CLONARD NEWS: Mattie's weight loss feat sets an example to others
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MATTIE O'GORMAN of Ashfield Drive has achieved the near impossible by losing ten stone in weight over the past year.
Mattie, hailing from a famous sporting family and brother of Co Wexford GAA star Larry O'Gorman, this time last year almost tipped the scales at twenty six stone but now weighs a healthier sixteen stone.
"I was heavy at the age of twelve but through my involvement in sport I had lost it all. I went to work in the then Wexford Electronix on a night shift back in 1991 and through a lack of involvement in sport the weight just crept back on."
"Over the next few years the weight continued piling on, but I returned to my involvement in sporting activities by training the camogie team in Kilmore and in Rosslare."
Mattie's bogies relating to food included meat and bread and butter. "I have been lucky that my health had not suffered carrying excess weight. I had continued walking, keeping myself active," Mattie recalls.
Following a discussion Mattie overheard between a couple who were discussing the need to lose a few pounds, he decided to go all out and return to a healthier weight.
"I proceeded to obtain advice from a weight loss support organisation and following a ten week programme the weight started to drop. It was very difficult in the beginning, I almost gave up, but through encouragement and determination, I started to reap the benefits."
"Most importantly to lose stored fat, you must stop eating fat contained in meat, butter, and oils. Eating bread is important for energy reserves but it must be eaten during the daytime and not in the evening time.
"If carbohydrates are eaten in the evening time then the body has no way of working off the energy which is in turn stored by the body as fat," Mattie explains.
For many overweight people, a correct frame of mind is a vital part of successfully losing weight.
"Many people, including myself would have experienced a mental block and denial when it comes to being overweight. No one but the individual concerned can lose the weight for you."
"This time last year I was wearing a pants 46" in the waist, this year I am now a 34" waist. I feel much healthier and am quicker in everything I do. Mentally, I am very proud of myself and my confidence levels have risen dramatically."
"I now follow a healthy regime to maintain my weight loss. I have a weight goal which is in sight and I will never put the weight on again. Weight loss is all about a healthy lifestyle and is dependent on encouragement from family and friends for those who are overweight," Mattie concludes.
Following the massive support Mattie has received during his weight loss programme, he would love to pass on his experiences to others. If anyone would like to chat with Mattie, he can be contacted by phone; his number can be found in the phonebook under Martin O'Gorman.
