Sheila lost 103 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Sheila lost 103 pounds. Her journey began in 2016 after she had a heart attack at the young age of 29. Since then, she has totally transformed her lifestyle and gotten off of all the meds she was taking. She figured out what eating style and fitness routine work for her.

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I had a heart attack in May 2016 at the age of 29, and it scared me straight after nearly dying. I also thought about being on 17+ medications for the rest of my life and decided that I wanted to live. 

I have gotten off all medications, including the insulin I have been on since I was six years old. I am now a Wellness Transformation Coach working with other women who deal with chronic disease.

How did you change your eating habits?
I went plant-based vegan for the first two years after my heart attack. I now eat a high-protein pescatarian diet with the occasional cheat day.  

What did your workout routine consist of? How often did you work out?
I started by doing hot yoga and a couple of days of cardio for 45 minutes. That has evolved into hot yoga three days a week and HIIT workouts six days a week, with additional cardio workouts on four of those days. I have a trainer who helps me adjust my plan according to my body and life changes.  

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 255 pounds, and my current weight is 152 pounds.  

What is your height?
I am 5’2”.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey in 2016 and just reached 152 pounds in November 2020.

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
Be kind to yourself. Also, prayer and mediation are cornerstones for my improvement.  

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Take it one day at a time. You are running your own race. Do not listen to anyone else about your journey because you inherently know what needs to be done. Your body will tell you.  

Instagram: @sheilajoyvance
Facebook: Sheila Joy Vance Wellness
Website: www.sheilajoyvance.com