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I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes in November of 2005 when I lost my vision. I had gained a significant amount of weight and had become very ill due to the stress and worry of my entire family losing everything from Hurricane Katrina in Mississippi.
Due to this tragedy, I was dealt with the blow of caring for a house full of Katrina victims with nothing. My household size grew from 5 people to 20 people. Soon after my diagnosis, I knew that I must do something because I have 3 boys and a husband to live for.
I had become very ill and I hated life due to the weight gain and dealing with my illness that I had begun to deny. One day my 5 year old son leaned across my bed while I was feeling very ill and said to me, "Will you die? I don't want you to be sick anymore." His eyes were filled with water. I knew at that moment that I was not going to be selfish. I was hurting the ones that I love the most. I then decided to make a life change.
I moved back home to Mississippi and started to walk 3 miles every other day on the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches and became more conscious of my food intake. I have lost a total of 25 pounds and counting. According to my last doctor report, my cholesterol has dropped 100 points and my A1C has gone from 13 to 4, which means my doctor is contemplating taking me off of my diabetes medication.
I am very happy to have been introduced to 50 Million Pound Challenge. It is my motivation. I obtained my free kit from our local State Farm Agent here in town and read the postings from Dr. Ian. Thanks Dr. Ian for all you do. I have 50 more pounds to go, and I pray that I continue to succeed. It is a struggle daily.
Comments (10)
All thing happen for a reason. I'm sorry you lost your sight, but your son could have lost you and it took those few important words for you to make the change you needed. We may not like the way some things turn out, but we have to always do the right thing, may God bless you and your family.
Posted by gottalose150 | October 5, 2008 7:21 PM
Posted on October 5, 2008 19:21
Way to Go Jackie!!
Posted by healthykick | September 15, 2008 1:50 PM
Posted on September 15, 2008 13:50
Good for you Jackie. In deciding not to be selfish, you are taking better care of you and your family, and you inspire me!! Keep going!! You can do it!!
Posted by Vivia | September 10, 2008 9:51 AM
Posted on September 10, 2008 09:51
I applaud Jackie's committment and dedication. Even through adversity her resolve is motivation for me to continue pursuing my health and fitness. Good for you, Jackie!
Posted by Lizzette Nichols | September 7, 2008 7:13 PM
Posted on September 7, 2008 19:13
Good work. I am just getting started and hope to lose around 80 pounds. I wish you and your family joy and success.
Posted by christopher lee | September 6, 2008 9:16 AM
Posted on September 6, 2008 09:16
Jackie,
Your story is awesome! I know some of the struggles you have had to deal with but nothing ever seems to stop you from taking care of business. I have personally seen you walk that beach many times. Keep up the good word. You will achieve that goal. You got it going on already Girl.
Luv Ya!
Posted by Carmen Dedeaux | September 5, 2008 9:00 PM
Posted on September 5, 2008 21:00
Hey Honey!!! You are such a motivation! I haven't seen PEAK since you left. I love you! You are a very strong person and I'm sure all will work out! You are definitely in my prayers and tell everyone I said "Hi".
Posted by Myoshia Withers | September 5, 2008 11:31 AM
Posted on September 5, 2008 11:31
Thank you for sharing your story. It is great to see that people are willing to work toward their goal no matter how hard it may appear to be.
Posted by Blupanther | September 5, 2008 11:04 AM
Posted on September 5, 2008 11:04
I have known Jackie for a few years during her North Carolina reign and I am proud to say that I am proud of her and I too need to get on the ball of being healty and losing weight.
WAY TO GO GIRL!
Posted by Katie Bowen | September 4, 2008 2:40 PM
Posted on September 4, 2008 14:40
I want to say that i am proud of you because i know it is hard i will continue to pray for you and pls do the same for me. I had a baby a year ago i still weigh the same amount. It is hard for me to play with my kids my legs and feet are still very fat. I don't eat alot but i don't exercise much. so today I'm getting started and I won't stop. keep up the good work. God Bless
Posted by Denise Henderson | September 4, 2008 10:00 AM
Posted on September 4, 2008 10:00