We know the Y does great work. We see our members and their families every day. But sometimes we need to slow down and reflect on just how amazing our members are and how we help them transform their lives.
Danny's story - 465 to 261 pounds and still going!
Danny joined the Y for the pool because he was looking for a way to exercise that is easy on the joints.
Danny's starting weight: 465 pounds.
"I was always heavy. Then I got really big. My dad is diabetic. I was on seven medications and had high blood pressure. I did not want to become diabetic.
I looked into surgery. I was a candidate for new procedure called the gastric sleeve.
In order to have surgery I had to lose 40 pounds first. I lost 60. The surgery was done by Dr. Benbrahim at MidState.
After the surgery I lost 100 pounds in a month and I've been losing ever since thanks to a healthier diet and regular exercise at the Y.
My family is from Puerto Rico. We still have all the food at the celebrations. The food doesn't change, my habits have changed. I pick out what I can eat.
I am now down to 261 pounds and my goal weight is between 200 and 220. I am off all of the medications and my blood pressure is normal now.
I still love going in the pool but now that I've lost weight I can exercise out of the pool too and do cardio. This morning I took the Insanity class. This is my sixth or seventh time doing it. I like it. I try to do morning classes couple times a week and then I go in the sauna and the pool.
My advice to someone who is just starting out trying to lose weight is to go for it. Do a little at a time and increase it bit by bit every day. Plug away at it and keep going. It's worth it."
Together, we can help more members like Danny transform their health and their life. Here's how you can help:
or
donate online through our web site.2. Volunteer at one of our events.
3. Share your voice. Tell us your Y Story. What does the Y mean to you?
What's your Y story? Please share yours today:
- Email your story;
- Call me at 203-235-6386 x18;
- Post your comments on our facebook page;
- Complete a "My Y Story" form and drop it off at the Y
- Tell me your Elevator Speech you would say to a famous person. Here's Carrie's...
"If I had just 30 seconds to tell Dr. Oz about the work I do, I would say the work we do and the families we inspire through our childhood obesity program is second to none!"
Give. Join. Volunteer. The Y. So Much More.
