Transformation of the Day: Sheila lost 158 pounds. Her motivation came from the physical pain she was in due to her weight. She also wanted to live a long life and enjoy her 18 grandchildren. Now, at 53 years old, she has a new quality of life. Check out her journey.
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
Honestly, my motivation to lose weight came as a result of the physical pain that I was in. It physically hurt to be morbidly obese. Everything hurt. My knees, back, feet…everything. I had three foot surgeries because I had heel spurs that were made worse by my weight.
What inspired me to continue when I wanted to give up is the thought that if I gave up, I would stay trapped in this situation. I did not want to die an early death and be cheated out of enjoying my 18 beautiful grandchildren.
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I started my official weight loss journey in 2014 in a Bariatric program where I was able to lose 15 pounds. I had the Gastric Sleeve procedure at the age of 50 years old. My weight loss surgery date was April 20, 2015, which I consider my second birthdate. My transformation, wherein I lost 162 pounds, took 2 years, but I am still transforming.
How did you change your eating habits?
I changed my eating habits initially with a diet that was given to me by my nutritionist in the Bariatric program. She equipped me with a meal plan that was easy to follow. The plan was basically a high protein/low carb diet.
I eventually tweaked the diet to fit me. Now, I eat a Lacto-ovo vegetarian, plant-based diet, which includes some dairy. I eat lots of green veggies, eggs, beans, lentils, nuts, seeds, and mushrooms. I also eat cottage cheese and other cheeses.
What did you do regarding exercise?
Losing weight gets you smaller, but not fit. I wanted to be fit in addition to losing the weight. I work out 3 to 5 days a week. My favorite ways to exercise are using the treadmill, doing HIIT, running, and weightlifting. Weight lifting has been a game-changer for me. It has allowed me to build muscle and sculpt my body. It’s amazing!
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My highest recorded weight was 346 pounds, but I have weighed over 350 pounds according to my home scale. Eventually, I simply stopped weighing myself. My current weight is 188 pounds.
Before the weight loss, I was 5’7″. Now I am 5’6″. My nurse says I lost an inch, likely from the bottom of my feet, with my weight loss.
With my consistent diet and work out regimen, I have been able to maintain my success. I stay motivated by looking at my before pictures. They remind me of where I never want to return. I also set short-term health and fitness goals. When I achieve them, I set new goals.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that it’s never too late to fight for what you want. Now, at age 53, I have a brand new quality of life. I can run and chase my grandchildren now!
My new health and energy have allowed me to run four 5ks. I’ve done runway modeling. I’ve become a writer and author. My journey was filled with many hurdles, and I wanted to quit several times, but I knew I had to keep pushing to get free. I even wrote a book about my journey because I want to inspire others to never give up.
What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
Stay consistent. No matter what path you take to help with weight loss, remain diligent. It’s easy to get discouraged when results don’t come as fast as you want, but consistency pays off eventually!
Instagram: @shejaginspires
Facebook: She Jag – Making Moves
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Tonia says
This literally looks like a mother/daughter photo! You look amazing and so much younger!
She Jag says
Thank you!💕
Kelly McMullen says
You look amazing, I believe I seen you at a luncheon at Mark Williams Church. You kook so much younger. Keep working out. I’m doing a six week challenge and lost 10lbs so far. I feel better and I definitely see a change.
She Jag says
Hi Kelly, yes I attend The River. Thanks so much. This entire experience has been nothing short of a blessing. Congratulations on your weight loss and keep up the good work!!
ROSHON says
You did that hunny. Not only do you look great you look much younger. Congrats
She Jag says
Thank you!💕
Shundra H says
This story and many more are my inspiration to accomplish my weight lose goals. Congratulations on your success! And thanks for sharing.
PAULA says
SO AMAZING!! You have changed from the inside out. God has blessed you to be a blessing.. Thank you for sharing your journey!!
April says
Beautiful and inspirational!!
Joan says
What taking to lose this weight
Veronica says
I’m that obesed person who loves food,loves to eat but hates herself.I hate looking and feeling like I do.I can’t afford weight loss surgery or even to go to a gym.So I feel like I am trapped and cant find a way out
Kimberly Arnold says
Hi Veronica, you don’t need a gym. I exercise in my home to you tube exercise videos and walk in the park. You can do it..just cut portions down and try to start with 20 minutes a day. Don’t get down on yourself just get moving…do something. You have it in you to do it. God bless you!
She Jag says
Hi Hun, I understand. I opted for surgery Bec my Dr Urged me as it was medically necessary to save my life. But it’s not the only way to lose weight! Work out at home or at the park. I do all those things. YouTube has great workout videos. Change your diet slowly. Pick some new every week to swap out for a healthier choice. Eat 3 servings of veggies everyday and drink lots of water. You’ll see progress!!