Meet Andy from West Virginia...

June 20, 2010 8:21 AM

We're always thrilled when someone gets to goal. It's one of life's mountaintop experiences! But when we see a couple working as a team, well, it's doubly thrilling! We're so happy for you, Andy. Renee...you're next! Whoo hoo!

I had tried joining a weight-loss program created by my insurance company at work back in early 2008. I started at 295 pounds, got down to 267, but was eventually dropped from the program due to lack of attendance. I had little idea about what to do and even less motivation to do it.

Then, in October of 2009, I joined Weight Watchers with my wonderful wife, Renee (who was re-joining). I was back up to 286 pounds.

The biggest environment challenge for me has been my workplace. IT guys aren’t necessarily known for stellar eating habits – and we live in one of the most unhealthy states in the country. There were constant food temptations from potluck buffet luncheons, coworkers bring-in donuts and biscuits & jelly, pizza parties, “tailgate” luncheons, you name it. And I was frequently invited out with “the gang” to *insert nutritional nightmare here*! It was difficult saying “no” at first to the sweets, and even harder to pick-out something resembling “on-program” at the buffets. But a couple of months in, when people got used to me turning-down donuts or eating a Lean Cuisine in my office, it became easier – especially when they (and I) started to notice the results.

The biggest mental challenge to me was getting it into my head that it’s ok to throw food away. I was part of the "starving kids in Africa" and “clean plate club” mentality. The thought of throwing food in the trash was akin to blasphemy! I really wish I was joking, but I’m not.

Thankfully, Renee and I started doing things together to help overcome the dinnertime challenges. Here are some of our tips:

• fixing smaller-portion dinners
• eating our salads first
• planning meals in advance
• saving leftovers for meals the next day
• tracking, tracking, tracking
• drinking at least 64 oz of water daily
• finding nutritionals for a few meals at local restaurants

It finally “clicked” for me in the form of a motto I heard from another WW: “Better in the waste than on the waist”.

The past seven months have not been without their daily tests, trials, and challenges, but being a guy on a really structured program, I was extremely fortunate and blessed to see consistent losses almost every week. Seven months after joining I reached my goal ... 209 lbs. All in all I lost 77 pounds and have gone from loose-fit, elastic-band size 42’s (and some 44 shorts) down to normal size-38 jeans.

I wouldn’t have lost a single pound if it hadn’t been for self-control (which I definitely don’t have in and of myself). It is the gracious providence of God that’s allowed me to stop, take stock of my eating habits, and make the necessary changes. God has surrounded me with great helpers and supporters: my family, a great WW group, you & all the “Kimmies” online, and (above all) my very own “head cheerleader” – Renee (user name: BettyNayNay) my darling wifey.