Shay lost 95 pounds

Transformation of the Day: Shay lost 95 pounds. As she entered adulthood, she faced several health challenges, including PCOS, pre-diabetes, and high cholesterol. To regain control of her health, she decided to have weight loss surgery in 2022. 

What was your motivation? What inspired you to keep going, even when you wanted to give up?
I have been considered overweight since I was about 12. As I entered adulthood, I continued to put on more weight and encountered several health issues (PCOS, heartburn, gallstones, pre-diabetes, high cholesterol, and poor mental health). 

I’m not even 30 yet, and I don’t have any kids. So I wanted to take back control and go after the life I deserved. My physical health played a major part in that. 

When did you start your journey?
This has been a lifelong journey. 

How long did your transformation take?
My transformation has taken a little over five months. 

Is weight loss surgery part of your journey?
I had the gastric bypass on September 7th, 2022

How did you change your eating habits?
I yo-yo dieted most of my life. In 2019, I successfully lost weight by adopting a keto way of eating, but I fell off when covid hit. So now I focus on eating high protein / low carb. Also, I had gastric bypass surgery, so I’m forced to practice portion control due to my stomach being a lot smaller.

What is your workout routine?
I don’t have a specific workout routine yet. I focus on cardio, but I plan on working with a trainer in the future and implementing weight training.

How often did you work out?
I’m working on getting more consistent with the gym so I can work on toning up, but right now, I go about 1-2 times a week. 

What was your starting weight?
294 pounds

What is your current weight?
199.2 pounds

What is your height?
5’8 1/2”

What is the biggest lesson you’ve learned so far?
The journey is not a straight line. There may be several ups and downs, detours, and unexpected life events. Everything happens at my own pace, and I should not compare my journey to anyone else’s. 

Also, weight loss surgery is not the easy way out. It is a struggle and still requires mental strength and consistency. 

What advice do you have for women who want to lose weight?
Make sure this is something you are doing for yourself. You will not be perfect; make sure to give yourself grace.