I think for my first blog posting that I will share a major life accomplishment. A few years ago, after being fairly healthy thus far, I was stricken with severe, acute asthma. I took rounds of steroids, multiple inhalers, and steroid injections. Not only was my health starting to decline, but by my spirit was as well. I was chubby when the ordeal started, but certainly not obese. I gained some more excess baggage as medication side effects (steroids) and from depression. I am Registered Nurse and well aware that many medications come with effects we don't want or need. I decided that I must change the way I eat and view food, in an attempt to help my body begin healing naturally. In February 2010, I began my "lifestyle" change. I began eating primarily vegetarian and really bulking up on the fruits and veggies. In the early spring 2011, I went fully vegan...a decision that to date is one of the best I have ever made for my health. Besides the eating change, I added movement that was commiserate with how my asthma was for that particular day. Walking usually ends up being a great option along with hand weights. I went from 175 pounds to 108 pounds between February 2010 and this summer. It was a slow process and certainly not a diet. Of course, asthma still plagues me, but I do not have the weight aggravating it more. I still take some inhalers but no more injections or oral steroids. I feel I am more conscious of my environment and my body. There is too much obesity in the world today. Children look like beach balls--there is something really wrong with that picture. Diabetes (adult onset) and heart disease are now NOT just diseases of adult generations BUT diseases of children! Below I have added some inspirational pics taken before and after my journey. The "chubby" pictures were around May 2009 and Christmas 2009. The last photos are all taken from this summer.
