Deciding to Commit to Change
Despite initial misgivings, Marc Smith dedicated himself to developing healthier habits with the support of the MOVE! team at the Ralph H. Johnson Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Charleston, SC.
A New Start
When Marc first started the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans, he did so reluctantly. "During my first meeting," he recalls, "I mentioned that the reason I was doing this was because I wanted to feel better about myself." Marc also wanted to make a change for his wife, who was worried about his health. In addition to his immediate health concerns, Marc really wanted to start riding roller coasters again!
Try it! You won’t be disappointed.
Marc Smith
Learning Together
Participating in MOVE! group sessions, Marc learned new techniques and strategies to support his weight loss goals. He combined healthy habits like mindful eating and meal tracking with increasing his physical activity to create his road map to success. Additionally, Marc credits the support and encouragement of other Veterans in his group for helping him progress toward his goals. His wife and MOVE! team also provided motivation to keep Marc on his journey to better health.
Reaping the Benefits
Since starting MOVE!, Marc has lost 30 pounds and lowered his blood sugar level. In addition to these powerful health benefits, he has also experienced other positive changes in his life. "I feel better about myself," he reports, "and I am halfway to my weight loss goal. I see a longer, more active life ahead of me." Marc continues to participate in MOVE! and implement the healthy habits that have led to his progress, and with the added boost of weight loss medication, he will keep working toward his longer-term goals.
