Be an inspiration: If you've made positive changes in your diet and/or fitness routine and are happy with the results, please share your success with us. Include your email address, a daytime phone number and before and after photos (by mail or JPEG). Write: Success Stories, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 223 Perimeter Center Parkway, Atlanta, GA, 30346-1301; or e-mail Michelle C. Brooks, ajcsuccessstories@gmail.com.
Success story
James “Allen” Parker, 59: From 250 pounds to 178 pounds
Former weight: 250 pounds
Current weight: 178 pounds
Pounds lost: 72 pounds
Height: 5 feet, 11 inches
Age: 59 years
How long he's kept it off: He started January 2012 and reached his goal in December 2014.
Personal life: Now retired, Parker worked for Marriott International Inc. for 33 years. "I've got three boys. … I met my wife in high school … we've been married almost 31 years." He lives in Lawrenceville.
Turning point: Parker has Meige syndrome. "It's a relatively rare disease. … It includes muscle spasms in the jaw, and spasms in the eye, which has caused me to be legally blind." Meige, named for the French neurologist who first described it in 1910, is a form of dystonia, which includes several involuntary movement disorders. Parker has eye dystonia or blepharospasm. "I couldn't sit around and live my life like this," he said. "My middle son … tried to get me up (and exercising). Until you are ready, no one can help you. I finally reached the point that I was ready."
Diet plan: "I made a lifestyle change; I cut out sweets, switched to complex carbohydrates and lean meats."
Exercise routine: "Five days a week, I'm on the elliptical or treadmill. I don't have to worry about falling; that helps immensely. … I average about 5½ miles on the treadmill. … The other days, I'm getting 10,000 steps (on my Fit-Bit)."
Biggest challenge: "Getting started, plain and simple. … Not to take this journey of mine as a diet or New Year's resolution, but just to get off my butt and get it done — those were my two biggest challenges."
How life has changed: "I feel better in my clothes. I don't feel lethargic. … My wife says, 'You're getting skinny.' It makes you feel better about yourself. … It's hard sometimes, but there's always someone in worse shape than I am. I have to be strong for my family and not let this get me down. … If I can encourage even one person, with or without a disability, then I can consider it a success to help other people."
About the Author
