Dear Joyful Girl:

I just want to be an overall healthier me. Something I've always lacked is moderation. Maybe I'm trying to build some of that as well as muscle.
It really sounds like you have been making some wonderful, positive changes for yourself and I applaud you!! And, it's great that you realized at a young age that your lifestyle was unhealthy and you made a VERY CONSCIOUS DECISION to change!!

I am happy to say that as of March 14, 2004 - I quit smoking.
I was a 2 & 1/2 pack per day smoker, sometimes more. I enjoyed smoking so much.
On the date I stopped smoking, I weighed 240 pounds and could barely make it 1/8 mile walking without huffing & puffing out of breath.
(my highest weight was 290 lbs in 2001. I weigh 188 pounds today).

I needed help to stop because I couldn't do it on my own. I made the decision to stop because I knew that it was killing me. I wanted to enjoy being able to go walking with my husband. Not to mention, heart disease, hardening of the arteries, etc.., runs rampant in my family.
I DID NOT WANT what I had seen my parents go through (and ARE still going through), to be what I had to look forward to!!!

I contacted the American Heart Association & they set me up with a phone counselor. (I didn't even know the AHA had any type of program - which was free - I just wanted some information/help on how to stop).
When my counselor and I connected, I picked a quit date that had a special meaning, (our wedding anniversary), and we sheduled our next phone consultation for two days before that date.
I also decided to use the Nicoderm patch.

Today, I am happy to say that I am a non-smoker. It is very hard work... but, believe me, if I can do it....I know that anyone can!! One day at a time.

Wishing you much happiness on your way to a healthier self !!

Denise