About 23 years ago, Larry Ferguson, spouse of an employee of Ancestry.com, suffered a severe back injury. Over the years, his back has improved little by little, but he was not able to stay as active as he would have liked. This resulted in steady weight gain and Larry was not sure how to get his health back. He reports that The Apple Program has been the spark that got him on track toward a healthier lifestyle.
Larry has since lowered his triglycerides and blood glucose, boosted his “good” cholesterol, and dropped a pant size over the past year. Ferguson also feels that one of his biggest successes is that he can now walk up to 2 miles at a time. After his back injury limited his ability to even walk a few feet, working his way up to 2 miles is a huge physical and emotional accomplishment.
Larry’s goals include eating five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, walking 1.5 miles three times a week, and lifting weights one to two times a week. He states that with constant encouragement from his Apple Health Coach he has had success in working hard at his goals. Mr. Ferguson also added, “My Health Coach is the key to keeping me going on this program. We talk monthly and set reachable goals that keep me working. Her positive attitude makes me want to try harder.”
When asked if he would have been successful in improving his health if his company had not offered the Apple Program, Larry responded, “No, I have tried other programs and I would hold strong for a while, but the spark would soon leave. With this program they have wonderful Health Coaches that are concerned with my health; I find myself more motivated to keep it up knowing I report to someone each month.”
Changing his habits has made Larry Ferguson’s life more enjoyable. He states, “Emotionally, I feel better and can see that the more active I am, the happier I am. I have a greater sense of accomplishment because I can do more.” Larry has plans to reach his goal weight of 200 pounds, reach a 36-inch waist and work his way up to walking 5 miles. He says, “I now think my long-term goals are actually reachable, not just wishful thinking. I know if I continue to follow the advice of my Apple Health Coach and keep trying to improve, I will eventually reach my long term goals. This will result in a longer and much happier life.”
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