A Lifestyle Change was in Order

M. Celeste invited me to walk/jog with S.T.A.R.S. this past summer. I came 3 Saturdays and became a member. Everyone has been very supportive.One Saturday, Mit asked if l could ride to Chicago with her. She suggested that l participate but l was apprehensive, however, l walked/jogged anyway. I've been addicted every since.

I work with Alzheimer's/Dementia and Hospice clients which can be emotional. Fitness alleviates my stress, anxiety and frustrations and replenishes my vessel. I've lost, gained and maintained for several months only to gain it all back. It had caused depression and l began to shy away to things of importance.

My Doctor wanted to start a script for high cholesterol, diabetes and increase BP med. A lifestyle change was in order....stat. I began with exercising and drinking smoothies. Shortly, then after l started with a personal trainer which lead to boot camp and running. I've lost 40 lbs., cholesterol has decreased by 18 points and my A1C is in a normal range.

Exercising whether it's running, swimming or strength training; it enhances my mood. Physical activity is a necessity while striving to be fit for life.

Thank you,
Dawn A. Davis
S.T.A.R.S. MEMBER 
2016

Learning My New Way

I knew something was going on but my symptoms were so inconsistent that I brushed it off. As a single mom, working full time, teaching fitness classes and running several times a week maybe I just needed a little break, right? Wrong! After cutting back, my symptoms became worse and more frequent. There were random times when I would get really dizzy or feel like electric shocks were shooting through my body.  I also kept getting extremely exhausted during my runs.  Then one day last September, my leg went numb and my eyesight started to blur.