Highlighted Peak Wellness Member: David Ermish
Read about the success of our Peak Wellness member on his remarkable health and wellness journey!
- Please tell us a bit about what motivated you to start your health and wellness journey.
“This is my second time with Profile/Peak Wellness. I was able to successfully keep off 50+ pounds I lost for over four years. But job changes and life challenges caused me to slowly fall back to old habits. That combined with less activity, and I gained much of the weight back. After trying to rebound myself, I decided to come back to Peak Wellness and have already lost 25 pounds and feel much healthier and motivated to increase my activity level.”
- How has your journey impacted other aspects of your life?
“I am healthier. My activity level has increased, and my doctor is pleased to see my blood pressure at normal levels. My mood is also better as I feel less depressed and hopeless.”
- What were some of the initial challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?
“Spending time with my adult son had to change. We had been meeting once a week for beers and food truck at a local brewery. I would find myself there with friends or family at least one more day a week as well. While I love a good microbrew IPA, I have at least for the time being had to
give that up. Eating healthy from a food truck is at best problematic. We have found other ways to connect and catch up.”
- Please share any significant milestones or achievements that you’re particularly proud of.
“I lost 25 pounds in the first two months. My doctor was very pleased to see my weight loss. I am wearing clothing I have not been able to wear for a year.
- How have the health coaches helped you on your journey?
“I appreciate the positive affirmations and suggestions the coaches have. I have no hesitation in sharing challenges or missteps because they are non-judgmental and instead offer support, understanding, and suggestions to avoid or overcome those missteps.”
- Do you gave any favorite activities, classes, or events at Peak Wellness?
” I just love and appreciate the overall joyfulness and positivity of walking into Peak Wellness. I get excited for my appointments and always feel successful when leaving.”
- What are your future goals for your health and wellness?
“I hope to get back to running/walking half marathons. I plan to be ready for the Mickelson in June!”
- What advice would you give to someone just starting out on their own health and wellness journey?
“Do not be afraid or ashamed to get started. Walking into Peak Wellness was easily one of the best decisions I have ever made. The staff at Peak Wellness are there to support and encourage you. You will not regret it and will feel so much better physically and mentally. Yes, there is a cost aspect. But consider what you are not spending on groceries, eating out, and especially on unhealthy habits/snacks. You will find it more than balances out. Working with Peak Wellness does not mean eating like a rabbit. I eat good foods, there are alternatives to things I miss most, and the coaches will teach you to balance out occasional “fun” nights out, vacations, or family events where you may not follow all the “rules”. Regarding the coast, do expect to have to buy new clothes!”
- What kind of advice would you give someone who initially has a barrier to joining Peak Wellness due to financial reasons?
“Figure what you are currently spending on groceries, eating out, snacks and/or soda at the convenience store and ESPECIALLY “junk food”. You will find that you are already spending at least the cost of the program or more, so it balances out. Yes, you still must buy groceries, but you will buy much fewer and much healthier options. I no longer use a cart to shop weekly, but instead just a hand basket. The only extra money you had better budget for is new clothing!”