Transformation of the Day: Danielle lost 200+ pounds. Going in and out of the hospital due to Type 1 Diabetes for 15 years, she feared that she would lose her life if she didn’t change her lifestyle and release the weight. She used weight loss surgery, exercise and healthy eating habits to transform her life.
What was your motivation? What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
I’m a Type 1 Diabetic who was very sick for many years. For 15 years, I went in and out of the hospital as an inpatient at least 5 times a year. I felt like I couldn’t do anything to control my weight and if I didn’t lose weight, I would die. I decided that I couldn’t lose the pounds by myself, so I had Gastric Sleeve weight loss surgery in February 2013.
How did you change your eating habits?
At first, I mostly ate boiled eggs, scrambled eggs with cheese, yogurt and applesauce. I got as much protein as I could and stayed away from fried foods. After 2 years of steady weight loss, I was told by my doctor that I needed to increase my eating and pull back on my exercise. I started eating almost everything, but I eat very small portions.
What did your workout routine look like?
Five years ago, I was so overweight I had to start slow with walking. Eventually, I graduated to using exercise videos (10 Minute Kickboxing Boot Camp was my favorite). Once I mastered the workout videos, I started working out with family and friends and became an exercise junkie. After decreasing my exercise, I have found it very hard to start my routine again. I have now started going to 9Round, which is a kickboxing gym, and doing exercise videos in the morning.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 400 pounds. I currently weigh 183 pounds, but at my lowest weight I weighed 155 pounds. My goal weight is 150 pounds and my height is 5’3″.
In January 2017, I became very sick and was put in the hospital. I gained 30 pounds in 3 days because of the IV fluid I was given. After that, I was not able to lose more weight. I decided this year that I was going to lose 30 in 6 months. I have started a blog, www.nottomorrowbuttodayweightloss.simplesite.com, to hold myself accountable and help others. Now, I’m exercising at least 5 times a week, and I’ve cut my meal size in half.
How long did your transformation take?
My journey started on 02/11/2013. It took me less than two years to lose 250 pounds. My new journey started on 01/05/2018 and I plan to reach my goal weight of 150 pounds by 07/05/2018.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned was that I am strong enough to do anything. I also learned that you don’t have to eat everything on your plate to be full. You can live off of consuming much less food. Water is the key. If you drink it, your skin, hair and body looks and feels better.
What advice do you have for other people who want to lose weight?
Not everyone will be excited about your weight loss. There will be family and friends who hate you for it. There will be people who say you look sick. However, do what you have to do to make yourself feel better. Encourage yourself and stay focused.
Instagram: @dcareyferguson
Nikki says
I personally know Danielle and I want to say that she is SUCH an encouragement to me in my journey. She’s a beautiful person inside and out-I am very proud to say that I know her! Let’s crush these goals for 2018 Danielle!!!!