(Running Related Biography Only)
FACTS:
- I am single, no kids, no pets, heterosexual and happy
- I lived in AZ from 07/01 until 12/06
- I began walking/running during the early 90's as part of a job Wellness program
- I could easily do 4-5 miles in under 45 min and did so at least three times a week
- I weighed about 155 lbs prior to moving to AZ, my drivers license for AZ states 170 lbs because of the rapid weight gain (state law requires new DL within 30 days)
- The sole purpose of my blog is to record my running progress as I seek a weight loss goal
- I started avid running workouts via an elliptical and treadmill during 2002 as a result of gaining 50+ pounds during my first 30-90 days of moving to AZ
- My first doctor visit for the 50+ lb weight gain plus symptoms was in 2001 while working as an employee for Mayo Clinic, and yes, the incorrect diagnosis was given by an intern at a Mayo facility (Diagnosis: Stress, prescribed sleeping sedative, of which I took very few as it distorted my ability to function and did not correct any symptoms)
- I would later learn (2006) that I was suffering from mild-to-moderate dehydration
- The overseeing physician did not agree/disagree but chose to leave the diagnosis in the intern's hands because I was by all other accounts quite healthy (she interviewed me once and actually agreed with me that stress didn't seem to be a relevant issue)
- A correct diagnosis of my weight gain/related symptoms was given by an OB-GYN in Tucson during 2006 (God bless her!) who tested me for everything that could not be ruled out by other means, found no underlying medical causes and then began to break down my daily routine, diet and specific symptoms (including vivid descriptions of stool samples)
- Diagnosis: Dehydration, Prescription: Allow a week to several months for the body to adjust to the accelerated fluid intake, Add fiber, green, soy, Subtract Caffeine, excessive sugar (as a transfer to AZ herself she had brochures on the topic and a dietary regimen)
- Three weeks later I actually began to lose weight and lose the massive migraines associated with the dehydration
- I returned to NC during December 2006
- Prior to April 26, 2008 I had never competed in a public timed running event
- I was an instant addict to running, over 1300 participants and I finished the 5K under 49 minutes and set three life goals as a result (see: Goals )
I am a native Charlottean (rare indeed!) and love the Queen City. I left for about five and half years to adventure in Arizona (Go Diamondbacks!) and during my stay away, I suffered from mild dehydration, - an effect of drinking caffeine (soda, coffee) in excess and not drinking sufficient amounts of water - which in my case was the equivalent of early menopause.
I gained 5o lbs within my first few months of moving and it would take another five plus years for a doctor to correctly identify the cause and cure of the weight gain / menopausal symptoms. I was far too young (36) for menopause so doctors kept trying to blame hormones.
Turns out the answer was much simpler.
Turns out the answer was much simpler.
I exercised intensely in AZ, trying to rid myself of the weight, but one of the side effects of dehydration is the body's belief that you are in starvation mode and thus, no diet whatsoever worked in all of the five years. I could run well, workout well, eat great, and never lose a pound. When I hit 212.5 lbs (at age 42), I was miserable beyond measure and fortunately, that's when I met a doctor that correctly diagnosed what was happening.
It took nearly a month for my poor body to realize I was finally treating it right with lots of fluids (water) and fiber, and then the weight monster began to feel the effects. Of course, life doesn't always allow you to work on a fixed course according to YOUR agenda, and as fate would have it, I moved again. Back to NC (green again!). After two jobs, three moves (apartment - relatives - condo) and two years of 'settling in', I am back on the exercise track and working on regaining my physical stamina that was present before my move to Arizona.
In the last year or so, I have met women who've struggled with similar issues, one in fact was writing a book and requested that my story be used as an example in her dissertation. I will mention for the ladies reading this excerpt, the symptoms are: migraines, sleeplessness, hot flashes, extreme fatigue, severe constipation, weight gain and bloating. (the effects of which can include: loss of concentration, loss of memory, hemorrhoids, fibroids, polyps, Vitamin D deficiency, Vitamin B12 deficiency, nervousness, depression, and if the B12 is not corrected, a psychological breakdown). Most of these symptoms are typically associated with one of three things: stress, menopause or thyroid issues. None of these were applicable in my case which is what made the diagnosis so difficult. I will venture to suggest here when your body is rejecting treatment, of any sort, always seek a second opinion and be willing to risk that straightforward, no nonsense, detail-oriented response. Your health is worth it.
Running is now my new and most favorite past time and I look forward to the day when I actually place in the top 3 for my age group - and it will happen! I am determined, focused and fully engaged. Watch me GO!
UPDATE - JUNE 30, 2009:
After several visits to my local physician, a cause for my misery has been removed. The menopausal symptoms are subsiding and my weight loss efforts are actually beginning to stick! I have never been so excited about an outpatient surgery, but this minor adjustment is having major effects! Hooray and Thank the Lord for a healthier me!!
UPDATE - AUGUST 28, 2009:
After my outpatient surgery, my doctor began monitoring my blood results and is specifically targeting my Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 levels - both are too low presently. The Vit D is borderline to the normal range, Vit B12 is bottom of the scale. I am taking shots which will restore the levels and correct some additional challenges that still remain from the dehydration, which includes weight, breathing and sleep. This is progress and I am thankful for a physician that is thorough and realizes my symptoms aren't just complaints but actual effects of a long term physical issue.
UPDATE - NOVEMBER 14,2009:
After several follow-up visits, which have included Vitamin B12 shots (first weekly, then bi-monthly, then randomly), my B12 level is closer to normal. B12 is NOT a vitamin the body should be low on as it affects the nervous system, thus the shots were induced to raise the level more rapidly. My Vitamin D level is still too low. Vitamin D can be stored in fat and therein seems to be the bulk of my problem. The doctor has placed me on a daily regimen of the maximum recommended dosage of Vitamin D in an effort to restore it to normal.
UPDATE - JANUARY 30, 2010:
I have just today ordered my first month's shipment of Nutrisystem. I am a firm believer in the success of this program as I have tried it before and know it to be healthy, realistic and effective. My regimen will begin as soon as the meal plans arrive. All other issues are either being remedied or completely remedied - the weight is the only remaining effect of the dehydration and IT MUST GO! I'm starting the plan with a stated weight of 210 lbs and a goal weight of 140 lbs. Onward we march!
UPDATE - JULY 7, 2010:
My body and I have been at war for the last 5 months. The battle has been relentless and I sit here at 212 lbs knowing that a more drastic measure is in order. The hydration issue is cyclical. The Vitamin issues are directly linked to weight and will not maintain improvements until the excess weight is non-existent. My current Vit D level is bottom of the scale, my B12 level is low and borders the bottom of the normal range which is an improvement yet not where it should be resulting in sleep loss (thus I type this at 3am). The hydration and tiredness both affect my running. I am physically able to do far above and beyond my current level but my breathing and energy levels restrain me from full capacity. The tide is going to turn. Today begins an interim liquid only diet that will 'reset' that inner guidance system and will also reduce a sufficient amount of weight over a 3 to 4 week period to allow for progress by a more normal means. It is simply a form of variance (as with any physical training) that will set the body back in line with my goals. I am a very healthy person, (45 and going strong!) believe it or not, something for which I am very thankful. These few health issues are minor and non-life threatening, just extremely irritating in that they affect my overall well-being. This too shall pass!
UPDATE - NOVEMBER 14,2009:
After several follow-up visits, which have included Vitamin B12 shots (first weekly, then bi-monthly, then randomly), my B12 level is closer to normal. B12 is NOT a vitamin the body should be low on as it affects the nervous system, thus the shots were induced to raise the level more rapidly. My Vitamin D level is still too low. Vitamin D can be stored in fat and therein seems to be the bulk of my problem. The doctor has placed me on a daily regimen of the maximum recommended dosage of Vitamin D in an effort to restore it to normal.
UPDATE - JANUARY 30, 2010:
I have just today ordered my first month's shipment of Nutrisystem. I am a firm believer in the success of this program as I have tried it before and know it to be healthy, realistic and effective. My regimen will begin as soon as the meal plans arrive. All other issues are either being remedied or completely remedied - the weight is the only remaining effect of the dehydration and IT MUST GO! I'm starting the plan with a stated weight of 210 lbs and a goal weight of 140 lbs. Onward we march!
UPDATE - JULY 7, 2010:
My body and I have been at war for the last 5 months. The battle has been relentless and I sit here at 212 lbs knowing that a more drastic measure is in order. The hydration issue is cyclical. The Vitamin issues are directly linked to weight and will not maintain improvements until the excess weight is non-existent. My current Vit D level is bottom of the scale, my B12 level is low and borders the bottom of the normal range which is an improvement yet not where it should be resulting in sleep loss (thus I type this at 3am). The hydration and tiredness both affect my running. I am physically able to do far above and beyond my current level but my breathing and energy levels restrain me from full capacity. The tide is going to turn. Today begins an interim liquid only diet that will 'reset' that inner guidance system and will also reduce a sufficient amount of weight over a 3 to 4 week period to allow for progress by a more normal means. It is simply a form of variance (as with any physical training) that will set the body back in line with my goals. I am a very healthy person, (45 and going strong!) believe it or not, something for which I am very thankful. These few health issues are minor and non-life threatening, just extremely irritating in that they affect my overall well-being. This too shall pass!
UPDATE - MAY 15, 2011:
I hit 218 lbs just recently. Not a pretty moment. I also moved on February 1st to the lovely land of sunshine a.k.a. Florida. I've made 5 return trips to NC (1250 miles round trip not including mileage in-state) and am planning another return trip within the next two weeks. I feel like my head is spinning from the constant motion. This move, while unplanned, was a good one but since my move-out date was on very short notice (builder went under financially) I was left with a list of commitments in the state of NC yet to be fulfilled, so I drive... and I drive. I've missed five registered races as a result and my schedule is chaotic at times. My determination is not. I got up this morning weighing in at 213 lbs. I have a wedding to attend in July, someone most dear to my heart, who has spent most of her life hearing "You look just like Tracy" and on that day I actually want to "look like Tracy" not like the bloated, end result of a body struggling against itself. It's not vanity, it's not shame, it's truly a desire to be rid of what I am not and return to what I am. VA, NC, NY and FL are all on the travel radar for the next two months. Somewhere along the way I intend to knock out two recurring New Year's resolutions and celebrate with a really hot date!
UPDATE - MARCH 27, 2012:
Wedding was a bust. Nothing to do with my weight. Let's just say a wedding is NOT the place to settle an old grudge with your Dad over 'abandonment issues', especially not when his entire family, that has supported you since birth, is present. On to other items.
UPDATE - MARCH 27, 2012:
Wedding was a bust. Nothing to do with my weight. Let's just say a wedding is NOT the place to settle an old grudge with your Dad over 'abandonment issues', especially not when his entire family, that has supported you since birth, is present. On to other items.
- I hit 220 lbs in December. Simultaneously, an all time high and an all time low.
- After 12 return trips to NC in 10 months and a very unhealthy financial state as a result, I moved back to North Carolina to settle the domestic arrangements for my parents on a full time basis. This move was not as much a choice as it was a necessity. Having said that, I accomplished more in the first 72 hours than I had in the last year and a half. My commitment to them is approximately 90 days. My intention (stated with hope and prayer) is to return to Florida in April as I have finally found a location that feels like home and I truly miss it.
- In February I returned to my NC physician to retest my Vitamin levels. Good news and Bad news. My Vit B was in the normal range (Hallelujah!) but my Vit D was bottom of the scale (Boo! Hiss!) which, for those unaware, is a weight loss prohibitor. The Dr. prescribed 2000 I.U. of Vit D daily with a retest in 16 weeks.
- I decided around this same to to join a mileage program. My NC running club began a 1000 Mile Challenge for all members for 2012. I had a late start but I am still aiming to log 1000 miles for the year, which at this point boils down to a goal of 25 miles per week (22 min.) for me as there are 40 weeks left and I've only logged 119 for the year.
- 2012 has been an uphill challenge from Day 1, literally. April of this year will mark the 4th year of my commitment to lose the AZ weight gain and put this story behind me. 2008 was 2 yrs after a correct diagnosis and now, 6 years later, I am still struggling with what should have been a minor issue with problematic symptoms. I do not intend to carry this issue into another calendar year. If 2012 wants a fight, it's got one.
I've been busy since my last update. Still in NC, still making regular visits to the doctor to measure progress and/or challenges. The Vit B levels dropped down to the bottom at the 16 wk checkup so weekly shots were ordered for a month followed by monthly shots until a normal range can be reached. Between visits a 45 day cycle occurred with excessive flow so an iron test was added to the 16 wk checkup. Iron levels were also too far below normal. Vit B, Vit D and Iron supplements are now part of my daily regime. A visit to the OBGYN was ordered and the results were beyond expectations. The outpatient surgery that took place in June 2009 was successful but the items removed (polyp, fibroid, in uterus) have returned, larger in size and embedded. Another surgery has been scheduled for September with a more permanent cure. At one point during 2012 I was unable to stay awake beyond 4 hours due to the critical vitamin levels, lack of sleep, and constant hormonal fluctuations. Once again, I am looking forward to a surgical procedure. Believe it or not, I am quite healthy outside of this issue. All tests are benign, all other checkup tests are normal (blood pressure, heart rate, etc). While the female issues are exhausting, I am looking forward to solutions and thankful for overall good health.
UPDATE - MARCH 8, 2013:
Surgery, check. Recovery, check. Follow up, check. All is well. I went into surgery with sinus drainage and since the room temp is quite chilly in a surgical environment, I developed Bronchitis... twice. The second bout ended late January. Nasty stuff. Other than that, the surgery itself went extremely well. An unexpected side effect occurred in August. I was given a shot of Lupron to stop all cycles and later learned that the pharmaceutical company lists a 7% rate of heart related side effects. I am in that 7%. My blood pressure shot up immediately and ran in the 160-180 range during the surgery itself. Totally abnormal for me. The first month after the shot I had panic (anxiety) attacks caused solely by the medication. It was February before the medication was fully out of my system. Ordinarily, doctors order 2-3 shots of this medication prior to surgery. I only received the first one, the others were cancelled by my OB GYN. A separate doctor (partner) did the surgery and she was in the dark as to the potential side effects of the medication. Thankfully, no harm was caused and my body recovered fully.
I state all this to explain my race scores and RNPs (registered non-participant) post surgery. Much slower. Walking 99% and deliberately not pushing past any limits. I walked two half marathons, one in November, one in February. I lost two toenails from the November event. My hands and feet were swollen disproportionately. Enough to cause toenail damage and to send me into the medical tent after the race. My hands actually swelled up to my elbows, something I had never experienced. Doctor was not alarmed. It is rare. He referred to it as "exercise induced anaphylaxis" and the treatment varies based on opinion. So long as the swelling was minimal, heart rate and blood pressure were normal, no medical treatment was needed. His resolution was to raise my arms high above my head and wait for the swelling to subside. Quite comical to me and others in the tent. The nurses were outstanding. I am thankful for those that donate their time for events like this!
The February half marathon went much better. Timing was on target with previous records. It was hot that day though and I decided it was time to adhere to some expert running advice. Lose weight to run, don't run to lose weight. The latter only works for those who are attempting to lose 20-30 lbs or less. For those of us with higher goals, running will not decrease mass in a manner needed. Thus, I have resolved to limit my public (race) running activity for a space of time and concentrate on the weight factor. I still exercise and have only the weight and vitamin levels left as a challenge. Vitamin D deficiencies have recently captured media attention as a common link in many health concerns, both physical and mental. Truly, health is wealth and should never be taken for granted.
UPDATE - MARCH 8, 2013:
Surgery, check. Recovery, check. Follow up, check. All is well. I went into surgery with sinus drainage and since the room temp is quite chilly in a surgical environment, I developed Bronchitis... twice. The second bout ended late January. Nasty stuff. Other than that, the surgery itself went extremely well. An unexpected side effect occurred in August. I was given a shot of Lupron to stop all cycles and later learned that the pharmaceutical company lists a 7% rate of heart related side effects. I am in that 7%. My blood pressure shot up immediately and ran in the 160-180 range during the surgery itself. Totally abnormal for me. The first month after the shot I had panic (anxiety) attacks caused solely by the medication. It was February before the medication was fully out of my system. Ordinarily, doctors order 2-3 shots of this medication prior to surgery. I only received the first one, the others were cancelled by my OB GYN. A separate doctor (partner) did the surgery and she was in the dark as to the potential side effects of the medication. Thankfully, no harm was caused and my body recovered fully.
I state all this to explain my race scores and RNPs (registered non-participant) post surgery. Much slower. Walking 99% and deliberately not pushing past any limits. I walked two half marathons, one in November, one in February. I lost two toenails from the November event. My hands and feet were swollen disproportionately. Enough to cause toenail damage and to send me into the medical tent after the race. My hands actually swelled up to my elbows, something I had never experienced. Doctor was not alarmed. It is rare. He referred to it as "exercise induced anaphylaxis" and the treatment varies based on opinion. So long as the swelling was minimal, heart rate and blood pressure were normal, no medical treatment was needed. His resolution was to raise my arms high above my head and wait for the swelling to subside. Quite comical to me and others in the tent. The nurses were outstanding. I am thankful for those that donate their time for events like this!
The February half marathon went much better. Timing was on target with previous records. It was hot that day though and I decided it was time to adhere to some expert running advice. Lose weight to run, don't run to lose weight. The latter only works for those who are attempting to lose 20-30 lbs or less. For those of us with higher goals, running will not decrease mass in a manner needed. Thus, I have resolved to limit my public (race) running activity for a space of time and concentrate on the weight factor. I still exercise and have only the weight and vitamin levels left as a challenge. Vitamin D deficiencies have recently captured media attention as a common link in many health concerns, both physical and mental. Truly, health is wealth and should never be taken for granted.
UPDATE -JANUARY 18, 2015:
2014 seems like a blur. My father passed in May - specifically on his wedding anniversary which also fell on Memorial Day. I am the designated Executrix of the Estate and also became Guardian for my mother during the year. My responsibilities have escalated and certain duties are both time sensitive and time consuming. Add to that my job search and subsequent hire (retail), I have a very busy schedule these days. I have additional goals for 2015 - personal, financial, family, work - and I am currently scheduled for two half marathons in the 1st quarter and a full marathon in the 2nd quarter of the year. Running keeps me sane.
To my knowledge, all other health issues, except weight, are resolved. A good friend became a certified personal trainer last year and if I fail to make substantial progress with the weight loss by end of February, I will seek to retain her assistance with the target goal. This morning I weighed 216.8, after putting in a grueling 9.18 trail miles yesterday morning followed by 6 hours of work/cleaning on concrete floors. Hydration and proper eating habits are crucial - as well as a much needed, regular sleeping pattern. Will post again late February, after my races.