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A different journey

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Melinda McKay said #1 Aug 6, 2012 at 8:03pm

Hopefully I'm doing this right...

My name is Melinda, I am 33 years old. Two years ago I was diagnosed with a genetic connective tissue disorder called Marfans syndrome. In September 2010 I found received this diagnosis due to two spontaneous aortic tears which required that I have a mechanical valve put in place. I was a vegetarian for 2 yrs before the surgery ..I have not returned to that. However, I've gained a considerable amount of weight since my surgery...which I wasn't supposed to be doing. I am very nervous, and I have very little confidence in myself. I honestly have no idea where to start and have no idea what to do...any suggestions, recipes, places to start, things I could begin with would be helpful. I live in a small community...just to keep that in mind..I do not have access to whole food stores. Literally we have a WalMart supercenter.

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Jane Thygerson said #2 Aug 6, 2012 at 9:11pm

Hi! I cant imagine what that must have been like to get that diagnosis at such a young age. I know what it's like to struggle with weight gain. Giving up meat is a great way to start cleansing your diet. I prefer Kroger but still shop at Walmart sometimes. Canned or dry beans, fruits, veggies, rice, whole grain breads, tortillas, pasta are things you can get anywhere. They might not have all the fancy stuff, but in the produce section they have tofu, yves meatless ground, and yves good dogs which are all awesome!

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Melinda McKay said #3 Aug 6, 2012 at 9:33pm

Thanks so much Jane! We have a Kroger about 30 mins away...we love going there. I ordered the forks over knives recipe book..hoping that is worth it.

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Kimmy loves life said #4 Aug 8, 2012 at 12:19am

Hi Melinda and Jane!

My name is Kim. Sorry to hear about your health problem.
I myself have struggled with weight all m life, I am 21 years old and have recently lose 9 kilos being vegan for 4 months.
But my motivation is for my health, have you watched Hunger for Change, or Food matters? these are the two docos that changed my life!

I have cut out all sugars, apart from the odd coconut sugar ever now and then. I use coconut oil when cooking, it is a great ant inflammatory which will help an health issue. Organic is that way to go, but if your unable to get it, try to grow some?
Letttuce is great to grow in trays all year around.

Juicing is also a great way to start, I don't have an of the vegan 'meat; as there are usually many 'other' ingredients and is highly processed.
Anyways, this book and website is amazing so hope you find your way :-)

All the best,
Kim

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