Coleen lost 336 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Coleen lost 336 pounds. Postpartum depression and the pain of losing a child led to significant weight gain and yo-yo dieting. With prayer, determination, and faith, she worked to change her life. Weight Watchers and VSG surgery are two of the tools she used.

I started my weight loss journey in 2012 because I was tired of being depressed and overweight. I suffered from postpartum depression after having my child in 2004. I was already overweight, but I gained 200+ pounds by not dealing with the emotional struggle of having a child who was born with many life-threatening challenges.

I blamed myself for many years. In 2008, my son passed away, and I felt helpless. I prayed and asked for help. I began walking and changing my eating habits a little at a time. Over the next four years, I battled with depression and yo-yo dieting until I joined Weight Watchers in 2013 and found freedom. I was able to learn how to cook healthier for my entire family and me. I managed to lose 100 pounds by walking and swimming. Every day and with every step it got a little bit easier. I no longer felt trapped in my own body or helpless. With God’s help, I looked forward to hitting my goal weight by 2016.

Today, I have lost an additional 150 lbs with the help of Vertical sleeve gastrectomy (VSG) surgery in April 2015. I am 5’3″ and started out at 525 pounds at the beginning of my journey. I currently weigh 189 pounds*. I have lost a total of 336 pounds.

What was your motivation?
Being around to see my children grow up was the motivation I needed to lose weight. When I wanted to give up, I considered what it would be like for them not to have a mother around.

How did you change your eating and exercise habits?
I tried many diets. Weight Watchers taught me how to use portion control which came in handy when I had VSG surgery. I have maintained my weight loss over the years by eating smaller portions and eliminating red meat as much as possible. I have also stuck to a high protein, low carb diet. I eat turkey, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables. I drink lots of water as well. I exercise 3 times a week using my favorite routine of Zumba and lap swimming.

I began this journey in 2012 when I thought Depression was going to consume me. God gave me a second chance. It never really goes away. However, because I have a tool like VSG I’ve learned how to balance my eating habits and work through my emotions with the help of a Faith-Based Life Coach.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned and am still learning is you can’t compare your progress with others. It’s important to trust the process even when it seems like you are at a stall. It’s important to enjoy every step of this journey and never give up.

What advice would you like to share?
My advice for any woman who wants to lose weight: Decide on a measurable plan and then find an exercise that you will enjoy. It’s not a race and never compare yourself to others progress.

Instagram: @coleenrenee

*Weight updated from 198 to 189 pounds as of 1/27/19.