Disclaimer: This blog post doesn't have much to do with being frugal, but is more geared towards my weight loss over the years. So, if you aren't interested in that context, please feel free to skip this blog post. You won't hurt my feelings in the least.
I'll start with this photo, which is a picture of me in the beauty salon getting my hair colored right after my Mom died. You can clearly see the Lymphedema load between my legs here. It had gotten so big that I was having trouble walking and I was determined that I was not going to live like this, this was my catalyst for change.
The orthopedic doctor put me in a wheelchair in the summer of 2022 and didn't want me walking on my knees as the shinbone in my left leg was grinding down and you can't replace those. He also would not do the knee replacements until my BMI was 40 or less. So, I had to make a choice and I chose to change my life for the better.
Here is a photo of me and Bailey in the cafeteria of her elementary school in 2007 back when she was in kindergarten. This is a photo of me at my highest weight.
I know in my heart that God has been working on me for many years. My first weight loss attempts began was I was fourteen years old. I've had people pray for me to lose this weight for many years. I've attended countless seminars and went to specialists who have given me multiple tools down through the years to assist me.
Finally something clicked in me and I took all of those tools and figured it out.
This is what I look like today:
Belinda
And I hear in your post that you're healthier and more energetic (minus the blasted gall stones) and seem so much more satisfied with your life. That makes me happy for you.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Sam. I am definitely happier than I have been in years.
DeleteCongratulations. What a lot of hard work, looking good!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Judy.
DeleteYou look amazing!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Susan.
DeleteWOW - what a transformation! You should be so very proud. You look great. You have to feel better as well. Congratulations.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Cheryl. I definitely feel better.
DeleteWell done! You should be exceptionally proud of yourself.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Anne.
DeleteWOW! That is amazing - great job!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Margie.
DeleteCongratulations! Your hard work has really paid off. Happier and healthier has got to feel amazing!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Sue. Yes, it does feel amazing. It's hard to contain my excitement some days. LOL
DeleteI’ve been reading your blog for several years. The medical battles you’ve fought and overcome irrelevant to your amazing weight loss battles have shown me what a tenacious and strong minded person you are. The emotional support you have generously given to friends (and received on return) says you are one hell of a woman.
ReplyDeleteThat is just the sweetest thing. Thank you so much, and yes, I do receive a lot of support from others, including here.
DeleteAmazing! Congratulations’
ReplyDeleteThank you, Beth.
DeleteWow!!! How awesome!! It has a lot to do with saving money! You eat less food. You take less medication. You have less medical procedures. But most importantly, hopefully your quality of life is better.😊
ReplyDeleteThank you so much, Angela. Yes, it does save money. We definitely eat less food. LOL
DeleteWhat an amazing accomplishment. How did you do it?
ReplyDeleteThank you. A lot of hard work, change of diet, eating right and eating less, eliminating sugar, pasta, bread, lots of exercise with one hour every day on my bike pedals and then when I got my new knees, lots of walking. So, various tools and a lot of help from other people and I give all the glory to God for giving me my life back. I wouldn’t trade it for anything or go back to the way I was before. A lot changed for me after my Mom passed away and that had a lot to do with it too. I wish both my parents could see me today and I know they would be happy for me. I love my new life from a physical perspective as I get around so much easier now.
DeleteI have seen loved ones go through the same. The fact that you have been able to get out of the wheelchair is so great. I have been quietly cheering you on.
ReplyDeleteOh, that is so sweet, Amy. Thank you so much!
DeleteI’ve read your blog for years but rarely comment. You are such a kind person and I am so glad you decided to be kind to yourself and put prioritize your health. Weight loss is not easy for anyone and you really should be proud of yourself. I bet Bailey is so proud of you as well. Our kids want us to be healthy and happy and around for as long as possible and you’re showing her how much you care not only for her but for yourself. What a wonderful role model she has in you! Bravo!
ReplyDeleteThank you so much. Bailey is very happy for me and she is another reason I worked hard to change as she didn't want to lose me early. Thank you for your very kind words.
DeleteI have read your blog for years as I find you a kind woman with much compassion for people. Congratulations on finding the inner strength to focus that compassion on yourself and become a healthier person. May God continue to bless you and your daughter.
ReplyDeleteThank you so much for your kind and thoughtful words. That means a lot to me. I hope and pray that God blesses you also.
DeleteAmazing. Totally amazing!!!! Big Hug, Bun
ReplyDeleteThank you Bun!
DeleteBelinda, I have tears in my eyes. That is one of the most amazing transformations I have ever seen. And you did it all on your own by sheer determination and willpower. I am just in awe of you. You should be so very, very proud of yourself. I know I am! You are an inspiration to me! Blessings!
ReplyDeleteAwwww....you are so sweet, Bobbi. Thank you. This means so much to me. :)
DeleteWhat an amazing testimonial! You've done great and look amazing ! Blessings . . .
ReplyDeleteThank you, Vickie.
DeleteCongratulations that's amazing !
ReplyDeleteThank you!
DeleteAmazing what you have accomplished!! -Rosa R.
ReplyDeleteThank you, Rosa.
DeleteGreat work Belinda. You are totally an inspiration to many of us, both frugally and on your weight loss journey.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Oh, you are so kind, Jackie. Thank you so much, You are also an inspiration to me.
DeleteI'm super happy for you!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Wendi.
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