Getting Back on Track With MOVE!
Jeffrey Murphy worked to reach and maintain a healthy weight by making realistic, lasting changes to his lifestyle.
Jeffrey was able to develop a new, healthy routine with support from the MOVE! team at the Clement J. Zablocki Veterans’ Administration Medical Center in Milwaukee, WI.
A Desire to Change
Jeffrey shares that his struggles maintaining a healthy weight started several years ago with new prescription medications. With weight gain as one of the side effects of these medications, and dealing other health issues, Jeffrey had trouble keeping his weight in a healthy range. He explains that gaining weight contributed to a general lack of energy and lower self-esteem. "[I] wanted and needed to make a change," he recalls, so when his provider recommended the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans, Jeffrey was determined to make the best of that opportunity.
Do it! [MOVE!] will be rewarding.
Jeffrey Murphy
Drawing Strength From Support
For Jeffrey, an important part of MOVE! in addition to the structure the program provided was the support he received from his friends, family, and MOVE! team. In particular, Jeffrey thanks his dietitian, Aaron Feest, who offered him essential encouragement and advice throughout his time participating in MOVE! On his way to developing a healthier lifestyle, Jeffrey learned new strategies, such as being mindful about the foods and beverages he consumed, managing his portion sizes, and using a journal to keep track of his meals and his physical activity. He also began to increase his physical activity by adding regular walks to his routine.
Better Health Makes the Difference
"My life is better with the weight loss," Jeffrey shares. In addition to the physical benefits of his new lifestyle, Jeffrey explains that his mindset has improved, and he has more energy overall. Seeing his progress, reaching milestones, receiving positive feedback and support from others, and positive affirmations helped to keep him motivated and on track. He is determined to maintain the positive changes he has made thus far and continue following his new, healthy lifestyle.
