Brian's Journey

I wanted to enjoy an active life.

July 15, 2014, I started on a life-changing journey. I was a 62-year-old male weighing in at 240 pounds with a body mass index of 37.2. By July 2015 I was down to 192 pounds with a BMI of 29.5.

A few years ago I had a full left hip replacement, and in 2014 I started having left knee issues. Family history is against me as both of my parents suffered from heart disease. I was considered legally handicapped. I’m an engineer - very definitely type A and used to being in control. For 30 years I’d focused on my work and my family, and I’d never been at a healthy weight during that time.

I reached a point in my life where I needed to become a little selfish and do something for myself.

I went on this journey for me, so I could enjoy life.

What I’ve gained: Statistically my risk of heart disease has been significantly reduced. My latest blood tests show significant improvements - so much so that I may be able to eliminate all medication. If you’re thinking about the cost of Journeys, for me, the cost of the program is about equal to the money I’ll be saving on yearly out-of-pocket medication and test expenses.

The real success: If you know Silver Dollar City, you know how steep the hills are there. Three years ago I used a powered wheelchair when I was there. Two years ago I used a cane and stopped to rest several times. Last year I walked up this hill briskly, without stopping, pulling my 40-pound grandson in a wagon. When I reached the top I was sweating, but breathing normally and without pain.

One of the most satisfying experiences I’ve had is on the waterslide at the Y. On Friday afternoons I often meet my wife and grandson at the pool after work. Now, I can chase him up the steel stairs and we race each other down the slides. As they say in the commercials: Priceless.

Each day when you wake up, ask yourself, “What did I gain yesterday and what can I gain today?”.

Did I walk a little further, lose a little weight, maybe need to buy a new shirt? After a while you’ll find yourself smiling more, laughing harder and waking up thinking that it’s good to be alive.