The Path to Better Health
James Rebman worked to manage his weight and improve his health, allowing him to participate in a very special event.
James built a new, healthy lifestyle with the help of the MOVE! team at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in North Little Rock, AR, and quickly reaped the benefits of better health.
Changing for the Better
James explains that while maintaining a healthy weight has been a challenge for many years, as he aged, doing so became more difficult. Facing health problems that were worsened by his weight, such as chronic pain, James was resolved to make a change for the better. His VA provider referred him to a dietitian to learn more about the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans, and James chose to enroll in MOVE! group sessions to have the camaraderie and support of other Veterans.
"You get out what you put in."
James Rebman
First Steps With MOVE!
James appreciated the MOVE! program’s emphasis on small, manageable changes to help him work toward big results. He described his MOVE! facilitator as relatable and down to earth, as well as motivating and uplifting when things were not going so well. Among the tips and strategies that James learned were those for healthy eating, such as reading food labels, measuring portions, and adding more vegetables to his meals. In addition to being more mindful when eating, James gradually increased his physical activity, walking several days each week. During this process, James was encouraged and motivated by the support of his MOVE! team, other Veterans, and his friends at home.
Hitting the Road
Since enrolling in MOVE!, James has lost 60 pounds and continues to set new goals. His overall health and self-confidence have improved too. As a result, he now looks forward to enjoying time out with friends. Most of all, James appreciates his new lifestyle as it allowed him to participate in the Team Red, White & Blue Old Glory Relay, where Veterans from around the country come together to escort the American flag from Seattle, WA to Atlanta, GA. Without MOVE!, he explains, he would never have been able to be a part of this special event.
