Donna lost 64 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Donna lost 64 pounds. She did lots of cardio and made practical changes to her eating habits. Health and self-love are her motivations. She has Lupus, which causes joint pain, fatigue, and several other issues. Also, she realized that she was neglecting her needs in favor of helping others.

What was your motivation?
My motivation was my health. I have Lupus, so I experience joint pain, breathing problems, and I’m sometimes immobile. I’m also susceptible to other common illnesses. All of this was beginning to take a toll on my body and, sadly, my mind. I was tired all the time and had little to no drive or motivation.

What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My inspiration to keep going and not give up was that I decided it was time to do something for me and only me. I had to become selfish. I was always available for others and neglected myself. I had to learn to love me and tell myself that I deserved this.

How did you change your eating habits?
In the past, I used to eat two large meals a day. I switched to 3-4 smaller meals a day with healthy snacks in between. They cost more, but if I shopped and planned accordingly, it balanced out most of the time. I also drank more water. There was no strict calorie counting or diet plan. I had to do something that would be a realistic lifestyle for me.

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
My exercise routine consisted of cardio, cardio, and more cardio. I walked 2-5 miles at least four times per week in the evenings around 6 pm. I worked out in the dead heat of the summer from March through September, all while wearing a full sauna sweatsuit.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 226 pounds. My current weight is 162 pounds.

What is your height?
I am 5’2″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started this journey in February 2019, so it has taken me a year and a half.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Weight loss surgery was not a part of my journey.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned was it is ok to love myself a little more.

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
The advice that I would give women who want to lose weight is to set realistic goals and don’t give up.