Tracie Shields is a true survivor.
As a mammographer living in Smyrna, Georgia, Tracie Shields witnessed a lot of emotions from her patients ranging from fear and anger, to tears and relief. Emotions can surface in many ways when patients come in for a mammogram. One of the biggest challenges for mammographers is seeing the hardships women endure when diagnosed with breast cancer.
But even years of working as a mammographer could not prepare Tracie for her own diagnosis with breast cancer. The irony of this hardship tested both her emotional resolve and endurance. Tracie persevered, and the cancer went into remission.
As a breast cancer survivor, Tracie felt empowered. No challenge could ever compare to the fight against cancer. She knew that in order to live a healthier lifestyle she had to survive yet another journey; a weight loss journey. Tracie Shields started Medifast and lost a whopping 53.8 pounds*, going from a size 20 to a size 8, in 10 months.
In honor of National Cancer Survivors Day, we talked to Tracie about her journey of survival…
What was your motivation for weight loss?
I am a breast cancer survivor and I wanted to decrease my chances of reoccurrence. Also, I has my first grandchild and I was too heavy to get on the floor and play with him.
What was the impact on your social life?
I was embarrassed and wore really large clothes to try and hide my size.
Have you tried other diets?
I have tried them all! I would lose a few pounds but I wouldn’t stick with them for more than a few weeks.
Why did you choose Medifast?
I knew two people who had excellent success and I trusted their opinion.
When did you first see results?
The first week I lost nine pounds! I lost twenty pounds the first month!
How did others respond?
Excited! Disbelief! My husband told me I looked amazing and it made me cry. Then we were out running the other day and he said I looked like a natural! I have never run so easily!
Did your health improve?
My blood pressure meds have been reduced because of my weight loss. My cholesterol and triglycerides are also better because of the weight loss.
How has your life changed post-Medifast?
I can play in the floor! I can run! I have a ton of energy! I love life and I am excited for my future!!!
More about National Cancer Survivors Day:
National Cancer Survivors Day is a day set aside every year to celebrate the lives of those who have survived the arduous journey that is cancer. Not just for survivors, National Cancer Survivors Day is for everyone, survivor, family member, friend or medical professional to connect with each other, celebrate milestones, and recognize those who have supported them along the way. It is a day to inspire those who have been recently diagnosed, support families and reach out to the community.
* Results vary; typical weight loss is 2-5 lbs. per week for the first 2 weeks, then 1-2 lbs. per week thereafter.
