My L A Weight Loss Diary

Daily musings for and about real women and men who are reshaping their bodies and their lives on the LA Weight Loss program. To become one of our bloggers, write to Blogger@myLAweightlossdiary.com

Thursday, April 16, 2009

LA Weight Loss saved this Tennesse woman's life

Mitzi Ivey has been overweight all of her life. Coming from a family with a bigger build, Mitzi was never able to lose more than 25 to 30 pounds at a time, and only gained it right back.

Mitzi also comes from a family with health risks. Her mother was a diabetic, and suffered from her first stroke at 51. She suffered from 12 more before passing away at 60. Mitzi gained the last 85 pounds after her mother passed, making Mitzi 289 pounds. Her mother's health still did not encourage Mitzi to a healthier lifestyle.

Mitzi was also a diabetic, taking insulin and medicine for high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In August 2003, Mitzi Ivey was rushed to the University Hospital Emergency room. Her blood sugars were at 430 and her blood pressure was at stroke levels. Nine days later when Mitzi was released her orders read: "Patient dangerously obese -- must lose weight."

Mitzi was afraid. She tried several times to lose weight, trying every program and trend out there, but gained the weight right back. She asked her doctor what he recommended. He suggested LA Weight Loss, his wife was on the program and was very successful and very happy.

Later that same month, Mitzi joined LA Weight Loss. Checking in at 289 pounds, Mitzi lost nine pounds her first week, losing a total of 118 pounds in 11 1/2 months.

LA Weight Loss has taught Mitzi the importance of breakfast, eating within the first hour she is awake. She learned how to incorporate all the food groups, drinking a lot of water and making healthier choices following the LA Weight Loss program.

Mitzi was able to lose 26 pounds in the first five months of joining LA Weight Loss. She lost a grand total of 138 pounds.

Mitzi's success has been an inspiration to others in her town after being selected to be featured in a local LA Weight Loss ad. She never lets herself get seven pounds from her goal weight.

Her doctor warns her that she will always be a diabetic, so Mitzi works her hardest to never get back to the point where she will have to take medicine everyday. Mitzi has been able to maintain her weight loss for the past five years.

Mitzi has the life she was never able to have before. Her stamina is unbelievable. Her hobbies include hiking and hunting for deer and turkey, shopping with her two daughters, volunteering, and going to the beach in a bathing suit!

Mitzi could not head down the path her mother did, leaving her children behind. Mitzi can't wait for grandchildren to run after and see grow up.

Mitzi says the vanity of looking better is good, but her health and energy levels at age 53 are the biggest blessings of all. Mitzi thanks LA Weight Loss for saving her life.

Mitzi before at 289 pounds:



Mitzi today, weighing 151 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Mitzi Ivey
Hometown: North Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 52
Height: 5'7"

Starting weight: 229 lbs.
Goal weight: 200 lbs.
Current weight: 151 lbs.
Program start date: August 2003, maintaining for almost six years.

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Any kind of chips, salty foods.

Biggest motivator: Her health and size 8 skinny jeans.

Biggest obstacle: Sticking to the program and making sure she eats while traveling to keep on schedule.

Old eating philosophy: Eating without thinking.

New eating philosophy: Knowing better choices and maintaining proper portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a better marriage, and better relationship with herself and children.

Best weight loss secret learned: Food is in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Is it really worth it? Stop and really think about what you are eating.

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