Update 2017: It’s 3 years later and Yvette is still going strong! Check out her update…
I have been able to maintain my weight, however I had a change in body composition. Although the scale reads a couple of pounds less, my clothing size went from extra large to medium.
Depression is and has been the hardest thing to deal and having hypothyroidism doesn’t help. Last year in February, I had a setback in the form of two back to back TIA attacks. I had to have a Doppler ultrasound on the neck and a brain scan, which revealed a lesion on the left side of the brain and some carotid thickness. My cholesterol was at 295.
Despite all I was doing, the doctors recommended I be placed on statins immediately since I had a stroke before. I refused because it meant the possibility of kidney and liver damage. I employed my personal trainer for three months to get things in order through a more intense exercise regime than what I was already doing. I hit the gym morning for weight training and in the evening I did cardio, crossfit, battle ropes, the stepper, etc. I also had a very specific meal plan, geared at reducing my cholesterol.
At the end of one month, my cholesterol came down to 259 and the test of the lipid profile was near perfect. What stands out the most is that although the journey to wellness has been painful, it has been beyond rewarding… especially when I see how many people I have inspired to just make the effort. These are people who follow my meal plans, my story and who message me to congratulate, offer blessings and ask for help. I thought I was doing this for me, but God had other plans.
My advice for other people would be that weight loss is holistic. We should attempt to heal the mind, body and soul. Find that balance, because depression causes weight gain and sickness. Any issue that upsets your balance and your piece of mind can make you put on weight. Also, do one thing at a time, one day at a time. Love yourself, because it is you who will shine through in the end. Start by increasing you water intake and limit flour and sugars. The rest will come gradually. I am three years into my journey, and I am feeling fabulous and cancer free. – @Lexi_5018
Update 2016: “Good day! A little over a year ago, I shared my story. I just wanted you to know that I am maintaining and feeling fabulous.”
Weight Loss Story of the Day: Yvette lost 32 pounds. She is truly an overcomer and a survivor, having gone through several serious medical conditions including cancer. Her story shows that you can face a ton of adversity and still reach your goals. Here is what she shared with us about her journey…
My name is Yvette Simon-Alexander and I am from Trinidad. I started my wellness journey on the 6th of April 2014 at 202 pounds. Currently, I weight 170 pounds at 5’8” tall. I am a mother of two girls, ages 23 and 18 years old. My inspiration came from wanting to spend more time with my family.
I’m dealing with several health issues. I have survived a left side stroke from which I have regained 85% of movement in my hand. I also have had a triple fracture in my right leg from which I have 2” shortening on that side, so I walk with a limp. I have a mitral valve prolapse and I am dealing with hypothyroidism. In addition, my spirit was broken when I found out in 2009 that I had stage 1 colon cancer. 6 inches of my colon was removed with the polyp. That was truly a life changing experience. I still have to do routine checks every 2 years.
For exercise, my training involves lots of cardio. I work out on the treadmill, stairs and do jumping jacks. I’m also into weight training. My diet consists of lots of water, fruit, vegetables, less meat, more fish, sweet potatoes and supplements.
My journey has been long and hard. I has been filled with tears and pain, but I am a survivor. If my story can help one person, then my struggles will be worth it. My before picture was taken in October 2013 [green dress] and my after photo on the 18th of December 2014 [denim outfit].
Kimberly Thompson says
I’m proud of you Yvette. I admire your strength, desire, and motivation to lose weight. YOU LOOK WONDERFUL. I hope one day after losing this 40 pounds I have left I can be featured in this article.
Yvette Simon Alexander says
Thank you very much I need all the support and inspiration, and good luck to you
Yvette
Dorothy says
You truly are my inspiration. You are true survivor. I am truly proud of you.
Kalila says
I had tears in my eyes reading this. I draw courage from your strength. You are truly blessed and you look fabulous too. Much success to you.
Renee says
Thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration for many! God bless and you look amazing!