19 Sep 2011 A lifestyle change: Weight loss tops 125 pounds

by Sonja J. Keith

When DeAnna Smith changed her “stinkin’ thinkin’” the result was amazing – the loss of more than 125 pounds.

Born and raised in Conway, DeAnna recalls being a cheerleader and enjoying an active life in school playing a variety of sports. “I was never really heavy in high school.”

It was after she “married into the Air Force” that her lifestyle began to change and her weight increased. Citing the stress and strain of military life, DeAnna recalls worrying about her husband Ray’s safety while he was deployed overseas. Then came two children, Trey and Noah.

DeAnna said the bottom line was she was not putting herself and her health first. The needs of her family and friends came before her own. “To be a better mom or be a better wife, I’ve got to put myself first.”

The change in attitude and her physical appearance occurred after a group of DeAnna’s co-workers at Conway Corporation started attending a weight management class led by Kellie Dye at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center. DeAnna noticed their excitement about the class, but it wasn’t until six or seven months later – in January 2010 – that she decided to check it out. She was accustomed to counting carbohydrates because of her son’s Type 1 Diabetes, so she thought counting calories would be easy. “But there is a big difference in counting carbs and calories.”

As part of the class, participants are encouraged to keep a food diary, which Kellie reviews. She also provides a breakdown of the number of calories needed to maintain an individual’s weight. Calling it her “Bubba Burger Reality Story,” DeAnna was surprised how many calories were in a grilled hamburger with a piece of cheese – it exceeded the total amount for the meal and she hadn’t added the bun or anything else.

“Calorie counting was an eye opener to me,” she said. “Kellie has changed my stinkin’ thinkin.’”

DeAnna said in addition to becoming more aware of calories, Kellie and the class have helped her change other attitudes, like thinking you have “earned” the right to eat unhealthy foods to relieve stress. “I’ve learned if you have a bad day, you can make a better choice.”

In addition, DeAnna has learned that sleep and rest are just as important to stay fit as eating and exercising. “If you change your priorities and perspective on what is important, the rest falls into place.”

The weight management class has also provided accountability in a supportive group atmosphere. Members offer ideas and suggestions based on their personal experience.

From the class, DeAnna has learned how to make better food choices in different social settings. She also puts in an extra workout because she loves food, especially when her husband cooks.

After she joined the class, DeAnna started walking. She remembers only being able to walk around the track at the McGee Community Center twice. “In my head that was fine. That was better than sitting on the couch at home.”

As a reward for her weight loss, DeAnna was given a three month membership to the fitness center. Soon, she began working out with a group of co-workers who meet at 5 a.m. She said the early hour gives her time for herself without taking away from time with her family. She also checked out classes that were available. Now, DeAnna and her co-workers share the expense for a personal trainer.

DeAnna weighed 289 pounds when she started the class and has lost nearly 130 pounds.

The weight loss has enabled DeAnna to better enjoy some family activities, like amusement park rides with her kids. “My family is very supportive,” she said. “I feel so much better. I have so much energy.”

DeAnna points out that healthy weight loss is doable. “There’s not a quick fix. You didn’t put the weight on overnight, and you’re not going to take it off overnight.” She said quick weight loss usually comes back and results in more weight gain.

“This isn’t a diet. It’s a lifestyle change. This is something I hope to continue – eating right, being active and being healthy.”

DeAnna’s advice to others is simple – “Weight loss is a journey you have to decide you want. No one else can do this for you.”