Edmond Gardner had battled with weight issues for many years. In August 2013, after fainting on several occasions, Gardner met with his doctor to address his concern and it became apparent his eating habits were part of the problem. At that time his physician warned him that he needed to start making healthier choices.
The next time he fainted, Gardner broke his collar bone. While in the emergency room, doctors confirmed his collar bone would eventually heal but his heart needed further attention. They warned him that if he didn’t begin to make life changes, he would either have a stroke or need open heart surgery for a blockage in his heart.
“My doctor advised that I participate in cardiac rehab at Tallahassee Memorial,” said patient Edmond Gardner. “They said I needed to focus on my diet and exercise or I will eventually have a stroke.” Finally, he was ready to make a change and take a stand for his life.
Gardner worked with the Tallahassee Memorial Bariatric Center to get his life back on track. Working with the Bariatric Center team, he eventually lost a total of 100 pounds*. He replaced typical meals with protein shakes and did so for 12 weeks straight, in addition to working out for two hours a day, six days a week, at Premier Health & Fitness Center and his local gym.
“Cheating was not an option; I had made up my mind that I was going to do this,” said Gardner. “I mixed my exercise routine with the majority being cardio and about 30 minutes of weight training.”
According to Gardner, a key piece of advice shared from the Bariatric Center was that it is okay if you slip, but that you must have the control to get back on track with your next meal.
“I couldn’t have done this without Dr. Kelley Lang and the Tallahassee Memorial Bariatric Center,” said Gardner. “They made it simple for me and showed me exactly what works. I used to be on four blood pressure pills, and now I’m only taking one half.”
