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'Don't Ever Think That You Have To Do This Alone'
Photos by KATHY WATERS, courtesy of Canevari family
"I learned to be proud of my accomplishments and finally be happy with my reflection. That helped me get over this hurdle."
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Published: May 2, 2008
Jennifer Canevari, 37, Lake Placid
Height: 5-foot-9
Starting weight: 209
Current weight: 160
Why I did it: I was approximately 50 pounds overweight, always tired and very unhappy with my reflection. When my mother was diagnosed with renal failure and my father with diabetes, it was my wake-up call. I could start taking care of myself and spend the time and money to do what I had to do to get the weight off, or I would be forced to take expensive medications to control any damage I may have already done to myself.
I have three children and want to teach them healthy habits that will last a lifetime. My husband is my biggest fan and support system and has been since he lost 27 pounds himself. My joy now comes from the memories I make with my family, not with the food I eat.
How I did it: In August 2005, I decided it was time to take control. I started by getting a complete physical and was cleared to begin exercising. I joined my local gym and started taking strength-training and aerobics classes as well as using the machines.
After a few months of going it alone and losing approximately 10 pounds, I decided it was time to step it up. I joined Weight Watchers in January 2006 with a couple of friends. Having the support of friends and the accountability of weekly weigh-ins, I began to lose weight. I had to completely relearn portions and nutrition. I took up running and have since run in several 5K and 10K races, and a 15K race. I hit my modified goal in January 2007 and have kept the weight off.
Going the distance: I started lifting weights this past January, and 10 of my friends (including my husband) decided to join me. It's been months, and we still hit the gym at 5 a.m. five days a week. My husband is down 30 pounds, and everyone else has lost weight and increased muscle tone and definition as well.
It's so encouraging to see the changes everyone has made. We all struggle and stumble, but to know that someone is always there to lift you up and encourage you makes all the difference. I am so happy to see my children make smart choices even when they are away from home. They eat right and are active in sports. We are all in this together.
Hurdles: Once I started running and lifting weights, I had to reassess my goal weight. My body was completely restructured: I was down 50 pounds and went from a size 16 to a 6. I continued to stress over those last 5 pounds. I spoke with my Weight Watchers leader, and we decided to update my goal weight. I learned to be proud of my accomplishments and finally be happy with my reflection. That helped me get over this hurdle.
Best advice: Don't ever think that you have to do this alone. There are so many people who want to see you succeed and so many programs designed to help you. Always have a physical before beginning any exercise program, and be honest with yourself; ask for help when you need it. For me, I had to completely follow my new lifestyle with my head and my heart. I read nutrition and exercise information all the time and have become a certified fitness instructor. I want to see others do it. I know they can!
Keyword: Lost It, to tell us about a weight-loss plan that works for you. Or send your story to mshedden@tampatrib.com or Mary Shedden, The Tampa Tribune, 200 S. Parker St., Tampa FL 33606.
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