Weight Loss Story of the Day: Roxanne lost 111 pounds in 11 months. She is a survivor of childhood sexual abuse that is deeply connected to her weight gain. She was able to not just lose weight but do the emotional and spiritual work that she needed to do to reclaim her self worth. Read her inspirational story and check out her before and after photos below:
“Starting at the age of seven I was sexually abused by my step father. As I looked at childhood pictures that’s when I noticed that the weight began to pile on. You see, whenever these horrific acts would take place, my step father would give me food as a ‘reward’ and for any young child cakes, fast food and snacks are some of the best rewards to have. I had developed a technique in my mind that would allow me to leave my physical body and to think on all the ‘junk’ I was going to purchase and or receive once the act was over. This is where my relationship towards food began. I made food my comfort and over years I gained more and more weight.
On May 25, 2013 I started my weight loss journey at 388 pounds. I was having a daily devotion time and God began to speak to me. I made the decision to journal my weight loss on Facebook (the good, the bad and the ugly) because it held me accountable for my outcome and I knew that others were watching and I refused to let them down. I began walking 1 mile, five to six times a week. I started drinking protein shakes and limited my food intake by counting calories. I began eating six small meals a day every three hours to avoid being hungry. I gave up red meat, fast food, fried foods, and drank only water. I would plan my meals in advance and I always kept healthy snacks in my car and purse for ’emergencies’. I also drank lots and lots of water.Eventually, I added water aerobics, Zumba, kickboxing, weight lifting and jogging to my routine and I continued working out at least six times per week. Two things that really worked for me was making exercise a hobby as opposed to making it a task and reminding myself that this is a lifestyle change, not a diet. Diets are temporary but a lifestyle change is forever.
In addition to me losing physical weight, I began a healing process which started from the inside out. I had to learn how to put myself first and I had to learn how to forgive myself and those that hurt me. My journey and my transformation was more spiritual than anything else. There was a ‘deconstruction’ process that had to take place before I could ‘reconstruct’ my thinking process. I was always told how pretty I was so I had good self-esteem but NO self-worth which onset SO MANY other issues in my life. My life was not an easy life by far but I am living proof that with faith, determination, consistency and hard work- ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE.
As of today I have lost 111 pounds (in 11 months) and gained my life back!!!! I have learned to love ME-flaws and all. I’ve learned to take hold of the inner-strength that already existed on the inside of me. You see, when your mind is in bondage, it prevents you from doing even the simplest tasks. This has been eleven months of the most sweat, tears, transparency, commitment, dedication, perseverance and consistency that I EVER endured in my life!! God holds my hand and I have allowed Him to lead the way after 37 years!!!!! God changed me. He changed my way of thinking. Made me believe in myself. He gave me hope and I finally believed in myself enough to recognize where my pain originated from and to know that I, Roxanne, was worth finally living my best life. I was successful only because I chose to give God all my pain, hurt, despair & weariness. God gave me beauty for my ashes. Peace for my depression and hope for my pain. I had to be a role model for my three beautiful children so they could understand the power of believing in yourself. My journey isn’t solely about weight loss.That’s just the manifestation of it. It is about literally being healed from the inside out and allowing God the opportunity to do something great and different ONLY for His glory. I am living proof that God has the power to change your life COMPLETELY if you allow Him to do so. I’m not done yet (39 more pounds to go) but I can see the light & it’s shining brighter than I could have ever imagine. If I can do it YOU CAN TOO!!! Thanks for allowing me to share.
Love, Roxanne”
EJ says
Very inspiring. I do believe you have to work on the core of the bad eating problem, and put God first love you story!
dee says
Your story is such an inspiration. We can do all things through Christ that strengthens us. I am so happy for you and your family. Reading you’re story really gave me that extra push i needed for my lifestyle change. I applaud you and may God keep blessing you.
Olacia Akon says
Roxanne – I am moved to tears this morning. I was sexually abused as a child and feel that my obesity is directly related to those feelings of shame, fear, disgust with myself, etc. I have held on to these feelings all my life and they have burdened me physically, emotionally, socially, etc. I am incredibly encouraged by your story. Of course, your physical transformation is phenomenal but the spiritually transformation makes it that much better. Wishing you continued success on your journey. I am inspired to make my transformation a reality. God bless you, Roxanne!
Brandi says
CONGRATULATIONS MY DEAR FRIEND! I’ve watched you through your transformation and you not only changed for you it has given women around you the courage to change as well. You are a leader, you are motivation, you are a conqueror! continue on your journey and know that i am your cheerleader and I see you.
Stephanie says
Awesome…simply awesome!!!
Porsha says
Your story spoke so much volume to me spiritually. Thank you for sharing and it’s what I will look to as I start my journey!!
Shinika says
I’m so proud of you Roxanne. I tell you all the time that you motivate me in so many ways. You are always there for everyone, even through all of your trials and tribulations. I love you so much and keep pushing. Your greater is coming!!!
Kristina says
Great Story!
Kalandra says
Truly a great inspiration! You look stunning!
dra says
I am at 280 and was told I have to lose 130 pounds last week, placed on meds, and reading your story I wonder if my molestation that I thought was behind me is actually buried in my fat. I will pay attention to that while I press on to becoming a better me..Thanks for sharing
Sierra Shanette says
I truly enjoyed your read! I am so happy for you and your journey. Glad you discovered God’s love along the way.
Darlene says
Thanks thanks thanks. Sorry for what you went through a child, but thank God it didn’t beat as a adult. Your weight loss journey is a blessing for me.
Ash says
Woah that’s…. amazing! You look incredible by the way, can’t wait to see how good you look after the final 39 pounds!
bobbye says
what a great testimony!
lacrease says
Wow, out of all the stories I’ve read your story inspired me the most….. and just think the other stories are GREAT and INSPIRING AS WELL!!!!! WOW WOW WOW WOW Thanks for sharing.. I really need this. I plan to read this everyday because I have copied and pasted it to my journal. Thanks again You look good gurl!!!
Linda says
Good for You, Roxanne. I so admire your strength and dedication. I am so excited that you are taking your life back!! You look fantastic!!
Denise says
I’m fighting tears right now! You are awesome and inspiring! May you be blessed always — thanks for sharing this with us! WOW
kennese says
Thank you for posting this, I never saw someone say that God helped them lose weight and change their life. I’m so glad that he he helping me on my journey as well, there is no way I could do this on my own. I pray more now then ever and give Him all the glory!
Christy says
Congratulations! You look amazing! I too am
On a weight loss journey, and your weight loss has inspired me tremendously! Thanks so much for the motivation!
Lena says
I salute you! Strong, beautiful & amazing. An inspiration to us all. You are quite an amazing woman!
A Thomas says
Wonderful testimony. Hugs
Amy says
Thank you so very much for your message of strength and encouragement! I know that my spiritual and emotional being needs to be strengthened also to be able begin a new work in myself. With God ALL things are possible. Thank for your transparency and may God continue to bless you.
Nissy says
So inspiring. Keep sharing b/c u r a walking testimony.
Samantha X says
This was a great story. You look great!
Jamiqua Haynes says
You are now my inspiration.you look fantastic. Keep up the good work
Denise says
You are so courageous. Thank you for sharing your story. You sound like a good person. It is not easy to find good people. Take care of you first. Then others.