Occupation/Age: Retired, 66
Weight Lost: 155 pounds since December 2014
Why She Lost It: Clendening was previously unable to walk half of a city block without being winded, and felt that she was missing out on family activities.
How She Lost It: She had bariatric surgery at Kennestone Hospital, followed by a change in both her exercise and eating habits. She now attends the YMCA’s 2-hour water aerobics classes twice a week. Prior to beginning classes, she was unable to walk, but she now never misses a class. She credits her instructor, Julianna, with making the class both enjoyable and effective: “I owe her so much.”
Her Favorite Healthy Foods: A Zaxby’s Zensation salad to munch on throughout the day. She has found success by grazing throughout the day, rather than eating three big meals. Protein is her main focus in meals; white-meat chicken and fish are her favorite lean protein sources.
What Keeps Her Motivated: Family and roller coasters! Clendening recently visited Busch Gardens with her family, where she walked 9¾ miles and was able to ride her first rollercoaster in more than 25 years.
Lesson Learned: Although it has been amazing for Clendening, she cautions that bariatric surgery is not a quick fix for weight loss; it is a total lifestyle change, and if done correctly, “the results are phenomenal.” She urges those who are considering it to be ready to change their mindset on health, because “anybody can do it, but nobody can do it for you.”
Reprinted from EAST COBBER’s June/July 2016 issue
