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Winning and Losing
On February 28, 2008 , fifteen people graduated from our first Coronary Health Improvement Project (CHIP), directed by Gail Chavez . Our participants learned and applied scientifically-based health principles presented in 16 classes. They enjoyed video lectures by Dr. Hans Diehl with topics including osteoporosis, high fat diets and cancer, and the reversal of diabetes and high blood pressure. The classes also included lively cooking demonstrations coordinated by Suzanne Elmer and energetic exercise incentives arranged by Gayle Land .
We had several highlights during the fourweek class. The HeartScreen Events were held at our church on the mornings of January 25 and February 22. Participants had their height, weight, frame size, blood pressure and heart rate measured. Then they had their fasting cholesterol panel and blood sugar drawn. Specially trained staff accepted their health histories. The information gathered was a combination of subjective and objective data used to evaluate their progress. Finally, they enjoyed a big heart-healthy breakfast.
Another highlight was a visit from Dr. Ivan Chavez , a cardiologist from Abbott Northwestern Hospital . He explained the roles LDL and HDL cholesterol play in the formation of plaque in the coronary arteries. He also confirmed that lifestyle measures are critical to improving cholesterol levels and stabilizing plaques already formed.
Another special event was the visit from Deb Hagele who, with Gayle Land , performed a dramatic interpretation of the barriers to exercise. Chippers learned how to eliminate those barriers so exercise can easily be added to their day. The importance of water and sunshine were also discussed. Some participants even lifted 20 pound dumbbells to experience what it's like to carry that extra weight on their bodies. They also learned that there is no such thing as inclement weather, just inclement clothing or poor timing.
The final highlight was Graduation when Chippers received diplomas, awards, and their new lab values and lifestyle feedback. There were tears grieving the end of classes, hugs with new friends, and cheers for health regained. It was truly celebratory!
During our four weeks together, the graduates made tremendous strides toward health. They lost an average of 7.4 lbs. Their systolic blood pressure (the top number) was lowered by 14mm/Hg, their diastolic (the bottom number) by 11mm/ Hg. Their total cholesterol dropped by 7.6%, triglycerides by 18.3%, and LDL by 8.8%. In turn, their HDL increased by 3.1%. They walked a total of 1,301 miles, which is approximately the number of miles to Tampa , FL. Our CHIP participants are winning by losing their excess weight, their unwanted blood fats, and their high blood pressure.
Our participants also gained immeasurable benefits. They gained friends, information, self-esteem, and positive attitudes. Even the lab technician from Abbott noticed that our participants became "brighter" over the four week period. Now Chippers maintain their new lifestyles with the option of attending monthly alumni meetings with in-depth topics, new recipes, and shopping tours.
In summary, the participants gained, yet lost. And we volunteers are already looking forward to CHIP 2. Watch for it in Fall, 2008.
-- Gayle Chavez, February 29, 2008 |
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