Weight Loss Success Story of the Day: Athar (aka Peaches) lost 150 pounds and was able to put her Lupus symptoms in remission. She fought hard to find the right treatment for her lupus and hypothyroidism. She was determined to beat obesity, eat right and get active. Here is what she shared with us about her amazing health victory:
My name is Peaches. I have gone from a size 26/28 to a size 12. I have lost a total of 150 lbs! My weight problems really began around the time I was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus SLE in 1987. I was only 12yrs old and have been sick as long as I can remember. My weight has been due to a multitude of factors starting with Lupus, overeating due to depression and hopelessness, reactions to medication, and hypothyroidism.
By 2010, I had ballooned to 383 pounds. I had been in a Lupus flare for what seemed like eternity, however it was only a few years. My doctor was diligently trying to get my insurance to approve a motorized scooter for me. I was morbidity obese and miserable! How can someone who has lupus and is in so much pain loose weight? In 2010, I had a dream that took me to Atlanta, GA. This is where I picked the first Rheumatologist I could find within a few miles of my new home. Little did I know this Doctor was going to change my life forever. She changed my treatment plan and I challenged her every step of the way. I absolutely refused to go back on any medication that would have side effects to where I could not work. I would get up and move everyday, so I needed her to get my treatment right. Six months later, Dec 2010, we found my miracle. I started coming out of my flare and dropped almost 30 pounds immediately. In April 2011, I had my thyroid completely removed! The weight kept falling off!
July 2012, I knew it was time to get serious. I first adopted my Chihuahua who forced me to get up multiple times for walks. Then, I joined the gym and started taking aqua aerobics 3 times a week. When I built up enough strength, I went to the cardio machines. In Feb 2013, I hired personal trainer and was working out 6 days a week. Three days of 1 hour sessions, with heavy weight training/boxing circuits. Two days kickboxing, and a day of bootcamp class. By the end of 2013, I was down to 233 pounds! Only 3 weeks ago, I started CrossFit and I am loving it! I recently got a clean bill of health from my doctor, aside from the lupus markers. God willing, I will continue to be in remission and pain free. I am back living and loving my new active life in South Florida!
Throughout my journey, I have changed how I eat completely. I eat clean and drink lots of water. I stay on a high protein, lower carb diet. I consume all carbs prior to 3pm. My calorie intake is 1200-1500 depending upon my activity level.
My advice to anyone struggling with Lupus and weight to listen to your body. However, the key to overall health is to challenge the doctors to work together on alternative methods to treat your symptoms enough for you to get moving. The rest you can do on your own through nutrition and exercise!
Akesha Hazel says
Thank you for sharing your story. I am truly inspired. I too have SLE and am struggling with my weight. I have started to eat better and exercise more……please pray for me lol.
Athar Sanders says
Thanku all for the kind words. I am humbled by my own life. I hope my story will help inspire others.
Dana Kendrick says
Athar has truly inspired so many people around her. I am so proud of her and all her accomplishments. Because of her, I am on a journey to being fit. Athar is the epitome of a Wellness Champion!!!! Keep up the good work!!! ;))))
Athar Sanders says
Dana…Lady, I love you! I want to see your story here soon!
Claudia says
Hey i want to diet but im fat
Athar Sanders says
Claudia… there’s no such thing as diet that works. It’s a lifestyle change. You need to cut out sugar, soda, processed foods, junk foods, fast foods, and anything that has high sodium content. You want to shop the outside isles only. Fruits, veggies, lean protein, good carb such as brown rice, whole wheat pasta, sweet potatoes. Do it slowly in stages.
Athar Sanders says
And drink Water!! Can’t stress this enough! Your first battle is in the kitchen. The second is to get active. If you need help with what to eat, seek guidance from a nutritionist. Good luck!
Judy M Boyd says
Congratulations! You have worked so hard & you look amazing! God Bless You,
Athar Sanders says
Thank-You so much for the kind words!
SoGood says
Peaches, you look like a different person! You look marvelous! Continue to spread the word what alternative living can do for the body. I’ve seen it happen many times and wish more ppl will try it! Keep up the great work and don’t ever look back…..well only for reference.
Athar Sanders says
Thank-You! I will continue to share my journey. I am glad I have been able to give enc our age mentioned to so many.
Vanessa says
You’ve done an amazing job and very inspired by your story. You showed great determination and dedication, very proud of you and thanks for sharing
Robin says
I am so proud and inspired by Athar – I always knew that she could get healthier – once she put her mind to something it is “game on” – she is an awesome sister-friend and an inspiration.
E. Harris says
Amazing Story Thanks for sharing !!!! You look Great
Athar Sanders says
To give encouragement to so many is what I meant.
Jennifer says
Thank you for this post – I have 80 lbs to lose and cannot find the time or motivation. The first thing is to stop trying quick fixes because every success story is just the opposite. It won’t happen overnight and I see that the key is to reduce calories!
Athar Sanders says
Jennifer…. you said the key…cannot find the time or motivation. When you finally get to that breaking point. You’ll find everything you need to persevere through any obstacle. Losing this weight has been a year and a half in the making and I am still going. However, I don’t focus on the scale. I focus more on my fitness level and how I am feeling. The weight will come off in time. For motivation or support, pls feel free to like my Facebook page. Thanks and best wishes to you.
Bree says
Hi. I live in Atlanta and also have lupus. Do you mind sharing your Drs name and are you on IG. Good job on your road to living healthy life