Pam
Pam loves her GRx
Pam Tetley-McKernon's first reaction to her Green Prescription was not very positive. She had just been diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes and was already depressed about having to give up so many of the foods she loved. So, the idea that she should start exercising was very unwelcome indeed!
However, Pam did give it a go - she started walking in the mornings, but didn't find it enjoyable because of a balance problem that made her look 'intoxicated' - so she stopped.
Pam's Green Prescription Area Manager, Kay Lindley from Waitakere, came to her rescue and arranged for Pam to start a SitFit class, which Pam enjoyed. However, the classes stopped for the Christmas holidays and Pam didn’t like the idea of having two months off her new-found enjoyment of being active.
So, after some encouragement by Kay, she started water walking (aqua jogging) at her local pool. Pam loved it and she even managed to get her husband, who had recently undergone heart bypass surgery, along as well.
Now back at SitFit, Pam keeps up her activity at the pool as well. 'I have even found the energy to paint the fence at home as part of my "30 minutes a day" and I have lost more than 10 kilos since February. My size 18 bathing suit looks good on me (I used to be a size 22) and though I have another 10 kg to lose, I can see the difference already,' she exclaims.
'My second tyre is fast disappearing and my blood sugar levels are now down to an acceptable level. This has been a real boost for me - my muscles are stronger, and it has made my work much easier,' Pam said. Also, there's the immense satisfaction Pam gains from fitting into clothes that she hasn't been able to wear for years. Additionally, she loves looking at her newly-painted fence with pride.
'I thoroughly recommend a Green Prescription to anyone who is diagnosed with diabetes. It takes everything out of the "too hard" basket,' said Pam.
Updated | 06 Jul 2006.
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