| About Me |
| Name |
Ray-115 |
| Location |
Texas |
| Age |
53 |
| Birthday |
February 17 |
| Start Date |
Nov 14, 2005 |
| Height |
5' 8" |
| Start Weight |
350 lbs |
| Current Weight |
228 lbs |
| Goal Weight |
200 lbs |
| BMI |
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Approximately 9 years ago I was told by a cardiologist in Seattle, WA that I had less than a year to live. I was diagnosed with cardiomyopathy, congestive heart failure and sudden death syndrome (which means my heart stops for no apparent reason). I was told I had the biggest heart he had ever seen (no compliment). On the way to the doctors office that day I stopped off and had a sausage on a stick and a turkey leg (after lunch) just in case they wanted to "keep" me, and they did.
Since that day I have had two surgeries for my heart. I have an implanted defibrillator and a pace-maker. Within a year of that original diagnosis I lost 100 lbs. 5 yrs ago I weighed 210lbs. Then I gained 140lbs in less than 4 years.
As a pastor for the past 28 years I have felt the same hypocrisy Dr. Nick spoke of in his book. On more than one occasion I had a young person challenge me when I would point out a bad habit of theirs, with the statement back to me, “but you over-eat.”
I have a wonderful supportive wife, 6 wonderful children, 3 beautiful grandchildren, and an awesome ministry. Many reasons to stay healthy, but I think I am finally "catching it"… I’m worth it! I am beginning to realize that I must also do this for me.
I first learned about Dr. Nick when I decided to begin this journey. I had gone online and typed in the words "weight loss success stories". A picture of steward Buster-0065 and his story came up where he spoke of HealthSteward.com in his newspaper interview. I immediately went to the website. The encouragement I have received from the HealthSteward folks by just reading their progress pages is truly amazing. I don’t believe I would have joined had it not been for the encouragement of steward Jim-0056. I had e-mailed Dr. Nick and was very shocked when he called my home one day. We have e-mailed back and forth and then I decided I would join.
The book evoked raw emotions I had long forgot about... I laughed, I cried, but I knew this was the plan that God had for me. I am learning it is not what I eat, but why, when and how I eat.
I could give lofty ideas and goals, but I simply want to live and not die. I want to one day read the word "Mantainence" under my name. Thanks.
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