A Sheriff Deputy's Weight Loss Journey

“I’ve been amazed. This program has provided me with focus, the tools I needed and confidence. I was running a playbook, but I now I know I have a coach and a whole team behind me to catch me if I fall.”

Losing weight can be tough for anyone. Just ask Wright County Deputy Tony Boverhuis. Since the birth of his second child in 2012, Tony has made multiple attempts on his own. He researched different programs and options, lost some weight, gained it back. Nothing was sustainable.

Work-related injuries in 2016 and 2018 also made it very challenging to be active and exercise. By April 2019, Tony was carrying 285 pounds on his 5-foot-8-inch frame. “I knew that if I didn’t do something to better my health, I would not be meeting my grandkids," said Tony.

Looking for answers and help, Tony turned to CentraCare Weight Management in Monticello. The program customized a plan to his needs. Previously, he had tried a number of options individually including diets and more exercise. What he now found he needed was a combination of tools, including medications.

“I’ve been amazed. This program has provided me with focus, the tools I needed AND confidence,” Tony described. “I was running a playbook, but I now I know I have a coach and a whole team behind me to catch me if I fall.”

Six months into the program, he’s down 65 pounds and has a long-term goal to lose another 35. His energy is up, he’s able to do more around the house and he enjoys all the compliments he receives. And he’s also pleased that his medical insurance has covered the costs except the standard deductibles and co-pays.

Every person achieves weight loss in a different manner. Tony lists these lifestyle changes that have contributed to his success:

• Using a food diary with a 1500 calorie restriction.
• Intermittent fasting: 16 hours of fasting followed by an eight-hour window where he eats.
• Single ingredient foods with a big focus on fruits and vegetables.
• Cooking for his family, with adaptations for himself including minimal carbs.
• Meatless Mondays which the whole family enjoys.
• Working out three times a week including running and strength training.

As Tony continues on his weight loss quest, he finds joy in everyday events. “My wife was shopping for a wedding we were going to attend. It turned out I didn’t need anything because I had clothes in my closet that fit again. I broke down crying. This big tough cop is crying because his clothes fit."