Avesta Housing resident Judy Pulsifer of Stonecrest in Standish, Maine has lost 120 pounds, thanks to inspiration from an Avesta-sponsored cooking class offered at her property last year. Judy says learning how easy it was to make healthy, budget-friendly food like roasted vegetables and soup motivated her to lose the weight she’d always wanted to lose. Before her commitment to getting healthy, she had become a recluse in her apartment. She had low self-esteem, was lonely, unable to shop for herself and couldn’t enjoy activities with her grand kids.
After a gastric bypass, other residents at the property joined Judy in her quest to start eating healthier. They began using the buddy system to keep each other on course. Instead of bringing each other cookies, they brought fresh vegetables from the Stonecrest community gardens, which also increased her interest in gardening. They looked forward to their regular cooking classes and encouraged the group to continue.
After losing 14 lbs in the first two weeks, Judy began eating a mostly vegetarian diet, became devoted to portion control and never deprives herself. She says her new lease on life allows her to participate in many new activities and be much more social and healthy. One of the best rewards for her dedication? Being present at her granddaughter’s graduation, something she never expected to attend! When asked her secret, she advises: “Consistency is important. Eat fruits and veggies every day. Exercise daily, even if it’s walking or doing housework. Get your friends and neighbors on board to help. Keep journals for food, exercise and emotional states. Remember that getting off track for one meal doesn’t mean the whole day is ruined. Get back on track with your next meal or snack. Don’t deprive yourself. If you want dessert, have some but keep your portions small. Love yourself and give yourself credit for making the effort.”
Avesta staff send many congratulations to Judy for this major accomplishment, her commitment to healthy-living and for inspiring so many others along the way!
