Vincent Lees

iQuest has been a godsend because it has shown me that I am capable of accomplishing what I never thought I could.

I was referred to the Diabetes program at iQuest by my doctor in May of this year and remember walking into the building worried about what it would entail. I will never forget the fear I had of gyms and dreading that I would be ‘fat guy’ among all of these toned bodies. But, I learned VERY quickly that iQuest is not your typical gym. I can’t believe how comfortable I feel when I walk in the door each time. The people who work here are inviting, encouraging, and so happy to see me. The have made me feel like I belong and that they will support me as I accomplish my goal.

I didn’t believe in myself and never even thought I would be able to reach my lifestyle and weight loss goals. Looking back now, I can’t believe how exciting this experience has been. It has been eye opening how much I can accomplish and my entire attitude has changed from ‘I can’t’ to ‘I am’! I can’t believe how much I look forward to being physically active now! I always used to look for ways I could avoid any form of physical activity, but now I look for ways I can be more active, whether it is outside in the yard, or more active with my kids. I was so fearful of doing cardiovascular activity, but the staff at iQuest helped me to find ways I could slowly and safely work up my endurance. They empowered me to feel confident with this and other forms of exercise. I also notice how much more conscious I am of what I am eating because I feel so proud of the exercise I do, I am excited to see the changes faster by also eating better.

I have felt so many rewards already, and what has surprised me is that the biggest rewards haven’t necessarily been the successful weight loss, or getting to buy new clothes, but the confidence I have gained. I don’t feel like the ‘fat guy’ at all, and in fact, I am feeling ‘fit’ and energetic! I am watching myself doing something that I never thought possible- and it is an amazing feeling! I have realized that when I walk in the doors at iQuest, I am more working the inside of me as a person, as opposed to just the outside. It is uplifting that I can accomplish the physical stress of being on the treadmill or lifting weights, but I realize now that it was the emotional fear that was the big obstacle. It is that emotional and psychological work that iQuest has helped me take on, and I know that I will succeed because of my drive and the support and encouragement of the iQuest team!