Health Initiatives Program Testimonies

Bobby T.

2009-11-11T08:39:00.000-05:00

When I found out that I had to enroll in the Restore Program I was discouraged and a bit insulted. You might say I went into the program kicking and screaming, though not overtly. After disciplining myself to exercise and change my diet, my weight and blood pressure dropped substantially. It has been an emotional adjustment (I was comfortable being unhealthy) but I feel much better and do not want to go back to my old habits. I am grateful I submitted to the Restore Program.

Caryn W.

2009-11-09T08:48:00.000-05:00

When I first got on the program I was a little defensive, because I had just had a baby and knew that I could lose the weight on my own. I felt that Ron Welsh was the perfect consultant, because his wife has had 3 children in the last 4 years and completely understood where I was at. He was very respectful and very knowledgeable. If I had a question that I emailed to him, he always followed up with a phone call to make sure I got the question answered correctly. I really appreciated his help. Even though I have lost weight on my own in the past after having my first child, I am thrilled to say that this time around, I weigh what I weighed in high school! I don't think I ever would have taken it that far on my own. I probably would have lost just enough to get by and went on my way. Just recently I had to buy all new clothes, because I couldn't fit in to any of my clothes anymore! I am very thankful for that!

Paul J.

2009-11-05T08:52:00.000-05:00

My journey with Medi-Share began with a desire to get our health care costs under control and to stop paying for the medical care of people who are un-willing to make healthy lifestyle choices. In order to be accepted in the program, I needed to lower my cholesterol. For years, several physicians have tried to get me on statin drugs but I have always refused and basically just ignored the problem.

My naturopath suggested I try a vegan diet for six weeks. Reluctantly, I did and my total cholesterol dropped from 292 to 219. At this point CCMS was willing to accept me in the sharing program with the provision that I work with an advisor. I wasn't very excited about this either but working with Angela Dodson has been another unexpected blessing in my life! I've been so impressed with the total Christian perspective CCMS espouses; they really look at whole body health, spiritual, mental, relationships, and physical. Angela was very compassionate and caring. I grew to appreciate her praying with me after each one of our phone sessions. She was very knowledgeable and always offered me many resources. We worked together for about 9 months; I learned a lot about choices I can make and things I can do to improve my own health. My total cholesterol is now 198 and dropping! Working with Angela and the Restore program, my total health awareness has been raised. I have reccommended this program to many friends and family. Another benefit is that I have lost 30 lbs. and that alone has caused people to ask what I have been doing. Fortunately, my wife, Cynthia, has been incredibly supportivem in making these dietary changes. My son and daughter-in-law have seen the changes and been inspired to make changes of their own. Dr. Joel Fuhrman's book, Eat To Live, and Lowering your Cholesterol, have been very helpful. What started as a suggestion from my Naturopath has now become a lifestyle. For a Kansas farm boy who grew up on raw milk, butter, and meat three times a day, I have come a long way. I am excited about enjoying all the health benefits from these changes and the diseases I am avoiding in the future! Thanks be to God!

Lois H.

2009-10-27T09:51:00.002-05:00

Matthew White has outstanding coaching skills. Besides being very knowledgeable in his field, he is also able to provide adaptations suited for the individual he is working with. He was a great resource for my new fitness/wellness program. I know I'm in a better place now with the temple God has given me.

Because Matthew has the gift of encouragement, he coached me through times when I was hitting a plateau in my progress. In the past, I would have quit. But this time, I continued to press through and I feel I've established new habits for wellness.

I am thankful my husband chose to join me in the wellness pursuit and together we have now lost 65 pounds. I have lost 30 pounds and have lowered my total cholesterol number by 30 points. I praise God for his grace in this!

Mary P.

2009-10-25T09:44:00.001-05:00

I thank God for Christian Care Medi-Share and their Restore Program! As a very active home school mom of 3 children I was shocked to receive the diagnosis of breast cancer at age 47. After a lumpectomy and lymph node dissection, and much prayer and research, I chose not to participate in the conventional post-cancer treatments (chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy). I knew I needed lifestyle changes but did not know where to turn. As I cried out to God, knowing my cancer was the "health wake-up call" I needed, He provided the Restore Program and a wonderful Health Education Consultant (Danielle Pichette) who encouraged me and held me accountable on a 6-week journey that has transformed my life forever! Praise God! The daily/weekly charts and assignments (and recommended books like "Eat to Live"), the web-site with phenomenal information, and most of all the concern for my whole-body health (spiritually, physically, emotionally), has blessed me beyond measure. Nine months ago I never dreamed my entire family would choose healthy fruits, vegetables, and green smoothies, over our previous frequent fast food, junk food, sugar/sweets, and heavy meat and dairy diets! My husband and I are 30-pounds lighter and feel great. Exercise is fun! Truly our bodies, taste-buds, desires, and cravings have changed. We thank God for our "health wake-up call" and providing Christian Care Medi-Share programs to educate us so we can be good stewards, responsible Christians, and take care of the gift of our bodies in a way that honors and glorifies our Great God.

Stephen H.

2009-10-07T08:32:00.002-05:00

Restore was a continuation of diet and exercise changes my wife and I had begun to make several years ago. Most of the material was not new to us since we had done considerable research already. I do appreciate the "wholeness" approach from a Christian organization. Many of our church folk need the Restore program! There is far too much emphasis (especially among older people) on pharmaceutical solutions to health problems.

Sheila H.

2009-09-29T08:27:00.001-05:00

The Restore program has been something of an adventure, and I'm glad that my husband and I could do this together. Katie Kolb was a delight to visit with on the phone, and we found that we stuck to the program as much for her as for ourselves. We had already begun making the changes in our diet and exercise, so the program was more of a continuing incentive than a great change. Still, setting goals and making regular evaluations has been a good experience.

Alison A.

2009-09-25T11:43:00.001-05:00

Only God can restore a person to sanity and in the area of eating I needed a miracle. The Restore program was God's answer to my prayer. I tried everything in my own strength and was a dismal failure. But with the help of Restore, I was able to make a radical lifestyle change in the area of eating. I have lost 30 pounds, I am never hungry and I feel great! I value the encouragement of Angela, my Health Consultant, so very much! Her knowledge, experience, and faith have been invaluable to me.

Cynthia C.

2009-09-13T09:07:00.003-05:00

Every aspect of the program was helpful to me. I enjoyed learning so much about my body and my overall health. I liked having a consultant to discuss my progress with and to encourage me along the way. One of the main benefits that I have experienced from the program is that I am sleeping better than I have been in a long time. The information that I've gleaned from the Restore Program will keep me fit for a lifetime.

Shauna H.

2009-09-11T08:55:00.005-05:00

I felt like I was doing an ok job and that I had a lot of knowledge before I started the program, but it gave me the push to be more consistent and to be more drastic in my choices. Accountability and challenge are good for me and I tend to rise to the occasion. This time it really paid off. My cholesterol level went from 222 to 172 in 3 months and I am in better shape than I have been in years. My doctor told me that my results were dramatic and exciting and he did not want me to lose any more weight! Which, by the way, was not my main goal, but was a great side benefit to being more disciplined in my eating and exercise. It was well worth my time to be involved in the program, because it raised my awareness of everything I put into my mouth and what I was or was not doing with my body. Praise God for giving us the ability to get stronger and healthier with His help!

Christopher B.

2009-09-03T14:51:00.004-05:00

My consultant, Matt White, was always very professional. His knowledge in the areas of health and fitness is extensive. He was always ready with advice and encouragement in assessing and developing safe and attainable goals. Matt is an asset and credit to your organization.

I would not have considered paying money over the last year for such a service, but looking back, I have gained knowledge and confidence that is well worth it.

On a personal level. I enjoy Matt. He has always been open with sharing his personal story when asked and seems to be truly interested in me as a Christian brother.

Thank you!

Bin Z.

2009-08-28T14:30:00.003-05:00

I started to look different just one week after following the program. Moreover, I am feeling much better with my energy, sleeping, weight, concentration, etc. I am much healthier now. My next goal is to try to lower my blood pressure, and eventually stop taking it.

Martin S.

2009-08-19T14:24:00.000-05:00

The Restore Program has dramatically changed my exercise and eating habits. Angela was very helpful and a real pleasure to work with. In a few short weeks, I was able to lose 25 pounds and lower my bad cholesterol significantly. I was a skeptic at first but have learned that with a few adjustments, bad habits can be changed permanently. If I can do it, anyone can!

Rebecca H.

2009-08-10T14:44:00.001-05:00

Katie was wonderful! It was a blessing to have her encouraging me. I'm so busy with my ministry, I don't even think about what I'm doing. Katie helped me to remember things I already knew and put into action things I had quit doing. Thank you for all you've done!

Jay T.

2009-08-10T14:34:00.001-05:00

Katie was always very encouraging to me. I never felt rushed. She helped me be realistic about where I am and always found ways to be positive! She helped me set goals, identify barriers to achieving those goals, and made strategies for overcoming those barriers. I learned so much! My health is in a better place as a result of being in Restore. Thank you!

Jen O.

2009-08-10T14:21:00.001-05:00

I completely believe that the LORD led me to pursue the Restore program in order to realign my life in the area of health and fitness. I was totally consumed by the sin of gluttony and my body reflected the consequences of that sin. I basically did not exercise at all. Remarkably, my health in general did not reflect my very bad behavior. My cholesterol and blood pressure were low. Yet, I knew that I was on the cusp of spiraling into very bad health (I am 48 years old) and taking my husband (66 years old) with me. Through much prayer and the inspiration of my best friend (who is still on the Restore Program), I made the call that would change this area of my life. I have lost 17.5 pounds, 5 inches in my waist, and 4.5 inches in my hips. My husband has lost 32 pounds. I have a long way to go and I still pray for perseverance to run this race. My coach has inspired me to realize that "Exercise is Fun"! I thank Matt White for being so extremely encouraging. Matt educated me in the area of physical fitness and I am sure that I drove him crazy with my 90's VCR exercise videos. I have tried many new exercises, watched multitudes of videos, listened to almost every audio, and read every item (and then some) in my Restore assignments. I guess to sum it all up; I see things from a new perspective. I am healthier. I eat great and I don't feel slighted. I am always full. I make better choices. I thank Matt and the Restore Program. But mostly, I thank my God and to Him I give all the glory for any success--past present and future!

Tanya C.

2009-06-18T14:01:00.002-05:00

I had tried losing weight before Restore. I didn't have much success at all. I have now lost over 20 pounds in less than three months! It is very helpful having someone who keeps me accountable to eating healthy and to working out very consistently. The materials are very helpful in re-structuring the way I thought about food, and eating healthy. I am very grateful for Restore and the healthier place it has helped me to achieve. I still have a ways to go until my ideal weight, however, I know I will get there and that I will be able to maintain it because of the new habits I have formed.

D. Sexton

2009-06-11T12:53:00.002-05:00

I started out a skeptic in the program and did not believe I could feel this much better, or lower my cholesterol. Katie Kolb did an outstanding job in working with me to improve my goals for a healthier lifestyle. The resources made available to me, along with the coaching every two weeks, was invaluable. I believe the fact that I was accountable to a professional and obligated to Medi-Share gave me the extra incentive to continue the program. Now that I feel so much better I am hooked on the healthy lifestyle. Thank you for the life changing experience I now enjoy after completing this program. I don't have the cholesterol result yet but can't wait to see them. Thank you again for being such a blessing to myself and part of my family.

B. Parker

2009-05-14T13:32:00.000-05:00

So far I have lost 30 pounds and four inches from my waistline. The program has been super. I was scrambling some tofu the other day for breakfast. I told my wife that if you had told me six months ago I would be eating tofu I would have laughed. I am eating better and enjoying my life. Thanks!

T. Foster Sr.

2009-05-12T13:28:00.000-05:00

The accountabilty and the encouragement that this program offers is just what some of us need, to begin moving in the right direction. As it's been said, "The direction your moving in is as important, if not more so than what you are accomplishing at the moment." I needed that little extra encouragement to begin to move in the right direction once again. Even my family doctor was excited to hear what was taking place with the accountability. Thanks for your help.

G. Beedle

2009-05-12T09:00:00.002-05:00

My husband, David, and I thank God that we found Restore. Each evening before our meal my husband would pray, "May this food bring health and nutrition to our bodies." I have to admit sometimes I thought to myself, "Is he ever going to pray something else more original?" But praise God, He answered that prayer! He led us to the Restore program through Medi-Share, and finally, we learned the reason we couldn't shed that extra 25 pounds that was always with us. Now we have each lost the extra weight and continue to maintain our new slim bodies with the lifestyle changes Restore recommended. Mainly, we walk 4 miles five days a week, and eat all the fruits and vegetables we want. My husbands blood lipid levels have all leveled out into normal ranges, and we continue to monitor it closely. Thanks to the Restore program and the great counseling we received. We are enjoying our new found health and lifestyle every day!

K. Harrison

2009-05-08T08:17:00.001-05:00

Katie was a great help and always had an answer to my myriad of questions. She never rushed me. She made and kept our scheduled appointments for first thing Monday morning every other week. She assisted me in making and reassessing specific, measurable, and realistic health related goals. She helped me identify barriers to achieving my goals and helped me make strategies for overcoming them. I have lost 45+ pounds, am eating healthy, and I am at a better place health-wise as a result of working with Katie.

D. Lemley

2009-05-02T13:59:00.000-05:00

The Restore program was helpful in increasing my awareness toward a healthy diet and exercise program.

L. McNeill

2009-04-30T13:55:00.001-05:00

When I started the Restore program I was very nervous since I had always had difficulty losing weight. In addition, I had trouble exercising due to an old ankle injury and I wondered whether this program could work for me. I was also nervous about working with a consultant, fearful of being judged or of not having any say in what I ate. All these fears were unfounded, I discovered, as I watched the Lord work in my life through the Restore program. My consultant was patient, prayed regularly with me, and had an uncanny ability to quote just the right scripture at the right time. I benefited greatly from her knowledge and from the accountability for my eating choices through keeping a food diary. As I began to lose weight and inches I was relieved and felt more confident that my body could actually let go of excess pounds. I wasn't destined to be fat, as I had often felt.

But my most important loss was not physical. I lost some of my deeply held attachment to food. Even before Restore, the Lord had begun to deal with my idolatry of food. Now through the program he worked in my heart to love Him more and to see that His love for me will not allow me to eat myself to death. His heart-cleansing deepened my discernment and has changed my walk with Him. Now, the Lord has given me opportunities to share these things with friends who are changing their eating habits as well. One of my friends has even been able to get off diabetes medicine!

I hear God calling his children to bodily stewardship and I have personally experienced the blessing of answering the call. I pray that those whom God leads to read my testimony will be encouraged to follow Him, knowing that "The secret of the Lord is with those who fear Him" (Psalm 25:14) I've heard it said, "Those who fear the Lord fear nothing else, but those who do not fear the Lord fear everything else." I started the program with fear of failure, judgment, weight gain... But I'm graduating with a deeper fear of the Lord and renewed excitement to learn the secrets He illuminates as we walk together.

J. Thomason

2009-04-30T13:48:00.001-05:00

Being on this program is the first time that I have started a workout plan and stuck with it. I have learned so much that has helped me develop a more healthy and realistic outlook on my personal fitness. Before, I always knew that I needed to do something but I did not know what to do. I would take a stab at a few things for a day or two and then quit, thinking that it was not possible for me to change. I am still not where I want to be but I am a lot closer than ever before and I know that with time, I can make it. Thank you so much for helping me!

J. Johnson

2009-04-15T14:53:00.000-05:00

I just wanted to share with you and the rest of the staff. I am an investor, entrepreneur and student of economics as well as former editor and publisher of business publications. For years, I have studied the looming health care problems that our country is facing and will continue to face. And I am absolutely convinced that the only long-term solution that will truly change our country’s health crisis, as well as the subsequent economic crisis that follows it, will be Medi-Share’s biblical approach to healthcare and long-term health restoration.

At some point, after politicians and leaders continue to experience long-term failures in this area that will lead to crisis after crisis, they will be forced to look at successful models. And it’s during that time that I believe Medi-Share, the city on the hill, will shine so bright that the world will not be able to ignore its proven biblical approach. Medi-Share and its affiliates will be a witness and testimony to not only our nation, but the rest of the world, for the glory of God!

So, with each new client who is being restored to long-term health, like myself, you are continuing to build a vast multitude of transformed lives as witnesses to God’s ways and methods. Not only that, but each transformed life is a witness to family members, friends, colleagues, and neighbors of the power of God applied in a systematic and practical way that dramatically improves quality of life and longevity, not to mention the economic savings from good health.

I am glad that I get to be one of those witnesses!

J. Price

2009-04-04T08:43:00.001-05:00

I hope this doesn't sound strange, but something as simple as using Flax Seed on Oatmeal, salads, and in the shakes is still something I do. Thanks Angela!!! My wife is also a partner with me and it helps to have her support. Another thing has changed. We are staying away from milk and sugar as much as possible. I think what Medi-Share has helped with more is this thing about lifestyle eating. At our age, we want more than just maintenance although maintenance is good.

D. Dersch

2009-04-02T08:56:00.000-05:00

The Medi-Share Restore program gave me the motivation to make the dietary and lifestyle changes that I knew I should make. Katie was very helpful and encouraging.

P. Weaver

2009-04-02T08:52:00.000-05:00

This program really helped me with my eating habits and exercise. I will never go back to my unhealthy, old habits. I still fill out my daily tracking charts and never vary in weight within four pounds. I will not eat dairy or meat but maybe twice a month.

J. Bowell

2009-03-23T15:20:00.000-05:00

I left my doctor’s appointment in March praising the Lord for Medi-Share and Angela, my health consultant. My blood pressure and cholesterol numbers were better than they have been in several years. The nurse even commented on my excellent numbers.

Every phone call I received form Medi-Share ended with a prayer. How good it is to hear the caring in their voices and the Holy Spirit using them as encouragers.

There are just too many good things to say. Thank you for letting the Lord use you in this ministry!

B. Alberts

2009-02-27T13:42:00.000-05:00

Bill was very knowledgeable and informative. We feel that we can now move on with the information and encouragement we gained from the Restore program and will eventually meet our goals.

B. Stricklett

2009-02-24T13:36:00.000-05:00

Great service and one that will surely help others in the future. It is a real eye opener for someone who isn't into healthy eating and exercise. I learned and have been into healthy eating and exercise for seven years.

L. Decker

2009-02-24T11:26:00.002-05:00

Since beginning Medi-Share and the Restore program, I’ve lost weight and feel much better. I’ve learned to enjoy healthier and more beneficial foods. My whole body feels better and I also feel better mentally.

I’ve discussed new ways of cooking food and the great benefits of consistent exercise and stretching.

I feel this new lifestyle will add years to my longevity and keep me from having possible strokes or a heart attack.

I plan to continue with a better diet and strong exercise program. I feel it has and will continue to be a blessing from God for me.

L. Ingrum

2009-02-12T11:23:00.000-05:00

We joined Medi-Share for many reasons. Through the Restore program we gained a great friend, Angela. My wife and I were inspired and guided to change our lifestyle and to improve our health. We have been blessed with weight loss and a new desire to be physically fit. Your program and Angela are the greatest!

L. Gatlin

2009-01-26T11:21:00.000-05:00

As I began the Restore program, I must confess, I was very skeptical. But now that I have broken through weight loss barriers and lowered my cholesterol and blood pressure, I am convinced that healthier food choices can make a tremendous difference. With the exercise program, I am seeing my energy level and stamina return.

I have since been asked by people who haven’t seen me in a while for the Restore program so that they can do the same!

Thank you Medi-Share and Health Initiatives for your time and encouragement!

A. Musser

2009-01-05T11:20:00.000-05:00

What a blessing my health coach, Becky, has been to me. What a wonderful opportunity she has to help people in need of change in their life. You get someone to be accountable to, to help “push” in a loving way… May the Lord bless you and Medi-Share abundantly! Thank you for all the prayers! They are truly felt and appreciated!

J. Sayger

2008-12-29T11:12:00.000-05:00

Angela Dodson helped me tremendously! When we first began I did not want to do any of it, but as we went, I began to make some very significant changes in the way I eat.

I already have a very active lifestyle, but simply changing the way I eat has changed my life. I am not perfect by any stretch, but I have made lasting changes and lost a lot of weight. I feel much better and strong physically.

Angela was very faithful to pray with me concerning my family. That meant a lot to me! Thank you!

This program has had a very significant, positive impact on my life. Thanks again for your help!

J. Kersey

2008-12-08T10:06:00.001-05:00

I really appreciate all of the phone calls and encouragement from Angela. At first, when I found out I had to do this Health Partnership, I was embarrassed and it hurt my feelings. However, I knew I needed some accountability and now I am so glad I have lost weight and have this lifestyle change. This has been a blessing in my life and I appreciate that Christian Care has this program.

E. Escobar

2008-12-08T10:05:00.000-05:00

Becky was very encouraging and never took up too much of my time except for what was needed. She was always on time and helped me set realistic health related goals tailored specifically to my needs. Thank you Becky!

D. Stiele

2008-12-08T10:02:00.002-05:00

My Health Consultant, Angela, was a great help in providing motivation so I could realize my goals to eat healthier foods and lost additional weight. I feel I am now healthier and in better physical shape as a result of implementing some of the ideas Angela shared with me.

D. Pasanello

2008-12-08T09:58:00.002-05:00

I’ve always been aware of the nutritional value of food and its benefits. Starting at 16 years of age, Prevention magazine and the Clymer Health Clinic (an alternative health practice) in Pennsylvania was a big part of my lifestyle. Even at that age, and in my 20’s, I would eat grain burgers, mushroom burgers and red zinger teas, etc. I ate organic eggs and collected my grains in glass jars to be displayed in my kitchen. Around the age of 24, I was introduced to the Feingold diet, which made me aware of the chemicals and additives put into our foods and products we use everyday. I was on my way! This lifestyle became who I was and I enjoyed it. I was also drawn to people with the same similarities. Then, when I got married, my in-laws weren’t quite so impressed. They liked the good ole Italian cooking. She was quite the cook. She made the best meatballs, sauce, lasagna, manicotti, etc. Now I had to learn to cook this new way, because I’m not just cooking for myself. Well now, years later, my kids are young adults and I’ve been able to go back to my first way of eating that I enjoyed. I thank you for this program because now I know without a doubt that this is the better way to eat. I’m going to pass this way of living to my children. My family has now adopted more fruits and vegetable, and we’re the better for it. Thanks!

D. Grizzle

2008-11-05T08:02:00.002-05:00

I am so thankful for the Restore Health Program. It has changed my thinking about the food I eat and my health. I feel it has added years to my life. I feel so much better since I’ve lost weight. I don’t have heartburn any more either, and my blood pressure is lower than it ever has been.

My health consultant, Becky Carlson, was very helpful and such a blessing to talk with. I know the Lord had a hand in making this happen. Thank you so much!

D. Krauss

2008-10-02T15:32:00.001-05:00

I have always known that I needed to make better choices concerning my health, i.e. my choices of what I eat and my lack of exercise. So, when I found out I was being placed on the Restore program, I was not shocked. I do remember thinking that I just don’t have time to be dealing with this on top of all the other things that I have going on. But the Lord has opened my eyes, heart and mind to the truth and blessing of being a good steward of/with my body. Not only has this been a blessing to me, but it has also sparked conversation and interest with other people in our church. Thank you for all your hard work, research, prayer, and concern in helping other find freedom in their health and the testimony that it brings to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!

J. Peterson

2008-10-02T15:31:00.000-05:00

Angela was very sweet, encouraging, and fun. We visited with her every week over the phone to begin with and eventually, as we improved, every two to three weeks. She met with each of us for 30 minutes and always closed our session with prayer. She challenged us to try new recipes and to cut back on certain foods that were high in cholesterol. She also gave us ideas for food alternatives that are healthier.

Both my husband and I lowered our cholesterol below 200 and lost lots of weight.

We are thankful that you motivated us to improve our health. Thanks Angela and Christian Care Ministry!

C. Peterson

2008-10-02T15:29:00.001-05:00

I never thought I could lose this much weight and get my waist measurement down. I had to buy new clothes. My weight gradually had built up over the years. Many of my friends ask if I lost weight on purpose or if I have cancer. I praise the Lord for this great health improvement!

B. Copeland

2008-10-02T15:25:00.001-05:00

I did not realize what I huge change I could make in my overall health and fitness! I thought that because I am 60 it was normal to gain weight, not feel good and just slowly go down hill. I am so thankful for all the help you have given me and I know all the prayers gave me the resolve and strength necessary to make a life change. My doctor is amazed by the changes in my blood work and health. He took me off all my meds except Zoloft. Thank you so much! God bless!

E. Quiroz

2008-07-21T11:07:00.001-05:00

Prior to joining Medi-Share, I had been praying for God to help me to make some serious life changes. I felt very dissatisfied with my weight and my unhealthy eating/inactive lifestyle. I had a very hard time putting action to a lifestyle change and sticking to it. Upon being accepted into Medi-share, I received a notice requiring me to participate in the Restore program because of my height-to-weight ratio and my waist measurement. At first I was very discouraged, being “required” to join the program. After praying again, the “light went on” and I realized that maybe this was my answer to prayer. It truly was! My health consultant, Katie Kolb, was a huge encourager. She was my cheerleader and mentor, with a wealth of practical advice and great tips to help keep me stretching to reach my goals! I have lost 30 pounds and am eating healthy. I feel great! I am so grateful for the opportunity to have participated in this wonderful program. Thank you Katie, thank you Medi-Share, and mostly, thank you Lord!

B. Reynolds

2008-07-21T11:04:00.002-05:00

We retired early and my employer did not provide post retirement medical benefits. When I retired we were concerned about medical costs but did not project the size of increase we actually experienced. We had insurance, but the cost was getting very high and the deductible was at $10,000 and still the costs continued to rise even though we never made a claim in the years we were with them. We heard about Medi-Share from a friend of ours who was a member. So we applied, but after our applications were reviewed I would only be accepted if I would participate in the Restore program and complete the program within a year. I was concerned that I might not be able to meet the requirements and be left without any type of health care; having difficulty finding new insurance that would be affordable at my present age.

After much soul searching I though it only made sense to go ahead and enter the Restore program as the things that were required to complete the program were actually for my benefit and would leave me more healthy and in better shape to grow old well. God has led us into many things and we feel that this program is another example of God providing just what was needed. So we signed up and started with Medi-Share hoping that the Restore portion would be as effective as possible.

I received a call from my health consultant, Angela, and from the first call I knew that this was going to work, and work well. She helped me set some goals and sent out my Restore package containing a wealth of information to help me reach my goals. I have looked forward to the calls from Angela and the encouragement and well-rounded knowledge she has shared with us. I can say that this program allowed me to lose over 30 pounds in about 14 weeks and still feel energized and never hungry or deprived. The exercise kept me moving and feeling upbeat, which also made the program go very fast.

I have held my goal weight for about three months with no problems because of the new habits I have developed in the Restore program. I feel that these changes will be a life long change for me and my wife, as she is really enjoying the plan as much as I do. All of the results of the blood tests verify the effectiveness of the program, as my results show a vast improvement in all categories.

I would recommend this plan for anyone wanting to improve their health and maintain there goals for the rest of their life. This plan focuses on the whole person with lots of support which makes it a joy to participate in. I would like to say a special thanks to Angela Dodson for all she has done for our family!

S. Taylor

2008-07-21T11:02:00.000-05:00

Julie Roy was awesome! I could never have done it without her help, encouragement and knowledgeable instruction.

S. Caudle

2008-07-21T11:01:00.000-05:00

Katie Kolb’s encouragement kept me focused and accountable. I am now able to fit into and wear clothes that I haven’t worn in five years!

D. White

2008-06-19T15:06:00.002-05:00

When I first entered the Restore Program, I was not convinced that I could follow the program. I wondered how this “meat and potatoes girl” would ever be able to commit to such a plan. That was before I met Angela. Right away, she put me at ease and made me realize that I could achieve my goals through the Restore guidelines, my close relationship with God, my own perseverance, and her guidance all the way.

During her periodic calls, she immediately assessed my needs and the areas where I needed help. She gave me solutions to quick and easy meals when I had no time to cook. She provided answers for eating and prayed with me every step of the way. Together, we achieved my goals. My cholesterol is now below 200 and my triglycerides are 72. I’m still working at improving my numbers and I know without a doubt that I could not have improved my health and lifestyle without the constant encouragement and prayers from Angela. It was not an easy path for me at first, but she guided me through and answered every challenge with a solution.

Now, I have a real desire to continue the program and the success that I have achieved. As I plan my path, I can still hear Angela say, “Now, Loretta, let’s unwrap this package and break it down to see what we can do to help you meet your goals today.” Thank you, Angela!

D. Nadler

2008-06-19T15:04:00.001-05:00

This program was well worth the time and effort. In fact, I did not even know this type of program was available until I received a letter from Health Initiatives stating that they could help me control my cholesterol.

On the program, I was able to lose some extra weight (which I always thought my waist line was connected to my cholesterol). My colitis is doing better with this diet along with the nutrients that my doctor has prescribed (which is much better than taking the medication that my GI doctor recommended). Prayer has also been a huge factor. So, thank you Jesus for all the people you have put into my life to make me whole!

J. Rotsko

2008-06-19T14:44:00.001-05:00

The Restore program is an amazing and timely blessing! Programs like this should be central to all health care. The Restore program alone is worth being a part of Medi-share!

Bill Tanner truly has the gift of encouragement and I count him as a friend. His involvement in my life at this time was nothing short of providential.

I will be praying that Medi-share continues to grow in effectiveness and wisdom.

A. Bethell

2008-06-19T13:36:00.002-05:00

I really enjoyed working with Matt. Although I’d like to be further along with my weight loss goals, I do feel that the inches I’ve lost (3” from hip and 4” from waist) are significant. The exercise habits I’ve made are excellent and it has been fun to work on this together. We’ve made significant strides in our eating habits as well. I believe that over time, I will see those pounds disappear.

My husband and I are hoping to take some significant bike trips this summer and even have the “spandex” that goes with it. We really appreciate Matt’s faithfulness to us! I have no complaint with the Restore program. Thanks!

J. Cunnings

2008-06-19T12:28:00.003-05:00

I truly appreciate the Restore Program. At first it seemed like a very inconvenient factor to deal with. However, as I received the materials, I understood and realized that not meeting the necessary guidelines meant that I was not as healthy as I should be.

Working with my Health Education Consultant, Katie Kolb, has been very helpful. She made me aware of the poor habits, dietarily, physically, and spiritually I’d formed over the years. Through our phone conversations she challenged me weekly to achieve better eating habits, try new recipes, walk more in shorter periods of time, and exercise a little longer. If I tried making an excuse for not doing anything, she always had a persuasive way to work it into my daily routine. Disciplining these poor habits has been a real challenge and I still have areas to work on. The results are well worth the work and effort. I do feel healthier and I’ve accomplished a definite weight loss. I’m fitting into clothes I previously couldn’t wear! Also, it’s made my family and friends as about the program and be more interested in improving their own health.

After being involved in Restore, I believe all other health programs should adopt a similar program and make participants more accountable for a healthier lifestyle and be checked regularly to make sure they’re on track. Thank you for caring and providing such a sound and beneficial program!

R. Harbaugh

2008-04-14T14:57:00.004-05:00

I enrolled in Christian Care Medi-Share knowing that I wasn’t taking care of my health. I appreciate the proactive stance to be healthy and avoid health problems. Because of my early efforts in the program, I was able to lose weight and lower my cholesterol significantly. My health education consultant, Ron Welsh, was very helpful and encouraging. I was very motivated to work harder. I started walking regularly.

Unfortunately (or fortunately) I had a heart attack shortly after my 50th birthday (only about five or so months after being in the program). I thank the Lord that I survived the heart attack, which I believe was partly due to major diet changes and exercise that I had initiated with Christian Care earlier on. Thankfully, the doctor said that there was no damage to the heart.

Since my heart attack, I have dropped my weight to 180 pounds (since the very beginning of the program, I have lost 25+ pounds). I’m walking a more than a mile just about everyday, plus I’m playing soccer and other activities. My diet has changed radically!!! I do not drink soft drinks, nor do I eat fast food (something I did regularly before the heart attack).

Without any doubt, I feel better, have more energy, and I’m encouraged to be a better steward of my body.

D. Reinwasser

2008-04-14T14:54:00.002-05:00

While the number on the scale didn’t move like I expected, I know my overall health has greatly improved. In the past year, I’ve lost four inches off my hips, three inches off my waist, along with similar losses off arms, bust, midriff and thighs. My next step is to have my thyroid checked. I am confident that we’ll figure out what to do to lose the pounds. The foundation of good nutrition and exercise has been established.

I appreciated the personal coaching and encouragement by my health consultant, Julie Roy. She understood my approach of wanting to keep things natural, the way God intended.

When starting the program, I could barely get through a level one program for 35 minutes. I am now at level 8! I was also able to do three bicycle trips last summer, riding 60 miles a day. I enjoy working out and the energy it gives me. Thanks for your support!

G. Attle

2008-03-10T11:51:00.001-05:00

Thank you for giving me Emily. She has truly been a blessing from God. She has helped me greatly! Her kind words and encouragement kept me on the right track.

P. Lancaster

2008-03-10T11:47:00.003-05:00

I have found my times with Julie to be very encouraging. She has helped me not only to stay on track to meet my goals but has offered valuable advice when I have hit a plateau. I have found her suggestions well rounded – they have included diet, exercise, and vitamin supplements plus at least one herbal suggestion. They have all been helpful in helping me lower my blood pressure and have a more healthful lifestyle.
I have always felt Julie wanted my best, both physically and spiritually, and that is most helpful and motivating.

J. Clay

2008-03-10T11:42:00.002-05:00

I was sharing with Angela how much my attitude has changed since the start of the program. I signed on because I knew the changes in the program goals would be good for my body and for my family. Making the changes and being accountable is tough. I had just had my baby (she was a couple of weeks old) so I could have used that as an excuse for my weight, but I was convicted that I wanted change, not excuses.

The book Eat to Live was great! It was a big motivator because it answered any concerns I had with this new eating style. For any parent Disease Proof Your Child is essential because it relieves concerns commonly raised about feeding your children a diet without (or low in) milk or meat.

I want to point out that I used to dislike salads (takes too long to chew and I am a busy mom; now I slow down and enjoy the taste).

The bottom line is, we are now all eating the food we knew we should be eating all along. I feel better, I look better and we are really starting to enjoy it!

My advice to others starting out is that changes are challenging and they disrupt your schedule. Sometimes you will feel overwhelmed and depressed by the effort (at first). Don’t worry if you can’t figure it all out (how to shop, prepare for the food and enjoy it) all at once. Keep praying about it and don’t give up!

S. Austin

2008-03-10T11:37:00.001-05:00

In the six short months I have been associated with the Christian Care Health Ministry, I have been so impressed that the word “care” really does mean care.
I am so proud to be part of this health initiative.

C. Windham

2008-02-15T15:24:00.002-05:00

Angela Dodson has been a God-send. Not only has she been helpful in teaching me new, healthy habits in my eating and activities. She has helped me to apply truths from God’s Word to enrich my life. There have been times when I was discouraged, didn’t care, and felt hopeless. I would then ask myself, “What did Angela Say?” and remember the wisdom she shared. The Lord used that, and His Word, to keep my going and to keep hope alive. At this time, because of Angela’s guidance, I have lost 32 pounds, I’m healthier than ever before, and I’ve grown closer to the Lord. Angela has helped me to see wonderful things in God’s Word (Psalm 119:18).

Thank you, Angela, for helping to transform my life for the Lord (Romans 12:2)!

G. White

2008-02-13T15:55:00.002-05:00

I just wanted you to know that your encouragement and guidance have been awesome! Knowing that you were there praying for me and that you really care about my wellbeing means so much to me. I also knew that you would be calling me to ask those hard questions that accountability always requires. The Bible tells us to “speak the truth in love to one another”. You would, in love, ask for the truth, and that quality of caring helped to keep my motivation up. It’s true that I was already working on doing some things to become healthier before I joined the Restore program and Christian Care Medi-Share. However, there were times when you were the wind in my sail that kept me moving. Many thanks!

D. Carpenter

2008-02-13T15:51:00.002-05:00

I have gone off all reflux medication. I had knee pain and was taking regular glucosimene. I have now gone off all medication and I feel great! Thanks!

E. Moreno

2008-02-13T15:47:00.001-05:00

I have so enjoyed working with Julie Roy. She does her job well and cares for people. I have changed my habits immensely by talking with Julie on a weekly basis. I want to thank Christian Care for making the Restore program available for people like me who needed to make a change for the better regarding my health.

K. May

2008-02-13T15:38:00.002-05:00

I have been helped greatly by the Health Initiatives Department of the Christian Care Ministry. It has been a direct answer to my prayers. I knew I wanted to lose weight, and had to lose weight, but I hadn’t been successful in the past. I finally and totally relinquished my problem to God in full surrender to Him. I told Him I was eagerly anticipating watching Him work in my life and I was curious as to how He would begin!

Right after that, within a few weeks, my husband’s application for our family to join the Christian Care Ministry was accepted, provided I follow through with the Restore program. I started to read and follow Dr. Joel Fuhrman’s book, “Eat to Live.” I actually started to enjoy foods that are good for me and not want or crave the bad foods. I started walking, and eventually jogging as I started to slim down! I am now 30 pounds lighter and several sizes smaller than I was when I began less than 1 year ago. Most of all, God worked through the lives of the health consultants who gave me encouragement, knowledge, and support through our phone appointments. Having their support and prayers has meant a great deal to me during this time and has empowered me, by the grace of God, to become a new me!

T. Bethell

2008-01-09T16:30:00.001-05:00

Matt White has done an outstanding job with my wife, Anne, and I as our health consultant. His knowledge of fitness is thorough and he is a great communicator.

Since getting connected with Medi-Share, we are eating healthier and exercising more. I honestly believe I feel better at 59 than I did at 39. My stamina is better and my aches and pains are a thing of the past.

We are very grateful for the help we have received and for the life-changing steps we are implementing in our home.

Thank you so much!

K. Schwager

2007-12-31T10:31:00.002-05:00

At the time I applied for Medi-Share, I was already using a popular weight loss program. I was losing weight and considered my eating choices to be very healthy compared to “most people” and my health to be “very good for my age”. Frankly, I was shocked when Medi-Share required me to join the Health Initiatives program. My lab work was all within normal levels and I thought I knew how to eat well for my body’s needs. My initial reaction was that I didn’t want someone to tell me what to eat and do. I know that reaction wasn’t a good sign in itself, so I asked the Lord to help me change my attitude. He showed me that my health, apparently, wasn’t as strong as I thought and that I now had a unique opportunity to work with a personal “health coach” to strengthen my health, longevity and even my finances (no big medical bills). So I warily entered the Health Initiatives program.

My metamorphosis began while I was watching the videos. When one of the speakers said that I could actually choose to be free from heart problems, diabetes and many cancers, I was startled. I was used to reading about all the good foods or exercise that will reduce your risk of heart attack by x%, but I never heard anyone say that you can essentially choose to eliminate the risk. I said out loud to the TV screen and to God, “I want to make that choice!”

I learned from the Eat to Live book that my dietary choices were not nearly as healthy as I thought. True, I made better than average choices, but not the best choices. I had always believed that I needed lots of protein and translated that into being a primal carnivore – consuming lots of meat and trying to make it healthy be eating mostly poultry, fish and some “lean red meat”. I didn’t think that my body could function well or actually be content with less than 8-12oz. of meat a day. I thought that my joint and body aches were “normal arthritis” for my age. I managed them by taking over-the-counter pain relievers almost every night and occasionally during the day.

The program encompasses an entire healthy lifestyle of which healthy eating is a part. I especially like the daily records of my lifestyle – not only what I eat and don’t eat, but how I’m managing my life in other areas essential to good health – and relationship with God and others by doing relaxing, enjoyable things.

The website is a good resource for many things – recipes, information and lots of exercises. When I started on the program, I had struggled with a painful shoulder for a few months. I used a couple of Dr. Evans’ exercises on the Health Initiatives website and the pain disappeared after a few weeks!

I don’t believe that I would have or could have made the dietary changes without God’s grace, God’s power, the achievable health goal in the video, the plan and charts in the Restore materials, and the accountability and encouragement of Bill Tanner, my Health Consultant. I have been greatly blessed by having all those things and now I have better health too! I not only don’t eat meat everyday – I hardly miss it and don’t crave it – I rarely take a pain reliever. Rarely. I don’t wake up stiff and sore in the mornings. That “normal arthritis” seems to have disappeared. I had no idea that meat was doing that to me.

I am grateful for the life change that Health Initiatives had guided me into. I’m not through with the program, I’m just established in it and I’m grateful! Thank you so much for putting all these good things together!

D. Sorrells

2007-12-18T09:47:00.001-05:00

My cholesterol had been over 200 since I can remember – over 25 years. In 2001 I developed high blood pressure. After arguing with my doctor for months, he finally convinced me that I needed medication and put me on two pills for cholesterol and two more for blood pressure. My weight for all of those years was about 178. I’m right at 5’9” so it wasn’t terrible, but still overweight. In the meantime, I lost a great job after 30 years and was paying $800 a month for medical insurance and another $150 a month for medication. This past June I went in for a yearly check-up and my cholesterol was 170. My triglycerides, however, were 280. So my doctor prescribed yet another pill.

Just before my doctor appointment in June, I heard a commercial on the radio about Christian Care Medi-Share. I applied for membership but had not been accepted at the time of my appointment. I had, however, been counseled by a number of folks at CCM and had already been introduced to Dr. Joel Fuhrman’s book “Eat to Live.” I started the six week diet in late June and except for a seldom few meals, have stayed on it since. I also started exercising, diligently, almost everyday, for 1½ to 2 hours daily. In mid July I was accepted by CCM on a probational basis (in other words, get my numbers in order). In late August I went in for blood work. I was really apprehensive about how the results might come in. By now I had lost about 23 lbs. I was eating strictly vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grains. I had been off all meat and dairy for over six weeks and I was walking/jogging 4 miles everyday in addition to some weight lifting and stretching exercises. When the results came in, I was pleasantly surprised. My cholesterol was 120 (LDL was 60) and Triglycerides were at 133. I never started taking that fifth pill and now I’m off all cholesterol medication and have cut my blood pressure dosage in half.

I can’t believe how easy it was. I spent all those years living with high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and expenses for medication and insurance, when all I had to do was eat right and exercise. The book “Eat to Live” should be motivation enough, hopefully before we every get to the point of being overweight and unhealthy. In addition, my wellness consultant provided even more motivation, more information and lots of encouragement and prayers. What a blessing she has been!

That’s not all though. As I was starting my program with CCM, I began telling several others (friends and family) about the program. I even bought and gave some of them a copy of “Eat to Live”. Even though they were not members, they adopted the six week diet, for the most part, and increased their exercising. My oldest son at 5’8” has trimmed down from 240 to 185. My middle son has gone from 202 down to 185. Another close friend, only 23 and developing high blood pressure, went from 242 down to 198 and his blood pressure is back to normal. My wife exercises faithfully with me and has lost about 16 lbs. We have all been blessed by the ministry of CCM and by the people that work there. It is obvious that they have a passion for helping others. There are many others with whom I’ve shared, because now it’s truly a passion of mine as well.
My wellness consultant encouraged me with a letter one day. I will not repeat it all, but this part is really good:

“We are in the army of God. As a good soldier of Christ Jesus…I want to encourage you to prepare your body for battle. This is a war; the enemy of our souls would love for us to destroy ourselves…and often this goes unnoticed and even worse, people are eagerly doing this with their own fork!

Fight the good fight in all areas of life. Whether eating or drinking…do all to the glory of God. Examine everything…read your labels. Use wisdom and discernment as to whether or not it is good; rather than eating on automatic pilot.”

She finished it with this verse:

“No soldier in active duty entangles himself with the affairs of this world so that he may please the one that enlisted him as a soldier.” – 2 Timothy 2:4

Thank you Christian Care Medi-Share for changing my life, and the lives of some people that are very close to me, in some really big positive ways.

G. Sherman

2007-12-18T09:41:00.001-05:00

Society seems to have a renewed interest in being healthy. However, many health programs encourage physical health for the purpose of being physically pleasing to others. The Christian Care Health Initiatives Restore Program is different. This program encouraged physical health for the purpose of being physically AND spiritually pleasing to God. This program placed as much importance on the health habit of 1 on 1 time with the Lord as the physical activity of aerobic exercise.
Participating in a program that encouraged me to be in God’s Word and be obedient to God’s Word has been wonderful. I have been encouraged to be healthy, not for me but for my Creator. Angela Dodson, my personal consultant, repeatedly reminded me that being healthy was not all about me. She would often quote 1 Corinthians 3:16, “Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the spirit of God dwells in you?” Because I have accepted Jesus Christ as my personal Savior, my body houses a most special treasure, the Spirit of God. Being healthy is my gift to Him for such a special treasure. The incentive to be healthy must come from within. I must desire to be healthy because he desires me to be healthy.
This program is an example of brother and sister in Christ encouraging each other. Encouraging each other, first to have a healthy relationship with the Lord, and second, encouraging each other to do good works. The good work of lowering my cholesterol has been accomplished. By using the Daily Health Tracking Chart, I learned how to identify the foods that contributed to my problem of high cholesterol. I was able to choose foods more wisely. During the six month Restore program my cholesterol dropped 43 points.
As I graduate from the Restore program, I have found two Scriptures that I know will encourage me as I continue my journey to be healthier.

1 Timothy 4:8, “For bodily exercise profits a little, but godliness is profitable for all things, having promise of the life that now is and of that which is to come.”
To really be healthy, I must make God’s Word my first priority. Knowing and obeying Him must always be first – but I must also remember exercise is also beneficial.

1 Corinthians 10:23, “Everything is permissible but not everything is beneficial. Everything is permissible but not everything is constructive.”
There are many choices of food and it is okay to eat anything I want. However, I must remember that not all food is beneficial or constructive toward good health. Making wise choices will keep me on my journey to good health and my goal of being a pleasing temple for the Spirit of God.

I am grateful for a ministry that encourages and expects Bible-based lifestyles because that is what God expects.
I am grateful for my new friend, Angela. Her friendship, encouragement and support were a true blessing.
I am thankful for the opportunity to participate in the Restore program which encourages physical health for spiritual reasons.
I would encourage anyone interested in a Bible-based health plan to participate, if given the opportunity, in the Restore Program.

J. Padilla

2007-12-12T09:06:00.001-05:00

I am very thankful for the Restore Program. Before, I had given up thinking I couldn’t lose the weight that I so desperately needed to lose. When I would “diet”, I would lose a few pounds only to gain back more than I lost. I would feel sick and would suffer from headaches and I told myself I needed meat proteins all day long. If I did not have them I would suffer from headaches. I have learned to eat so much healthier. I have lost 35lbs and the exciting thing is that I have felt great doing it – no headaches and no hunger. I actually find I am very satisfied eating less because what I am eating is meeting my body’s nutritional needs.
The Restore program also got me exercising – a very good thing! I did not realize how out of shape I was until I began. It was so good to have the consultant hold me accountable and encouraging me to keep pressing forward. I am very grateful!
Thank you so much!

W. Dozler

2007-12-06T10:37:00.001-05:00

MediShare has been such a blessing to me!! I so very much appreciate the information, tools and personal help that the Health Initiatives team members have put together. After moving cross-country and adding a few more children to our family in the last five years, I’d begun to settle into thinking that it would be a while before I’d be able to focus on my own health or weight gain. As a pastor’s wife and a blessed mother of fine children all under the age of six, I know the importance of being healthy as well as the example that my life is to so many others.

Thank you so much for pushing me to start toward keeping my health a priority! I still have a ways to go but have lost 30 pounds quite easily these last few months. I feel so much better and notice a considerable difference outwardly as well. You are a blessing and such a help!

May the Lord richly bless and reward you daily as you seek after Him with all of your hearts! Thank you for your ministry!

J. Pulis

2007-12-04T13:16:00.001-05:00

I would rather have been in better shape when we entered the Christian Care MediShare Program, but I really valued my participation in the restore program. I worked with Angela Dodson for six months. At the start, my blood pressure was in the 134/84 range and my cholesterol levels were 200 total, 105 LDL, and 69 HDL. After six months, these all dropped to 113/68 for blood pressure, 158 for total cholesterol and 83 for the LDL.

I would not call it a diet. It is a new way of thinking creatively about exercise and what you eat. When I messed up (e.g. ate red meat) it was usually more a matter of convenience than craving because I felt Angela has helped me change the way I view food.

I feel better, people have noticed the weight loss, and my clothes fit better.

Thank you, Restore and Angela

A. Lundell

2007-11-16T15:07:00.001-05:00

Laura was very professional, knowledgeable an answered all of my questions in such a way that I was empowered and I was allowed to embrace the responses.

T. Smith

2007-11-14T09:19:00.001-05:00

Eileen was very helpful to me in this weight – loss program. She did all she could to help me; she answered questions, she listened, she helped me solve problems and she sent me helpful materials, like weight management articles and exercises. Best of all, she was very encouraging as I finally began to make progress.

D. Coonradt

2007-11-09T12:23:00.000-05:00

Katie was always professional, knowledgeable, and courteous. She was always giving of her time and her information was definitely helpful.

A.G.

2007-11-05T09:08:00.000-05:00

I admit I felt aggravated when my application to CCM resulted in an invitation to enroll in the Restore program-especially since I had my own routine and had already made significant progress towards my goals of losing weight and shrinking my middle. But I felt the Lord led me to humble myself and acknowledge that continuing to pursue those goals even further with walking and targeted core exercises, as well as more attention to diet would be a great long term benefit to my health and my self-image.

I am pleased to report that the rewards far outweigh the effort I had put into reaching the Restore goals. Seeing the pounds come off and especially noticing firming up has been energizing.

So I am thankful for CCM’s insistence on compliance-not only has it been a blessing to me, but it is bound to keep all of our health care costs down in the long run.

J. Cunningham

2007-10-26T10:29:00.000-05:00

It has been 2 months since I talked to Angela on the phone and I just wanted to thank you for your prayer and your recommendation of the book Eat To Live. I just got my cholesterol checked and it dropped 61 points from 228 to 167. Also my blood pressure went down to 120 over 70. Also I have lost 25 lbs from 187 to 162. My acid reflux is gone also and I used to take a lot of medication for it as well as sleeping in a recliner at night. It is all a thing of the past. The diet works

D. Sager

2007-10-25T14:14:00.000-05:00

How many fellow Christian Care Members can relate to the frustration of dieting, trying to lose weight and get in shape? Last year, that was me. Seemed like every ten years I'd put on ten pounds. No matter what diet I tried (low-fat, etc. plus herbal supplements, etc. and exercise), I'd lose a few pounds, then it'd creep back on. I kept diet journals and prayed for the Lord to give me His appetite and guide me. I even got to the place where I told Him I'd give up chocolate!!! To be honest, I was slipping into depression and felt like giving up. Right before the first of the year, I called CCM to ask about their Health Initiatives website. I got to talking with the receptionist and she asked if I'd read a book CCM recommends, Eat to Live, by Joel Fuhrman, MD. What did I have to lose? Right on the cover, it says, "lose twenty pounds in six weeks." That sounded too good to be true. I decided I'd take this challenge, DO this diet, whatever it was, but if I didn't drop those twenty pounds then I'd give up for sure. The first six weeks (I started January first), I lost eighteen pounds, then slower over the next few weeks until June where I leveled off at minus 33 pounds. I've lost eight inches off my waist! Since then, I occasionally go off the diet because of eating at friends, parties, etc. but the weight has stayed off. I actually prefer eating the diet, it tastes better than all the junk out there. I have tons of energy. I started walking two miles five days a week last winter, but through the year have been active with gardening, conditioning and riding my horse in 50 mile Endurance rides, helping my husband with our firewood and I bucked 64 bales of our hay by myself! I even ran nine miles one week. I have to tell you, this diet is really easy and satisfying! I was never hungry and most amazing of all, the pounds just melted off!!! I've been so excited and encouraged with the results. People that know me comment all the time: WOW, you look FANTASTIC, what did you do? The best part of all is my husband is so proud of me! He's been supportive from the start. He lost twenty pounds as well. FYI, I'm 5'2", 55 years old. I started at 156 lbs., now am 123 lbs. and can fit into my wedding dress! Praise the Lord, He does answer prayers! Blessings, Denise Sager PS~ Another helpful tool is thedailyplate.com website.

D. Steventon

2007-10-24T15:53:00.000-05:00

Thank God for Eileen and the Health Initiatives programs. She set reasonable goals for me each week. She taught me how to have a healthy lifestyle and encouraged me each step of the way. She prayed for me. When progress stopped at one point, she encouraged me to read Eat To Live again. That and the video Diet For All Reasons, filled me with enthusiasm again.

There was a nagging doubt in my mind about how well I would be able to continue with this new lifestyle after my time with Eileen ended but God reassured me by delivering me from an addiction to sweets. Eileen reminded me to guard my heart by not having sweets whenever I wanted them. She gave wise counsel. It kept me from falling again into dependency on sweets. God has also made to possible to have accountability with a Christian friend who is also a certified personal trainer. Praise Him for supplying all of my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus!

D. Hodgen

2007-10-24T15:40:00.000-05:00

Following the Restore program helped me lower my cholesterol and reading the book, “Eat To Live”, and charting daily was a big influence. Matthew White, my health consultant was an inspiration. He was very helpful with answers to my questions. I was always moved by his spiritual prayer with me at the end of our conversations. I knew I could call Matt anytime, and Matt was prompt with sending e-mails to the website.
I am proud to have lowered my cholesterol with changing my way of eating. I never wanted to go on any drugs for lowering cholesterol as they have so many side effects that affect our healthy organs.

R. Durham

2007-10-23T09:03:00.001-05:00

I was already strong-appreciated the manner in which my relationship with Health Initiatives was handled.

D. Steventon

2007-10-19T08:55:00.000-05:00

Thank God for Eileen and the Health Initiatives programs. She set reasonable goals for me each week. She taught me how to have a healthy lifestyle and encouraged me each step of the way. She prayed for me. When progress stopped at one point, she encouraged me to read Eat To Live again. That and the video “Diet For All Reasons”, filled me with enthusiasm again.

There was a nagging doubt in my mind about how well I would be able to continue with this new lifestyle after my time with Eileen ended but God reassured me by delivering me from an addiction to sweets. Eileen reminded me to guard my heart by not having sweets whenever I wanted them. She gave wise counsel. It kept me from falling again into dependency on sweets. God has also made to possible to have accountability with a Christian friend who is also a certified personal trainer. Praise Him for supplying all of my needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus!

Sandy D.

2007-09-27T13:15:00.000-05:00

When I first heard I was going to be entering MediShare as a “conditional member” and that I would have to be on this Restore program, I have to tell ya…I was a little put out. You see, my husband and I own a coaching company; we coach triathletes (Swim, Bike, Run). I was in good shape (5’3” and 113lbs at age 36) and I had just competed in a Triathlon. Plus we ate a really good diet. Despite all of this my cholesterol was 248 with an LDL of 173. I thought I was one of those individuals who had hereditary cholesterol and there was nothing I could do about it. I got the materials for the Restore program and immediately I did two things. First, I went on a vegan diet to prove that my cholesterol was indeed hereditary. Second, I started reading Dr. Fuhrman’s book, “Eat to Live”. After my first session with my wonderful coach, Ron Welsh, I was a little convicted by what he said regarding how we should be good stewards of our body. I thought, Hey, I’m doing this for the wrong reasons. I changed my attitude and my motivation (do all things unto Christ) and after 8 weeks of being on Dr. Fuhrman’s vegan plan my cholesterol dropped to 180 and my LDL dropped to 120…So my advice is simple: put your pride aside and give the plan at least 8 weeks. You’ll be so glad that you did. Thank God for the Restore program. I feel like it has allowed me to move into my 40’s, 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s and beyond without having to worry about heart disease.
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Sandra N.

2007-09-27T12:28:00.000-05:00

Eileen gave me the confidence I needed to keep going on with healthy choices

Herbert F.

2007-09-05T10:43:00.000-05:00

I appreciate the program in retrospect, however at the beginning it was just another imposition on my limited time. It became important after doing it for about a month and I realized one day that all the effort I was putting into saving a few bucks a month wasn't actually making me feel any better. Then I realized that instead of trying to find ways to cheat on the program or get out of doing it, I should actually benefit from it. That seemed to change my motivation.
Now I look at it as a helpful activity to keep me out of a wheelchair in a few years! Thanks!!

Karen B.

2007-08-31T12:51:00.000-05:00

I was so excited about the program after the initial shock. You must know that most of us are not vegan and taking orders from people who have never met us is to say the least… a jolt! Once I realized how important this would be to better my health, I truly was empowered. Then came the “stuff” that happens in life. After the death of my father, various illnesses, aches and pains, spinal therapy and gall bladder surgery, it was a long 6 months of doing my best to get back on the wellness regime MediShare had for me. I am trying so hard to be healthy and I only hope that I haven’t been too harsh. Thank you all for loving me! God bless!

Pamela L.

2007-08-29T12:50:00.000-05:00

I found our weekly talks with Julie encouraging. She has helped me with some nutritional advice to lower my blood pressure which in addition to my exercise have been a tremendous help. Her cheerful spirit and willingness to help is greatly appreciated.

Robert C.

2007-08-28T09:05:00.000-05:00

I have not seen 220lbs since I was 20 years old. I have tried numerous diet plans and weight loss gimics. Learning how to eat right and the help from the Restore program has allowed me to reach 217lbs and still hoping to lose more. The book, "Eat To Live", and the video opened my eyes to my bad eating habits and both were a tremendous help.

Linda S.

2007-08-24T14:02:00.000-05:00

Although I haven't met all the proposed goals introduced to me in March of this year, the Restore Program has proven to be a great catalyst to propel me to healthier eating. I plan to continue eating as recommended by Dr. Fuhrman and know I must increase exercise.
My weight and bloodwork is better than it has been in 8 years!

Linda M.

2007-08-20T13:11:00.000-05:00

The Health Education Consultant was a joy to work with, she always spent time with me on whatever was needed and always kept scheduled appointments. She always encouraged me in making realistic health related goals and she encouraged me with prayer. God Bless her. She has seen me through dark times!

Mark D.

2007-08-13T14:39:00.000-05:00

My health consultant was professional, knowledgeable, and courteous and he spent an adequate amount of time with me over the phone. He assisted me in making specific, measurable, and realistic health related goals. My total cholesterol dropped from 262 to 209, my LDL dropped from 180 to 130 by removing animal products from my diet.

Connie M

2007-08-13T07:56:00.000-05:00

My approach to food is completely different since being part of the Christian Care Health Initiatives Program. During a grieving process due to the loss of a baby I gained over 50 pounds and found myself completely addicted to food, mainly sugar. Since being a part of the CHIP program the way I look at food has drastically changed. Although, I have not reached my goal weight, my eating patterns are totally different. Instead of dairy and meat products, vegetables and fruit, legumes and beans have become what I reach for. That in and of itself is somewhat a miracle because I grew up in a home where meatloaf and mashed potatoes, ice cream and cake, chicken pot pies were "comfort foods".
With the help of weekly then monthly accountability (and at the beginning, most of the time I had to do a lot of confessing), my health consultant helped me to understand more and more the benefits of "raw" eating. This program has been life-changing for me because I know my overall health has improved. I have gained great foundational principles of healthy eating and exercise that will carry me the rest of my life. The pedometer is part of my daily clothing now. Fruit and vegetables are now part of everyday eating as well. Meat is now something I can pass on when it comes to my weekly diet.
I would recommend this program to anyone how wants to reach optimal health.

JoAnn P.

2007-08-10T10:23:00.000-05:00

Through the Restore Program and my participation in it, I am now experiencing more freedom. My first response to my conditional acceptace to MediShare was a bit of resistance to being told I must go on a diet and exercise.
However, I yielded. I was not happy with the way I was eating or with how I felt or looked. I knew, even though I had "feelings" of resistance, that it was God's help for me and so I was thankful.
Next, I was shocked when I received the tape, book and workbook and saw it was "vegetarian". But the book was really good and I felt good as I ate more veggies, fruits and beans and less of some other things.
My health consultant had the knowledge, experience, time and willingness to make the program work for me. It was personal, and made changes so much easier than doing it on my own would have been.
To God be the glory for this beneficial six month period for me. Of major importance to me is the flexibility of the program, as I experienced (and will continue) it. If I go to a party, potluck, have a birthday, or to someone's home for a meal, I am free to have whatever is served that I choose. I am able to go right back to my usual (now preferred for most of the time) low fat, low sodium, nutrient rich foods.
A problem I've had in the past with diets is when I would "break it" or "blow it". It was often an excuse to keep on eating all the wrong things. It is different now. Now, I am glad to go back to the plan of the nutrient-rich foods.

Clyde W.

2007-08-09T11:38:00.000-05:00

The Health Consultant helped me identify barriers to achieving my goals and to come up with strategies for overcoming them as well as helped me arrive at a better place healthwise. The consultant had incredible spiritual, emotional and psychological insight that helped me change my life! I've established a new lifestyle with her help!

Linda M

2007-07-30T10:35:00.000-05:00

My health consultant was professional, knowledgeable and was a joy to work with. She always spent and adequate amount of time with me and always made and kept scheduled appointments. She always encouraged me with prayer and she was an absolute blessing to work with!

Sharon H.

2007-07-25T10:26:00.000-05:00

I would like to say that Julie, my health consultant, was so encouraging and uplifting even when I didn't do as well. Over the six month period I lost 15 lbs. but had wanted to lose more like 45. I read the Eat to Live book and went through the other educational materials that were sent and am making changes towards those recommendations. I drink more water and try to exercise more now. I plan to get the extra weight off and will not give up!! I just want to say that Julie prayed with me and was so precious in how she was always edifying on the phone. I think the program is very beneficial and encourage others to try also. The book Eat to Live, by Dr. Joel Fuhrman, was very interesting and informing about how we should be eating. I have made some positive changes in my life.

Thank You,

Sharon H.

Jaque E.

2007-07-23T14:03:00.000-05:00

My health consultant worked with my preferences well and reasonably while making good suggestions that worked! Our entire family has benefited health wise through the Restore Program.
Thank you very much for encouraging me to send in my application- I waited a year because of being afraid of being rejected and suffered unnecessary stress. I wish I had done it sooner. I'm so glad that I was accepted into the Restore program. My husband and I considered this an answer to years of prayer for help with my weight and general health, which has improved along with my weight loss. He enthusiastically joined me in the changes and is enjoying his own weight loss, too. We have each lost over 15 pounds in 5 months. The Lord bless the MediShare team.

Rebecah M

2007-07-23T11:02:00.000-05:00

My health consultant, Julie, was always a joy to talk to and I looked forward to her phone calls. She spent an adequate amount of time with me and always kept scheduled appointments. I felt as though I had my own personal cheerleader!

Jeanette C.

2007-07-13T14:04:00.000-05:00

I joined Health Initiatives because I needed to reverse osteoporosis. The medication Fosomax and Actenol made my bones and joints very painful. I will continue to walk, eat 5 servings of fruit and 3 servings of vegetables daily. I did not check the status of my bone density because I was on the program only 6 months, I am trusting God that this will make my bones strong.

I also feel so much better. I eat very little meat and drink Silk soy milk instead of regular cow's milk. I eat whole grain cereals and bread. I also have a handful of walnuts in my cereal every morning.

I can walk 2 miles very easily and when I went to Niagara Falls in May, I walked all day and never felt tired (this included carrying my 1 year old grandson part of the time).

The allergies I have been bothered with are considerably less bothersome.
I am also thankful to Angela for her help.