I quit smoking in 2013, but I was still overweight, I had high blood pressure and high cholesterol, and 35 years of smoking had left me with COPD. I felt bad all the time. I had no energy, and I struggled with low self-esteem because of my weight. I had a hard time breathing, and I could barely walk 200 feet without feeling exhausted.
As part of my employer-sponsored benefits through the Indianapolis Airport Authority, I visited Marathon Health Network at Plainfield Commons and saw Physician’s Assistant Brooke Curry. Brooke was absolutely great! She helped me decide to lose weight, get my blood pressure under control and improve my overall health. Brooke encouraged me to exercise daily and to cut down on sweets, starch, carbs and salt.
Now I only make low-calorie, healthy meals. I don’t cook fried foods anymore, and my husband and I eat salads and steamed vegetables almost every night with fish or chicken. We go to the gym often, and walk 4 to 5 miles on weekends.
Since making these changes, I’ve lost 35 pounds! I feel better and I look better. My cholesterol went from 289 to 150, I have a lot more energy, and my breathing is so much better. Even my husband has lost weight and lowered his blood sugar.
This improvement has changed my life. I feel better physically, and that helps me feel better mentally. It was easy for me because I was so ready to change. If you want to do it, it can be done, but you really have to want to change. — Member Donna Rust
