Today’s weight loss story: The fabulous Lakesha lost 178 pounds by eating right and working out on the regular. Although she had been approved for weight loss surgery, she decided not to go through with it. Here is what she shared with us about her weight loss journey:
“I’m sure I topped the scales at well over 400 pounds at one point in my life. By the time I was sick and tired of being fat, I weighed in at 388 pounds. At that point, I felt like gastric bypass surgery was my cure all. Getting approved for the surgery was fairly easy. I had a surgery date set in August of 2008.
There was a still voice telling me I hadn’t given it my all and before I went through with this life changing procedure, I owed it to myself to give it my all.
I am living proof that giving it your all will get you the results you desire. I started my journey in January 2009. Like most it was my new year’s resolution, but this time I chose to dig deeper and I prayed everyday. I asked God to give me the strength, stamina and endurance to go on even when I didn’t feel like going on. He answered my prayers, but I also did my part with making the right food choices and I exercised five to six days a week. The three D’s are a staple in my life Dedication…Determination & Discipline.
The last time I weighed myself I was down a total of 178 pounds. At one point, I was thinking I can’t wait to show my before and after photo. Truth is… after never comes. It’s a journey that doesn’t end. It’s a lifestyle and I’m in it for the long haul. It’s not an easy journey in the beginning, but it’s so worth it. I swear I’ve never felt this great in my life. It’s not about being skinny or just smaller. It is a plus to being smaller because the clothes are not as expensive and I have choices. I can shop in any store I want.
It’s about not being worried if a seat is too small in certain places. It’s about being able to out run my children while we’re outside playing. It’s about taking care of me now so that I won’t be a burden to others later. It’s about having the energy to live and enjoy life.
I currently still work out five to six days a week that’s cardio & strength training. Don’t be afraid to lift weights it will help with the loose skin. I was so heavy that I still have some skin but I think it would have been a lot worse if I didn’t lift weights at all. I eat clean 75% of the time. I drink plenty of water. At minimum I drink a gallon a day. One thing to remember… you can’t out train a bad diet. Don’t waste your time or money going to a gym if you don’t plan to change what you are eating. It starts in the kitchen.
You and only you can make the changes necessary to live a healthy life. You are in control of every bite and nibble you taste. Exercise that self control and see where it takes you. Eating healthy and exercising is a CHOICE. Make the right choice for you!!!
I have no regrets about my weight loss journey. I feel good!!!
Crystal says
You look absolutely great! Congratulations and thank you SO MUCH for the much needed inspiration. I’m about 30lbs away from goal after losing about 80lbs and this is is just what I needed to read to remember that I CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHENS ME!
Kesha says
Thank you! Congratulations on your weight loss success also! Stay encouraged!
Amanda says
Do you have a instagram page or fb page?
Tanya says
Congratulations on your success! Your story inspires
me. I especially love that you said there really is no “after”
Thank you for sharing. You look amazing
shelmira says
Wow…im am inspired…i weigh the same starting weight…with Hof all thjngs are possable…. U rock!!!
Dimeha says
Awesome dedication, determination and discipline! You have done an amazing job!
Trina says
Congratulations!!!!! You look amazing how did you overcome those urges to eat whatever? I’ve had the hardest time trying to eat right. I will start each day off right, then by the time I get home I grab whatever is easiest. I constantly think about my eating habits and I want to lose the weight but it’s hard sticking to it.I applaud your will and determination. I will get there one day soon.
Kimberly Keyosha says
You look damn amazing! You look like 2 different people. You have proved that I can do this damn thing myself. 2 thumbs up, you look great.
willieann says
Willieannjaaper@gmail.com I would like to loss this weight I just feel like I can’t .. I have 8 kids my life style surround foid ..how can I make choices for me so they will join me…
Shalaunda says
Wow you look amazing and your struggle is very encouraging to me
I needed to hear that and have found my determination through you. You were beautiful then and are gorgeous now.
Janis Moore says
You look great!!! How did you get your arms down so well?
Margaret Guerrazzi says
You look beautiful keep it off and never go back I want to look like you.good luck to you.
Junej says
I met you at the beginning of your journey. You inspired me then and you are still an inspiration today. Apply those same principles to every area of your life and you will realize the same spectacular results! Much love!
Naturalgal4u says
I loved your story and I am motivated. Going to get back on point and work out and modifying what I eat a little more. Thank you for sharing your story.
Earlice Harris says
Marvelous Job !!! One of the best Transformations I’ve seen ….You have to have the Three D’s you were speaking of …..Thanks for the Motivation !
Iva says
Your words are such a inspiration and the pictures tell the truth. I also changed my mind about the surgery now the work is just beginning. Blessings to you for loving you enough to fight for you.
Gailhaw says
I’ve been been thinking about having the surgery and my doctor has recommended it, but after reading your story you have inspired me to give dieting and exercise one last shot. I couldn’t bring myself to initiate the surgery process, I just didn’t want to go that route. Thank for the inspiration and encouragement. You look great!! May God bless you on your continued journey.
Kesha says
I started this journey with the thought of “taking care of me” never did I imagine my story would serve as inspiration to others. I’m overwhelmed with joy by all of your responses. Thank you very much!!! Knowing that I have motivated & inspired so many has given me a renewed sense of accountability. I know several of you had questions that I may have missed. Please feel free to email your questions… I will reply!
Keshboo1@yahoo.com
rene says
You look great and your story is so inspiring.
lyazidi says
thank you very much for this great topic I was read something like this in this web site
Ally says
You did it! Very inspiring! You are so right about eating healthy, even though I lost a significant amount of weight it’s hard to she’d the last 20 or so pounds b/c my eating has been questionable. I’m going to put more effort to eat healthy thanks to reading about your journey.
Tiffany says
Congrats on your success!