30 Pounds Lighter and Loving It!
Deanna Philippus

I am in my 30’s and was beginning to realize that my health was declining. Certainly, I’m too young to be feeling like this. I’m sick of YoYo dieting with little or no results, sick of Slim Fast and multiple other weight loss programs, sick of limiting myself socially due to appearance (such as swimming or pool party invitations). I used to overeat quite a bit making me feel extremely tired forcing me into the self loathing attitudes. A vicious cycle!

In October 2004, after attending a few Back to Eden support meetings, I decided to attend a week at the Orcutt’s new Lifestyle Center. I was to be their “Pioneer” – the first one to go through the program. I am a visual, audio and kinetic learner and the program used all three methods of teaching. Today, it’s amazing, but I don’t miss meat.

Hallelujah! I’ve gone from a size 14-16 to a size 6 – I’m not colorless anymore, I look healthier, my skin and hair are healthier, my severe PMS is gone, and I’ve lost 30 pounds. I have more energy; I feel responsible for myself and feel in charge of my health now. I’m rebounding and feel more flexible.

As my health improved I wanted to share this information with everyone, especially my Dad. I was very concerned about his health. He’s young at heart, but his heart isn’t healthy. I just wanted a healthy and happy Daddy. As a little girl, I remember thinking, Oh, Dad must have sat here – there are salt rings all around where his plate was. I just had to make my Dad understand that he could make better choices that would improve his health.

Now I’m on fire for Jesus and I just want to let the whole world know that they don’t have to be sick.