Update Sept 2020: Shout out to Tangie. She lost 9 more pounds for a total of 81 pounds gone.
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Transformation of the Day: Tangie lost 72 pounds. Her turning point came when she was rushed to the hospital with a blood pressure reading of 213/126. Knowing that she had to do something to save her life, she had gastric sleeve surgery, switched up her eating habits, and worked out 5-6 days a week.
What was your motivation? What inspired you when you wanted to give up?
My motivation to lose weight was being diagnosed with hypertension. I was rushed to the hospital with a blood pressure reading of 213/126. The nurse told me that I should have been having a stroke. At that moment, I knew that I had to get my weight under control, or it would kill me. I decided to take my life back because I want to live. When I want to give up, I think about that nurse in the hospital and my 213/126 blood pressure reading. I’m no longer on blood pressure medication.
How did you change your eating habits?
I had a vertical sleeve gastrectomy on 9/16/19. The sleeve restricts the amount of food I can consume, but I still have to change the way I eat to see results. My diet consists of lean protein (mostly eggs, tuna, and boneless skinless chicken thighs), fresh & frozen vegetables, and LOTS of water. I eat four small but balanced meals daily and drink 64 oz of water daily.
What did your workout routine look like? How often did you workout?
Before we were quarantined due to Coronavirus, I was at the gym 5-6 days a week. I loved Spin class and lifting weights. I was a bonafide gym rat. Since quarantine, I’ve adapted to working out at home with the use of a spin bike, resistance bands, dumbbells, kettlebells, and a jump rope. I still workout 5-6 days a week, alternating between cardio and resistance training.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
My starting weight was 250 pounds. My current weight is 178 pounds.
What is your height?
5’4″
When did you start your journey? How long did your transformation take?
I had surgery on 9/16/19, and I’m still losing. My goal weight is 150 lbs.
(Vertical Sleeve Gastrectomy by Dr. Woodman at MidSouth Bariatrics in Memphis, TN)
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned?
I had to change my way of thinking about food. Food is energy, that’s it. Before surgery, I was using food to hide my emotions. Now I have to deal with my emotions directly instead of trying to “eat them away”.
What advice do you have for others who want to lose weight?
You have to make sure you have a plan and a support system. If you’re considering having weight loss surgery, find a support group and ask a lot of questions. Weight loss surgery isn’t a magic wand. You have to do the work and have the right mindset for it to be successful.
Instagram: @sleevedandshrinking
Cheryl says
How do I get started?
Tangie says
Check with your insurance company to find out their requirements. Also research bariatric surgeons in your area.
Vivian says
Your story is the one for me! I had my first appt 6/22 I have to do 3 months of nutrition classes(per my insurance) then I have surgery but you just confirmed what the nutritionist said. Thanks. You look great!!! Pray for me. Lol
Tangie says
I will! Good luck on your journey!
Dra says
I am so proud of you and wish I was you. So why do I have to wait till something happens. I am to really give it a try next week with a plan of action. Help me Lord to help myself. Thanks for sharing.
Serina says
I was kind of scared at first I go for my surgery soon and this brought me to much hope. For one I never had any type of surgery and for two I’ve never been out to sleep. Just by reading your story I have hope. Got to do my classes n have a few other things to get done and I’ll be ready.