Through Share Your Story, Frances wants to let the Million Step March community know about the dramatic improvements in her lifestyle - and an improved outlook on life:
"I just became active nine months ago. I had gastric bypass surgery. Before the surgery I was 412 pounds, now I am 260 pounds. Before my surgery, if I could take 1,000 steps it was a miracle. Now I average 8,000 per day.
"Being active has made me feel better about my life and my surroundings. There are times when I am walking that tears form in my eyes because you never know how much you appreciate something until it is no longer a part of your life. And walking was so painful for me that the fewer steps I took, the better. I used to look for the closet parking space when it came time to shop, now I intentionally park at the end of the row, just so I can walk.
"People always ask me what I am doing to lose the weight, and when I say walking they look somewhat puzzled. I then begin to explain to them that walking is the best way for me. All it takes is a good pair of walking shoes, and of course, an MP3 player, and you are off to enjoy the outdoors. Here's to getting healthy, and as the old cliche says, 'The taste of this old food is never as good as being healthy feels.'"
Shared on May 22, 2008 Share your story