Melissa’s Support System

This member discovered that eating healthy, exercising, and finding support helped her conquered her biggest roadblocks.
Published December 1, 2015

Melissa lost 57 lbs*


*At 6 months, participants in a clinical trial of the WW weight-loss program lost an average of 9.7 lbs (5% of body weight). And, people who track their food more often lose more weight. When actual WW members track their food at least two times a week for 6 months they lose on average 16.6 lbs. (7.9% body weight). Melissa lost weight on a prior program and is continuing on WeightWatchers.

In Melissa’s words:
I made my first attempt at quitting smoking in 2008. During the first few months, I gained a small amount of weight as I turned to food to satisfy my addiction. I stopped working out and gained more weight. Shortly thereafter, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism, a thyroid disorder that also causes weight gain. I started smoking again, thinking it would help me curb my excess eating, but it didn’t help.

Support is all around


The turning point
I remember going shopping with my fiancé and trying on clothes in the size that I thought I wore, but to my surprise, they didn't fit. I was so upset about it that I left the store. He told me that he loved me and that I was beautiful no matter what, but I was disgusted with the way I looked. Still, I continued to make poor food decisions; the junk food always made me feel better. One day, Cyndi, one of my best friends and co-workers, asked me if I wanted to start working out together. We began going to the gym the very next day. Going for regular workouts felt great — I was getting in shape, and I was no longer just “donating” money to my gym every month!  But exercise and dieting weren’t making enough of a difference, so we decided to join WW together. I had been on the program twice before, and it had always worked for me.

Fitting in workouts
I'm more active now than I've ever been. I participate in FitBit challenges, which help me to keep moving. I started running and I’ve participated in two 5K races. I didn't even care about my time; I just wanted to complete the races. It felt amazing to cross the finish line! I go to the gym five days a week. I do an hour of cardio, usually the elliptical, and an hour of strength training, alternating between arms and abs one day and legs and abs the next. On weekdays, Cyndi and I are at the gym by 3:30 am because I have to be home in time to get my kids off to school and get to the office. I’ve tried working out in the evening but I find that I’m either too busy or too tired. In the beginning, it was hard to get started, and to be honest, it's still tough some days, but I consider it my “me” time. It makes me feel good about myself and the person I've become. Occasionally, I will go with my teenage daughter, Brittany, on the weekends. I think it’s always a great idea to have a workout buddy because it helps to keep each other motivated and to stay on track.

How Melissa’s success with WW has improved her life


Supportive family and friends
While I was in the process of losing, I'd text my mother after my Sunday Wellness Check-in to give her an update on my week. She always shared words of encouragement to keep me going in the right direction. My fiancé and my kids think it's funny that I get so excited over earning charms, but they have all told me that they’re proud of me. Now my daughter is a WW member and is excited to receive her own charms. My gym partner, Cyndi, who is also a WW member, often reminds me how far I've come and how happy she is for me. Our 8:30 Sunday morning WW Workshop, our “WW Family,” is always a great way to reset and get back on track for the week ahead. Our WW Coach and the staff are amazing and a true inspiration.

Staying fit and healthy for life 
I'm proud of all I've accomplished by reaching my goal weight and I feel amazing knowing that I can maintain it. I've become a better role model for my children by showing them how to live a healthier lifestyle. I've learned that I do enjoy working out — and also that I’m a little more competitive than I thought! Now that I have maintained my goal weight for almost a year, developed healthy eating habits and a regular workout routine, I'm tackling the next part of my journey: I've quit smoking for good this time!  I will always find something to improve on in my life. The journey will never end...