How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Paula Roth, Ashland, OH — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 12:38:25 GMT

Jodi, you did it your way, and it worked! Congratulations! I weighed 180 lb. in the 7th grade, graduated at 155 lb. and at 20 was 128, losing those last pounds while going to college and working in a bakery! At 5'6", that worked for me. Since I am now 60 years old and weigh about 128, you can see that I have changed my eating habits permantly, even having 2 kids along the way! In the 60s, we had no fancy weight loss establishments, so I just used common sense. I hope my story proves to all that one can lose weight and keep it off!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Betty Ames, Byron Center, Michigan — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 12:52:50 GMT

Wow Jodi! Congratulations. You made all the right moves in conquering your battle with obesity. You still allowed snacks and some of those treats so you could ultimately stay on track, you made sensible choices and picked a form of exercise that was do-able and something you could easily continue to fit into any busy day. What a wonderful transformation! I've recently shed 46 lbs and am near my goal now. I've used many of the same strategies you have, and it's working nicely. Keep up the good work! I'm sure you feel just as wonderful as you look!
Betty

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

JOYCE SMITH SOUTH BEND — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:14:20 GMT

WHAT UP WITH THAT? JODI YOU LOOK GREAT WITH THAT NEW BODY!THAT GREAT AND A WELL DONE JOB!MORE PEOPLE A GOOD CHANGE TOO DO FOR THEMSELF TO TRY!!!! THANK YOU SO MUCH!!YOU CAN EMAIL AT JO574HUA@OL.COM. JOYCE SMITH GO BYE!!!!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Marla Miller Sturgis Michigan — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:26:09 GMT

Wow, your're story sounds fantastic, congratulations on your weight lose and keeping it off. I also would like to lose weight, at least 100 pounds now. I'm my highest ever and now my knees are hurting, among other health issues. Over the last few years I learned I need to change the foods I eat and have learned to eat healtier. One of my problems is I work two jobs, one full-time and one part-time, to make ends meet.

I'm looking for support and a cheering section to help me.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

SS, Tallahassee, FL — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:28:50 GMT

Jodi - thanks!! You have truly inspired me. I have arthritis and TypeII diabetes! I am not eating right at all!! I will start walking today and eating GOOD foods!
I also need to get healthy for myself, spouse (a doll), and kids. Oh, and I want to live to see my grandchildren!! Please keep us posted on your journey and how you got there!
Thanks again!!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Jen, Billings, MT — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:34:02 GMT

One question that I never hear answered is, "What about extra skin?" You look great. Did you have any surgery to remove extra skin or do you just were clothes to hide it. I started at 257 lbs and have lost 65 lbs so far. I have had 2 kids at the larger weight and since losing I seem to have a lot of extra belly skin. I am still losing and though this is a bit of a disappointment, I am doing it more for health reasons than looks, and will contiue until I meet my goal. Just wondering if this happened to you and how you deal.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

crissy reese,pennsylvania — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 15:42:57 GMT

You are an inspiration to many of us. I started at 245lb in dec and now am at 215lb but stuck. You let the rest of us know that real people can do this without spending money that we don't have on the diets that many times don't work if you can't afford to keep them up. I am a mother of 4 and very strapped financially. I am trying on my own to loose the weight. You help give me the wheelpower to keep trying. THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR LIFE WITH US!!!!!!!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Mae — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:04:47 GMT

This story hit home for me. I'm 54yrs old, weigh 304,never had any kids and live alone. I am feeling my weight bringing my health down, but just can't seem to pull out of overweight and depression. I just cry, eat, seclude myself from others, and pray.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Audrey Ann,Middleburg, FLorida — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:07:34 GMT

Thank you for sharing, Jodi-you may have saved countless lives of desperate,hurting people. I am going to apply those skills to my own weight loss journey.I survived a botched up gastric bypass surgery-infections,feeding tube for 12 weeks,closing of the trachea and sphincter leading out of the pouch, etc. It's a dangerous procedure and should never be used as a weight loss tool. I lost only 90 lbs and after 4 years of suffering and pain I now have to submit to a lapband operation because a gastroenterologist widened my pouch to the point of ruining the bypass-it's just a hole that let's food go through immediately!!!! It's a miracle I am still alive!!! God bless you and may you continue to be healthy and in control of your body.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

John C. Green, Chicago, Illinois — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:11:54 GMT

Great accomplishment!

Sincerely,

John C. Green

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

E. Dennis — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:12:41 GMT

I just heard Ann Curry say that were no obese old people! That isn't true! There are many, many obese old people. In fact, most of the old people I have ever known would be considered “morbidly” obese by medical standards. In my own family and my husband's, as well, nearly everyone reaches their 84th birthday and many have lived into their 90s, and nearly every one of them unfashionably fat. It's the very thin people in my family, like my mother, who don't make it to 84. I don't like being fat because of the way I look, but I can't say that just being fat is going to shorten my life. Just the opposite!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Cindy Uzella, Cedar Point, IL — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:15:45 GMT

Way to Go Jodi.....congrats on your weight loss. I am 47 years old, and have been battling obesity for the past 14 years.....I am a stress eater...I know that, and I am guilty of not eating 3 meals a day...I have my coffee in the morning, and usually don't eat until later in the day, or while cooking supper. I have been on many diets before, and the weight always comes back, and brings about 25-40 extra pounds!! My health has not been good, and with back and knee troubles, walking is out....at least for now. I'm going to start going to the YMCA as they have a heated therapy pool with treadmills and encombant bikes under water....which should help me. Any encouraging words of wisdom would be greatly appreciated...I need to drop about 130 to 150 pounds....realisitically, if I could drop 100 I'd be happy!! Thanks!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

cramirez, miami florida — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:16:47 GMT

I am so touched by your story. I was an aerobic instructor and completely lost the battle of the buldge after my children were born. I tried to loose weight doing what I did when I was in my early twenties just to find out that my body was totally different. I have looked for that moment in my life were I can say THIS IS IT.... I don't want to leave my children orphans. I am suffering from depression and everything else that comes with it. Everytime my children draw a picture of me the draw two big circles. My 5 year old daughter is constantly kissing my belly to make the fat go away. Is gotten so much worse, she doesn't want to eat, because she doesn't want to be Fat like mommy. I just need to get up and do it. Thanks for sharing such a personal story with the rest of us.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Gloria Zuniga, Katy, TX — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:17:28 GMT

I would like to know if you did other exercises after
you started losing weight? I just hit 200 lbs. and do not recognize myself in the mirror. I lost my husband 2 yrs. ago and am depressed. I just joined a
boot camp that works out from 5-6 a.m. but it's very
expensive and only for 4 weeks. It's a jump start for me and hopefully I'll keep on exercising after
camp is over. You think walking will do it? Thank U
for the inspiration. You look marvelous.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Meg Meagher, Hull, MA — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:23:46 GMT

Oh My:

This is so close to home it is scary. I am 41 and obese I lost my mom when she was 52 I am in fear and I seem to be frozen in denile. This seems to be the wake up call I need.

Thank you for the Joy's Fit Club keep it up for us out here.

M Meagher

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Larry A. Davis — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:29:01 GMT

I took a lot of heart felt concern for Jodi to get her word out to those who might seek ideas of inspiration. God is with her may He also be with you. To further see about Jodi's commitment to the root of her success, Check out her website and blog at "walking works" via the Blue Cross Blue Shield website. Her Loving Husband Larry Davis

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Bonnie Werner, Ozark, Missouri — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:29:27 GMT

I am so proud of you! For the first time in my life I am "coming out." I am admitting for the first time that I have been overweight since childhood. I have been dishonest with people who never knew me as a child. I realized the weight at age 16 that I couldn't take the feeling miserable any longer,therefore, I found anorexia. From age 17 to age 39 I was anorexic. I gave birth to 4 daughters in the 80's. I lost 3 children in the 90's, then gave birth at near age 40 to a healthy daughter. After the birth I came home 108 pounds overweight. I have tried every diet, from the paying companies, soup to the secret diets. Weight Watchers helped me to lose 50 pounds in 2003, I was doing great for awhile, only to have a full hysterecomy in 2005. Hormones, etc.. This has lead to a weight gain "again" of 20+ pounds. Your mental approach to your challenge was so heartfelt and meaningful to my life. I have 5 daughters now ages 11-28. I want to be healthy and change my lifestyle. I have been so caught up in the magazine covers, self help books and exercise books, commercials, diet pill fads, that my mind is so confused. Your story is settling into my heart and I am ready to begin as you did. I hate exercising, but love walking. I lived in CO for 28 years, I could walk there-great weather all the time. We moved to MO, 3 years ago, I can not take the weather-hot, humid, makes me ill. I gave up. Thank you Jodi for showing me that "normal" people truly exists in this crazy out of control world devoted to billions spent on weight loss, when really all you need is a reality check, change your lifestyle, and go for a walk. I truly have appreciated you coming forth and sharing your story. God Bless you in your continued endeavors and for showing us all that there is light at the end of the tunnel. I'm going to clean out the cabniets right now! :)

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Heidi, Leesburg, FL — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:04:43 GMT

You've motivated me! I'm done doing it for anyone else but myself. The hardest part for me is disiplining my life. Here's to taking it one day at a time.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

StevenDeLano, Jackson,Michigan — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:25:54 GMT

Keep up the good work...In March 1995 I weighed 292.5 lbs., my Cardiologist put me on the South Beach Diet...This morning, I weighed in at 188.8 (I am 6ft. 2in.). I have kept the weight off-praise God- for over a year and a half, and counting. There are some things that can help people with weight loss that I would like to share: 1) See a doctor first; thay will know what diet works best for you. 2) EXERCISE; if all you do is just sit in front of the tv and vedge, you will never get anywhere. Thanks.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Shelia R. Jones, Vancouver, WA — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:50:54 GMT

YOU LOOK SO BEAUTIFUL AND I GIVE YOU ALL THE GLORY BECAUSE I DID IT BEFORE AND I'M DOING IT AGAIN AND NOW I AM USING YOU STORY TO KEEP ME INSPIRED. I HAD TWO FOOT SURGERIES AND A SHOULDER AND JUST STARTED BEING ABLE TO WALK AFTER A 1 1/2 AND STILL LIMPING. MY MOM WALKS TOO DUE TO A HEARTATTACK SHES HAD SO YOU AND MY MOM ARE MY INSPIRATION AND I HOPE TO GET IN TOUCH THIS TIME NEXT YEAR AFTER I LOSE 130 POUNDS. I WEIGHT 270 NOT AND I HAVE LOSTED 7 LBS SO FAR AND AS YOU SAID AND WE DECIDED NO EXCUSES. CONGRADULATIONS AND I WISH YOU LUCK ON YOUR SUCCESS.THANKS FOR YOUR STORY.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

joy, sacramento, CA — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 18:52:05 GMT

CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!What an accomplishment! :) thank you so much for the encouragement and common sense. i wish you the best in keeping it off for good this time.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Norita Word, Versailles,ky — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 19:37:42 GMT

Dear Jody,

I to am over weight. I work hard every day and go non stop from 6:00am till 10:00 or 11:00pm everyday I'm 35 with 2 children. Still i can't lose weight. So I've decided to try what you have done.
God Bless you and thank you

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Nancy L Weese — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 20:04:44 GMT

what agreat job,congrats. i have ms and am trying to do the same efore snow in alaska . good luck to you

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Nancy L Weese — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 20:05:54 GMT

good luck

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Lucy Samuels, Alexandria, Louisiana — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 20:51:09 GMT

I'm a size 24, with heart problems. I need inspiration, and this may just be what I need to get off the couch and start walking!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Rachel, Appleton, WI — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 21:06:44 GMT

This was such a wonderful story! I've just started losing weight myself, and hearing it has been my extra motivation today to keep going. congrats Jodi! My you remain healthy and happy. One day soon I hope to be there as well.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Mark Torres, Salida California — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 22:02:38 GMT

Jodi;
You are a female me or I a male you. (LOL)I too have lost weight (85 LBS IN ONE YEAR)Doing all the things you have done.I'm 53 and feel great.
I think not trying to do to much at once is a good thing.By that I mean start somewhere if a person can walk only three blocks at first,thats okay but start and don't stop.I in the past have had addictive habits. But know those habits are for a good healthy life!
I wish as I'm sure you do that people who are overweight could lose lbs and feel as good as we now do!
I too eat cake, french fries, but not very often.I just don't have the cravings for unheathy foods. But when I do it's just a taste ( A few ) My doctor asked me if I felt deprived and I had to think long and hard about it because I could not believe the answer was NO! NOT AT ALL!
It is a way of live for me know.And a way to live longer. As you know to cut your own toe nails is marveles,to buy clothes from a REGULAR store is fantanstic. Too actually Play sports with my 9 year old not play catch from me laying on the couch and if I miss the ball he would have to come over and pick it up! and so on and so on.
I have gone from a XXXL to a large shirt 50inch waist to a 38. Even my shoe size changed. Sometimes when I look at a size large in the store I still sometimes don't think it will fit me but it always fits (Amazing)I am a size large (WOW)
Smaller portions and excersize.Walking is the easy.One thing I started doing right away was (and still do) park as far away from the store or what ever and walk from that point. I didn't spend 10 minutes looking and driving around for the closes parking spot.
THX
M.T.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

diane, arizona — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 22:04:46 GMT

if your that over weight how can the excess skin disappear? i am over weight also this is why i am asking. i have walked 3miles for 4.5 months, i lost weight but got discuraged.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

L G Austin,Texas — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 22:44:47 GMT

Where I would like to make a comment Jodi,CONGRATULATIONS :) !! I too,have lost weight and have kept it off for about 10 years now..my heaviest I weighed in at 261 lbs.and am now stationary at 121 lbs. So YES,I lost 141 lbs.and am extremely happy that I did :) !! Congrats Again :)Leticia

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Caitlin Daley Dennis Ma — Mon, 24 Sep 2007 23:10:20 GMT

Keep on Rockin'girl you did it sensibly and it came
off fast. You look smokin'

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Mary Nicholas, Portland, Maine — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 01:06:05 GMT

Listening to Jodi this morning was amazing to me. I've heard so many people talk of how they lost their weight, what motivated them but she was truly speaking for me but...I am older yet! 61. My husband and I are raising a 10 year old grandson and I've not idea why I have this block, he is the best reason in the world to be healthier for. I will keep Jodi in my mind each day, along with a prayer in that I may tell my success story one day in the not too far distance...my time is running out:( Thanks you so much. Mary Nicholas

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Holly Euless, TX — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 01:27:51 GMT

Wow. What an amazing story.. Today is my birthday. 30.. Hard to say outloud. I finally came to the conclusion after years of trying, failing and excuses that NOW is the time. Your experience and success is an inspiration to me and will help me in the long road ahead.. THANKS

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Terri Spring Creek Nv. — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 01:34:31 GMT

Jodi You look great!!!! I've been walking with a friend for three months. We're both hairdressers and have a horrible time making time for ourselves at lunchtime. Seeing how you look makes us want to be more selfish with our time. We need to eat a balanced diet to look like you. Say a little prayer that we can do it. Think of us. Terri and Lena

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

jane buttermore,bethlehem, pa — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 14:39:03 GMT

What is the artist of the song they played today on "today" - in the background while talking about the person that lost weight from the Biggest Loser.
The song went" what have you done for me to make me feel proud".

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

BRENDALIE AUGUSTINE, IRVINGTON, NEW JERSEY — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 17:09:17 GMT

HI JODI CONGRATS TO YOU. I AM WORKING UP TO START MAKING HEALTHY CHOICES FOR MYSELF. ITS SO HARD. BUT I AM TRYING.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Jennifer, OR — Tue, 25 Sep 2007 21:19:52 GMT

Jodi- you were very smart in walking. My friend is slightly overweight and after talking to her Doctor, he said that the best exercise you can do to slim down is simply walking. Lost of Cardio or muscle building can acutally make you bigger because it builds muscle on top of the fat. I think a lot of people feel overwhelmed when they think of losing weight because they see all these extreme and hard exercise routines...if only most heavy women and men knew that all it takes is walking everyday and cutting out calories, not every food that has a little fat in it, I think that they would be more optimistic to getting to their target weight. Thank you for not giving in and sharing your story. You look wonderful!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

ROBIN GALLEGOS, GRIFTON, NC — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 12:41:09 GMT

CONGRATS!! YOU ARE BEAUTIFUL. I SHARED YOUR STORY WITH MY MOM WHO IS OVER 300LBS. SHE JUST RECENTLY STARTED A LIFESTYLE CHANGE AND HAS LOST 17LBS SO FAR. I AM VERY PROUD OF HER AND I PRAY THAT SHE WILL STICK WITH IT THE WAY THAT YOU DID. MY MOTHER HAS MANY HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT I BELIEVE ARE DUE TO HER WEIGHT. I WILL CONTINUE TO REMIND HER OF YOU AND YOUR EXTRAORDINARY ACCOMPLISHMENT. HOPEFULLY IN 16 MONTHS MY CHILDREN WILL HAVE A GRANDMOTHER THAT CAN PLAY WITH THEM AT THE PARK INSTEAD OF A GRANDMOTHER THAT CAN ONLY WATCH THEM
IN THE BACKGROUND.
THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR STORY. GOD BLESS!!!!!!!!!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Claudia Scottsdale, Arizona — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 16:42:59 GMT

you should be so proud , walk tall you deserve all of the wonderful praise you get BUT the best gift you have received is how you feel in your own skin every moment of every day... That is YOURS Girl way to go!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Joyce, St. Joseph, MI — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 17:10:43 GMT

Jodi, you are truly an inspiration! My husband works with your dad, and he came home telling me your story... your dad was so proud of you! I've had the same struggle, but never like the last few years. I'm trying really hard to get fit, to enjoy my "golden" years with my husband and grandchildren. Thanks for inspiring me!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

JACKIE PARRIGIN — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 18:20:34 GMT

HI JODI, THIS MORNING AFTER EATING TOO MANY BREAKFAST ROLLS, I HAD FINALLY JUST GIVEN UP. I HAVE ALL KINDS OF EXCUSES. I AM OLD (68) AND HAVE BEEN DIETING FOR ABOUT 35 YEARS. ALWAYS THE SAME. DOWN AND UP AND DOWN AND UP (MORE UPS THAN DOWNS). I AM GROWING OUT OF A 24 AND ON MY WAY UP. YOU HAVE GIVEN ME A REASON TO START ONE MORE TIME TO TRY TO LOSE IT.
THANK YOU.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Tia A., Pearland, TX — Wed, 26 Sep 2007 22:39:37 GMT

Girl, you are so fierce and just the inpsiration I needed to get off of my ass and lose this 75 lbs. that is hindering my life. I am a blessed woman and I just need to take control of my life. I have to small children and a husband that need me. Plus, I need to just get my sexy back! Thank you for your story and for the final push to just "do it"!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Debie,Green River, Wyoming — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 00:27:53 GMT

Jodi:

Great Job! You worked very hard for this accomplishment.

I am a young 51. I have a herniated disk in my back, and I had a "Slient" heart attack sometime last summer. Strong Family history of heart disease.

I too have to work hard at keeping my weight in check. But, like you, when I eat correctly, (not diet) and walk, the weight naturally come's off.
I also use hand weight's for weight resistance.

If you want it bad enough it will happen. We both
know that you have to work at it and make a conserted
effort. Diet's "Do Not Work". They are only a temporary fix. Eating right, with a splurge from
time to time is what work's.

Remember when we were kid's, and we would play outside? We road our bikes, swam in the pool, jump
roped, played ball. Our kid's today don't excercise
and most people don't excercise today. Everyone want's a quick fix, and as a result we are the
fattest people in the nation.

Eat correctly, and walk and you will lose weight, I don't care who you are. Even with Heart Disease, you
can walk! Your heart is a muscle. Excercise makes
it strong!

Yes, I do have heart disease in my family, but I also used to smoke and weigh over 200 lbs. My gene's didn't do that to me, I did that to me.

It is amazing how your body will give back your health, if you will allow it to. It is a miraculous machine.

Watch the Biggest Loser, if you need more inspiration,
those people on that show, are amazing. Even if they
get kicked of, for having not been the Biggest Loser
that week, the show gives them the motivation and
skill's to continue to succeed with weight loss and
eating correctly at home.

Your amazing Jody! And I am sure you have inspired
many people.

Have a great day, and make it count!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Mel Larson, Coloma Mi. — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 20:40:40 GMT

We're all so proud of you.
The Thursday Lunch Club.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Rhonda Sheehan, Watervliet, Michigan — Thu, 27 Sep 2007 21:02:46 GMT

Jodi -- What I love about you is that you are beautiful on the inside as well as the outside. It was amazing to be your friend and watch your success each month. It was so heartwarming to see you on national television ... knowing that your courageous act of honest sharing will help many who are hurting and need a good cheerleader. Finally, I just want to say congratulations on losing the weight and for keeping it off a rockin' 5.5 years!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Lori Hueni, Coloma, MI — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 12:17:33 GMT

Dear Jodi,
This is your friend Lori. I want you to know I am truly so proud of you! You have encouraged so many others just by being you. You stay positive even when life tries to take you down. You have made me feel good about myself with your encouraging words. Love you, Lori

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Tricia Smith, Stevensville, Michigan — Fri, 28 Sep 2007 12:30:54 GMT

I am the very proud SISTER of Jodi! Never really knowing how she felt of her wieght or how she faced tasks that I would never even hesitate on, has made me see her through an entirely new view! I am extremely proud to call her my sister and friend, (not that I didn't feel the same when she was heavy)! However, she has met an outstanding obstacle and I am so glad she has had the oppurtunity to tell others her story and perhaps help others in the same situation as well. "You've come a long way baby"! I Love You and am rejoicing in all your glory!If you can do it, anyone can!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Bob Peterson Stevensville, MI — Sat, 29 Sep 2007 00:36:55 GMT

Wow, Impressed is an understatement !!! My hat is off to you!! I did not know you lost that much, I thought it was in the 40 to 50 lb range. You are a very impressive person. I am proud to know you will be a sister in law one day soon. Keep going do not let any thing slow you down.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Mary Billingsley — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 19:27:44 GMT

Hi Jodi and fellow obese friends!!
I just went on a cruise my daughter gave me. I wish I had prepared more!! I was so miserable!!! I naturally wanted to eat all the things I never get to eat at home and went with the rest, but had no energy and wanted to stay in my room. Then time for the next meal. I hated myself and should've been enjoying it. I came home and have been on my Nutri System food I purchased before but could never find the right time to "do "it. You have been such an inspiration to me. I don't even want to weigh until I feel like doing something. I know I am over 260 now and am a diabetic an d a heart patient and grandma and depressed and a fairly new widow! I have to take control. I am goint to pray every day I can make it and with the inspiration I got from You Jodi I believe it will be a long time and the holidays coming up but I will! I am curious about the extra skin. I heard if you drink milk , it is not a problem, can anyone answer that. God Bless all of you and you Jodi for your kindness to share!!!!

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Jodi Davis, Michigan — Tue, 09 Oct 2007 22:09:08 GMT

Hello and thank you to all of you that have informed me that I inspire you... it is a life goal of mine! I'm sending this comment today because many individuals have asked me about having to deal with excess skin after a weight loss such as mine. Yes, I did have an excess amount of skin on my abdomen which was removed one year after my weight loss goal was achieved. The surgery was covered by insurance, which I have found is common IF you lose over 100 pounds AND the doctor must determine it as being medically necessary. I know some people who have not needed this surgery after losing over 100 lbs, most not ever giving birth to children. No additional surgery was performed to remove excess skin. I am hoping that in the near future, I will have surgery to remove excess skin from my upper legs but this is NOT covered by any insurance companies.

Please keep sending your comments - they are wonderful to read! And remember, I BELIEVE IN YOU~ And it's time to believe in yourself! Jodi Davis

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Patty Caffee — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 18:26:45 GMT

This is probably one of the best "weight loss" stories I have seen. You have made it possible, w/o the pills, the expensive gym equipment, etc, and still allowed yourself a little bit of cake, etc. You didn't stop everything, but used common sense. Thanks for sharing. It is possible, isn't it?

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

mary m zoby — Thu, 11 Oct 2007 20:17:48 GMT

I am one of those women who are obese and also disabled.I have severe arthitis and cannot walk.I joined WeightWatchers 2 wks ago.I have only lost 4lbs so far.I know it IS a long road to go down.But I will travel slowly and get to know me all over again.I applaud YOU and thank you for being such an inspiration to me and millions of us out here.PS//I have over 100 lbs to lose to get to a normal weight for me.That is just the beginning.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

A fan — Fri, 12 Oct 2007 19:54:20 GMT

Great job Jodi,

Ive Been struggling to lose about 40 pounds. I previously lost 30 only to gain back 45 and now have lost 10. You truly have inspired me to go the extra mile. You are truly blessed

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

MGK — Sat, 13 Oct 2007 02:50:19 GMT

This note is in response to the ? "How did you deal with the excess skin after the weight loss?" Here is a tip: Use a rebounder (best on an empty stomach) several times a day. I cannot jump on it, my neck cannot asorb the shock, so I sprint in place. Follow the mini trampoline instructions so as to be SAFE. The sprinting exercises the skin which is the largest organ we have and tightens the elasticity. In time you should have tamed the "saggy =baggy elephant skin." :) :) :) I try for several times a day just to help reverse gravity's pull and what can be a diet scenario. Sincerely MGK

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Erin, Indiana — Mon, 15 Oct 2007 02:43:12 GMT

Wow! Way to go! Reading your story, and the comments of everyone else has really inspired me to do something with myself. I'm 19, 5'6" and 286 pounds. I've never been kissed. Hearing from women who are in thier fifties, living alone... I can see myself in there place. Far too easily.

I've tried diets and I agree. They don't work. They're almost impossible to stick to and they feel more like a punishment than a solution. What you did sounds do-able and I'm starting tomorrow. Exercise is equally difficult for me, as I'm in college and very busy with classes and school work. I'm to the point that I can't bear to be seen outside, exercising, though. We have a gym, so I'll go there and walk on the treadmill instead.

Thank you for sharing and showing all of us that it's never too late and there are other ways to get it to happen!

Erin

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Deatra Gunn (Sunny) Parkersburg, West Virginia 26101 — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 23:20:05 GMT

I am 60 yrs old and I weigh 215#'s, I have never been so upset or depressed about anything as this weight gain, these stories Jodi and the others are giving me hope that maybe I to can once again feel good, sleep well, climb the star's in my home without being totally out of breath, maybe even walk my dog, and once again start to have a social life and even maybe pose for a picture or two, I have fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome and let myself get so depressed then with the pain and lack of activity the weight jsut packed on allover my body, I want to loose this weight and with stories like this I see that there is hope for me.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

Lynette Hare, FairPlay,Mo. — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 19:12:56 GMT

Jodi it's hard to see the keys to write this through the tears. I am so happy for you! You are amazing. I am turning 40 in two weeks I'm 5'4" and I'm 271 lbs. I hurt so bad with every step I take. I have 4 chidren,3 teen sons and a 14yr. old daughter she is the youngest of my children. I don't have money to join a gym or buy "special diet foods" I'm really scared I'm going to die soon if I don't lose weight. I don' know how to even start to get healthy. I can only afford to buy foods that stretch, like pancake mix,bread,macaroni/spagetti and the cheapest ground beef etc. Is there anything you can tell me to start doing right now? I feel like it's just too late for me. I'm sooo afraid that I'm not going to be alive by my daughters graduation.

How I lost 162 pounds in 16 months

marie eve sept-iles — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 01:50:47 GMT

i like this