Weighing in with Weight Watchers^®

Barbara Galle, a GuideStone employee, didn't have to watch her weight. She could eat whatever she wanted, as much as she wanted and whenever she wanted it. Food was not the enemy.

As she began to age, her metabolism slowed but her lifestyle stayed the same. Barbara noticed her weight and health issues increase. She started on blood pressure and acid reflux medication. “Gaining weight didn’t happen overnight” said Barbara.

In April 2010, GuideStone started Weight Watchers At Work meetings. Barbara signed up and began her weight loss. “It’s a journey for me. I’m sticking with it and remaining positive. I won’t let the scale get me down,” says Barbara.

Weight Watchers has taught her a new lifestyle of eating, especially when it comes to portion control. Barbara says, ”The meetings are encouraging because you can hear stories similar to yours, even if you don’t want to share your story. These people are going through the same thing with you.”

Barbara has successfully lost over 25 pounds. Proudly displayed at her desk is her Weight Watchers achievement award. It reminds her that she’s lost the weight and she doesn’t want to gain it back. But she’s not stopping now. She’s striving to lose more weight and get off the medication. For Barbara, “It’s a health issue, not just a weight issue.”

The benefits go beyond just a smaller dress size. Barbara has noticed that she isn’t sluggish during the day, can take longer walks and easily bend down to tie her shoes. These achievements help her stay motivated and focused on her bigger goals. “It hasn’t been easy. And the weight isn’t going to come off overnight. It’s a real challenge, but I want to achieve my goals,” says Barbara.

Participants enrolled in a medical or dental plan through GuideStone can take advantage of weight management programs and other wellness discounts. Visit our Wellness site and view our "Wellness Discount Programs."