By Theresa Campbell
Tremendous transformation
Angie Dolan discovers losing weight erases her health woes of polycystic ovarian syndrome, diabetes, sleep apnea, and fatigue.
Angie Dolan knew her health was out of whack when she began experiencing diabetes, fatigue, depression, and sleep apnea.
“I have always been extremely overweight pretty much my whole life, ever since fourth-grade,” says the 24-year-old Tavares resident. “And when I was 21, I gained 90 pounds in seven months, so I knew there was something wrong. Plus, not having a menstrual cycle scared me.”
Angie was overly exhausted, too.
“I would drive home from work and would be falling asleep because I was so tired,” she says of her short drive from Leesburg to Tavares.
A sleep study confirmed she had sleep apnea and needed to use a CPAC machine. Additional tests by her doctor revealed she had polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a treatable cause of infertility. She was told it was vital for her to lose weight—if she ever wanted to become pregnant and have children.
Her physician’s words stunned her.
“I was very unhealthy; everything was attributed to my weight,” Angie says. “When my doctor said I couldn’t have kids, I realized this is pretty serious.”
She began working out and started following Weight Watchers. “I didn’t want to be stuck in the lifestyle of eating just chicken and broccoli,” she says.
Angie also posted her journey on Instagram to be accountable.
“The first six months, I just kind of Googled everything; I was just really determined. I was very motivated,” she says.
Her hard work in over 1½ years has paid off. Angie lost 100 pounds and has gone from a dress size 24 to size 9.
She aims to lose another 30 pounds.
“Losing weight has been worth it,” Angie says. “I don’t use a CPAC machine, I don’t have diabetes. My doctors are amazed.”
She’s grateful to have regulated her cycle, which makes the future more promising for Angie and her husband Andrew to have children.
More about Angie
In my refrigerator: Lots of fruit, especially oranges and grapes, and lots of protein.
My diet: Weight Watchers on mobile app.
When I’m tempted to cheat: I distract myself.
Favorite exercise: Powerlifting.
Favorite gyms: CrossFit Unmatched in Mount Dora, Planet Fitness in Eustis.
Favorite read: “5 Second Rule,” by Mel Robbins.
Originally from Anderson, Ind., Theresa worked for The Herald-Bulletin for many years. After experiencing a winter with 53 inches of snow, her late husband asked her to get a job in Florida, and they headed south. Well known in the area, Theresa worked with The Daily Sun and The Daily Commercial prior to joining Akers.
