September 10 2006   

Dana K.
 
Country: Alexander City, Alabama, USA
Age: 44
Weight before diet: 318 lbs.
Weight now: 265.25 lbs.
Target weight: 155 lbs.

Weight loss is no easy thing for Dana. But through the Weight Watchers Flex Plan, her enjoyment of physical activities, and with support from others, she's getting there.
 
-What finally made you decide to start with a weight loss program? 
I got sick and tired of being sick and tired with all my health issues.
 
-What type of weight loss program are you following? 
I was counting calories (didn't work well)...I'm now on WW's (Weight Watchers) Flex Plan for the past month.
 
-Why did you choose this weight loss program? 
It was the last one I hadn't tried and it's easy. I had been considering WL surgery the past 7 yrs. I DON'T want to go that route.
 
-How long have you been on your weight loss program?
20 months, since 1/05
 
-What kinds of physical activities do you like doing to help you lose weight and stay fit?
Elliptical, biking, walking, playing tennis & hiking
 
-What were the most difficult obstacles you had to overcome or are still overcoming? 
Multiple health problems, portion control (not going back for a second helping), having family members who are junk food junkies.

-How do you keep yourself motivated? 
Through the many friends I met thru my journal writing, my TOPs group (TOPs.org), writing my journal and meeting new people who are going through the same thing.
 
-Do you have any weight loss tips for our readers? 
Drink lots of water. Walk at least a mile a day, exercise in some kind of way no matter how small it may seem, do water aerobics (great for ya if you have arthritis, not able to exercise on land, or other aches and pains which I'm fortunate to have this program at my gym). No watching TV during meal times. Measure EVERYTHING you eat, keep a food journal of every bite you put in your mouth. Find a weight loss buddy.
 
-Do you think it will be easy to fall back into your old lifestyle pattern? How do you prevent this from happening?
Oh yeah. Easy as pie! How do I prevent this from happening? Keeping busy with my scrapbooking or other hobbies where I have to use my hands. I also use try to trick my brain that I don't like certain foods that I shouldn't be eating. Having support from family or friends.
 
-Do you have a favorite Web site or blog that helps or inspires you to lose weight? 
*My journal is: Road to Success (must have AOL or AIM to comment)
*My friend, Linda's journal: Linda's Thotful Spot & Weight Loss Journey 
*My friend, Sharky's website: Sharky's Weight Loss Journey
*My friend, Stacy's journal: My Life Change and Weight Loss Journey aka my DIET!!!
*The Biggest Loser website