As I was on the verge of accomplishing one of my life goals of gaining my master’s degree in Christian counseling, I began to take a look at my life as a whole. Getting my weight under control had been a constant challenge in my life with disappointing, short-term results. In the past, the only time I was able to lose a great deal of weight was with diet pills. Needless to say, I didn’t make permanent changes, didn’t keep the weight off and generally didn’t feel well.
In March 2013, I started the SHAPE Program under the care of Dr. Kathy Palombini at Health Horizons in Oakmont, PA. In my process, the SHAPE Program forced me to the realization that I had to change my lifestyle choices and not just do another “diet.”
My thinking has changed around making the simple choices that we all make every day. Maybe it was convenience food on the way home, a diet soda, what have you. I have learned to keep my focus on my higher goals. As I started to see some results, I thought what an example I could be, to show others that it can be done and it’s never too late. This program lends itself to not only the support I received thru Health Horizons but from the others that I’ve met who are also trying to change their lives. In my studies to become a counselor, what I truly want is to help people achieve balance in mind, body and spirit. Now, thanks to the SHAPE Program, I can help others find their way to a lifestyle change that leads to overall health and wellness.
Since beginning the program, I’ve lost 48.5 lbs. AND ReClaimed my health. My PCP has taken me off my high blood pressure and cholesterol medications which I have taken for about 10 years. Most importantly, I have finally made the mental connection between the food I eat and how it makes me feel. My mindset has changed to being fully aware of how food is indeed fuel and medicine for the body.
It is my hope that I can help others take charge of the person they want to become and ReClaim LIFE.
Submitted by Dr. Kathy Palombini
