A Success Story
1001 North US Highway 1 Jupiter Florida 888-369-5054
Everyday Solutions For Healthy Living
“My heart attack in 1997 was, as I look back, inevitable. I was in a high stress job, I worked long hours, I ate at irregular hours and I often ate out. I was significantly overweight and I had a family history of heart disease. My father had died at age 50 and my mother was 48 when she died. Yet I did nothing to lose weight and could do little to reduce stress. I thought that there was little I could do to change my lifestyle. Yet, on that Saturday morning, I knew I was having a heart attack. I called my HMO and recited my symptoms, and they told me to call 911. I remember saying, "Really?" I guess that was the beginning of my facing reality. While in the hospital I lost 12 pounds--that was a good start. My cardiologist asked me about my diet and life style, and he told me "When you get out of here, if you go back to your old habits and life style, it's only a matter of time. You are a time bomb." I had a good start, having lost some weight while in the hospital, but he told me he wanted me under 190 pounds. (I was 228 lbs. when I had the heart attack). While in cardiac rehab I learned more about diet and nutrition, ways to reduce stress and life style changes.
I have continued to exercise regularly and I weigh myself daily. I never allow myself to go over 189 lbs. (and now I am trying to lower that). I exercise regularly, even when on vacation or out of town.
I watch my diet very carefully, checking nutrition labels on foods. I avoid deep fried foods, desserts, salt and snacks. I continue to enjoy my beer and wine. I have continued to exercise daily either by walking or cycling outdoors or by going to the gym.
I will say that this program and its coaching sessions have helped to keep me on track. When somebody is watching, you tend to behave better.
Since retiring, my wife and I have been to England, Alaska, France, Italy, Bermuda, Greece and Italy, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, South America, Mexico, Portugal, Spain. We are planning a winter cruise to the Southern Caribbean in December. We also have taken road trips through New England, the Carolinas, Arkansas, Missouri, Texas and Louisiana. Life is good.”
George Tennian just celebrated his 72nd birthday on May 2nd. He was President of UFCW Local 328, a member of the UFCW International's Advisory Committee, and the Vice-President of the UFCW New England Council.
