Charisma lost 89 pounds

Transformation of the Day Charisma lost 89 pounds. Insulin-resistant PCOS, negative comments from friends, and an unhelpful trainer are some of the challenges she faced along the way. She focused on wellness and figured out what tools and habits work for her.

Social Media:
Tiktok: @the_christianRN

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I had been overweight since I was 15 years old. I was bullied a lot growing up because of it. After graduating from nursing school in 2019, I signed up for a personal trainer that a so-called “friend” recommended. This same “friend” would also make sarcastic comments about me being “bigger than her.”

Well, after about a month with this specific training facility, my trainer told me I was “embarrassing myself and wasting his time.” Needless to say, I canceled my membership and started binge eating. By the end of 2020, I weighed almost 300 pounds. I also began to experience symptoms of PCOS.

In November 2021, I got the official diagnosis of Insulin-resistant PCOS. I tried hard to lose weight after this. I worked out two times a day and even attempted to go vegan. I was still GAINING weight because my insulin levels were too high. I decided to pray and ask God to help me lose weight.

That’s when I discovered the GLP-1 medication called Mounjaro. Because my insulin levels were in the “diabetic” range, I was able to get my insurance to cover the medication for free. I started my first injection in Dec 2022, and have been losing weight ever since. I truly thank God. I often say I’m taking this journey with God because He is the one who gives me the strength to stay on this journey, even during rough times. I’m hoping my journey can inspire other women who suffer from PCOS.

How did you change your eating habits?
I no longer eat pork, and I limit my intake of fast foods, fried foods, and foods high in carbohydrates. Even though I take a medication that suppresses my appetite, I still have to be very mindful of how I eat due to the side effects of the medication. Greasy, high-carb, and/or high-sugar foods literally make me feel nauseous these days. I also stopped drinking juice and soda. I drink 80-100oz of spring water a day. If I have a craving for juice, I make it myself using my juicer and fresh fruit. 

What is your workout routine?
I work out 3-4 times per week—nothing crazy, lol. Because of PCOS, I can’t do intense workouts, so I walk and go to Pilates. Pilates has really been a game changer as far as toning up and building muscle. It’s a form of resistance training. I go to Pilates twice a week and walk twice a week. When I walk, I at least complete a mile each time. 

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 279 pounds. My current weight is 190.1 pounds. Bringing my total weight loss to 88.9 pounds.  

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take
I started my journey on December 6, 2022, and weighed 190.1 on June 22, 2024. So, this transformation took about 18 months. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
No, I thought about it though. 

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I’ve learned that there is not a “one size fits all” when it comes to weight loss. I had to do what was best for ME. Going to that personal trainer in 2019 wouldn’t have benefited me in the long run, anyway. At that time, my insulin levels were preventing me from losing weight. I had to find workouts and methods that specifically worked for me and my health condition. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
I’d say do what works best for YOU. People will talk regardless of what you do, so you might as well do what makes you the most happy and what can keep you consistent on your journey. Also, know that elevation requires separation. Do not be surprised at how many “friends” start acting funny when you are no longer the “fat” friend. I experienced this personally. Honestly, I do not miss ANYONE I decided to cut ties with.