Libra lost 110 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Libra lost 110 pounds. This mother of 2 sons with special needs realized that she had to change her lifestyle to ensure that she’d have the physical energy and strength she needed to care for them. Check out how she took action.

(I’d also like to note that this awsome mom is the Founder of “Our Children’s Story, Inc.,“ an organization that assists families who are caring for loved ones with special needs.)

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
My children. Both of my boys have special needs. My oldest, Anthony Jr aka Moo, is 100% dependent for EVERYTHING! I have to lift and carry him sometimes. To do that, it takes strength. My youngest, Lyric Ja’Dore, has Autism and requires lots of redirection. That takes energy. Energy and strength are two important things that I severely lacked, which interfered with my ability to care for my children. Once that realization hit, I knew I had to change.

How did you change your eating habits?
For nine months, I got rid of anything that was not healthy for me to eat. I started listening to my body so I would know what it needed. To be more specific, I quit unhealthy carbs, fried foods, soda, and juice. I carried (and still do) peanuts and granola to snack on in between meals. I eat my heaviest meal two hours before I workout.

I took 30 days to eliminate my food addictions. I stayed focus for nine months and did the work. I addressed what caused me to eat uncontrollably and made sure I found healthier coping skills besides food.

What did your workout routine consist of?
I worked out ( and still do) 5-6 days per week. I started with 30 minutes of exercise and slowly increased my time. I did light cardio as a warm-up and then hit the weights.

What became different as time went on is how I worked out. I took my time to lift and focused more on my form. Slow strides build lasting effects. I want to build my body, not just be slim. I mean really build so I could carry and stand for my children. I rearranged my life so the entire journey would be lasting and not just for the moment.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 265 pounds, and now I weigh 155 pounds.

What is your height?
5 feet, 3 inches tall

When did you start your journey?
2018

Was weight loss surgery part of your journey?
I had two failed weight loss procedures; Lap Band and Gastric Sleeve. After those experiences, I knew this journey for me was deeper than weight. It became about survival for myself and my children.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
I learned about consistency and removing any words that equal failure.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Address why you have the food addiction first. Learn a new way to cope and then dive into the ocean.

Instagram: @librahicks @ourchildrens_story