We shared Ida’s amazing story back in 2013 and she wrote in this month to update us for her 3 year anniversary. She is living with HIV, raising her amazing son and her story has inspired us in so many ways. If you want to be inspired, keep reading…(she is dropping wisdom with these words)
(Check out the original post from Oct 2013 for more info on how she did it.)
Good morning! I wanted to share that 3 years ago I started my journey. I went into weight loss surgery weighing 304 pounds. Today, 134 pounds later, I’m a healthy 170 pounds.
On March 13, 2012, my new journey began. God has kept me. HE has shown me favor and HE continues to be faithful. If I boast…it is in HIM! With a regimen of exercise such as walking, running, and swimming and healthier eating, I have plateaued. I have accepted that this will be forever a lifestyle adjustment.
My mindset had to change. Once I realized that I had an addiction to food, it was only then that I was able to do something about it. Gastric weight loss surgery was only a small part of the formula. The following components also played an important role:
Identification of the problem+ Acknowledgment+ Acceptance = Recovery & Success.
A great support system including family and friends has also made the journey manageable.
In conclusion, today I wake with JOY in my heart and PRAISE on my tongue. Why? Because GOD IS GOOD. I am proud to report that I am a healthy 170 pounds.
For those that remember my story…I was diagnosed HIV+ almost 15 years ago. I have been undetectable 13 of those 15 years. This weight loss process has only added many more healthy and prosperous years of abundant life!
304 is where GOD brought me from
3+0+4= 7 and is the number of completion
170 is where GOD is sustaining me
1+7+0= 8 and is the number of new beginnings.
It can be done…I am living proof.
Stacey says
To God be the glory!!!!! Thank you my sista for sharing your story being open and honest. I applaud you !!!! You have come a mighty long way. The diagnosis you were given is just a test and this too shall pass. You have succeeded and overcame many a trial. You look marvelous. This journey is a struggle. I read these stories everyday and they continue to give me the strength to keep going. Go on and put that 2 piece and show them tiger stripes 🙂 IG: @mumpsy73
Linda J. says
You look AMAZING!! Keep up the Good Work. Thank you for your transparency…you’ve helped other women who are living with chronic illnesses know that they too can be healthy and whole. Your faith is incredible and so inspiring…thank you for that as well.
Stacie Thomas says
HALLELUJAH MY SISTA! I THANK GOD FOR YOU AND YOUR STORY! YOU ARE TRULY A TEST AND A TESTIMONY OF HOW GOOD OUR GOD IS! YOU HAVE EXEMPLIFIED TRUE FAITH AND SPIRITUAL WALK THROUGH WHATEVER THE ENEMY TRIESTO BRING OUR WAY. WE CAN DO ALL THINGS THROUGH CHRIST WHO STRENGTHEN US! 7-COMPLETION-AMEN! 8-NEW BEGINNING-AMEN!!!! WANT HE DO IT?!?!!?
sophia says
I having a hard motivating myself,this will be 3rd attemp to loose and keep this weight off,for some reason this time around im not excited Abt this journey
Shelina Whitmore says
Become motivated about your end result my sister. Don’t worry so much about the journey, concern yourself with each day. Every day is a victory. That is were your joy resides. In the small accomplishments. stay strong sis
Akilah says
Wow what an awesome story! You have left me inspired. I am in awe of your discipline and despite of being HIV positive you have a ‘can-do’ spirit. May God continue to keep and bless you Ida.