A Family Affair
In 1999, my husband Bill's weight, blood sugar levels and insulin needs were rising. Knowing that dietary intake was the direct cause, we decided to select an appropriate plan that involved healing the root of the problem. For many years, we had heard success stories from the Rice Diet Program and decided that would be a good place to start. Thus began a series of visits the program in Durham, N.C. These visits have been continuous, from 1999 to 2010.
We return to the program to reinforce what we have learned, and because of the committed sense of purpose on the part of the physicians and all of the staff. Their attitude and spirit are exemplary. The camaraderie of the program participants makes it feel like a home away from home. One senses that people really count and that health and life are in the forefront of the program. Attempting to change old habits is most difficult, but understanding that these positive changes are critical to one's health and life makes you feel that it is possible to control your future. Staff and group support reassure you that bumps in the road can ultimately be overcome and this enhances self-confidence. NOTHING SUCCEEDS LIKE SUCCESS! WE ARE WHAT WE EAT!
Learning the damage to the body that ensues as a result of too much sodium, too many poor food choices and food "overdoses" presents new concepts that give participants new perspectives. Food need not be the enemy if we understand how whole foods promote health. As we see physical changes and take less medication, we look better and feel better. As positive changes happen, one feels more success and develops a better attitude. The mentality changes to YES I CAN and IF IT'S GOING TO BE, IT'S UP TO ME.
Bill and I have maintained 50 and 25 pound weight losses, respectively. We have cut back and eliminated several medications. Specifically, Bill has cut his insulin down to 15 units compared to the 70 he was taking per day before coming to the Rice Diet Program. We each exercise one hour daily, seven days a week. These things would not have happened had we not joined the Rice family. We will both be eternally grateful to the physicians for being the sole factor in discovering the serious illnesses each of us were suffering with.
The Rice Diet Program has had a huge impact on our lives overall. The Rice Diet has taught us the importance of food choices and a low-sodium diet, and we have imparted our newfound knowledge to our children and their families. We know what foods to select and how best to prepare menus. We read labels carefully and reject "demons" as being detrimental to our health.
Pursuing the lifelong lessons the Rice Diet Program has shared with us continues to be a commitment. We pursue new research findings, always anxious to listen, read and learn. Coming to the Rice Diet Program has been an ongoing and life-changing experience for the Grinker Family. We will always feel indebted to those who run this outstanding program and for whom the primary goal is to help others help themselves.
- Ilene and Bill Grinker
