Transformation of the Day: Lisa shares how she lost 67 pounds. After losing loved ones to health-related illnesses and facing her own physical struggles, she knew it was time to make a change. From changing her eating habits to working out six days a week, Lisa has embraced a healthier lifestyle. Her journey is a testament to the power of consistency and patience.
Social Media:
Instagram: @queenl283
What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
An unexpected visit to the orthopedic doctor served as the surprising catalyst for my weight loss journey. In 2021, while working from home, I began to experience significant pain in my left knee, which I had previously undergone surgery in 2011. My primary concern was that the surgery had somehow failed, prompting me to schedule an appointment with my orthopedic specialist. I anticipated that he would tell me I needed another surgery to address this new problem.
I went to the office, stepped on the scale, and was taken aback by the numbers. To be candid, the last time I weighed myself, I was 230 lbs. I made it through my appointment without the need for major surgery I had anticipated, only to learn I had a mild case of arthritis. While I felt a sense of relief regarding my diagnosis, I was still grappling with the numbers on the scale, knowing I needed to make a serious change. However, rather than coming to terms with what I needed to do, I left that appointment, went to my favorite sub shop, and ordered a fried fish sub, fries, and a large drink. It took me two weeks after that appointment to finally make a genuine commitment to my health and begin exercising.
After experiencing the loss of two sisters to cancer and the passing of my children’s father because of his serious health issues, I felt a strong desire to become a healthier and improved version of myself. When I wanted to quit, encouraging words from my family kept me motivated. As I began to lose the excess weight, I found myself needing to buy new clothes and shoes. I lost so much weight in my feet they would actually slide through my shoes!
Seeing this transformation filled me with so much excitement and more motivation. I have always enjoyed shopping, so this new opportunity to buy smaller sizes was truly exhilarating.
How did you change your eating habits?
I changed my eating habits by adopting a pescatarian diet and eating more fresh vegetables and fruits. Additionally, I increased my water intake, making sure to drink no less than 64oz a day. I also ate eggs for protein and significantly reduced my intake of processed foods. I prepare more of my meals at home and limit my dining out and drinking wine or sodas to special occasions. I do not completely deny myself because I enjoy sweets. However, I have developed the practice of moderation with my eating habits.
What is your workout routine?
I initially started by walking for one hour each day. After about a month, I decided I needed to start doing more. I began to work out six days a week. On three of those days, I do water aerobics, strength/conditioning, and pilates. To add a littlefun to my routine, I line dance two days a week. Once a week, weather permitting, I will walk four miles home from work.
What was your starting weight? What is your current weight?
I am 5’7″, and my starting weight was 272 pounds. I am now down to 205 pounds with a goal of getting to 185 pounds.
When did you start your journey?
I started my journey in March of 2021. However, it wasn’t until 2022 that I began to have noticeable weight loss.
Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
Weight loss surgery is not a part of my journey.
What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The biggest lesson I learned is that not everyone supports your journey when you decide to get healthier. I had to focus, be consistent & patient, and push through even when I plateaued.
What advice would you like to share with women who want to lose weight?
Success does not come overnight; it is gradual, but it will happen. Every day, when I look at where I was and where I am, it is worth all the hard work, sweat, and tears. You can do it by surrounding yourself with a community of positive people who will uplift, motivate, and cheer you on to your goal.
For anyone who lives in the Baltimore area and wants to connect or needs words of encouragement, I’m on IG: @queenl283.
