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From Canada to California
Thursday, July 5, 2007
By: Carol Guthrie
Patient Story
I was diagnosed with FM seven years ago. I had been fairly active, but as my pain increased, my activity level decreased and my weight increased. After many frustrating years of failed dieting and exercise programs I found some relief from a medication called guaifenisen. My cousin told me about his success with it, so I researched it, tried it and after the first year of hell, I started noticing a difference. My life is finally getting back on track.
In July I'm turning 50, and I didn't want to celebrate it being fat. I decided it was time to do something about it. I joined Weight Watchers and started to increase my activity levels. I needed an incentive! I decided to “Walk to California,” Land of Disneyland. Perfect—my birthday’s two days before Disneyland’s.
I printed maps showing the route down I-5 and I started charting my way from Port Coquitlam in British Columbia. Using my pedometer I can easily keep track of all the steps I take each day, and add up the mileage. I'm also converting housework and physical activity to miles. I've been down I-5 many times and can envision the scenery as I go.
As of today I'm 20 miles from the Oregon border and have lost 23.2 lbs. I have very supportive friends and family that are cheering me on. With my new positive outlook, I know I will achieve my goal and will spending my 50th at Disneyland.
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