Joelle lost 96 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Joelle lost 96 pounds. The tragic loss of one of her closest friends and college roommate put her in a terrible state of depression and anxiety, which led to comfort eating and weight gain. Eventually, she turned tragedy into triumph, knowing that her friend would want her to live her best life. She shared with us how she changed her lifestyle to achieve lasting results.

Hello Beautiful and Amazing People! My name is Joelle, and I was overweight for the majority of my life. As far back as when I was eight years old, I can remember being the biggest student in the classroom and constantly being ridiculed by my peers. Eight years ago, I took a leap of faith and changed my life for the better. 

On August 9, 2011, I got a phone call that would drastically change my life forever. One of my closest friends/roommates died in a horrific car accident, which crushed my world. We’d literally just planned out our senior semester of college and had so many goals and dreams. I found myself in a terrible state of depression and anxiety. There was absolutely nothing that anyone could tell me to bring me any form of comfort, so I ran to food. I remember downing an entire box of little Caesar Pizza by myself in one sitting. I’d eat fast food anywhere from 2-3 times a day. It was as if the food was a temporary pain reliever. 

It wasn’t until I saw an unflattering photo of myself that I realized how out of control my weight had gotten. I stepped on the scale, saw the number “270,” and was in complete shock. I decided at that moment to make a change using my late friend as the ultimate motivation, knowing that she’d only want the best for me.

How did you change your eating habits?
I dove in headfirst with my eating regimen. I gave up all fast food, all juices/sodas, and even started drinking nutritional meal replacement shakes. I ate 3-5 small meals daily, including two shakes, one balanced meal, and two high-protein snacks. Water literally became one of my best friends!

What did your workout routine consist of?
Actually, in the beginning, I had no idea about what to do in the gym. I only stuck with the treadmill and elliptical for my first few months. As I got more comfortable with the setting, I tried new machines. I’d watch other people in the gym and simply copy what I saw them do. If I couldn’t make it to the gym, I didn’t make any excuses. I cleared space in my home and followed YouTube exercise routines. I worked out a minimum of four times per week for at least 45 minutes. 

What was your starting weight?
270 Pounds

What is your height?
I’m 5’7″.

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my journey in February 2013. It took one year for me to lose 96 pounds!

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned through this journey is consistency is the cornerstone of your success. No matter how tough it gets and no matter how many people don’t believe in you, keep showing up! Keep going! The change is happening. You just have to trust the process!

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
I’m sending those in need of a little encouragement. You are your ONLY competition. Don’t give up. Don’t give in! 

Instagram: @JoJoeyJoe