STARS: How I Lowered My Blood Pressure Part 2

I had to end up seeking medical attention for my blood pressure as it was not dropping on its own. I had to do it not only for my DOT physical but my own personal health. Now my mother has both her BP and cholesterol elevated. I did it, she will do it, and here's how I got mine down in 60 days. 

I went to my nurse practitioner and she laid out a plan for me. She told me I would have to start amping my workouts, drinking plenty of water and eating more fruits and veggies. She said I couldn't have too many of the latters. She suggested brown rice and grains. The method she recommended was vegetables first, any lean protein and then grains. She also prescribed two different medications. We both had the same goals in mind. 

I followed her advice, hit the gym 5 times/week, focusing equally on cardio and weights with HIIT to get my heart active and blood flowing. I researched online some good vitamins to take instead of a multivitamin. Among those are vitamins B, C, zinc, fish oil, apple cider vinegar, and potassium. I took my vitamins every morning, hit the gym, ate properly, stayed active at work, and got proper rest. I also took my medicine as directed. 

Within 30 days, I saw it dropping dramatically and I was feeling better. The entire doctor's office was impressed but knew more work was required. The issue for me was my excess weight. I knew that the more weight I got off of me, the less my BP would be and I would be able to abandon the medication. 

In about 60 days, my BP was steady in the normal range of 120/80. I bought a BP monitor and checked it once/week on Wednesdays. I was able to donate blood again, passed my DOT physical, and got a glowing report from the doctor. She lowered my dosage and moved our next appointment onto 3 months away. 

Present day, I continue my regimen, along with taking weekly pics of my BP readings. I feel much better as I slowly return to form and get closer to getting off of this medication. I am now helping my mom to beat this as well. 

STARS: How to Help Someone in Need

I am currently in the process of helping someone get back on their feet. I won't mention their name. I offered, along with my uncle and now they are willing and so are we. 

I want to ensure they are headed for gainful employment: current job, new job, temporary unemployment or permanent disability. I want to see an end goal and effort. 

I also want them to give me an update of where they are trying to live and a summary of where they checked. Hotels and friend's houses go only so far. 

I am willing to give them money for odds and ends but I don't want them to take advantage. Effort must be demonstrated before me first and then I have an amount (like a stipend) I will help them will. I have discussed this with my uncle. 

I am confident this is the moment of truth. This person will find their footing or they will be disillusioned and not ask for my assistance again. Either way, I will have did my part.