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My journey to a healthier, happier me!

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    My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/29/2006 6:35:33 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    I was a very shy teenager. I didn't have a lot of self esteem and was very self-conscious regarding my weight in high school. I was probably 20 pounds overweight my senior year. A boy I wanted to date told someone that if I lost weight, he'd go out with me. I lost the weight, we eventually dated and are happily married today. However, I think that was a very pivotal moment in my life. I thought I had to be thin to be loved. I gained 70 pounds with my first pregnancy. When my son turned 2 I decided to do something about it and got down to my pre-pregnancy weight. I kept it off until a year later when I was pregnant with our second son. After he was born I lost most of the weight almost immediately. Then over the years the weight began to creep on. I was always watching what I was eating and trying this diet and that exercise plan. I didn't stick with any of them. Then somewhere along the way, I just got tired of fighting it and decided I was going to eat whatever I wanted whenever I wanted. It was also a rough time for my marriage and I think somewhere in the back of my mind I thought that I'd find out if he really loved me. If I was fat and he stayed then he really did love me. If he left, well he didn't love me......he just loved the outside of me. He is still here and I realized that I was very foolish to dwell on something a 17 year old boy said years ago.

    Another, larger piece of my weight gain puzzle came in the form of a very rare disorder called Superior Canal Dehiscence Syndrome (SCDS). This disorder almost completely took over my life and it took 8 years to get a correct diagnosis. Because of a hole in the superior semi-circular canal of my left inner ear, I was very sensitive to pressure changes and sound. Sounds made my vision "jump". I had severe vertigo all the time. Just walking from one point to another was a challenge, so exercising was out of the question. I could hear myself in my head. To help you understand that statement - imagine the worst head cold with stuffed up ears you've ever had and multiply that 100 times. It was awful! I sing solos in church and singing became a nightmare. All I could hear was myself, I couldn't hear the music and when I would sing, my vision would jump so much that I constantly had to close my eyes so I wouldn't fall over. I turned to food as a source of comfort.

    I believe that these 2 things brought me to June 2005. I weighed in at 254.5 pounds and felt miserable all the time. I had no self esteem. I didn't want to go anywhere or do anything because I felt so self-conscious. I had borderline high cholesterol and blood pressure. My knees had begun to ache almost all the time and I was in horrible physical shape. The final wake-up call for me came when I was talking to one of my boys and trying to tell him that he needed to make better choices in his eating. I walked down the hallway, looked at myself in the mirror and thought "Why in the world should he listen to me? I'm certainly not an example!"

    I had begun to pray for God to help me with my weight early in 2004. I prayed that He would help me find the right program for me and that He would see it through with me. One morning I was watching TV and the 6 Week Body Makeover infomercial was on 3 different channels at the same time (a sign maybe? ). Now you need to know something about me. I thought that infomercials were.....well, a waste of time. I avoided them like the plague. But something made me watch. I would love to tell you that I immediately ordered the program. But it took another year for me to make that move.

    In that year I was finally diagnosed with SCDS and had middle crania fossa surgery. Simply put, an opening was made in my skull and the doctor was able to repair the hole in my ear. I was very blessed with an amazing surgeon who was able to give me back my joy for life and music. Over the year that followed, while I mended and took back my life, I watched the infomercial several times. Each time there was something about it that made me listen. Then one morning in June 2005, while watching it again, I felt the need to get on the internet and research the plan. I had looked into several diets over the years, but none of them made a lot of sense to me. Everything I looked at seemed way too complicated or wanted to eliminate carbohydrates. There was NO WAY I was giving up my carbs! When I realized that on the 6WBMO plan I got to have carbs AND fruit AND vegetables AND protein, I thought it made perfect sense. So right then I ordered my kit. We were leaving on vacation the following week and I was hoping it would arrive while we were gone. It was waiting for me when we returned on July 3. I put everything together that afternoon, watched the videos, started the next morning and I haven't looked back since. July 4, 2005 became my personal Independence Day.

    I immediately began walking 45-60 minutes a day, 6 times a week. I also started the toning portion of the program. I can honestly tell you that by eating all of my meals and snacks I never felt like I was starving. Have I had cravings? YOU BET!! Have I had moments when I didn't make all the right choices? I'm sorry to say that yes I have. But that is the beauty of this plan. It is a lifestyle change, not a diet. So when I hit those bumps in the road I tried not to look on them as a failure. I simply picked up right where I left off and tried to do better. The scale has moved almost every week and when you have results like that, you really don't want to cheat!

    In a little over 9 months I was able to lose 105.8 pounds and 82 inches. I began this journey weighing 254.5 pounds and wearing size 20 pants. My initial goal was to weigh 160 pounds and wear size 12. I now weigh 148.7 and wear size 8 (and even some 6) pants! I've gone from 2X tops to medium and small. My blood pressure is normal! I no longer have to take prescription medicine for acid reflux as that problem disappeared with my weight. What simple joy I've found in crossing my legs and in being able to paint my toe nails! Even greater joy has been found in being able to RUN after my nephews and nieces. Then there is clothes shopping - need I say more?!

    I have a much healthier sense of self-worth. This happiness has spilled over into so many other aspects of my life. I feel that I am now able to give my best to my amazing husband and sons, the children I tutor in elementary school and the choirs that I direct as part of my job as Director of Music Ministry at church. I feel confident and proud of what I have accomplished. My husband and I celebrated our 20th Wedding Anniversary in November 2005 and he has never been prouder of me. I am so thankful for his encouragement and support along this journey.

    I know it sounds very cliché but if I have been able to lose weight, anyone can! This lifestyle change is one that I can live with for the rest of my life and I intend to do just that.

    I would like to thank Michael Thurmond for creating this way of life - even though "thank you" just doesn't seem adequate. It truly has been an answer to my prayers. Thank you also to Dolores - her never ending enthusiasm, encouragement and words of wisdom has kept so many of us going. There are many, many people on these boards that have encouraged me along the way - thank you! My "July Family" Victoria, Kathy, and Miz B - I couldn't have done this without your support - I love you all!

    If you are thinking of beginning this journey, I can only say as emphatically as I can - DO IT! You will thank yourself, and Michael Thurmond, a thousand times over.

    Thank you for letting me share my story. Take great care of yourself because YOU ARE WORTH IT!

    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/30/2006 9:15:23 AM
    ElleGardner
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    A 4/6/4

    Body Type: A
    Smart Behavior: Emotional Eater
    Start Weight: 230
    Current Weight: 230
    Goal Weight: 150

    Posts: 23
    Joined: 5/11/2004
    Status:     offline


    WOW!!!! Thank you for posting your "I" story........I will be starting my program on Sat. & your story is very motivating!

    Thanks
     
    If it is to be, it's up to ME!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/30/2006 4:12:35 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Thanks Elle!

    I wish you every success as you begin your journey.

    Take care,
    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/30/2006 7:27:46 PM
    Associate BMOS Annie
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    Before/After

    A

    Body Type: A
    Start Weight: lost 125 pounds restart need to lose 36
    Current Weight: lost 13.5

    Posts: 6315
    Joined: 10/31/2002
    Status:     offline


    Congrats! You look great! Enjoy LL
    Annie
     

    Goal Date  April 28, 2010

     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/30/2006 10:37:04 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Thank you so much Annie!

    You have been such an inspiration to me along my journey. Thank you for being there for so many people here on the forums. I enjoy seeing you on TV from time to time!

    Take care,
    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 11:51:53 AM
    yml
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    B1/3/4

    Body Type: B
    Goal Weight: 125

    Posts: 2
    Joined: 9/9/2003
    Status:     offline


    What did you find to be the best way to use the 18min resistant bands? and in the time between what was your exercise of choice? I have had the program for years and I am getting back into it...Thanks ~Y
     
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 11:54:33 AM
    csavoy
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    Smart Behavior: Repeat Offender

    Posts: 6655
    Joined: 6/25/2003
    Status:     offline




    Congrats on making it to your goal! You look awesome!!

    What a fantastic testimonial you have written.

    It's such a blessing for you to be healed from the SCDS too. I had actually heard of this recently. A neighbor of mine has been diagnosed with this or at least it is something very similar because she explained it the same way and has the same symptoms. I'm so glad you have recovered and are resuming your passions in life.
     
    I have changed my screen name to IBelieveInMe2
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:06:55 PM
    used2Bthin
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    A 2|4|2

    Body Type: A
    Smart Behavior: repeat offender
    Start Weight: 210/restart 199/restart 224
    Current Weight: 150.7
    Goal Weight: 124 made it/new 124-130

    Posts: 4019
    Joined: 12/20/2001
    Status:     offline


    Sandy - Followed you for a while and OF COURSE you look marvelous and I can't be happier for you at LL... well done!
     

    Alooooha, Lisa  duckCOMEBACK KIDS RULES/GOALS
    At goal of 130 pounds on December 31, 2009 or before. Third time is LAST time.

     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:07:52 PM
    locoat50
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    5

    Body Type: 5
    Smart Behavior: Emotional Eater
    Start Weight: 281
    Current Weight: 250
    Goal Weight: 150

    Posts: 799
    Joined: 7/6/2005
    Status:     offline


    Sandy,

    I love you too, nuff said.

    Kathy
     

    Kathy  "locoat50"

     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:18:02 PM
    sydmak
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    A

    Body Type: A
    Start Weight: 257
    Current Weight: 211
    Goal Weight: 150

    Posts: 69
    Joined: 1/6/2006
    Status:     offline


    Thank you for your success story. I started January 9, 2006 and as of today I have lost 41 pounds and 36 inches. I started at almost the same weight and your picture is inspirational. My final goal is 150 pounds so I hope to be in a size 8. I am going to remember your story. Thank you.
     
    Birthday Goal - June 13th




    Final Goal




    Easter Goal
    met!!!
    First 6 week Goal -
    Met!!!!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:44:09 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Y -

    I do the toning 4 times a week and walk 5-6 times a week. I used the bands with the exercises recommended for my body areas I wanted to work on.

    Best of luck to you as you get back into the program!

    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:47:07 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Cindy -

    Thank you for the congrats and hugs!

    I am sorry to hear about your neighbor. SCDS really drags a person down. Please let them know they will be in my prayers.

    You have done a great job with your weight loss and will reach your goal in no time! I wish you the best!

    Take care,
    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:48:38 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Lisa -

    You have been such an inspiration to me! Thank you for your kind words - they mean so much!

    Take care,
    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:49:45 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Kathy -

    You know I think you are the best girlfriend! HUGS!!!

    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 12:51:22 PM
    skande1262
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    Before/After

    Start Weight: 254.5/restart 196
    Current Weight: 192
    Goal Weight: 155

    Posts: 902
    Joined: 7/4/2005
    Status:     offline


    Julie (sydmak) -

    Thank you! You have done a great job with your weight loss so far - keep up the great work!

    Take care,
    Sandy
     
    Sandy A.



    No matter how far you go down the wrong road, you can always turn around!
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 1:00:31 PM
    daisygirl67
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    B/2/2/2

    Body Type: B
    Start Weight: 222
    Current Weight: 158
    Goal Weight: 145

    Posts: 1031
    Joined: 1/9/2006
    Status:     offline


    I just love to read these INSPIRATIONAL stories!!

    Congrats!!! You look BEAUTIFUL!!
     
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 1:03:50 PM
    Chunkalove_05
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    Posts: 2636
    Joined: 10/11/2005
    Status:     offline


    CONGRATULATIONS!!


    You did an awesome job!!

    Your photos along with your story is a big inspiration. Thank you for both.

    ENJOY LIVING LEAN!!
     
    [center]
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 1:09:07 PM
    bookwoman104
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    A

    Body Type: A
    Start Weight: 350
    Current Weight: 220
    Goal Weight: 150

    Posts: 1390
    Joined: 2/13/2005
    Status:     offline


    Oh Sandy...what a wonderful story. You rock, girl. Welcome to the happy land of "Living Lean!"
     
    Donna

    "Do, or do not. There is no try."








    In honor of my sister, Dyana~Living with Breast Cancer

     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 2:27:46 PM
    tonvicur
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    Posts: 511
    Joined: 6/26/2005
    Status:     offline


    To my Dear Friend Sandy,

    I can honestly say that I knew you when. It has been quite a journey and I couldn't be prouder of you and how wonderful you look. I am so very happy to have traveled this journey with you and our dear friend Kathy. You look awesome and I knew all along that you were a shining star.
    I love you my friend
     
     
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    RE: My journey to a healthier, happier me! - 3/31/2006 3:29:50 PM
    BMOS Dolores
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    Before/After

    A 2/1/3

    Body Type: A
    Smart Behavior: Repeat Offender
    Start Weight: 237
    Current Weight: 145

    Posts: 26996
    Joined: 5/3/2002
    Status:     offline


    Whewwwwwwwwwwwwieeeeeeeeeee, look what's left of Sandy!!! INCREDIBLE job!! I see so many posts that ask if this program is for real, where do we get the 'stunt' people from, but it is SHINING examples like you that make this program the REAL thing that it is!! No gimmicks, no starving, no injections, no pre-made nasty meals. Just wholesome, natural foods, appropriate exercise and.....POOF....a success story like yours!!!

    It takes determination, good attitude, a sense of adventure, a good attitude, and a stick-to-itness...did I say a good attitude??

    Way to go, girl!! Very inspirational story!!
     
     
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