Wade Susee makes a lifelong commitment to weight loss

Ask women the No. 1 thing they think men lack, and they might tell you commitment. But Wade Susse is one man who proves women wrong. He made a commitment to lose weight, and he's sticking to it.

Wade had never been thin, but it wasn't until after college that weight became a problem. He always ate fast food, never ate breakfast, and drank tons of soda. No matter what he was consuming, Wade's favorite flavor was fried.

While sports kept him active during his youth, he became sedentary as an adult. That, coupled with his bad eating habits, resulted in serious weight gain.

At 360 pounds, Wade found almost everything to be a struggle. The extra weight put a major strain on his body. Wade couldn't walk up the stairs without losing his breath, or sleep on his back. His joints constantly ached. His blood pressure was high. And he constantly sweated in warm weather.

Worse, whenever Wade flew, he had to spend extra money for first class because he couldn't fit in coach -- and he still needed a seat belt extension. He liked to golf, but couldn't walk the course.

And he didn't like going out to stylish and crowded places with his friends because maneuvering tight spaces was too difficult, not to mention embarrassing.

Wade's moment of awakening came in 2006, when he went on a trip to Las Vegas with his older brother. His brother was also overweight, and had diabetes. It was difficult for them to get around the hotels and casinos, and sitting down to play cards was uncomfortable.

That's when Wade realized he needed to get serious about losing weight. A friend suggested L A Weight Loss after experiencing success, and Wade decided to give it a try.

In March 2006, Wade joined his local Edina, Minn., L A Weight Loss Center. He worked with one-on-one counselors to adjust his diet.

Wade cut out his daily fast and fried food trips, and added plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and water. He learned to enjoy foods he once avoided, such as vegetables. He also eliminated salt, caffeine, and beer from his menu, and reduced his carbohydrate intake.

By changing his diet, Wade changed his life. He lost 177 pounds, passing his weight loss goal. He now clocks in at 183 pounds!

Wade loves that he can still eat hamburgers and steaks, just in moderation. He realizes that no matter how healthy the food is, portion size is crucial.

Wade's energy is through the roof -- and so is his confidence! He can do things he couldn't before, such as fly coach, cross his legs, and exercise. He can easily fit into crowded places, and he's more comfortable overall.

The best part about losing weight is feeling better about himself. Wade's much more positive and outgoing. He loves meeting people, and enjoys going on dates.

Above all, Wade learned that losing weight is a commitment. It's not as simple as just showing up. You have to stick with it, and stay focused. And this is one commitment Wade plans on keeping for the rest of his life.

Way to go, Wade! You looks fantastic!

Here's Wade at 360 pounds:



And here he is today, looking hot at 183 pounds. Wow! Congrats, Wade!



FAST FACTS

Name: Wade Susee
Hometown: Richfield, Minn.
Age: 31
Height: 5'9"

Starting weight: 360 pounds
Goal weight: 185 pounds
Current weight: 183 pounds
Program start date: March 2006

Favorite food: Pizza.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Watching his weight drop every time he went to the center.

Biggest obstacle: Resisting the temptation to go out and party.

Old eating philosophy: Eating too much fast food.

New eating philosophy: Eating as healthy as possible, and avoiding fried and fast food.

Best thing about losing weight: Dating more often.

Best weight loss secret learned: No matter what you're eating, portion control is crucial.