Be an inspiration: If you've made positive changes in your diet and/or fitness routine and are happy with the results, please share your success with us. Include your email address, a daytime phone number and before and after photos (by mail or JPEG). Write: Success Stories, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 223 Perimeter Center Parkway, Atlanta, GA, 30346-1301; or e-mail Michelle C. Brooks, ajcsuccessstories@gmail.com.
Success story
Kassie Bohanon, 43: From 370 pounds to 214 pounds
Former weight: 370 pounds
Current weight: 214 pounds
Pounds lost: 156 pounds
Height: 5 feet, 7 inches
Age: 43 years
How long she's kept it off: "I started my journey on September 23, 2011. I reached my current weight in December 2013," Bohanon said.
Personal life: "I live in Acworth and love to spend time with two of my biggest cheerleaders and encouragers: my dad, Jimmy, and my boyfriend, Michael. I am an administrative sales coordinator for a floor covering company here in Atlanta, and I publish my own weight-loss blog, quittingisneveranoption.com."
Turning point: "The turning point for me was a series of major life changes, including divorce and the death of my mother. I was 38 years old and in horrible health. I came face to face with the reality that, if I did not do something drastic, my life was going to be cut extremely short. … I followed the Weight Watchers program and exercised … now I work one-on-one with my wellness coach, Jacynta Harb (sparkleanewyou.com).
Diet plan: Breakfast is Greek yogurt with berries. Lunch is a turkey wrap, and dinner is grilled chicken with vegetables.
Exercise routine: "I do a combination of cardio and strength-training, along with hot yoga, and I work out five to six days per week."
Biggest challenge: "The biggest challenge I faced in getting started was the fact that I had so much weight to lose. … I decided from day one that, no matter what, no matter how long the journey took, I absolutely would not allow myself the option of throwing up my hands and giving up."
How life has changed: "Everything in my life has changed for the better. I no longer have Type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea or high-cholesterol. I can fit into a seat at the movies, a concert or sporting event. … I am so much more confident than I was before losing the weight, so I now have the confidence to try new things and enjoy my life. The quality of all of my relationships has improved because I invest the time I need to take care of me, which enables me to build better quality relationships. … This journey has been extremely powerful for me and I want to help as many people as I possibly can to lose weight and regain their health."
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