Weight Loss Story of the Day: Venisa lost 100 pounds after the wakeup call of being diagnosed with many serious medical issues. She decided to take her health back and change her life. Now she is helping and inspiring others…like us. Here is her story:
I am writing to tell my story of how I lost my 100lbs in about a year and a half. I didn’t realize that I was obese especially after suffering a pulmonary embolism in 2009. I was at the 305 lb mark but had no idea as I didn’t get on scales. I was at the my ob/gyn in May/June 2012. I was told that I had miscarried, had HPV, endometriosis and was a bit heavy for my height of 5’7 and that I should try Weight Watchers or Jenny Craig. (She was trying to be nice and put things politely.) I then find a new physician (due to new medical insurance) that tells me I also need to lose weight and that the blood work showed that I had high cholesterol, was borderline diabetic and that I also suffer from Thalessemia Minor. It was a bit of a wake up call.
I started walking only a couple blocks at first (as I was winded from walking too far, and then it became that I was walking miles without realizing it. I would walk during my lunch hour and then when I got home after work. I had also stopped eating many processed excluding certain salad dressings, spaghetti sauces, brown rice and whole grain pastas. I cut back on the junk food. I would allow myself treats twice a week, like frozen yogurt or a piece of dark chocolate or skittles. My doctor taught me that if I deprive my body of what it wants, it will think it’s starving and the weight won’t go anywhere. Within the first 2 months, I had lost 35 pounds. I stayed on track and had 1 cheat meal a week which consisted of eating out and having mexican food or bbq. Within the first year, I was down about 75-80lbs just from watching what I was eating and walking.
It is now March 2014 and I weigh in around 200-205 depending on my weight lifting or cardio. I now go by my measurements as I lose inches faster than weight now that I lift heavier weights. I have run 3-5ks, 1-10k and will do A.M. training for a 1/2 marathon this August/September. I have a membership at 24hr fitness and take their body pump classes, as well as turbo kick to switch up my routine. Our bodies get used to the workouts after 6 weeks so if we stick to the same regime, we’ll plateau with our weight loss. I have done a weight loss challenge with my friends and family to help motivate them to lose the weight and exercise and give them my knowledge. I’m even helping my mom who has a bad back and shoulder to lose her weight and control her diabetes. I’m even contemplating going back to school to become a certified personal trainer.
Our health is the one thing we have. Just because our history didn’t know what the future would bring, we can still educate ourselves. Read labels, do research, and do your best. I didn’t lose my weight overnight and I’m still pushing forward to lose this remaining weight. Believe in yourself and you can do anything. Mind over matter is how I’ll always see it. I also have a great support system, my doctors, my mom, and my friends.
Jeanne Glosson says
Hi, thanks for sharing your story. I am currently struggling with weight loss and have troubke with staying focused on the prize…. which is being at a healthy weight. Do you have any advice that could help me keep my mind on track while on this journey?
Jeanne
Venisa says
Jeanne… Thank you. I first did it by challenging myself to do a 10k run/walk. I did it and it was hard but I finished. I then started setting goals for myself but making them fun. Set goals for yourself but have fun while doing it. And most of all don’t deprive yourself. I worked 10-14 hr days and got up at 3am to workout. I did it for me and no one else. To look in the mirror and to be able to say I’m healthy is my greatest goal I’ve ever accomplished. 🙂
Stephani Files says
You look AMAZING. I have had many medical struggles as well, but I have overcome! Your story encourages me beyond words because my life was mirrored as I read it! I have lost 75 lbs. I seem to have hit a plateau. That’s ok. I keep going. Got 10-15 more to goal, but I know I can do this! Congratulations lady!!!!!
Vanessa says
Thank you, thank you, thank you for sharing your story! You look amazing and have done an amazing job!!! What an inspiration you are and I’m sure those around you appreciate your help. So glad you took care of you…keep up the great work!
heather paige says
SIMPLY AMAZING!!!!!!!!!!!! GREAT JOB
Jamila says
Yay Nisa!!!!!
Raqci says
I would just like to say, Thank you for sharing your story. I am a Big girl as well, and I am having such a difficult time sticking to a healthier ME!!! I need to lose 147 pounds, and it is a constant struggle, but reading your story and some of the other stories it is giving me such a positive mindset, and I need to lose this weight for me!!! Thank you again for sharing and You look amazing!!!!!
Sheila says
I need help on what to eat for breakfast , lunch and dinner . I do better when I know what to eat for each meal and snack . I need to start walking when it warms up.
Venisa says
Sheila, If you want to message me on facebook, I can give you some recipe ideas, etc.
Rosa M Johnson says
Hi Venisa, Congratulation, on the weight loss. Your story was inspiring. I had to go in hospital for a major surgery to repair a hernia. Doctor told my family that it is miracle that I’m alive. Since coming home from hospital I took charge in my health. I started at 237 went in for the surgery in September 2013 I was weighting at 217 and now I weight 183 pounds. I complete took myself off sodas breads sweets and meats. If I eat meat only chicken and fish just a palm size. Now only eat vegetables fruits and nuts and grains. Walk 2 miles or more and yoga. To every one keep striving and you make your goal in losing the weight. Thank you again Venisa and others sharing your story we can make it down to the finish line. Ps. I do treat myself to healthy snacks, that I made with no sugar.
Ke'Shana says
Thanks for sharing your story. I am trying to get on track after finishing school and dealing with a tough break-up. I have a serious sweet tooth, but I am trying to contain it. Trying to lose a significant amount of weight seems impossible at times, but reading your story is helping me put things in perspective and give this a try. THANKS FOR SHARING.
fran says
Thank you. Your straightforward story made me put down my phone and go do my workout at the Y. So much for Saturday on the couch. Blessings