A Man ’ s World continued
causes of death for men . Helping people identify risk factors and make changes is a priority at Scott & White ,” he says .
Celebrating a big loss Risky behavior and a “ bulletproof ” attitude could rob a man of years of his life . Carlos Gamez , age 54 , of Temple , TX , says he shed his tough-guy mentality when his weight bothered him so much that he decided to take charge of his health . Mr . Gamez , an information systems professional at Scott & White Healthcare , was motivated by a weight loss challenge program sponsored by the hospital for employees who volunteered to be involved . Participants were grouped in teams and had weekly weigh-ins . They were encouraged to keep food and exercise journals , take free yoga and Pilates classes , and join free fitness camps , a cycling club or the half-marathon training program , and more .
“ I used to procrastinate about going to the doctor and I didn ’ t see the importance of taking control of my health . I was a tough guy and I always thought I was in great health ,” Mr . Gamez says . But he worried about his cholesterol level and his risks for developing heart disease and other health conditions . He lost 12 percent of his overall body weight in the 17-week challenge , which was held in early 2009 . Although he had tried other weight loss programs , this time Mr . Gamez was motivated by his peers to lose weight . Collectively , his team lost 70 pounds .
“ Every week , we weighed in and we didn ’ t want to let each other down . This time , it was a permanent change of
Carlos Gamez , of Temple , TX , is committed to maintaining a healthy lifestyle .
32 THE CATALYST Spring 10 | sw . org