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Health Brings Happiness
A nurse sees weight loss benefiting more than her looks.
As a licensed practical nurse (LPN), Brenda was daily instructing
people how to be healthy when she was overweight herself. Now, she’s
leading by example.
About a year and a half ago, Brenda was out shopping for a new suit.
Unable to fit comfortably in her normal size 24, Brenda was asked to try
a larger size. Refusing to buy the suit and add one larger size to her
closet, Brenda became determined to take charge of her weight.
Overcoming the Past
Brenda comes from a family line of high blood pressure and death by
heart attack and stroke. Knowing that she was prone to these same health
issues, Brenda went for weight loss help to the American Heart
Association’s Search Your Heart program, funded by United Way of the
Plains.
Search Your Heart is a program targeted towards African-Americans and
Hispanics/Latinos. Statistics show these two groups have a higher risk
for cardiovascular disease than Caucasians and are less aware of their
risk factors. This program is available across the country in over
15,000 churches and has reached over 1.5 million at-risk participants,
such as Brenda.
A Nurse Still Learning
Brenda read about the facts and recommendations available to her
through the program.
"Even though I’m a nurse, I learned so much from the program," said
Brenda.
Brenda had struggled with weight loss before – trying weight-loss
programs, pills, acupuncture, and workout videos.
"I’ve spent a lot of money trying everything and nothing worked,"
said Brenda. "Until you decide in your mind to change, nothing will
work."
Daily Choosing Health
Brenda has lost 65 pounds since starting the program by making simple
choices and substitutions in her food and adding exercise.
"It’s a daily thing," said Brenda. "If you’re going to do it, you
have to do it for the rest of your life."
The weight loss has helped Brenda in countless ways. Her family has
become more health conscious, her cholesterol has dropped significantly,
and she has more confidence.
"It wasn’t easy, but it’s getting easier," said Brenda. "I just feel
better and I’m proud of myself."
Article by Stacy Gramza
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