Marie's Story*

"I can't tell you how great it feels to set a goal and then achieve it!"

Age: 62
Occupation: Travel Agent
Height: 5'7"
Starting weight: 168
Current weight: 138
Total pounds lost: 30
What's the largest dress/pant size you used to wear? 16
What dress/pant size do you wear now? 8

What was your worst weight-related experience as an overweight person?

I was taking night classes at a local college, and one night on campus I caught a side-view glimpse of myself in a full-length mirror. I didn't have a scale or a large mirror at home, and I couldn't believe what I looked like! I can still see that image!

How did you learn about the Rite Weight Plan? What inspired you to sign up?

I was picking up a prescription at my local Rite Aid store, and I saw a sign promoting the program. I went to the website to check it out. Even though I had lost 30 pounds several years earlier and had maintained it, I still had more to lose. The challenge was getting motivated! I was so sick and tired of always thinking about my weight. I thought the Rite Weight Plan might help jump-start my enthusiasm, and it did! I haven't been at this weight since high school.

Was there a particular event or incident that inspired you to lose weight?

It was just the right time. For most of my adult life, I promised myself that I would lose weight before the next trip or the next holiday or the next family event, but life always got in the way. I have a long history of starting things that I don't finish, and I finally decided that it was time to change that pattern. I can't tell you how great it feels to set a goal and then achieve it!

What "tips" would you give someone who is just beginning the Rite Weight Plan?

I think it's important to identify why you want to lose weight. For me, losing weight wasn't about looking better or wearing a smaller size. Those were great fringe benefits, but I was really committed to improving my health.

Why do you think you succeeded on the Lean for Life program?

Because I wanted it and committed myself 100%! I'm an all-or-nothing kind of person. I can't eat one bite of chocolate or a little square of cheesecake. I loved the sample menus, because they provided the kind of specific direction I like. At first, I thought I wouldn't be able to make it on so little food. Before long, I realized it was more than enough food.

What three words would you use to describe yourself at your heaviest weight?

Unhappy, self-conscious and sluggish.

What three words would you use to describe yourself now?

Happy, self-confident and energetic!

What else has changed in your life as a result of losing weight?

I love being able to go to my closet and know that anything I put on will fit me and look nice! I have photos from a trip to Europe I took back in 1995, and in every photo I'm wearing baggy sweatpants and extra-large t-shirts. I used try to hide behind my clothes, but not anymore!

Are you more active now than you were before you started the program?

Definitely! I sit in front of a computer all day, so I have to make a conscious effort to get exercise. I have a home gym and I do strength training three times a week. I also have an elliptical machine that I use nearly every day. I do three miles a day on it, and then I walk with my dogs at least a mile a day.

While you were losing weight, what kept you motivated to stay on the program?

Tracking my success on the Rite Weight Plan was a lot of fun! I couldn't wait to get up every morning, weigh myself, and update my graph. I also loved reading the daily emails and affirmations.

How was the Rite Weight Plan different from other programs you've tried?

It's much more structured, and that's a great thing for someone like me. And even though I was doing it on a computer from home, I also felt very connected and supported. I sent several emails to the program nurse practitioner, and I got a personal response from a real person. I guess I expected a form letter response, so I was very impressed!

What would you say is the biggest difference in how you look or feel since losing weight?

There's such a tremendous difference in how I feel. I love to garden, and I can do it now without getting stiff and sore like I once did. But my self-confidence is probably what I notice most. Whenever I lost weight in the past, I wouldn't give away my bigger clothes because I was afraid I might need them again. This time, I donated all of my fat clothes because I refuse to regain the weight. With everything I've learned on the Rite Weight Plan, I know I don't ever have to be overweight again!

*Results may vary.

This information is not intended to be a substitute for the medical advice of a personal physician. Please consult your physician before beginning this or any other weight loss and/or exercise program. Children under the age of 18 should only participate in a weight loss program with the parent or guardian's approval. Due to the specific dietary and medical needs of Type 1 Diabetic and pregnant or nursing women, these people should not participate in a weight loss program that is designed to achieve ketosis.