Jeanie Mahoney lost 56 pounds

Success story

Jeanie Mahoney, 55: From 207 pounds to 151 pounds

Former weight: 207 pounds

Current weight: 151 pounds

Pounds lost: 56 pounds

Height: 6 feet

Age: 55 years

How long she's kept it off: Started in May and reached her current weight in November.

Personal life: "I am retired and live in Peachtree City with my husband, two rescued cats and a recently rescued dog," says Mahoney.

Turning point: "I have slowly put on weight year after year since I turned 40. I felt I was healthy and was not concerned about the additional 60 pounds that I had gained over time. I enjoyed rich foods and wine with no thought as to how they were impacting my body. In May 2016, seven months ago, I experienced a cardiac incident, atrial fibrillation, that was a wake-up call that I needed to make some changes in my life. My cardiologist said that I did not need medication but that I should lose weight, eat healthy, drink less and exercise. … I saw a Facebook post searching for volunteers to walk rescued dogs in boarding while they wait for a foster home or to be adopted. … I love dogs so this seemed to be a good fit for me."

Diet plan: "I started eating clean. This meant I avoided processed foods, sugar, bread, pasta and alcohol. … My diet is made up of lean meats, vegetables and fruit. I do have an occasional glass of red wine."

Exercise routine: "I purchased a Fitbit Charge along with some new walking shoes and started with a plan to walk a few times a week. This quickly changed to walking 5 to 6 miles at least five days a week. The dogs held me accountable. They only get out of their kennel when a volunteer comes to walk them. … The dogs rewarded me with kisses, tail wags and the pure doggie joy of going on a walk with me."