serious about weight loss -- or become one of those unhealthy patients.

Gwen had tried a number of diets over the years with no success. So her expectations were low when she signed up at the Sherman, Texas, L A Weight Loss center in April 2006.

But she worked diligently with her personal counselor to fashion a diet right for her. She traded in her fast food and sugary soda habits for lean meats, fresh fruits and vegetables, and a lot of water.

Gwen also learned that eating many small meals throughout the day and following portion control is what it takes to lose weight -- and keep it off.

The results blew her away!! Since starting her L A Weight Loss program, Gwen has shed a remarkable 92 pounds. And the difference has changed her life. She is now off all medications.

Plus, she has the energy to play with her children, spend days swimming and relaxing at the lake, and exercise -- one of Gwen's favorite new hobbies.

Even better, her self-confidence is at an all-time high! She loves going out with her friends, and has recently re-entered the dating world. The constant compliments Gwen receives surprise and encourage her.

With her weight back on track and a body that looks great, Gwen is one nurse who truly knows the definition of health. Way to go, Gwen!!!

Here's Nurse Gwen looking not-so-healthy at 230 pounds:



Here she is fit, fabulous, and ready for the dating world! Wowza!



FAST FACTS

Name: Gwen Rose
Hometown: Kingston, Okla.
Age: 37
Height: 5'3"

Starting weight: 230 pounds
Goal weight: 138 pounds
Current weight: 138 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Favorite food: Grilled chicken salad.

Biggest temptation: Anything doughy like bread, rolls, cinnamon rolls, or cookies.

Biggest motivator: Loving the way she looks.

Biggest obstacle: Giving in to her starchy temptations.

Old eating philosophy: Grabbing whatever foods were most convenient, including fast food and junk.

New eating philosophy: Eating healthy, low-fat foods.

Best thing about losing weight: Having more energy, more fun, and more new clothes!

Best weight loss secret learned: If you eat every two to three hours, you get your metabolism going, and you don't get hungry.

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