Lose 26 Pounds in 90 Days!

Kennesha Thomas Smith’s before and after photos.

Kennesha Thomas Smith giggles more now, walks with a brighter smile, a quicker step, and a new sense of confidence. It is amazing what a difference 26 pounds can make!

In an effort to encourage staff members to get on a healthier path of life, the Public Relations Unit of the BVI Health Services Authority organized, ‘The Biggest Loser’ Programme.  Similar to the hit television show, the aim of the programme was to assist persons to lose weight, but more importantly to eat healthier and to exercise; changing lifestyles to promote an enhanced quality of life.

HOW KENNESHA THOMAS SMITH LOST 26 POUNDS AND 4 DRESS SIZES IN 90 DAYS!

The 90 day programme commenced on March 21 with 22 staff members who eagerly signed up and took their ‘before’ pictures.  This process was not always an easy task, but it is imperative to see the TRUE picture at the end of the journey.

Participants were given a Turbo Jam exercise DVD (one that was very instrumental in my initial weight loss), a food guide, and were fed motivational tips, emails, and sessions throughout their journey.  During our discussions, we were able to share challenges and successes, as well as celebrate others who progressed; the group also served as a support system for those who were struggling along the way.

One of the things I learnt from this experience is that CONSTANT motivation is KEY to real, sustained, success.  There were five (5) weigh-ins throughout the process, and motivational tips were sent weekly by email, to ensure that participants never felt alone.  Due to other obligations, some members of the group were unable to continue to the end…but just by looking at the winner, Mrs. Kennesha Thomas Smith, I’m sure you will agree with me that it was worth it.  The BVI Health Services Authority is now 125 pounds lighter! 

First place went to Kennesha Thomas Smith who lost 26 pounds.  She lost 17 inches overall; with 7 of those inches coming off her waist.  Kennesha also went down four dresses size, going from a size 14 to a size 6. Second place went to Aisha Maduro who lost 17 pounds.

There was a tie for third place, which went to Valerie Hendrickson and Akeelah Frett who both lost 14 pounds. I am so very proud of all the participants but especially to our winners, not because they look smaller, but because they feel better about themselves; there is a renewed confidence; and most importantly, with the new education, they are indeed on the path to living a healthier, more fulfilled life.

When I spoke with Kennesha, after she was able to see her ‘before’ and ‘after’ pictures side by side. She was stunned and she was so happy. “I think I look better now and I feel good about myself.  I now want to encourage other people to exercise; to just get out there and do it!” Thomas Smith exclaimed.

Kennesha is a Dietary Aide at Peebles Hospital and works day and night shifts; she loves to cook and travel. She’s also the wife of Zeddie Smith and the mother of two-year-old daughter, Aliana.  She is a living testimony that you can have a busy life, and still take some time out to take care of yourself.  To celebrate her great achievement, Kennesha wins a brand new outfit, compliments of UMI Fashions and she will also appear on Tami Live to tell her story to the world, with the hope of encouraging others to achieve their weight loss goals.

Mrs. Thomas Smith says that she will continue to exercise now because she just feels so much better about herself.  I take this opportunity to encourage other persons who are struggling with their weight to make today your day to decide to get on that healthier road.  Don’t wait for the right day, or month or season; do it now.  It’s important to start slowly, to drink lots of water, and to write down what you are eating.  But before you start any exercise programme, it is important for you to see your health care professional.

I conclude by stressing how important it is to surround yourself with people who are going to support and celebrate you.  No matter what your goal is in life, it is imperative to have the right support system around you, as you step out on your journey. 

And remember, every step in the right direction is a reason to celebrate, so every once in a while, take time out to celebrate life!