Dedication, perseverance and self-discipline are admirable qualities that the people at Weight Watchers know all about. Founded in 1963 by a homemaker in Brooklyn named Jean Nidetch, Weight Watchers has been supporting people around the world in achieving weight loss and healthier lifestyles.
Thanks to local leader Angie Bosworth and many helpers in the community, especially Louise Ferguson, the Bowen Island group is now celebrating its tenth year of existence.
Weight Watchers' core philosophy is to use a science-driven approach to help participants lose weight by forming helpful habits, eating smarter, getting more exercise and providing support. Due to the commitment of people such as Bosworth, her team of helpers and many like-minded leaders around the globe, millions of people are guided to renewed health and strength through the program.
Islander Barb Wiltshire is a lifetime member of Weight Watchers. Barb set a weight goal, met that goal and maintained her weight, within two pounds, for six weeks. Now, when Barb goes to a meeting, "weighs in" and determines that her weight is within those two pounds of her goal, she doesn't have to pay for a session.
"I am pro their system," Wiltshire says, "because it seems natural to me. I am very much against packaged food. With Weight Watchers it is all about choices. It makes you very aware of what you are putting in your mouth. It works like a charm."
Bosworth began the local group 10 years go because she had grown tired of going to North Van to attend meetings that were an important part of her own health regime. She has been attending since she was 16.
"My sister and I were pudgy," she says, "and we went to our mom and said that we wanted to loose weight. Our mom said, 'well then, you are going to do it properly.'" So the two girls joined Weight Watchers.
As a leader of the Bowen Island group, Bosworth has a strong following. "Angie is an amazing leader," says Wiltshire. "She is supportive and encouraging."
Other members also describe Bosworth as committed, patient and devoted to the idea of self-care. She walks the walk and talks the talk.
Support and caring for one another is a strong component of Weight Watchers' philosophy. Weight Watchers International just finished a program called "Lose for Good". The members here on Bowen joined in by losing a total of 50 pounds and thereby donating 50 pounds of food to the food bank at the Bowen Island United Church.
Weight Watchers Canada is giving $50,000 (partly a donation and partly other benefits) to food banks across Canada.
The Bowen Island meetings of Weight Watchers are every Wednesday night at Collins Hall, 1122 Miller Road from 6:15-7:15pm. Call 947-2990 with any questions.
