I’ve been involved in TOPS along time. I first joined in 1979 with my brother-in-law. We were the
only two male members in the chapter. My wife, Mother-in-law and two sisters-in-law were already
members, so they finally convinced us to join. I had 26 pounds to lose. I lost 24 pounds by June 1980.
With no summer meetings and few weigh-ins on my part, I put some weight back on.

In September 1981, I became a KOPS. I held my status for 2 years, and then lost it. In 1986,
my wife my wife and myself quit TOPS. We opened a business. Busy 24/7, we had no time for TOPS,
and guess what – we gained back all our weight, plus more. So don’t quit TOPS. Always keep trying,
and attend meetings.
We rejoined in 1995, knowing I had to get my weight off. It was doctors orders.
He was worried about my heart. I was a good candidate for a heart attack at my age.
Due to my weight, my job was strenuous on my legs as I jump up and down from the truck,
delivering heavy items, 50lbs bags of potatoes, frozen vegetables and produce. I knew TOPS
could help, with my wife’s support and the support of the members of #On2602, Oshawa.

They are a great group, with their encouragement, enthusiasm and friendship. On our Awards Night
in 2006 and 2007, I was a Division Winner. But in May 2008 I reached my goal with a loss of
53.25 pounds. I am the Chapter King for 2008. It was harder the second time, as I’m older and also
I had twice the amount to lose. But I did it and am proud. You have to take change your lifestyle
and eating habits – no second helpings, drink more water and exercise. I dropped 6 pant sizes,
from 44” to 38”. I feel great, have more energy and find my job not so hard to do.

Thanks to TOPS, and my wife Millie for always reminding me by saying, “Do you really need that”?
To all the members, especially Rosalinda, who was our weight recorder.
She always gave me encouragement, many thanks.

Congratulations to our 2008 Ontario King ~
                                                                   Gary Fitzpatrick with a loss of 53.25 pounds!

PRD King: Gary Fitzpatrick

PRD

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