Rhonda’s WondrStory

Now I never fear tomorrow.

Rhonda S., Wondr participant

What did life look like before you started Wondr?

After I retired in June 2018, I was at 301 pounds and very unhappy! I struggled before starting my journey, especially after losing my husband at the age of 45 from a stroke. I never expected to be in the place I was mentally or physically.

What inspired you to make a change?

After retiring early, I looked in the mirror and said, “Do I want to just exist, or do I want to live?” Well, I think we all know there was only one answer to that question. I want to live! I not only want to live, but I want to enjoy my life.

When did you start Wondr?

I started my journey with Wondr in January 2019. I decided to give Wondr a try because I knew I needed to stay on track to continue my journey of getting healthy and wanted every tool possible to be successful.

What success have you seen so far?

I have lost a total of 131 pounds in all and have lost 78.8 pounds since I started Wondr. When I started my journey, I was wearing size 24/26 and I now can wear a size 6/8 Old Navy jeans and small and medium dresses and shirts.

I am not finished with my journey by any means; however, I have lifelong skills with the help of Wondr to continue to live life to the fullest and be happy and healthy.

How has your quality of life improved?

I am no longer pre-diabetic or struggle with mobility while exercising. I enjoy walking, bicycling, kayaking, hiking, dancing, yoga, meditation, and living life to the fullest. I walk every single day.

We hear you’re in it for the “long run!”

One day I watched the movie “Brittany Runs a Marathon,” and even though I don’t run, I thought, “I bet I could walk a marathon.” The next day I walked 26.6 miles.

I want to keep challenging myself and checking items off my bucket list. One of my favorite bucket list items I checked off for 2019 was taking a horseback ride on the beach with my daughter and son-in-law. I could not think of doing these activities at my highest weight.

What Wondr principles are most meaningful to you these days?

I will always continue with the two meals a day. I think that exercise every day is so important.

What have you gained from Wondr that you didn’t necessarily expect?

Wondr [has given] me tools and encouragement to continue my journey for the rest of my life. It is one day at a time, but now I never fear tomorrow. I know I have gained the tools, courage, strength, and love for myself to continue to grow and be the person I want to be.

What advice would you give to someone just starting their Wondr journey?

For those starting who struggle with this, start slow. Just walk around your house during commercials if that is all you can do to start. Slowly increase the time. Before you know it, you will be walking a half-mile, then a mile, then two, and so on. Remember, it’s a journey and does not happen overnight.

I started with water walking when beginning my journey because it is so much easier on the joints. Wherever you are, just start, and one day at a time make small changes that add up to success over time.

Do find out what your Vital Needs are and focus on at least one a day. I now know I have to listen to music every day. It motivates me and propels me to keep moving forward. I start every day with exercise because it sets the tone for the rest of the day. Sleep is vital for me, so I get 8-9 hours of sleep a night, and it revitalizes me for the next day. There will be a bad day here and there; however, don’t let that bad day take you down. Get right back up and keep going!

What would you tell someone who’s on the fence about making changes to improve their health?

I would like to encourage them to love themselves and never let anyone else influence how you feel or what you think. Love yourself along the journey and be kind to yourself. There is only one unique us, and we need to appreciate and treat ourselves with the love and care we deserve. Never let anyone criticize you or tell you that you can’t, because you can and you will. One day at a time, one meal at a time, and one step at a time, we can all do this. Stay strong and never give up! Life is a journey! Let’s make the most of it and make ourselves a priority. We deserve it, and so much more!