Transformation of the Day: DeeJay lost 75 pounds. This Financial Analyst is feeling fit and fabulous at 53 years old. She was tired of knee pain, being the “fat friend” and all the ways that her weight negatively impacted her life. After being diagnosed with pre-diabetes and high cholesterol, she decided to try Weight Watchers and never turned back. Check out her story.
I am a 53 year old woman with an adult son. I live in Auburn Hills, MI and I’m a Financial Analyst by trade. I have been following BWLW for quite some time, but never thought I would be a person who was able to lose the weight and see myself featured within your publication. I’ve lost 75 pounds with Weight Watchers. I still have 6.6 more pounds to lose to get to my goal.
I have been overweight my whole adult life, but last year I just got tired. Tired of my knees hurting, tired of always being the “fat friend”… just tired of everything. My real wakeup call was going to the doctor and finding out that not only did my high blood pressure medication have to be increased, but I was now pre-diabetic and had chronic high cholesterol. These are serious issues that run in my family, and I didn’t want to want my situation to worsen.
I walked through the doors of Weight Watchers 15 months ago, and I have not looked back. I have learned how to eat correctly sized portions and incorporate exercise into my daily lifestyle. With the online support and weekly meetings, I was able to be consistent and enjoy life while accomplishing my healthy living goals.
I cut out fast food and fried foods, opting to recreate my favorite food items to make them healthier. Weight Watchers has such an extensive library of healthy recipes, making it easy to meal plan weekly. I didn’t feel deprived, and I was in control of what I ate.
I just ran my first 5K in May 2018. I try to work out at least five days a week alternating between Zumba classes (I love Zumba!), working on the elliptical or treadmill and strength training.
I started my journey in February 2017. My starting weight was 246.6 pounds. My current weight is 170.1 pounds. My height is 5 feet, 5 inches tall. Weight Watchers recently invited me to be a receptionist and help other people reach their lifestyle and weight loss goals.
Biggest Lesson: The biggest thing that I have learned is that the scale is “just data” and should be used as such.
Advice: The most important thing is to practice self -care while giving yourself the grace and encouragement that you would so easily extend to a good friend. I have learned to be that “good friend” to myself!
The main thing that I want people to know is that it is never too late to start taking care of yourself and living a healthier lifestyle.
Instagram: @debbi_jay
My Weight Watchers Connect: deejaygetsfit
Maxine Mitchell says
You look absolutely beautiful and your such an inspiration to women over 50. I am 49 and was beginning to feel all the physical symptoms you described. I am 5’8” and have gotten down to 214 from 246. You inspire me everyday!!!