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, c/o Patty Murphy, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, 223 Perimeter Center Parkway, Atlanta, GA, 30346-1301; or e-mail Michelle C. Brooks, ajcsuccessstories@gmail.com.
SUCCESS STORY / Roxann Smithers, 36: From 272 pounds to 174 pounds
Former weight: 272 pounds
Current weight: 174 pounds
Pounds lost: 98
Height: 5 feet 8 inches
Age: 36
How long she's kept it off: On June 15, 2011 she started Weight Watchers and reached her current weight this month.
Personal life: "I am an attorney," says Smithers. "After practicing for ten years, I started my own law firm, Smithers Thornton & Ume-Nwagbo, LLC, in June of 2012 with two partners (www.stulawgroup.com). We provide comprehensive legal services to startup, small, and mid-sized businesses … I live in Smyrna with my dog, Owen."
Turning point: "The turning point for me came when I went for my annual physical and I had gained weight again, despite attempting to diet and exercise on my own for a year," she says. "I decided to take my mom's advice and try Weight Watchers."
Diet plan: "I follow the Weight Watchers' Points Plus plan," she says. "Some of my food staples include: Weight Watcher protein shakes, ground turkey and chicken, chicken breast, turkey bacon, low-fat yogurt, fruit, baby carrots, roast asparagus and broccoli, low-fat cottage cheese and fruit, Weight Watcher Smart Ones desserts, sandwich thins, wheat pastas, brown rice, and Laughing Cow low-fat cheese."
Exercise routine: "I work out every day, but the activity changes depending on my schedule," she says. "Regular activities include kickboxing classes, tennis lessons and matches, golf, swimming, and walk/jog combos."
Biggest challenge: "My love of desserts is my biggest challenge," she says. "I have to find creative ways to satisfy my sweet-tooth or plan for the high-point treats … I make sure to keep my house stocked with bananas, grapes, melons, and baby carrots for healthy snacks at home and on the go."
How life has changed: "This is a lifestyle and not a diet. I made a vow to myself and that vow does not change because my circumstances change. I am on plan when I work late, when I'm in a good mood, when I'm traveling, and when I am dining out," she says. When traveling, she plans ahead. She selects hotels with gyms or areas nearby for walking and jogging. She also packs healthy snacks and heads to a store once she arrives to purchase fresh fruit. "When I travel, I attend local Weight Watchers' meetings on my weigh-in day," she says. Overall, her confidence has increased. "This is key because starting my own law firm and developing business requires a lot of confidence," she says. " I feel more relaxed and comfortable in my skin." To celebrate its 50th anniversary, this year, Weight Watchers held a 50 Years of Success Contest. Out of 6000 entries, Roxanne won as one of 50 first-prize winners.
