Joyce Chalmers: The Challenge of Being Slim
Joyce Chalmers is someone who is at high risk of a fracture and needed to take action. Tragically, it was her Mother’s condition that motivated her to pursue a bone healthy lifestyle.Here is Joyce’s story in her own words:
“Ten or so years ago, I was describing my mother's experiences with osteoporosis to my family doctor. He decided that I should have a Bone Mineral Density (BMD) test. I took the test and the results were not good. My bones were like those of an eighty year old. At that time, I was in my fifties and was given Fosamax (alendronate sodium) to strengthen my bones. I am now 62 and weigh less than 90 pounds. Recently, I have found out that I also have gluten sensitivity (celiac disease), which is one cause of bone loss.
My experience with my mother has shown me what this disease can do. My Mom's osteoporosis was severe. She was in her seventies when she began to suffer bone fractures. After my father died she moved in with us. One day when she and I were chatting in the kitchen, she suddenly fell to the floor. There was no reason for the fall. I am sure her hip broke before she hit the floor. Over subsequent years, she continued to fracture one bone after another. My heart broke as I watched my dear mother go through so much. Another time her wrist broke when she was in bed.
Both Mom and I ate well and exercised. We neither smoked nor drank alcohol. When I was a teenager, I was diagnosed with a milk and cheese allergy. This has reduced my calcium intake over the years.
In summary, I have tried to do the best I can to avoid osteoporosis. Fortunately, one of my most positive moves has been to start working with Margaret Martin.”
She has seen significant progress since starting. “Weight training is what is needed for my porous bones,” says Joyce. “The osteporosis exercise program Margaret designed for me makes me feel better and I expect it will allow me to deal with my condition.”
Joyce has been following the exercise program Margaret prescribed for almost a year.
