Candence lost 87 pounds 

Transformation of the Day: Candence lost 87 pounds with healthy food, exercise, and determination. She refused to give up on her goals. My Sigma Gamma Rho soror shares details from her two-year transformation journey.

Social Media:
Candence MakeithappenJones on FB
@makeithappenjones1 on IG

I initially submitted my story in October 2021. It took me a while to respond to your additional questions. During that time, a lot has happened…from depression to extreme anxiety to family issues to switching schools and going back to coaching after two years…a lot! 

However, there is one thing I can say: I never gave up on my journey to a healthy lifestyle. 

What was your motivation?
My motivation is beating the statistics that black women often deal with, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, obesity, and other health issues.

How did you change your eating habits?
I cut out bread, pasta, pork, canned/processed foods, and sodas. I also limited my intake of sugar and red meat. Instead, I eat mostly chicken and fish, and I love raw vegetables. Also, I do Keto from time to time when I need a boost.  

Tell us about your workout routine.
I work out 5-6 days a week. I do cardio for the first hour (running, biking, and elliptical). Then I do weights training for the second hour. I work out doing two-a-days once a week, every other month.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 276 pounds. My current weight is 189 pounds.

What is your height?
I’m 5’9″.

When did your journey begin?
I started my journey in May 2020 during C*vid. So my transformation took two years!

Is weight loss surgery part of your story?
No surgery. However, I want to get these breasts to come back to life!!

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned was “Be comfortable with being uncomfortable!” It wasn’t until I got tired of making excuses and not liking what I saw that I decided to make this journey a lifelong one!

What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
The advice I suggest is to set small goals first!! Journal your progress. Also, be consistent and applaud yourself!! Be your biggest cheerleader!