Seminole Heights Retiree Sheds 60 Pounds Through YMCA Program

After Diana Diggs retired from St. Joseph's Hospital in Tampa in 2006, her health took a turn for the worse.

She was diagnosed with high blood pressure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and was placed on disability.

Diggs, 55, was also overweight.

When a friend told her about the YMCA's Silver Sneakers program - which encourages older adults to stay active and healthy - Diggs jumped at the chance to re-charge her life.

We recently talked to her about what keeps her motivated and advice she has for others her age who want to get back in shape.

Patch: What made you want to join the YMCA?

Diggs: My main reason was for health. I been there now a little over a year. A friend told me about Silver Sneakers, so I figured I'd join. I figured it would give me a better outlook on myself, and not sit at home become a couch potato.

Patch: What does your workout consist of with Silver Sneakers?

Diggs: With Silvers Sneakers, what I do is, in the morning, I get up and walk my dog. I go to the 9 o'clock class and take aerobics Monday through Thursday. I'm building up for Friday and Saturday.

Patch: What is your weight loss goal?

Diggs: My goal is 130 pounds. So far, I've lost 60.

Patch: What keeps you motivated?

Diggs: I stand about six feet tall, and my health is the best it's ever been. The blood pressure is good. The numbers with my doctor are good. It wasn't good until I started to exercise.

Patch: What advice do you have for people your age who want to lose weight?

Diggs: Turn that television off, take a good look in the mirror, get up and get with people in your age group. Start one day at a time. Don't look back. Keep going forward.

For more information on Diggs and the Silver Sneakers program, click the YMCA's newsletter here.