Success! Brett amd Tammy Eberhard Brett, 38, and Tammy, 37, Eberhard, of Eagle, knew something had to change. Dealing with high blood pressure and other health issues, the couple altered their lifestyle to generate a healthier future. Brett, a project manager at HBC Contracting, and Tammy, a title clerk at a local dealership, shared their journey with Healthy & Fit Magazine.
! Before
What was your motivation to live a healthy lifestyle?
After!
TE: I was pre-diabetic and already had high blood pressure at 36. I was told by my doctor that I have a fatty liver. I read that the condition is not reversible, but if I improved my diet it would help. I decided that if I wanted to be around for my kids (two boys, 20 and 8 years old) things needed to change. BE: When I stepped on a scale and saw 386 lbs it was a wake-up call. I wanted to do everything in my power to make sure I will be around long enough to spend time with my wife and see my kids grow.
Brett Eberhard
How is your new lifestyle different?
Tammy Eberhard
TE: I’m in charge of the way I feel and I choose to feel strong and accomplished. This is a vast difference from my old self where I was embarrassed and afraid of failing.
Before: 202 lbs After: 149 lbs Height: 5’2”
BE: Having the energy to do anything we want as a family is the biggest difference. Instead of coming home from work and sitting around because we are tired, we are able to go outside to walk the dogs, go on hikes or play with the kids.
What keeps you motivated? TE: I’m setting a great example for my kids and my health has improved. No more high cholesterol or pre-diabetic conditions. BE: Knowing how much better I feel from regular exercise and good eating habits. Seeing the positive effects you can have on others by doing it instead of talking about it.
What health habits are most important to you? TE: Exercise is the most important healthy habit to me because it’s a great stress reliever and boosts my mood. I 10
Before: 386 lbs After: 240 lbs Height: 6’4”
have found a CrossFit gym and I love it! BE: Regular exercise as a family is by far the most important to me. My wife and I found ODP Fitness last September. They have CrossFit classes that are set up for people of any fitness level or ability and this allowed my wife and me to work out side-by-side.
How is your diet? TE: I started Weight Watchers in December 2012. I’m now down 52 pounds. I track my food and activity. I feel like I’m always eating because I have my main meals and snacks handy like fruit, string cheese, nuts or greek yogurt in between meals.
BE: Personally, for me, the biggest challenge is eating in moderation. My job requires a lot of travel and it was always easier to stop at a fast food restaurant than to try and plan what and where I will eat. Now I will either take a small snack to eat until I get home or make it a point to stop where I know I can order something from a healthy menu.
What’s your advice for others? TE:. I read lots of inspirational stories to keep me motivated. Find something you love, to get active. Try new things like classes or just switching your routine to freshen things up. BE: Don’t think that it will be too hard or take too long. I have been working at this for two years now and still have a ways to go.
Do you know someone who is a Success! story? Send an e-mail to Tim at tim@healthyandfitmagazine.com. Include your name, phone number and why you think your candidate is a Success!
Healthy & Fit • www.healthyandfitmagazine.com
MAY 2014