As a performing artist, I am a part of an industry that places great value on image.
People have an expectation that women in music look good - young, slim and attractive.
I have often struggled with this expectation because I have high standards for my music
and believe that the quality of the music has nothing to do with the how good I look or
don't look.
The fact remains, however, that when I'm on stage, people are looking at me.
For years I did a good job of dressing to hide my extra pounds but the truth is - I never
felt totally comfortable inside my own body. I longed to feel physically the same strength
and confidence I felt in my music. I wished I could physically portray the inspiration
that moves and touches people when I sing. I felt like the person I was on the inside was
stuck in the wrong body.
The 2007 season was particularly busy for me and I struggled with poor sleeping habits,
bad eating and drinking habits and stress on all kinds of levels. By the time I reached
the New Year, I was miserable and worn out. My weight was at an all-time high. I knew I
had to make some serious changes for the sake of my mental and physical health as well as
my future as an artist. I made my usual New Year resolutions but they didn't amount to
much. I slept my way through most of January, drinking coffee all through the mornings and
wine all through the evenings and having little control over my eating and exercise
habits. I felt myself sinking into a dark depression.
I remember February 7th very clearly. I had driven past the
U Weight Loss® Clinic many times in the past. A friend of mine
told me about her success with the program and I kept thinking that I would have to check
it out. Something strange happened on the morning of February 7th. I was on my
way to the grocery store and my car just drove itself to the U Weight
Loss Clinic. I believe that something deep inside of me knew that I hit rock-bottom
and I needed help. I remember walking into the clinic and meeting Dianne. I remember how
easily I poured my heart out to her, as though my heart has been waiting for that moment.
I sensed that she immediately connected with my desperation. She was sympathetic but she
also had a sense of hope - a strong and bold kind of hope, the same strong and bold kind
of hope I knew was buried somewhere inside me. I listened as she explained the program to
me. It sounded tough. It sounded strict and challenging. But it sounded right.
Something clicked that day. I was ready to take control and had found the tools and the
support to start that journey - the journey towards health and wellness. I finally
embraced the belief that I would actually find the body that I was meant to live in. I
knew I couldn't do it on my own but I had found the partners to walk me through the
journey. The moment I left the clinic on February 7th, my life changed
dramatically and I haven't looked back.
I have lost 45 pounds so far since beginning the U Weight Loss®
program. I have had ups and downs, weak moments, bad days, but the one thing that has not
changed is my belief that I will reach my goal. The staff continues to be and important
support network for me. The regular accountability has helped to keep me on track.
Sometimes I need to go to the clinic every day, just for the extra encouragement. They are
always there for me. They are tough but I know that they are on my side. They always have
the answers if I have any concerns about anything to do with the program. My husband and
kids started calling the staff the "U gods" because of their knowledge and discipline -
it's a "tough love" thing. I have 7 pounds left until I reach my goal. I know that the
"U gods" are going to get me there.
My transformation is evident on many levels. Obviously, the physical results are most
obvious:
Five months ago, I was wearing size 16 pants. Yesterday, I bought a pair of size 8 pants.
Five months ago, I rarely had a good night's sleep. Now, I sleep like a baby.
Five months ago, I was not exercising at all. Now I work out 2 hours a day, 6 days a week.
Five months ago, I had blotchy skin with wrinkles around my eyes and mouth. Now I have
clear, glowing skin and the wrinkles have noticeably diminished.
Five months ago, I had chronic stomach problems including constipation and acid reflux
requiring prescription medication. Now, my bowels work regularly and my acid reflux is
gone - I no longer need my medication.
Five months ago, my husband and I had a rather "dull" sex life. Now, we are rediscovering
the passing we had 20 years ago.
Five months ago, I could not run around the block. Now, I'm training to run a
half-marathon in October.
I cannot begin to adequately describe the impact of the other areas of transformation in
my life. I am simply a different person. I am energetic and hopeful and I feel a greater
sense of control in my life. People constantly notice my body and my skin but also notice
my spirit being lighter and more joyful. I am able to face emotional struggles with
clearer perspective and a sense of hope. I feel gratitude for my health and a new sense of
respect for my body as well as my mind and my spirit.
I have no doubt that this experience will dramatically affect my presence as a performer
and the results of my songwriting efforts.
In fact, I feel a new song coming on.