Sheeka lost 188 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Sheeka lost 188 pounds. She experienced significant weight gain during a toxic relationship. Realizing that the choices she was making would hinder her future self from reaching her goals, she decided to take action. Having Gastric Sleeve surgery changed her life. 

I was small most of my life. However, after getting into a toxic relationship at 25 years old that lasted seven years, I gained almost 200 pounds. After trying everything to lose weight and meeting with my family, I decided to undergo Gastric Sleeve weight loss surgery in 2017. It has been the best decision of my life

What was your motivation?
My biggest motivation is my future self. When I was 25 years old, I was out with friends, and we all decided to take a trip to a theme park in a year. At this point, I weighed about 300 pounds. I knew I would be unable to participate during the trip due to my size. That year passed, and my friends took the trip without me. I realized that I was tired of telling my future self “No” and I needed to make a change.

What inspired you to keep going, even if you wanted to give up?
The thing that inspired me most was my goal to have children. I knew that I needed to be healthy to get pregnant, and healthy so that I’d be able to set a good example for my kids.

How did you change your eating habits?
Before surgery, I met with my primary care doctor. He referred me to a nutritionist and a surgeon. Together, all four of us came up with a plan. My insurance stated that I needed to follow a six-month Pre-Op diet, and my doctor and nutritionist determined how much I needed to lose before having surgery. 

I began to eat six smalls meals each day, focusing on lean protein, veggies, and a small amount of carbs. I also started taking B12 and walking for 1 hour per day, six days per week. I also drank a gallon of water per day. After six months, I went from 330 pounds to 273 pounds.

What did your workout routine consist of?
My workout routine before surgery consisted of strictly cardio. I would alternate between walking and running on the treadmill, using the elliptical, and doing about 10 minutes per day on the Stairmaster. I worked out seven days per week after surgery, slowly building up to weightlifting four days a week.

What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight prior to meeting with my doctors was 363 pounds. I currently weigh 175 pounds. 

What is your height?
5’3″

When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take? 
I began my journey in January 2017, and it took three years.

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that love comes from within. If you don’t love yourself, no one will ever love you right.

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
You’re braver and stronger than you think. You even thinking about losing weight is the first step. Each step you take gets you closer and closer to your best you. Just continue to take those steps.

Instagram: @sheekgetshealthy