The Power of Choice
Alan Soper knew that transforming his life and improving his health depended on learning what choices he could make to achieve his goals. With the guidance of the MOVE! team at the VA Clinic in Viera, FL, he embarked on a life-changing journey toward better health.
Setting a New Course
Alan’s commitment to managing his weight and improving his health began in 2018, shortly after his divorce. "I now had to make my own decisions on my eating habits," he recalls. With health challenges including overweight and type 2 diabetes, Alan saw weight management as a way to enhance his health and life. He was introduced to the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans and decided to lean on its support to reach his goals.
Try it! MOVE! made a big difference in my life.
Alan Soper
Making Healthy Choices
With MOVE!’s emphasis on making small, manageable changes, Alan developed strategies for a healthy lifestyle that he could maintain for the long term. This included paying close attention to the types and amounts of food and drink he consumed and making what he called "smart choices" by adding exercise to his everyday routine as well. He is grateful for the continuous support of MOVE! team members Theresa, Christina, and Kristine, which helped him stay on track. He shares, "I feel so fortunate to have them in my life."
Maintaining His Progress
Since his journey began, Alan has completed the 16-week MOVE! program and enrolled in MOVE! Maintenance to ensure he stays on track. His commitment and consistency have paid off: in addition to losing weight, he no longer requires medicine for his blood pressure and looks forward to even more positive outcomes. "As a single man," he explains, "I have to make all the decisions. I now know how to make smart choices in my eating habits." Alan’s story is a wonderful example of how the power of choice and support from a team can lead to lasting positive changes.
