Sharing Intention...

I intend to pay a visit to the Oprah Show - as they are seeking guests who have lost more than one hundred pounds without surgery.  Below is the entry I submitted.  Please intend with me...I wish to inspire others to live a healthier life full of the possibilities of Carpe Diem...

My 101 pound weight loss has been a long journey, but finally a successful one. Beginning in 2001, I weighed 248 pounds. I found myself literally unable to move with severe joint pain and swelling, due to a recent diagnosis of fibromyalgia and possible rheumatoid arthritis. Quickly losing 50 pounds, I completed a half marathon six months later. Then I promptly returned to my previous high weight. Struggling throughout the years, I would lose ten pounds and gain back fifteen. No fad diets worked, and basically miserable, I quit trying.



In May 2006, after tripping in an intersection and not being able to be lifted by a strong friend and my own power, I decided my girth was epic, and enough was really enough. Shortly after that embarrassing moment, Dr. Oz appeared on the Oprah show, discussing the effects of white food and sugar on the body. His gentle but firm demeanor and his reasonable approach to a healthy lifestyle somehow touched me and motivated me to start again. I began with small changes, and those lead to the inclusion of whole wheat pasta, vegetables and fruits, and smaller portion sizes. I once again returned to exercise, but this time embraced it instead of thinking of it as a curse.


I now weigh 147 pounds. Despite ongoing and occasionally debilitating fibromyalgia, I lost weight and gained fitness the old fashioned way – don’t eat so much and move your body regularly. After being told I would not be able to walk much, I am currently a veteran of eight half marathons, three Susan G. Komen 3-Day for the Cure events, and four marathons (three of which were completed in 71 days in late 2009). Not being a runner, I walk and go as quickly as possible with my mantra that I think I can. Every finish line I greet with joy and gratitude. I have sustained my weight loss for a year (give or take a few pounds) and am delighted to pay forward any inspiration to others who may need some assistance to move forward toward better health.