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Veteran Loses 150 pounds Through MOVE Weight Management Program for Veterans at the Durham VA Health Care System

Pamela Merritt (right) with daughter Shamika White (left) before and after she lost 150 pounds since starting the MOVE!
Pamela Merritt (right) with daughter Shamika White (left) before and after she lost 150 pounds since starting the MOVE! Weight Management Program for Veterans.
By Tiara Jones, Public Affairs Specialist

Veteran Pamela Merritt is a shining example of motivated, dedicated, and determined.

Merritt, a 65-year-old Veteran, coped with obesity for years, facing numerous health challenges because of her weight. With a six-year-old granddaughter and a daughter eagerly anticipating her mother walking her down the aisle, Merritt made a life-changing decision to join the VA’s MOVE! Program at the Durham VA Health Care System. This program aimed to transform her dietary habits and incorporate physical activity into her daily activities, fostering a healthier lifestyle.

“I recognized the need for change—for my well-being and overall health,” Pamela shared. “The MOVE! program provided the essential support and resources to kickstart my journey toward a healthier life.”

MOVE! assists Veterans to achieve clinically meaningful weight loss to improve their health and reduce their risk for chronic health conditions. It features a comprehensive lifestyle intervention that provides Veterans support to make changes to their eating patterns, increase physical activity, and use strategies to make these life changes.

Pamela's path to success was not without obstacles. She faced setbacks and moments of doubt along the way. However, fueled by determination and the encouragement of fellow Veterans, VA staff, and her devoted daughter, she persevered.

“I was skeptical about my ability to lose weight, given my long-standing struggle,” Pamela admitted. “Yet, under the guidance of Physiologist, David Warfield and other VA Officials, I learned to read food labels and discovered exercises personalized to my physical limitations.”

The unwavering support from her daughter and the VA community propelled her forward. Her daughter’s words— "Mom, you got right back up after falling. You wouldn't have been able to do that two years ago, I am so proud of you."—served as a potent motivator.

After months of unwavering dedication and hard work, Pamela achieved a remarkable milestone – losing 150 pounds.

 “I feel like a new person—I’ve transitioned from a size 26-plus to a size 17.” 

If you would like to learn more about how MOVE! has helped Veterans improve their health and their lives, please visit MOVE! Webpage and Get Started - MOVE! Weight Management Program (va.gov).