Encouraged by My Daughter, I Transformed My Health at 79

The beginning of 2017 was unforgettable for me, marking a pivotal moment when my daughter, Michelle MacDonald, expressed her concern in a rare outburst.

Michelle, who had just relocated to Mexico, was in town visiting. "I won't have as many opportunities to visit," she mentioned. "Each departure means wondering if it might be the last goodbye."

Her next straightforward suggestion proved life-changing. "Mom, ever considered joining a gym?" she asked.

The Urgent Need to Regain Health

At that time, I was facing serious health challenges, with high blood pressure, kidney trouble, and carrying 70 extra pounds. As my 71st birthday in March loomed, I was enveloped in fear and despair.

A stern warning from my doctor highlighted a grim future unless I took steps to improve my health, with dialysis being a near certainty. It felt as though my life was slipping away.

During my Canadian childhood, I was always on the go — playing sports and enjoying winter games, though athleticism wasn't my forte.

Married just before my 21st birthday, I quickly adapted to being a wife and a professional as a driving examiner, while also raising Michelle and her two brothers.

Back then, gym sessions were not part of our lifestyle; none of my friends or I even considered working out.

Combating Blood Pressure with Medication

I've noticed that our bodies evolve approximately every seven years, and throughout my life, I shifted in size and dietary preferences.

My eating schedule was sporadic, usually comprising just two meals alongside frequent snacking.

The 60s were plagued with poor health, including recurrent bronchitis due to a childhood illness, and progressively worsening kidney problems.

Weighing 200 pounds was unhealthy for my 5-foot-3 frame, compounded by hypertension that necessitated medication.

Thankfully, Michelle, a certified fitness expert, spotted my declining health from afar, relocating far away and thus unable to check on me regularly.

Her honest suggestion was empowering, spurring me into action. My doctor, too, emphasized the need to slim down and lower my blood pressure.

Though my gym attendance was inconsistent in the past, this time I committed to visiting five times weekly.

Witnessing My Transforming Physique

Guided by Michelle and online tutorials, I learned to navigate gym equipment and practiced weight training. Initially, lifting 20 pounds was daunting.

I started with minimal weights, slowly building up. Eventually, I reached a 170-pound deadlift and a 230-pound hip thrust.

Witnessing the physical changes, fitting into long-neglected jeans, was rewarding.

In six months, I shed 45 pounds, followed by another 25 throughout my seventies. Departing from size XL to medium, I was liberated from medication.

My routine now consists of two-hour gym sessions, incorporating 15 minutes of cardio and weight lifting. Living with Michelle in Mexico for a year after my husband's passing, I often exercise alongside her.

Diet-wise, I consume five small meals starting with oatmeal, egg whites, protein powder, and skim coconut milk.

The rest of the day includes yogurt, egg white omelets with various proteins, a protein bar, and an evening meal without starches, ceasing eating by 7 pm.

Overcoming a Setback: The Shoulder Injury

Recently, I sustained a shoulder injury during a bike ride over uneven terrain, necessitating surgery three months ago. Recovery requires patience, but I'm much healthier and happier now.

Michelle and I created "Train With Joan" to motivate others of all ages to embrace fitness.

Age might slow us, but I've seen older peers achieve remarkable feats. Taking that step for yourself is crucial, as only you live within your body.