It all started with McGill’s first Health Fair held two years ago. Hélène Fyfe attended and was inspired. At that moment, she was determined to change her personal life, challenged in a sense by the Weight Watchers representative there to promote the program. Two short years later, Hélène is transformed. “I have more energy than ever. I am more focused and I work smarter. I feel confident and have a more positive outlook,” she says, beaming.
Hélène joined Weight Watchers and lost 70 pounds. Eating healthy has become second nature to her and her family. “At 43, I feel amazing. I haven’t taken a single sick day this year.”
Hélène’s passion for health and her journey into fitness has rubbed off on her colleagues. “We run regularly as a group, so we support each other.” The group ranges in age and fitness levels. “Together, we have shed over a hundred pounds. We lost a person but gained a team,” says Hélène, joking with her colleagues.
“You really have to integrate exercise and healthy eating into your regular schedule. My attitude is that I get better results by organizing my life around working out, rather than the other way around. That way, working out remains a priority, otherwise it is easy to make excuses for not doing it. The tremendous energy I have is what keeps me going.” This has even transcended to her two teenage boys who have traded their video games for regular workout challenges.
Hélène, who is on a developmental assignment as Administrator, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, appreciates having a supervisor who understands and supports her initiative. The fact is it’s a win-win situation. “Because I have more energy, I have better concentration in my work, which means being more productive and not taking sick leave,” says Hélène.
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You just might be inspired too!