Let me tell you a bit about what I'm doing. My Name is Kelley Clements and I won the Diakadi Body Commit to Fit challenge for 2010. So for a year I have the privilege of working with Mike Clausen three times a week for exercise and Manuel Villacorta for nutritional guidance.
I saw the ad for the contest and submitted the 3 min video they required. I was called for an interview and asked questions about my exercise routine, support circle, habits, background, and such. Then I got a second callback and was asked if I would be willing to blog the year if I won. Of course, I said yes. So here I am!
So, a bit about me. I'm 37 years old. I currently weigh 255 pounds and am 5'2". I have been fat for as long as I can remember. I've been through Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Overeaters Anonymous, and any number of diets. I have consistently exercised at different gyms since 2006. Each week for the last year I've been doing 25-50 miles of cardio and weight training but only maintaining my weight or getting larger. As it turns out, Billy told me that the amount of work I was doing was stressing my body to the point that it felt the need to reserve calories. So, essentially, I was exercising myself fat.
Here are some of my challenges as I see them. I am addicted to refined sugar. I love cake, cupcakes, cookies, any number of baked goods. I had ovarian and uterine cancer (most likely a result of my weight) which required a full hysterectomy to cure. That put me immediately into full-on menopause, which slows weight loss. I have asthma and my inhaler is a steroid, which makes a person hungrier. And because I have been so large for so long I wonder if I actually can lose all this weight and keep it off. I'm scared of this unknown, thin person I could become.
Here's some of what I'm looking forward to: This unknown, thin person I could become. The possibility of being healthy. The possibility of liking a photo taken of me. Being able to find nice clothes with interesting cuts and fabrics instead of the fat-people tents which seem to be all that's available to people my size. Maybe being able to take a double dutch class.
So tonight, before my first meeting with Mike, these are the things on my mind. I don't know how often I'll update this right now. I'm thinking maybe once a week. But maybe a little more if there's something I feel like I need to say or something happens I think I need to get of my chest. But maybe sometimes a little less if my life gets too crazy. I'm hoping that this blog may help someone who's in the same place as me, with whatever challenge in their life.
So, here we go!
Kelley,
ReplyDeleteI'm so excited that you're starting this program! You are a wonderful, caring, loving, beautiful woman today, and you always will be -- but you'll be happier and healthier as you begin to make progress with this program. This member of your fan club will always be ready to help if desired, and to cheer you on. Go for it!
Kelley, this is such an exciting journey for you already! I knew you when we were kids and I always saw the caring, intelligent, and diligent side to you. With these qualities, I have no doubts that you'll go far in this program! You also have a lot of dignity and grace, and these qualities will carry you through when the journey gets really tough. I can't wait to watch as you progress and grow, because ultimately, this journey is about much more than just the wight, isn't it? :) Here's wishing you all the best, from a big fan!! ~Suzie
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