Rena lost 82 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Rena lost 82 pounds. PCOS, high blood pressure and pre-diabetes were just some of the health issues she faced. She began her journey working out on a regular basis and eventually opted to have weight loss surgery for health reasons. Check out her story.

My name is Rena. I live in Atlanta, GA and I am 41 years old. I have always been a heavier person all my life. At the age of 40, I was told by the doctor that I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high triglycerides. I was also pre-diabetic and could have heart disease The most serious issue I faced was PCOS, which prevented me from having children. On top of that, both my parents died from an aneurism (Mom at 51 years old) or phenomena (Dad at 42 years old).

I started looking at myself in the mirror and telling myself that I didn’t want to end up like them. That was my motivation. That was the motivation that made me  get up off the couch and do something about the situation.

I started working out on a consistent basis one year ago, in August 2015. I had weight loss surgery on 3/18/2016 (RNY, Gastric Bypass) but that doesn’t take away from the dedication and determination I have for my life. It just helped me in my battle against the demons that took over my body. If I had to do it all over again, I would do it!

It’s a year later, the transformation is amazing and I will never go back. My way of thinking and eating is different. I eat very little red meat. I’ve cut out the sodas and drink plenty of water and protein shakes. Now, I work out at least 3-4 times a week at Planet Fitness. I run Kennesaw Mountain 3 times a week and I walk, walk and walk… every chance I get.

I have had my blood work done and all my numbers are under the recommended range. I am no longer pre-diabetic and the PCOS Symptoms have been controlled.

My highest weight was 246 pounds in August 2015. I weigh 164 pounds as of September 2016. I am 5ft, 4 inches tall.  I’m not finished, because I started something that I can’t truly finish. It can only get better with time.