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 / Lisa Craig, 46: From 375 pounds to 220 pounds
Former weight: 375 pounds
Current weight: 220 pounds
Pounds lost: 155 pounds
Height: 5 feet 5 inches
Age: 46 years
How long she's kept it off: "I am still on my journey," says Craig. "Weight loss began in September 2011 and continues to today."
Personal life: "Married to my amazing husband, Joe," she says. "Joe and I celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary this past March. (We have) three amazing children: Lexi, 17, Christopher, 15, and Raven, 7." She is a director of human resources for Eastman Kodak Company; she and her family live in Kennesaw, Ga.
Turning point: "In September 2011, I was diagnosed with diabetes, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. My first response was one of denial," she says. "I was embarrassed about my condition and after years of failed dieting attempts, lacked any hope that I could make a change." She prayed for direction. "I began a rigorous medication regimen but was committed to being off all medicines within the year. Thanks to my weight loss, that goal was attained and I am no longer on any medication.
Diet plan: "Weight Watchers - I love using the smartphone and online tools," she says. "My approach has been to make this a lifestyle and not just a diet. I eat what I want, but the appropriate portions. If I want fried chicken or cake I need to make sure it works within my point plan and that I consider healthy alternatives and balancing the rest of my daily intake. Fruits and vegetables are definitely my friend - asparagus is one of my favorite foods now."
Exercise routine: She's a member of her local YMCA. "I began this journey struggling to find 45 minutes to work out in a week. I now build my day around exercise and work out daily including kickboxing two days a week, cardio step two days a week, Zumba two days a week and strength training."
Biggest challenge: "Sustaining my commitment - this is hard stuff," she says. "I keep pictures of myself from before around me as encouragement when I grow weary. My faith is also strong and I know God is helping me …"
How life has changed: "I've been transformed - I'm running with my kids versus after them," she says. "Working remotely (from home) is a blessing and a challenge. I am committing to moving as much as I can. I walk around while on conference calls and ensure I take some type of lunch break to move. My company has been extremely supportive during this process, which endears me to them and makes me want to work even harder. My motto is 'I won't go back!' based on a Bible scripture in Philippians 3. My hardest day while trying to live a healthy lifestyle is still much better than my best day unhealthy."
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