Jim Wallace | Virginia Beach

I DID IT!

 

The Virginian-Pilot, September 22, 2008

FOR JIM WALLACE, a trip to the beach was out of the question. The 67-year-old was so overweight and winded, he couldn’t get over the dunes. Worse, his wife was having to do many household jobs around their home in Virginia Beach, like mowing the lawn, painting and putting out the trash. He knew it was time to make a change in his lifestyle and to take back the chores.

What was your breaking point?
My breaking point was in January. Having a history of heart trouble, plus developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and sleep apnea in the past 18 months, I was tired and sleepy most of the time, which would not permit any exercise. With all this and my weight sitting at 347 pounds in December 2007, my family doctor looked me straight in the eyes and said, "You are sitting on a time bomb."

What was your physical condition at that time and what were your goals?
At 6-foot-1-inch and 347 pounds, I'd avoided the beach for the past two years because I couldn't get over the dune. And that wasn't all. My wife had to do all the basic household chores including painting, mowing the yard, putting out the trash cans and general upkeep. My weight-loss goal was to spend many nice days with my wife on the beach, which is in walking distance, and take back the ton of chores she had to do.

How did you achieve your goal?
I was planning to diet by myself when my pulmonologist recommended Tidewater Bariatrics. I attended their free orientation and decided to try the HMR at Home Program, which I've been on for seven months. I order my meals every two weeks from Tidewater Bariatrics, and they are always available to answer any questions or concerns, and to offer encouragement.

What did you learn about yourself along the way?
The most surprising thing I learned is that I could actually survive without a quart of ice cream, a pound of cookies, and some Pepsi every night. Despite my hang-ups with water, I also learned I could drink several glasses a day without choking.

How do you continue to keep yourself motivated?
I've lost 120 pounds since January, and I'm feeling better every day. I never want to live in such misery again. Several months ago, when I broke the 100-pound milestone, I placed a small sign in my yard that initially read "103." Each Saturday since, I've painted over the old weight with the new weight. This was for my benefit and all my friends and neighbors who continue to wish me well.

Best advice for others?
Know that it is not easy to lose weight and keep it off. If you can't do it alone, get professional help from a health-care team that truly cares about your wellness and is with you every step of the way, month after month.

 

meet the motivator

Dr. Margaret Gaglione, internist and bariatrician

medical director of Tidewater Bariatrics

1413 Kempsville Road, Chesapeake

(757) 644-6819

What part did you play?
After attending our free in-clinic orientation, Jim decided that our HMR at Home program (Health Management Resources) would be the best fit for him.

As this meal plan is over 1,200 calories, patients can do this program at home without direct medical supervision. This program is an excellent choice for nondiabetic patients who are highly motivated, organized and self-directed. Jim has done exceptionally well.

When I asked him what was better in his life now that he has lost 120 pounds, he answered, “Dr. Gaglione, everything is better!”