After major surgery left Andrea Fernandez battling with her weight, she decided to take matters into her own hands.

‘I have always been slightly overweight since the age of 12,’ says Andrea Fernandez. ‘My diet consisted of on-again, off-again yo-yo diets with relapses. I would lose and gain weight regularly.’ Although it was always a struggle, Andrea found her weight becoming unmanageable after surgery to remove her gallbladder. ‘My weight jumped from 73 kg to 145 kg in just under two years or so. I had no control over my body and started to develop PTSD due to the sudden weight gain,’ she shares. Even after numerous visits to the doctor, Andrea still couldn’t seem to take back control. Until she decided to do it herself. ‘I knew I had no option other than to fight back on my own.’ We chat to her about the good, the bad, and the journey.

It’s Incredible That You’ve Finally Found Peace After Your Struggle. How Did You Manage To Stay Committed?
Being so overweight was challenging. I received a lot of rejection and judgement from others. Family members who hadn’t seen me for a number of years would be so taken back by my size that it felt as if my weight gain was an ‘elephant in the room’ that no one wanted to discuss. I used the negative comments and the rejection I endured as a way to fuel my motivation to keep going. I also let those who offered support and encouragement be my guide to know I  deserved to be in a body that was healthy. 

Where Are You Now In Your Fitness Regime?
I train four times a week with Tatum, owner of Trained by Tates. I have actually recently decided to take on the challenge of competing in my first body-building competition under the Bikini category. My trainer and I have set a goal for ourselves to motivate others on a similar journey, so that they know it’s possible to go from 145 kg to stage ready. We have set a goal of 10–12 months. By the end of 2022, the objective is to be competition ready.

What An Amazing Feat! How Has Your  Diet Evolved Since Your Decision To Make A Change? 
I eat completely differently now. My food intake consists of high-nutrient foods that ensure I am full and well-nourished. I do occasionally have a treat, but I believe that self-control is one of the essential components on this journey. 

 So True! What Do You Know Now That You Wish You Had Known Earlier?
There is so much that I’ve learnt that I could address, but on a personal level, I have learnt that the true struggle with weight loss is mental. To stay motivated and disciplined and to maintain a balanced level of self-control is key. As an emotional eater, I couldn’t let my emotions ruin the long-term plan to regain my health. We have to push through challenging moments and remain focused on the long-term goal. Eventually, it gets easier as new, healthier habits develop.  

Her Status

Age: 34

Based: Johannesburg

Occupation: Operations Officer

Height: 1.64 m

Weight Before: 145 kg

Weight After: 58 kg

Transformation: 4 years

Photography: Courtesy Images