In a country where the battle with the bulge is a common story, a shining beacon of hope emerges from the Department of Veterans Affairs’ MOVE! Weight Management Program. This initiative has proven to be a game-changer for many veterans struggling with weight issues, including Army Veteran Donald Logan, who managed to lose over 50 pounds through the program.
A Personal Victory Against Obesity
For Donald Logan, the journey to a healthier lifestyle began following a wake-up call from his doctor. After being hospitalized for diabetes in July 2023, Logan was faced with a stark choice: lose weight or start taking daily insulin shots. Weighing over 300 pounds at the time, the choice was clear but daunting. His doctor recommended the MOVE! Weight Management Program at Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital, a decision that would set Logan on a path to reclaiming his health.
Understanding MOVE!
Launched in 2006, the MOVE! Program is not just about losing weight; it’s about changing lives. With a focus on developing healthier habits through lifestyle and nutrition changes and incorporating physical activity, MOVE! has been pivotal in helping veterans achieve significant weight loss and, more importantly, maintain it.
Participants like Logan are encouraged to set realistic and achievable health goals. For Logan, a key learning was portion control, a simple yet effective strategy that has helped him maintain healthy portion sizes, complemented by 12-hour intermittent fasting.
The Ripple Effect of Healthy Choices
The benefits of the MOVE! Program extend beyond weight loss. Logan credits the program with improvements in his daily life, including his job performance as a mail carrier. A healthy breakfast of overnight oats provides the energy he needs for his physically demanding job, while small exercises between deliveries help keep him active.
The result? A remarkable 54-pound weight loss since starting the program in August 2023. But it’s not just about the numbers on the scale. Logan’s success story is a testament to the comprehensive approach of the MOVE! Program, which supports veterans through dietary advice, physical activity recommendations, and even mental health support.
A Community of Support
The MOVE! Program at Hines VA is more than just a series of classes; it’s a community. With about 500 veterans participating, the program offers a variety of resources, including weight loss support groups, telehealth options, and medical management of obesity. This holistic approach ensures that every veteran has the support they need to succeed.
Enrollment is straightforward, requiring just a call or a referral from a primary care provider. This accessibility is crucial, ensuring that help is within reach for those who need it.
Looking Ahead
For Logan, the journey doesn’t end here. With his diabetes now in remission and his health vastly improved, he’s set his sights on new goals, including skydiving. His story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when determination meets support.
The MOVE! Weight Management Program: More Than Just Weight Loss
The success of the MOVE! Program lies in its ability to empower veterans like Logan to take control of their health. It’s a reminder that with the right support and commitment, significant health improvements are within reach. Logan’s story, shared by the VA’s press release, is just one of many that highlight the program’s impact.
As Logan continues his journey to health and adventure, the MOVE! Program stands as a beacon of hope for veterans facing similar battles. It’s not just about weight loss; it’s about transforming lives.
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I would live to know more about this program.
Does Tricare cover this medication??
I would like to know more about getting into this program.