Francesco,

Now that the holidays are over and a new year is beginning it is time for me to reflect on this past year. I have a lot to be thankful for and two of them are you and your program.

As you know, I had my doubts about starting your program. Not that I doubted you, but I was nervous as I had tried so many other "regimens" and almost always became ill shortly after beginning. As you know, I have had Crohn's Disease for over 20 years and numerous operations that sometimes go along with the disease. Last year, as a consequence, I underwent surgery to have an ileostomy. At one point I was down to 100 pounds, small even for me who usually weighed around 110. I did gain the 10 pounds back but was told that I would never gain any more than a few pounds, if that, and I should be "satisfied with what I have." Well, I was grateful but after rereading your information about the course and you being good enough to answer my questions and concerns, I was convinced I could do better by following your course. And I have.

I have been on your program for about six months. Your program suggests that it will take be longer at 42 years of age to accomplish what someone half my age would do. In addition it has taken me even longer due to my illness and corresponding adaptations however I am pleased to report an 11% gain in weight while my waist has decreased 6% in "girth." My chest has gained 3 inches and my arms 2 1/2 inches. My wife says the "chicken legs" are on the way out. Granted I have a very long way to go and I did miss a month due to a shoulder injury caused by my over enthusiasm and a couple of weeks due to some very small flare-ups of the disease, but I'm seeing the progress I've made in everyday life. Whether it be carrying packages, moving furniture, shoveling the driveway, I'm doing all of it with increased strength and stamina. It's a feeling I haven't experienced since I can't remember when. It feels great!

Most of all I'm grateful because I believe this course, with all of its demands for the betterment of ourselves, has kept me out of the hospital for the first calendar year out of the last six! Now, if that's not getting your money's worth, I don't know what is. At the rate of hospitalization, who knows what you saved me!

I would like to take this time to write that if there are others reading this who have a disease or condition where they have been told to "just be satisfied with what you have" and don't feel like there's much hope to get yourself into good or at least better shape, PLEASE give this program a chance. By giving it a try, with great effort and determination, you too can be in much better condition than you currently are in. Both physically and mentally.

Francesco, I really don't know the words to use to express my gratitude for you and your program. I believe that everyone has a purpose while on this Earth and I feel as though you have, and continue to, fulfill yours to the fullest. God bless you.