The Power to Overcome
John Gray faced numerous challenges in his efforts to reach a healthy weight, but his determination and commitment helped him achieve success.
John worked with the MOVE! team at the Kansas City VA Medical Center in Kansas City, MO to change his lifestyle habits and accomplish his goals.
A Series of Struggles
John shares that began to have trouble maintaining a healthy weight in 2005, when he sustained a significant injury that resulted in a visual impairment. His weight began to increase rapidly, and after struggling to lose weight on his own, John underwent weight loss surgery in 2012. This led to great success in managing his weight, but after being diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2015 and undergoing another surgery, John permanently lost his vision. It was at this point that he turned to food for comfort.
The MOVE! Program is a major asset in living an extremely healthy and functional life!
John Gray
Taking Steps to Change
In October of 2021, John reached out to the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans team at the Kansas City VA Medical Center. After starting the program, John learned techniques and strategies to make small, healthy changes to his lifestyle that resulted in great health benefits. He started a food and exercise journal and sent his daily entries to his MOVE! dietitian for feedback and encouragement. John shares that his spouse is essential in supporting his efforts and helping him maintain healthy portion sizes.
Signs of Progress
John has participated in MOVE! for nearly a year and has lost a total of 72 pounds! John shares that since finding his success, "my life is fantastic!" Thanks to his new lifestyle, John has been able to travel with his wife and attend his granddaughter's college graduation. His weight loss has also had a positive effect on his general health, as he has been able to eliminate some of his medications.
