
Taking Steps for Better Health
Brian Macdonald worked with the MOVE! team at the VA Southern Nevada Healthcare System in Las Vegas, NV, to build a path forward that allowed him to pursue his health and weight goals.
One Step Forward, Two Steps Back
In the past, Brian had tried several strategies to lose weight. He recalls "dieting" in the early days of his weight loss journey but explains that he would always lose a few pounds and regain them back. This back-and-forth cycle of restricting himself to certain foods led to short-term results not only in terms of weight but also happiness and confidence. At a visit to his VA provider, he saw a pamphlet for the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans. He initially thought that MOVE! was only about incorporating a specific diet to lose weight, but after meeting with his MOVE! dietitian, he understood the program’s emphasis on weight management through lifestyle and behavior changes.
Losing weight will make you feel better… It changes everything.
Brian Macdonald

Having a Growth Mindset
When Brian enrolled in the MOVE! Program in 2017, he already had a goal in mind. It was essential to him that he live long enough to see and play with his grandchildren. Brian knew that he needed to be "serious" and "stubborn" to reach his goal and stay committed to the program. He acknowledges that his MOVE! dietitian was very supportive in his weight loss journey. The dietitian recommended that he start exercising little by little, suggesting that he begin with lifting cans of soup while watching television. Despite his doubts, Brian continued to incorporate different light physical activities at home and outside, and expressed his excitement when he noticed an increase in strength. Brian also shares that being able to track his food intake and physical activity on his phone helped him see his steady progress. Brian began to recognize the impact of his changes and the positive health outcomes that resulted.
A Little Goes a Long Way
Brian experienced some setbacks along with his progress, but he was able to remain resilient and determined throughout his weight loss journey. He recalls an earlier time when his daily goal was 1,000 steps, but now, he reaches between 5,000 and 10,000 steps a day. Aside from losing weight and achieving his goal of playing with his grandchildren, Brian is much happier now, gets 8 hours of sleep every day, and his recent lab results have been "fantastic." Brian highlights that his motivation to improve his health by losing weight stemmed from acknowledging his struggles and celebrating the small steps or little victories and using them as incentive to continue working toward his goals. Brian thanks his family, his provider, and his MOVE! team for having a great impact on his life even years after his MOVE! graduation.