LINCOLN, Maine — 29.1% of Mainers are obese, according to a study made by Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS). Alan Dill of Lincoln weighed more than 280 pounds when he decided he needed to make better choices. His journey resulted in an astounding 130 lb weight loss in just four months.
Dill said he couldn't have done it without the support of TOPS, a non-profit weight loss, educational, and support organization.
The 61-year-old was crowned TOPS Maine King for his weight loss success. He lost more weight than any other male TOPS member in Maine.
"It really comes down to mindset, the proper diet, ample exercise, and the determination," said Dill.
Having the energy to spend quality time with his two young kids, 4 and 7 years old, was his primary motivation to lose weight.
Rick Danforth, president of TOPS, initially weighed more than 300 pounds. Danforth lost more than 100 pounds in just under a year.
"Yes...losing weight is difficult, but you should never do it alone," said Danforth. Danforth was fighting several health issues at the time. He had pre-diabetics, sleep apnea, high blood pressure, and extremely high cholesterol. All of those issues are gone after his weight loss.
"I was just one step on the banana peel, one step on the grave at that time, and now it's all gone," said Danforth.
When Dill decided his change was needed, he weighed 280 pounds. He spent four to six hours on his home electric bike each day. How did he pass the time? Dill said he did everything from working to reading while he was working out.
Jackie Conn, Director of Weight Watchers Maine, said results are an essential part of success.
"So you need to see something that actually makes you feel good about what you are doing, makes you feel satisfied with what you are eating, and you say yes! This is what I want to do for the rest of my life; it feels right," said Conn.
While Dill's journey is not over, he is feeling better than ever.
"I would say to myself, 'I am the Michael Jordan, the Tom Brady, Tiger Woods of weight loss!' I truly believe that my best days are ahead of me."
Dill truly believes a commitment to a healthier lifestyle can lead to the desired weight loss and overall wellness.
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