Received this communication from a patient last week:
Dear Dr. Beth,
One year ago today, on our 29th wedding anniversary, D and I came to see you. As I am sure you remember, I was very reluctant to start the SHAPE Program and was probably your most skeptical patient. I remember sitting in your office with my arms crossed listening to what you had to say. I wanted to support my husband so I agreed I would try the SHAPE Program for one week.
Well, I think I lost a couple pounds that week (and you said I could add an extra fruit and a little more protein when I called crying on the fourth day). So, I tried it for one more week. Well, week by week, it got easier and the fat seemed to melt away. Throughout Phases I & II, I lost 45 Ibs. and then went on maintenance. I have been maintaining this weight for 5 months.
My husband also completed his SHAPE Program journey and is maintaining as well. We feel our lives have changed for the better in so many ways. D just saw his cardiologist; his blood tests came back in the normal range. His doctor told him that he is his hero.
Tonight, on our 30th anniversary, D reminded me of what he wrote on the card he gave me last year that he “hoped we would be starting this new journey to a healthier life.” After so many weight loss failures, I never really believed that I would be successful but here we are one year later, so grateful.
So, Dr. Beth, thank you so much for all of your help and support on this journey. We could not have done it without you.
Submitted by Dr. Beth Bartlett
