Elise has dedicated a great deal of her life to the care of others. However at 165kg, Elise’s quality of life was not what it could be. Previously a part time carer for a mum and now a Community Support Worker, she felt she wanted to improve her health not just for her but to assist her in caring for others better.

“I was really worried about my life expectancy”, remembers Elise. “There were a range of things I knew I wanted to improve. I wanted to take better care of my mum and be able to move around more easily. I also wanted to get back into the workforce and losing the weight would open up my options.”

Elise had been diagnosed with sleep apnoea and hypertension and her family history of Diabetes put her at risk of developing the condition. While chatting with a friend one day, they mentioned a colleague who had been doing another weight loss program. Elise decided to investigate further and while she was researching options she came across the LifeShape program and made an online enquiry.

“It took me a while to return the LifeShape's follow-up phone calls and make a booking. I couldn’t tell you what it was that stopped me,” admits Elise. “But I can tell you that once I had my Initial Assessment I felt good and I knew I wanted to do it!”

The rest is history. Elise began working with the LifeShape Clinic team at Clayfield on making positive lifestyle changes and she hasn’t looked back since.

“The support was great, not just from my Dietitian but also from my Psychologist and the Client Service Staff,” says Elise. “I learnt so many great strategies that taught me to eat things so I would enjoy them and how to manage myself at upcoming events like Christmas. I also remember the clinic Doctor told me if I hadn’t done too well between consultations that I shouldn’t cancel. It was at those appointments that I should talk about what was going on and how to get back on track. Luckily I didn’t fall off the wagon but it’s always stuck at the back of my mind to ask for the help if I need it.”

Elise also enjoyed one of the many tools a LifeShape program uses to get clients results, the FitBit.

“The FitBit is so handy! It’s so motivating to keep track of your steps each day. My friends have one as well and we have some healthy competition going to see who is most active each day,” explains Elise. “My friends have been really supportive. When we catch up, they ask what healthy snacks they can get for me. I also find myself bringing my own healthy options to get togethers so there’s always something I can have.”

Elise finds her active job as a Community Support Worker is great at helping her reach her daily 10,000 steps goal. However if by the end of her day she’s a little short she will head out for a walk.

“I really enjoyed walking before gaining the weight – now I love getting back out,” says Elise. “I also occasionally do some laps at the pool.”

To achieve her astonishing weight loss of 75kg^, Elise utilised meal replacements during her program.

“I thought meal replacements would be hard. However I added psyllium husks to thicken it up. It just worked for me and the bars are a lifesaver!” proclaims Elise. “They are a great snack. My mum and I used to enjoy afternoon tea of a cuppa and biscuit together. I started swapping my biscuit for a bar so I didn’t feel like I was missing out.”

Nearly two years on since completing her core LifeShape program, Elise finds it hard to look back at old photos of herself. However she revels in the compliments she receives, even from complete strangers.

“I’m a Brisbane Lions fan, and we sit in the same seats each game. One day a lady who sits a few rows behind us came down to ask me what on earth I had been doing! Another person also repeatedly asked me if I had got a lapband. I was tempted to lift up my top to prove I had no surgery scars!” laughs Elise. “I just told them I was eating healthily and exercising with the help of LifeShape.”

Since completing her core program, vast improvements have been noticed in all area of Elise’s life.

“I’ve had great improvements with my sleep apnoea. I also don’t crave the same things I used to. Before, I would find myself reaching for chips - but they would just fill a hole,” remembers Elise. “Looking back I was hardly moving and certainly not enough to work off the calories I was consuming.”

Elise has some great advice for anyone on the fence about doing the program.

“Give it a go and keep an open mind,” implores Elise. “Try the meal replacements but the option of a meal plan is always there. I was on a few per day but had a nice, healthy meal at night which I didn’t want to give up and that was ok.”

Now on a Support program, Elise comes in regularly to touch base with her dedicated team of health professionals when she needs it.

“The team care approach has really worked for me. The support from the staff, even those on reception, has been incredible the whole way.”

Results may vary. To find out what you can achieve on your LifeShape Program book a no obligation initial assessment with one of our Dietitians, call 1800 567 348. Alternatively you can register your interest online.