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My “Y” Story
Alisea has lost 55 lbs in 7 months.
 My name is Alisea, I lost 55 lbs in 7 months and this is my Y Story.
I was one of this year’s “Amazing Loser” winners, but prior to that, I like most people who have struggled with their weight tried all kinds of ways to shed the extra pounds with one goal in mind, and never reaching that outcome; “I was miserable”. Gaining 76 pounds with my 3rd child, I managed to lose 30 lbs and there I was at a standstill, nothing I did took my excess weight off and it left me feeling somewhat hopeless. I wanted to be happier and healthier and knew that it was time to make a change in my life. The YMCA has an amazing staff that truly wants the best for you and is dedicated to each and every individual that walks through their doors. I have seen firsthand how willing they are to help guide you through difficult times and celebrate with you when you’ve reached your next goal. There are many different activities to choose from along with a wide range of time frames that would fit anyone’s schedule. Losing weight and changing your lifestyle is a process, there will be some hard times and struggles that you will have to overcome. Being a mother of 5 young children, having to juggle so many responsibilities and being something to everyone: the jobs of parenthood, staying involved in my community and church, working full-time and continuing my education, are all things that are very important to me and help me to grow as an individual, however it caused me to take little time out for myself. One of the most important lessons I have learned through this adventure is that you need to make yourself a top priority on your long to-do-list. There will be some challenging times I can guarantee it, but don’t give up. Stay committed to your diet, exercise and new way of life. You are worth it!
Alisea,
YMCA Member
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Activate America is the YMCA’s response to the nation’s growing health crisis. The YMCA is redefining itself and engaging communities across the country to provide better opportunities for people of all ages in their pursuit of health and well-being in spirit, mind and body. When Mary first came to the YMCA she could barely lift weights away from her sides, she would start to sweat from just wheeling down to the fitness center, and she would get so frustrated that she would bust out in to tears and say "I just can't do it!" The YMCA helped her get started with a "healthier lifestyle" first by telling her "it's not going to be easy. Make a goal, and live by it. And no matter what, we will be here for you." We would remind her that we won't quit if you won't quit, and that seemed to work, because she hasn't quit…. After getting started at the YMCA Mary started weighing in at the Hospital every Friday. One of Mary's initial goals was to lose weight every week and she has conquered that goal so far. Mary continues to learn new exercise to improve her health. Every time we mentioned a new exercise, her eyes light up and she grins from ear to ear. She LOVES learning new things, and we love teaching them to her. Mary has lost a total of 122 pounds. "I enjoy everything at the YMCA."