Hiiiiiiey everyone!!!
So it seems pretty crazy that this is my FIRST blog post! I feel like life has been SO CRAZY these past few months and I should have been blogging about ALL of it, but unfortunately I didn’t. Now that I’m 1 week and 2 days post op for my skin removal surgery, I feel like I finally have a moment to sit down and just BREATHE! And of course the first thing I wanted to do was post all about my life, including my surgery, for all of you! 
It’s been an absolutely crazy experience, but so worth it…!!
Okay, so as most of you know, in the past year and a half, I have lost a massive amount of weight. Over 230 pounds to be exact! I think a lot of you know my story about all of that, and if not, I’ll post another blog about that, but in turn from that weight loss, I, of course, had a massive amount of extra skin. This extra skin isn’t just your little bit of skin on your arms or inner thighs that you want to get taken care of because of a “look” that you are going for. The skin that I had on my body was completely holding me back from accomplishing my ultimate goals in weight loss and other areas of life. It even held me back from getting to where I wanted to be for finale, etc. I am a pretty dang good runner, and the skin was not allowing me to run at my full potential. There are just so many reasons that I needed to get this skin issue taken care of so I could continue to better myself each & everyday!!! SO with that being said, on July 11, 2011, I got an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) & a brachioplasty (arm skin) done by Dr. Mark Grevious out of Chicago. I will go into more detail about him & the hospital in another blog later on because I know some of you are curious! All I can say is that I am in COMPLETE amazement of how awesome he is. He did such a fantastic job and I am already saying that only one week out! 7 hours later & I’m a completely new woman!!!
Everyone keeps asking me about the pain! Of course that’s a huge question, especially for anyone who is thinking about getting the surgery done. I will say that YES, there is definitely pain that comes with this procedure of course, but it’s NOT as bad as I thought it would be. I have managed my pain very well with the pain medicine and also with just making sure I am not doing too much & following EVERYTHING the doctor is telling me. I would say that right now, I’m more uncomfortable than in pain. I’m sick of being “layed up” in bed and in my house in the middle of the summer, ya know? BUT at the same time, I also know how incredibly worth it all of this is in the long run & just keep telling myself, “It’s only 6 weeks Courtney!” You all know me…unable to sit still for long periods of time!! hehe. But I will say that the BEST moment that I’ve had since I started my weight loss journey a year and a half ago was just the other day when I was laying in bed looking down at my bruised up & scarred up body. (I’m mummified!!) I looked down and saw EVERYTHING straight down. My stomach is FLAT. My body is FLAT. I never, ever, EVER in a million years thought that I would be where I am today physically, mentally, and emotionally. I started crying immediately. I am so PROUD and seeing myself post surgery really put the final touches on it for me! I can’t even imagine what I’m going to be thinking when the drains aren’t hanging from me (praying that happens tomorrow) and I’m able to put on normal clothes and just feel like a NORMAL person for probably the first time in my life!! I know that probably sounds horrible, but it’s just the truth. I’ve lived my entire life as the fat girl and even when I lost all the weight I lost, I still had so much skin that I still felt like the fat girl. Here’s to a new beginning!!!! And that’s just what this is. This just the beginning. It SURELY is not a finish line…there is NEVER, EVER a finish line in my opinion. I will continue to better myself DAILY for the rest of my life!!!
This blog is seriously just a little TASTE of everything that’s been going on with me lately. It’s only one little part of the surgery blog that I want to write about, but I’ve been getting SO many questions about it so I hope this answered some of them! I also hope that you all know that THIS can be you someday too. All of the proud moments I’m having…all of the joy that I have in my life, all of the hardships I’ve overcome, all of the weight I’ve lost both physically & mentally, everything…it can be you too! YOU just have to want it. YOU just have to believe it. It may take you a while to change your body (if that’s what you want out of your life change) but it will only take you one split second to change your mind. When you do that, there is no looking back…I PROMISE!!!!! Believe in yourself ALWAYS & fight for you DAILY. You’ve got this, my darlings!!!!! We are all in this together…:)
My next blog will of course be much more “thought out” & not so random! I was just thinking of things off the top of my head that have happened in the past few days and wanted to jot them down for you all!! I’m still working on my blog so this is seriously just the rawest form of me you are going to get right now!
Much love to all of you! Please leave me your feedback & also let me know any ideas of future blogs you’d like me to write about!! ANYTHING goes!!
xoxoxoxo
Court
PS–The two biggest questions I’ve gotten since surgery are:
1- “So you’re totally in onederland after surgery then, RIGHT!?” – Well, considering they took 30+ pounds of skin off of me, I would say yes, probably. I don’t know right now because I’m filled with fluid and with drains hanging from my body, so I’m not about to step on a scale and see some number that’s not even close to being accurate right now. I went into my surgery at 212 pounds, though. So I should be. BUT just for the record, I COULD CARE LESS ABOUT THAT. I don’t give a CRAP about numbers anymore! Numbers at this point are lame. I am going by the feeling that I have from the INSIDE OUT & I feel ABSOLUTELY FABULOUS. THAT is what I am going to measure my success by from now on. Of course it’ll be great to be in “onederland”, but I will be proud no matter what a stupid number on a scale says!!!
2- “When do we get to see pictures?! HURRY POST PICTURES.” – I have 5 drains hanging from my body and I was just pumped with mass amounts of fluids in the hospital, so I am, of course, not going to post pictures yet. The recovery period for this surgery is 4-6 weeks, so once I’m healed up and can put normal clothes on and not have drains hanging from me…you will see pics. Until then, please be patient! Thank you all!!!
Thank you for your honesty and love you give us all. Congratulations on your new flat tummy. I hope you continue to heal and look forward to when you post your new photos.
PS…If you live in the Midwest area you have not missed much by not going outside in this heat we have been having. Take care, Teresa
Thank YOU for reading darling!! Glad you enjoyed it!!
Congrats on all your success Courtney. You looked fabulous before your skin surgery and I’m sure you still look fabulous now. All the best!! Keep blogging and I’ll keep reading
. Cheers!
Awww, thank you!! I felt fab before hand too, but this is BEYOND that! Love it! Thank you so much!! xoxoxo
Thank you for sharing your experience with us. You are truly an inspiration and I hope to one day be where you are at right now. The best of luck on everything!
Thank you, Lily! Means more than you know! xoox
I have always thought that I had TOO MUCH weight to lose, that it was impossible, that it just wouldn’t happen…but if it DID, I knew that my stomach would be horrible because of the skin. It’s like the lesser of the two evils – fat and “full” or thin with loose skin? I’ve been terrified to find out…until now. You truly are an inspiration, Courtney. I know you hear that lot, but it’s true. I look forward to contacting you when I start making progress in my journey and when I reach my goal to say “I did it…just like you!”
Trust me babe, if I can do it…you CAN too!!! I promise you that! Keep going…one CHOICE at a time and you’ll get there! Proud of you! <3
Thanks for sharing Courtney! I have been praying for your recovery! I am so proud of you for everything you have done! You inspire me daily and I am really excited about the blog! You are an amazing woman and I am so blessed to have met you…you encourage me daily whether u know it or not! God Bless! Love,Jules
Oh, Julie! I’m so proud of YOU too girl!!! Seriously you look fabulous!!!! Thank you for your kind words always! I’m blessed to have met you too!
You are such an inspiration! I love the fact that you are from my birth town! I have lost 94 lbs and still have quite a bit to go. WHICH is soooo discouraging, but you are so inspiring. I am so glad you are starting a blog. I can def use your inspiration! LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU!!!!
Thank you, sweeetie. Looooove you too!!!
Congratulations Courtney! I can only imagine how awesome and excited you must feel. I’m curious about your story and will be following your blog but I am even more curious about what it feels like to become a celebrity all at once and have hundreds if not thousands of people who want to talk to you and feel like they know you. How do you keep up with it? Praying that you heal quickly and continue to manage your pain.
haha! I am no celebrity but I will definitely write a lot about life after biggest loser and such!! Stay tuned!
xoxoxo
Courtney, Thank You for sharing your life with everyone! You are a beautiful person, inside and out. The fact that you share everything helps those of us who are on the same journey know that it is possible.
I have loss 78 lbs so far with another 150 or so to go. I hope to be as brave and comfortable sharing my journey with others as you are.
Again, Thank You. OH Love the blog, great job! I can’t wait to read more.
WOW! congrats on your amazing success so far and just KEEP GOING!!! I know hard it is, but I also know how WORTH it is too!! xoxoxo
Go Courtney! You are such a huge inspiration. I just started my journey to lose 100lbs in one year and know that I will need a similar surgery as well, so reading about your journey is awesome!
You go girl!!! You’ve GOT this for sure!!!!
Courtney…I appreciate your openness and willingness to share about your journey. I have recently (within the last two months lost about 25lbs and I’m still working my butt off (literally). I wanted to say that people can do it. I don’t have a gym membership and I have a three year old and a ten month old. I started at 224lbs. I am down to 198 and I’m so happy to be able to keep up better with my kids with just a little bit gone. I am only 27 years old and I don’t want to be held back by weight and I think what you’re doing by being so public is awesome. It inspires others. I can also say that a website called myfitnesspal.com has been a big blessing in my life. You log your exercise and calories and it shows you your progress. It’s so inspiring because you become friends with others who are working on their own personal journeys…some just starting…others in the middle…and finally those who’ve reached their goals, but are in the maintenance phase. I would encourage anyone who needs that support to check that website out and best of all they have smartphone apps so you can take it on the go with you. I think we all need some inspiration and you are helping inspire so many. I love to read and hear the stories of the people off the BL. I feel this last season really spoke to me the most, and I am so ready to be a success story like all of you already are! Thanks again for your encouragement.
Emily
Thank you so so so much for your kind words! And CONGRATS on your amazing success so far!! Keep going…one choice at a time chica!! xoxox
So glad you’re doing well after your surgery, Court! I’m also grateful you’re so willing to share with all of us– I’m somewhat at the beginning of my weight loss journey (down 56 pounds since January) and I like getting a preview of some of what’s still to come.
Wow. When you think about how much skin they took off, it’s just insane, isn’t it? They took away more than a toddler’s worth of skin! When the uncomfortableness that comes with post-op recovery is over, it’s going to feel AMAZING to go running and do other things without all that “extra baggage” that’s been getting in the way
I’m looking forward to all you future blog updates, and wish you the best!
Thank you so much for your kind words, Claire! You are such a sweetheart & I appreciate it more than you know! And CONGRATS on your success so far too! 56 pounds is NOOO JOKE!!!
I think you are amazing, Courtney! I can’t wait to read more of your blog. It was The Biggest Loser that finally encouraged me to work on reaching my weight-loss goals. So far, I’m down 83 lbs. with 12 to go. I’ve often said that a tummy tuck would be one cosmetic surgery I’d consider having, so I’m looking forward to seeing pictures of your results. Thanks for being such an encouragement.
WOW…congrats on the 83!!!! The last 12 will be hard, but you’ve got it darlin!! One choice at a time, as you know!! I’m rooting for you
Congratulations on your success. What a great accomplishment. In the past year I’ve lost 132 pounds. I’m dealing with some loose skin issues and will be seeing a doctor in the coming weeks to figure out my options. Glad all went well for you!!!
Thank you so much & congrats on the weight loss! WOWWW that’s amazing!! I know how hard it is to lose weight, especially on your own so props to you and everyone on this blog who has done that!! you guys all ROCK!!
I love my sweet Court! I LOVE your attitude about your journey at this point! Seriously, I am not going to lie, when people have been asking you for pictures and what size are you and weight ALREADY at this point, I have been like, REALLY? Hello she is still on bed rest, do you think she has gone to the store all in pain and tried on clothes, REALLY?! And I am sure in your recovering state you just hop on the scale!! LOL Ok, enough of my sarcasm!
You know where I stand, and that I think you are the BOMB.COM!
It is so important to record your feelings and your life, you will be glad you did… It has motivated me to finish my finale and Fitness Ridge Blogs!!
Love you Baby Doll!
Megs
Awww, Meg, I knew you would understand my little bit of sarcasm there at the end. Sometimes the questions I get I’m just like…………….! hahaha I think that YOUUUU are the bomb.com! Love you so much girlie!! Always!!!! And yes, get on those blogs b/c I want to read them!:)
WOW Courtney! I can only say: WOW
that match was meant to be! Maktub: “it was written” (in Arabic)
I feel truly happy for you!
I recently moved to the US (from Peru) and have learned a lot about nutrition from u and your peeps of BL 11
(Eating in a Latinamerican country is very different than here, for instance, there is no corn syrup in Peru!)
I wish for you a quick recovery and that you continue as happy and cheerful as now
Good luck with Alex too
Cheers!
Mariola
Thank you so much, Mariola!!!! I appreciate your kind words more than you know!
Hope you are enjoying the US!
Courtney, you are just too awesome! I’m happy to hear that you are keeping your chin up through all of this, my friend had the same procedure done but for allll of the wrong reasons and she was miserable during recovery. I’m also really excited for you to be blogging! I just started my first blog too, it’s a weight loss one on sparkpeople.com. In the past two years I have lost 43lbs but need to lose at least another 35. I am finally back on track with eating healthy and having correct portions and I think my success has a lot to do with my blog. I love it and I know you will too. Can’t wait to hear more from you. Keep smiling!
I’m sad to hear about your friend feeling miserable thru it! I know that I could totally get to that place if I let myself, but I am SOOOOO grateful and feel so blessed to be where I am!!! It’s ONLY a positive thing, ya know?! Congrats on the 43 pounds and keep going and fighting for the last 35! You’ve got it darlin!!!
Congrats Courtney! I have watched BL since like season 3 or 4, and always have a favorite who I use as motivation in my own struggles with weight/weight loss. U were most definitely the favorite of your season. I was so devastated when you went home, but even at that moment, on the scale, when U said with a smile “This is not the end of my journey” that was an amazing moment.
I have also always kind of wondered about the issue with the excess skin after such a vast weight loss over a relatively short period of time. No one else, to my knowledge, has ever come out and talked about the need for the skin surgery before you. To be so open and available to people about such a personal issue. U have such courage! U deserve the absolute most happiness of about anyone I “know”.
My question for U is that U have continued to put urself in a position to try to continue to help and motivate people to make better choices and live a healthier life. I have noticed that U (as well as Jillian and Bob and a lot of other industry experts) correctly say over and over again that once “we” make the decision that we deserve to be healthy, etc., that we too can accomplish our goals.
What if someone isn’t sure that they deserve that happiness? We may want it, but maybe too much has happened and too many mistakes have been made, Maybe we missed our chance to have a happy life. How do U become worthy of happiness again?
One of my favorite quotes EVER is – “It’s never too late to be what you might have been.” – I understand that there are many people in this world that have been through MUCH more than I have in so many ways. Some things that people have gone through, I could probably never understand. With that being said though, I was a 435 pound 20 year old and I could have lost hope and died at a young age. I decided in one SPLIT SECOND that I wasn’t going to die and I WAS worthy. I had no idea what I was going to fight for, but I knew I had to start fighting. As I kept fighting, the fight got easier and things became more clear. Sometimes you might just have to go blindly into it…blind faith…and just BELIEVE in you first and foremost. Even if you don’t think you deserve it, if you believe that it can be done…it can!!! Start stepping NOW and you will surprise yourself, I almost guarentee it!
Courtney- First of all, as a blogger myself, I am SO glad you decided to start a blog!! I think it’s an incredible way to express yourself and also a really fantastic network of people.
Congratulations on all of your weight loss, AMAZING!! And, I can’t wait for you to heal up and look in the mirror and see where all of your hard work has taken you!
I’m just starting my weight loss “journey”, and I have over 200lbs to lose, but surrounding myself with blogs, facebook posts, and tweets from people like you have made all the difference so far. Thank you for that!
I’ve been blogging out my journey so far on a private blog, but I hope to soon move the posts over to my public one! Just a little worried because EVERYBODY has an opinion and sometimes they aren’t what I need to hear!
Congrats again!!
Thank you soooo much for your kind words, darlin! I look forward to reading YOUR blogs too!! xooxox
Courtney, I’m also finding it difficult to exercise with large amounts of loose skin. I went from 330 to currently 234 in a year and a half. What does this surgery intail – large scars? Do they cut off skin or just tuck it away?? Thank you for being so inspiring and I am so proud to have watched part of your journey unfold!
I do have pretty large scars right now, but they should fade and some may even go away within the next few months to a year. One of the scars is already fading and it’s less than 2 weeks out! They definitely REMOVED skin from my body (about 30 pounds) and it is so worth it!! Good luck to you, darling!!! I know it’s scary, but I PROMISE it’s worth it!
You are just so great! I’m not overweight but you are still inspiring to me to keep going and to let me know that anything is possible. We’re the same age (although you might be a year older than me in school, not sure what year you graduated) and I am so excited that you get to live your 20s being fit, healthy and strong! Love your bubbly personality and positive attitude! Keep it up, you are truly AMAZING!!
Awww, thank you so much, Kenz!! To be honest, this battle we all call LIFE has nothing to do with weight. SOME of us struggle with that, but we all fight our own battles other than weight daily too! It’s important to have a positive attitude to keep going! Thanks for your sweet words, girl! You totally made my day! You are amazing too!!
Courtney, as always… inspiring! I am so happy that your dreams have come true!!!! Not too many people can say that. You really have a gift and you just “get it.” Thanks for everything you are and for what you do for others!
Thank you so much, Allison!!!! I am truly blessed to finally “get it”…something just clicked & there is no looking back!!! ~ Much love to you, darling!
This blog is amazing! Can’t wait for more! Inspire!
#inspire #staytuned #pool #eatfresh #yum #youresexy #letsmakeout #kthnxbye #skypedatetonight #adore #MWAH
You are so inspiring Courtney. I love your honesty and drive. I can’t wait to see the pictures. For future posts, I’d love to hear about your average day. How long do you exercise, what kind of exercises do you do, what do you eat, etc, etc. I live in Chesterton and I keep thinking that I am going to see you or your mom at Kohl’s or Target. Maybe some day. In the meantime, keep up the excellent inspiring work.
I will definitely post about my average day in the near future FOR SURE!! That’s so awesome you’re from Chesterton! it’s funny you say that about Kohl’s & Target. I’m at the Valpo Target ALL OF THE TIME & always see people who recognize me from the show! I’m pretty sure I’m bound to see EVERYONE there so if you do see me, please some say hello!
xxoox
I am so excited that you started a blog! I find your story SO inspiring and cannot wait to hear more about your recovery. I wanted to ask if you ever have issues seeing yourself as this new skinny you. When I lost some weight before, I had trouble not seeing myself as “that big girl” still which result in the bad habits that got me there in the first place.
I also would love to see in your blog what you actually did on a daily basis at the biggest loser ranch like what you ate, if you had down time, and how much time you spent in the gym doing cardio, strength training, etc. And how has your diet/work out plan changed since being off of the BL?
Thank you so much for starting this! I will be watching for each addition to your blog!
I do have those issues sometimes! I have my moments when I look in the mirror and see 400 pounds! I then immediately go look at old pictures to remind myself of where I was, and where I am now and where I’m going! It’s hard when you’ve lived as the fat girl so long to NOT have the fat girl mentality, but that’s why I say I will continue to try to better myself DAILY because those are the things that I need to work on now…not so much the weight or number, ya know!? I will post more about a day in the life of me & my diet, etc in a separate blog! xoxox
Courtney, I loved this blog, it was so amazing to read! Extra skin is a factor that i believe keeps me from losing the weight I want and need to lose, believe it or not, I am SCARED of the extra skin! I can in no way afford skin removal surgery… Maybe I am just using this as an excuse, but seriously… it is a real fear of mine. Any suggestions?
Shannon McGuire
P.S. Why is it that AFTER the biggest loser everyone says the number no longer matters? To me… it matters!
If the number matters to you, that’s fine. It just doesn’t to me personally and it should NEVER define anyone. Getting caught up in a number is the dumbest thing anyone could do because even in juts one day you can fluctuate 10 pounds or so, especially as a woman! if we focus on something that can change so drastically so quickly, it sets us up to fail both physically and mentally. I will NOT set myself up for failure. As for the cost…I know it’s very expensive to get the surgery and I am SO VERY BLESSED to have been given it for free, but don’t be scared. If the surgery is going to better you in the long run and help you with your overall health, it’s worth it! You can’t put a dollar sign on that. NEVER be afraid to lose the weight. That’s honestly just an excuse. You never know how your skin might tone up! Hannah from our season doesn’t have ANY loose skin and looks fabulous and she lost 120 pounds. So anything can happen….everyone is different. Don’t use skin or ANYTHING as your excuse.
Thanks Courtney for responding and you are right, I cannot use things as an excuse and I see your point about the “number” now. I guess for me weighing as much as I do, the number looms large in my head is all….
Girl, you are so inspiring. I love that you are real and genuine about everything! Incredible!
I’m so inspired by all you contestants. I don’t know how you find the time though! I’m a teacher and a coach so that leaves me little time. I’ve been getting in 90-120 minutes of exercise 5 days a week and following weight watchers but something’s not working. How do you know what your calorie intake should be? I think my caloric intake is too high with WW. Any help would be so appreciated.
Thanks again for not only changing your life but inspiring so many of the rest of us to do the same!
To be honest, everyones calorie intake is different. Dr. H gave us all individual calorie intakes while we were on the show and most of us followed that. Mine, at 323 pounds and 22 years old, started off at 1489. To be honest, I found it very hard to eat that much when I was eating the RIGHT foods and would end up at about 1200 – 1300 daily. When I lost my 112 pounds BEFORE the show started, I was eating between 1200 – 1400 calories a day. I was losing about 2 pounds a week before the show. 1 – 3 pounds is NORMAL weight loss. The numbers shown on BL are so skewed because of the immense amount of working out we did that is NOT normal in everyday life. Be proud of how far you’ve come and never let a number define you! You’ve got this too, girl!!!! xoxo
Court, I am so proud of you. You are such an amazing woman and I just want to thank you for taking all of us along on your journey with you. I can’t wait to see what the future had in store.
Thank you so much, Michelle! Your kind words keep me going daily!!! xoxoxo
Thank you for posting, Courtney!! I look forward to hearing more! BL11 has been such an inspiration to me! And even after having lost 60 pounds in the last six months, I continue to have “ranch-worthy” weight loss every now and then. 6 pounds off and counting this week! : ) God bless you Courtney! And my hopes and prayers for a very quick recovery! (I bet it’s driving you nuts not to get to work out and be active.)
WOW…congrats to that babe!!! Ranch numbers are NO JOKE and truly, I can’t even lose those numbers here at home b/c I of course don’t workout for 8 hours a day anymore! haha. But congrats to you and 60 pounds is NOOO JOKE!! So proud of you!
Courtney,
You have inspired me from the first episode of BL11 and you continue to inspire me every single day. Thank you for making your private journey a public journey; I hope you know that there are SO many people that are incredibly grateful that you have done this.
I know exactly what you mean about ‘changing your mind’ in order to change your lifestyle. I’ve made a major change in mine (since September). I know that you have played a big part in it, as my Tuesday evening at 8:00 meant being ‘glued’ to The Biggest Loser. NOTHING got in my way during that time-all I did was watch and exercise, no phone, laptop or anything else.
I can’t wait to hear how your dr’s appt. went-hope you get those drains out. I can’t wait to see a new picture of you, but only when you feel like it’s the best “you” that you want to share with us.
XO,
Chris
Thank you SO much for your kind words, Christine!! It means more to me than you could ever imagine and helps keeep me accountable and focused on my journey. Thanks for the prayers about the doctor!! Il’ll keep you all posted!
What a strong women you are. I love reading your tweets And this blog is a dozie for your first one. Your are an inspiration everyday to so many of us. Thank you for that. A few blog thought…life on and after the ranch. What you were doing before the ranch. What is your nutrition/workouts like now. Do you have a trainer or do you put your own workouts together?
God bless you Court and many prays for you
Thank you for your blog suggestions!! I just wrote them down and I’m excited to write more for you guys!! I might even do a video blog!!
I’m excited!!! Thanks for reading & for your prayers & kind words!
GIRL I AM SO EXCITED FOR YOU!! YOU HAVE A GLORIOUS SPIRIT TO SHARE WITH THE WORLD!!! CAN’T WAIT TO SEE YOUR PICS!!! I MYSELF SINCE SEPTEMBER HAVE LOST 144lbs. I HAVE A LITTLE WAYS TO GO BUT I FEEL AMAZING!! HOPE TO ONE DAY HAVE SURGERY TO REMOVE THE EXTRA SKIN TOO. I LOVE YOUR BLOG AND FOLLOWING YOU THROUGH YOUR JOURNEY!!! IT HELPS SO MUCH TO SEE SOMEONE ELSE DOING IT TOO!! YOU KEEP HEALING UP WELL!! AND KEEP ON POSTING!!!
LOVE YA!!
CINDY
Holy crap!!!! 144 pounds is AMAZINGGG lady!!!! So proud of you! Thank you for reading & stay tuned!
Yo! Court! Ur my biggeset inspiration!! U have come sucha far way and u made me believe in myself tht I can do it too! I hope I can be as strong as u r!! Xoxo
Well thank you darlin!!!! Appreciate your kind words!! You ARE strong if you believe you are!! xoxox
Courtney: thanks for sharing all the details about the why’s & what’s of your surgery. For myself, I never realized the whole excess skin I had (not too much-but a little in the tummy/arms) connecting with u on Facebook. So it has been an awakening for me & I appreciate your openness. Thank you and God-speed on your recovery! Hang in there! Hugs from PA! Diana
Thank you, Diana!! Sooo much!! your kind words are amazing & will keep me going!! Keep reading…lots of great things to come!
Great to hear you’re doing well. WOW 5 drains!! That’s a lot. Can’t wait to see the “new you” pics. I’ve been working on my new me for less than two
months (20 pounds gone). You have inspired me to keep going through the plateaus, tears, and setbacks. Thank you for sharing such a personal part of your life with us. Much love, Ada
Congrats on the 20 pounds, Ada!!! Amazing!! Keep me posted on your progress, love! <3
Courtney, I can truly see how happy you are after only a week post surgery. That is amazing! I took care of my MIL after hers..and let me tell you…I may reconsider the surgery after seeing how strong you are. And how positive you are. My only thing is…where and how do I begin this weight loss journey again? I am up 41 pounds,after moving to another state and going through a lot of stress. So now I need to lose about 175 . How do I begin this great journey you have shared with the world? If you can do it….being younger than me and heavier than me..there is NO reason I can’t. I need to be here for my kids. Any ideas?
I really am happy, darlin!!! I was before surgery but there’s no feeling like THIS one!!! It’s amazing! Like I said, I’m happy and healthy from the INSIDE out. You need to just make a few small changes at a time. Don’t start too big or drastic b/c that WON’T work!!! Try to ween off of soda or fast food first, then make sure you implement plenty of water & sleep into your life. Then start writing down everything you eat and keep track of your calories. All of those little things will add up and eventually, you’ll be where you want to be!!! I am going to write a whole blog on how I started and lost weight before I went on BL so stay tuned!!! Until then, start with small changes in your life that will lead you to your ultimate goal! xoxox
Hi from Winnipeg, Manitoba Courtney: I agree with the comments posted above about how wonderful you look. I loved your post. I agree the numbers really don’t mean a thing, it’s how you feel and how healthy you are as a result of good eating and physical activity. I understand that completely in my mind, but have yet to put it into practice in my own life. You are truly an inspiration both by your accomplishments on BL but also and perhaps, more importantly, because of your supportive and encouraging attitude to all of those on BL who relied on you as a team member and to those of us out there who saw your unwavering support for all of the contestants. It was truly refreshing to watch someone on BL not get into game play, but simply understood the blessing it was to just be there and take advantage of it each and every moment. Thanks for just being you, Courtney…I have to ask…are you still working in the fast food business? ;^D Take care, and I hope your appointment goes well today and “real” clothes are in your future.
Thank you so much for your kind words, Christina!!! I am not working at Dairy Queen anymore, although we do still own it. And the thing is, I worked there before I was on the show and I lost 112 pounds working there EVERY SINGLE DAY. It IS doable if you want it bad enough. I planned my meals and kept my mind in check & didn’t just eat mindlessly. If there was a day that I wanted to have a treat, I made sure it was implemented into my calorie count for the day or it was a high calorie day, and I enjoyed. Anything in moderation is okay…that’s something I’ve learned! I would then in turn work it off in the gym!!! So even though it sounds bad and like a horrible place to be when trying to lose weight, just know it doesn’t matter where you are…if you want it, YOU GOT IT!
Congrats Courtney! The Lord has used your journey to inspire so many people. I pray His blessings over you and your family as you continue your journey with Him! Looking forward to seeing the post op pictures. A flat belly!!! You go girl!
Since I began my journey, the Lord has taken over 170 pounds from me. I need skin removed from SO many parts of my body. I’m strong and feel great overall, just tough having to buy bigger clothes than I need to fit the skin. So kudos to you for getting it done! You’re going to continue to do GREAT & AWESOME things!
May the Lord give you strength and discipline for the rest of your journey!
Congrats on your AMAZING weight loss & life change, Deanna!!! That is so amazing! And you are so right, the Lord HAS blessed both you and I in so many different ways!! I’m so grateful to know Him.
xooxo
I just want to say is congratulations on losing all your weight. I know its really hard to get the mind set to do it. Right now I have lost 16 lbs and I want to lose a total of 30. Im doing a program that is working for me so far. Its true when you lose the weight you just feel soo alive when the weight comes off. Have soo much engery. I hope you have a speedy recovery. Thank you for sharing your blog to everyone.
Congrats darlin!!!! And yes, you DO feel so much more alive when the weight comes off! It’s amazing! Glad you enjoy the blog & stay tuned!!!! xoxoox
I am so happy for you! I can not even imagine how you feel after having the skin removal. I had lost a hundred pounds and got so depressed about the hanging skin that I felt defeated and gained it all back. Now I am gonna do it again, this time with a different mindset and you and your moms encouraging blogs to help me. Thank you
So glad you enjoy both my mom and I’s blogs, honey! So proud of you for taking another big step into your weight loss! There are ALWAYS going to be ups and downs in life and that’s in every sense, including weight. So glad you are going in with a different MIND set because as I said…it’s ALL about your mind! Get that straight and the rest will be history!!!
Good luck to you and all of my love!!!
Thank you for always sharing bits of your amazing story Courtney. Even at your tender age, you are an inspiration to people of all ages
I went through life always a skinny girl. When I turned 43, my body decided to change. I never overate or was sedentary, but my body has changed, so I have to make some major adjustments both in physical activity and in the foods I choose. Watching your smiling face all over my facebook page makes me realize that I can do this too.
Thank you so much!!! I’ve heard that our bodies change lots mid-life, but I also know that if you are mindful of what you are doing to and for your body, you will be JUST FINE!! So glad that you are aware of the changes!! All my love! <3
Courtney, I love your attitude! You are so positive all the time, it’s amazing!
Congrats on your weight loss, I followed you all through Biggest Loser and on your surgery! I’m sure once the healing/swelling goes down you will look and feel even more amazing!
You rock!
Thank you, Mama!!!
YOU rock too!!! Thanks for your kind words–they keep me going! Stay tuned on the blog…it will be a fun one!! 
Go Courtney!!! Love ya! great blog!!
Thanks, love!!!! Stay tuned for plenty of fun stuff to come!
Courtney……Well what can I say………….You are truly an inspiration to us all!! I have loved you and your mom since day one on the Biggest Loser!! I am so happy for you and your accomplishments! You are such a strong woman. I have been struggling with my weight after gaining 70lbs with my daughter almost 4 years ago. I then started gaining more after that. I am down almost 50lbs so far and still have about 30-40 more to go….I am getting there slowly but surely! I loved your first blog and I wanted to thank you for being so open and honest with all of us. I can’t wait to see pics of you when you are all healed u! Hugs to you and your om!
Holy crap!! Congrats on the 50 so far…I know how hard it is to lose weight on your own at home, but OBVIOUSLY you’ve changed your mind for the better and once you’ve done that, there’s no looking back!! So proud of you!! Keep me updated:)
You bring so much pride when i read about how you’re doing! YOU GO GIRL! Also i totally agree it’s so not about the numbers and I’m only just starting to realise that, I’ve always thought that the weight was what matters but I’m really starting to get down to the real feelings behind my weight problems in the past. You are so brilliant, i love you so much, thank you for being an inspiration to me <3
So glad that you are realizing that too! All too often, ALL of us get caught up in the numbers and it’s just so not worth it. The numbers will make you crazy!!!! Good luck to you in everything & thank you again for your kind words!!
You are inspiring!! Thanks for paying it forward!! And being so real life!!
Thank you darlin! All I know how to be is ME and that’s REAL haha
Stay tuned for maaaaaaaaany fun things to come!!! 
xoxox
Was such a blessing to meet you and I loved reading this! I am thinking of the surgery in the future as well it is holding me back a bit too
Love you girl hope to see you again some day!
Hollyanne
It was soooo great to meet you too sweet thang!! you are beautiful inside & out!! Don’t be afraid of the surgery and don’t let ANYTHING hold you back, skin included! Because what I know about life is that it’ll always workout the way it’s supposed to as long as you do the right thing. Losing weight & changing your life for the better IS the right thing, no matter what! Love you!!!! xoxox
I am so proud of you ! just made me tear up for you …. and you are right the scale is a great monitor but really how you are feeling as a person is what really counts ! I cannot wait to see pictures and am thrilled you are doing a blog now so we can follow you !
Much love and prayers
Christine
Prattville, AL
Thank you so much, Christine!! & thank you for reading!!
Courtney,
Glad to hear that you are happy inside as well as outside!
Thanks for your blog. You are so inspiring to everyone and I think it is awesome that you have been so open and honest about your journey. Keep smiling cause we love your smile
Continued thoughts and prayers!
Jenn
Thank you, Jennifer! I am so happy from the inside out & it only gets better daily!! Glad you enjoyed the blog! Stay tuned for sure!!
I know this sounds silly, but I am as proud of you as if you were one of my own kids
I thought you were a beautiful young lady the first day I saw you on the show. Now you are beautiful and healthy. I wish you all the best, Courtney. Thanks for being my inspiration!
P.S…Alex is a cutie
Julie
Awwww, thank you so much, Julie!!! Glad you enjoyed the show & the blog! & thanks for the kind words about Alex! He’s a keeper and I’m truly lucky
I’m so proud of everything you’ve done Courtney! Every couple of seasons there is one girl that I feel like I can relate with or have a strong “connection” with (Can I really have a connection via television? Sure! LOL). You have blessed so many peoples lives with what you’ve done by being a huge inspiration. Last season I said I wouldn’t try out again. But after reading something you had posted and also receiving an email from Kerry I decided I will give it one more shot. Maybe it’s time for me and my husband? I’m not getting any younger, I want to start a family, and so far I haven’t been successful at sticking to my guns. I’m not sure if you’ve really ever talked about it but I would love to know what you were doing to get started to lose that initial 100 pounds before you even got on BL. I could easily lose around 150-200 pounds so I really need to start now (well more like 5 years ago but that’s a different story hehe). Keep rockin’ girl, I thought you looked amazing before so I can’t even imagine what you must look like! Love ya doll!
I know what you mean about that “connection!” I had that same thing w/ a few past BL contestants before I was on the show and they ultimately helped fuel my fire to lose the weight I lost before even getting on BL!! Something in my mind just CLICKED and I knew I had to do it one way or the other. I started taking BABY steps. I first weened off of soda & fast food, then started drinking more water, then started eating more veggies, then eventually started working out. It was a process, but it worked. All of the SMALL changes added up in the end & I’m so thankful I did it!! ANYONE can do it!! I never ever thought I’d be where I am right now but start helping YOU today. Go out of your way for YOURSELF for once. Don’t wait for the show…prove to them you can do it w/out them!!!!
If you do make it, that’s great, but if not, that’s probably even BETTER! 
Good luck to you!
The thing I am most impressed with is your constant bubbly and POSITIVE attitude! I have realized recently that positivity is contagious! Just when I think that I can’t do something, I just look for words of encouragement and stories of inspiration. It helps me get through workouts, and sometimes just get through the day. I have been following your FB posts, and you have become one of my sources of inspiration. Though I don’t have a ton of weight to lose, hearing your stories and staying positive has really helped me stay positive both in my weight loss journey and in life. So thanks! I hope you are feeling better each day, and I can’t wait to see pictures when you have healed more. Keep it up:)
Thanks babe!!!! I believe that attitude is everything & it’s gotten me this far!! There will always be down times & hard times, but fight through them and stay UP! xoxoxo
Hey Courtney Lynn, I just wanted to thank you for sharing your success with all of us. You truly are a huge inspiration to many people. I’m 23 old female At 430 pounds it’s hard to see the light at the end of the tunnel, I always start something then fall right back into my old habits. I just want to have it like you’ve had it.. I want to know what you ate, what you did for exercise, I know everyone’s different, but I need guidance. I’m so unhappy with my life right now.. And totally lost.
I know where you’re at. I was there. I was there for 21 years of my life. I totally get it. I need you to start TODAY. Start RIGHT NOW making small changes. I started off making very small changes one day at a time. I weened off of soda and in one month I lost almost 20 pounds!!! I then started cutting down my fast food (which I was eating about 2-3 times a day!) I then started drinking more water, eating more veggies and fruit, watching what kind of carbs I’d eat, then eventually started working out slowly but surely (A LOT OF WALKING!!!) after I had lost about 50 pounds already. TRUST ME, I messed up and STILL mess up sometimes w/ my choices and I make some horrible ones sometimes. But what I’ve realized is that I can’t let ONE mistake bring me down or tkae me back to what I used to be. I have to keep pushing FORWARD even through the mistakes. Don’t let them hold you back anymore! It’s sooo not worth it and being on the other end of the weight loss battle IS worth it! Dont give up on yourself…ever. I know what it’s like to feel like you’re so deep in a hole and you can’t get out. I’m sitting here 230 pounds lighter than I was a year and a half ago telling you that it IS possible. I’m out of the hole and feeling better than ever. I will continue to fight every single day to make sure I stay out of that hole & never go back. Good luck on your journey babe & if you would like to talk or need someone to reach out to, email me at biggestlosercourtney@gmail.com I’m here for you! <3
You mentioned you’re excited to get to wear “normal” clothes again. What were you wearing before? Compression shirts? Just curious if there are clothes that “kinda” help in the interim.
Did any of the other BL people have to get skin removal surgery? (any of the dudes from the past even?)
No, I was wearing normal clothes but I just mean that this will be the first time I FEEL normal in them. I look in the mirror now and FEEL like I don’t have a bunch of fat or skin hanging from my body.
As for other BL contestants having surgery…MANYYYYYY of them have had tummy tucks and other surgeries after the finale. A lot of them don’t talk about it, and I understand that. I have just chosen to be open about my skin problem because I don’t want people to be scared! I want to prove that it is possible!
Thank you so much Courtney for starting this blog. Congratulations on ALL your accomplishments so far, and your willingness to share them with all of us! Your energy & positive outlook on life are so encouraging to all of us who are going thru exactly what you are. I too have been on this journey of changing my life. I have lost 160 pounds, down from the 400 pound starting weight that would have eventually shortened my life. I’ve still got several pounds to go, but realize I will also need quite a bit of skin removed to enable me to continue to enjoy the active lifestyle I have so learned to enjoy. However, the thought of surgery terrifies me! I watch the BL & Extreme religiously hoping they will give a true, detailed view of what it will be like, but they never show enough. So, I’m eager to hear as much detail as you’d like to share, and will continue to follow your blog!! God bless you, and wish you continued success & happiness!!!
Congrats on your weight loss, darlin!! That is AMAZING!!! I totally know what you mean about being scared…but I am here to tell you…DON’T BE!!!! It’s soooo incredibly worth it and I haven’t even been able to see the FINAL results yet. I can already tell less than 2 weeks later it’s worth it! I haven’t been in much pain at ALL and being able to look at myself in the mirror and REALLY see the tremendous weight loss I’ve had…finally…is the best feeling you could ever have!! I will of course post more later but if you have specific questions, feel free to ask! Just know that I’m sitting here telling you that it’s worth it if you need it done for medical reasons & it’ll better you in finishing your journey!!
Hi from the UK, Courtney.
I just wanted to say a massive thank you for all of the inspiration your recent posts (on Facebook and this blog) have given me. I’m been overweight all my life and at 48 after hearing your words ‘it’s never too late to be what you might have been’ and seeing how much you have accomplished along your journey it made something finally click for me mentally and physically and in the past 3 weeks i have lost 9lbs. I’ve even taken up exercise (and enjoy it!!!) for the first time in my life. Having never been thin, I have no idea how much I want to lose and find it daunting when I do think there maybe another 100lbs or even more to go before I’m classed as what society and the medical profession class as a ‘normal’ weight – did you ever have a fixed amount or goal in your mind?
Thank you for all your honesty concerning the skin removal surgery, it’s something that is never really touched upon. I wish you a speedy recovery and I’m looking forward to seeing pictures (to further inspire me).
Many thanks and much love. xx
My goal is to be as happy and as healthy as possible from the inside out. I don’t have a number goal in mind right now b/c truly, I’m overrrr the number thing. I think it’s b/c I had to be soooooooo diligent about the number for so long on the show, right now I’m just like UGHHH screw numbers!!! haha But I am truly happy and healthy and that’s what matters!! So glad to hear that you’ve lost 9 pounds so far! Keep going darlin, one choice at a time!!!
You are so incredible Courtney! I have been on a several month plateau searching for some inspiration(since the biggest loser ended ) and I know I can always count on your positive attitude and your amazing outlook on life to keep me going!!!! I also love to run and it’s been hard to keep up with this summer…but I’m going to jump right back into my workouts asap! Thanks for sharing your experience with us!!!
YOU GO GIRL!!!! I’m proud of you! One CHOICE at a time will get you there…xoxoxo
You go, girl! I love your attitude and outlook on life. Best wishes to you (and your mama, of course
).
By the way… I love BL, it’s one of my favorite shows. I’ve always wondered if the contestants ended up with extra skin and what they did about it. Thanks for sharing your experiences!
Thank you SOOO much darlin!! Your kind words mean more than you know!!!
Congratulations on your continued successes!! I want you to know that I’m praying for your healing after surgery.
I lost weight about a year ago and have *so* enjoyed the self-confidence that came along with it. I feel I can do anything now! I especially loved watching BL to see that light come on in each contestant’s eyes as they realize their own growing confidence. You, my dear, had that light from the beginning, you were a complete delight to watch, and an inspiration.
Do you ever catch yourself just staring into the mirror, amazed at this feature or that? Seriously, I “only” lost 35lbs, and like I said, it’s been a year, but I still find myself doing that on occasion. Anyhoo, may you have many many years to come of amazing mirror discoveries!
Yes, it’s an amazing feeeling to look in the mirror and realize how far you’ve come! Best feeling ever probably!!! Congrats to you on all of your success too!!! Thanks for reading!! xoxox
Ok I have been bawling since the i looked at your picture w/o wings!!! I am so so so proud of you Court. I’ve been on your friends list since way before biggest loser and we chit chatted a little bit. Your still just as gorgeous as you was way back when. I’m still the fat girl and I so hope to one day achieve half of what you have. Thank YOU so much!!! xoxoxo
Awww, thanks for supporting me LONG before BL. And please know that it can be you too, love! i promise you that. I totally know what it’s like to feel like you can’t do it and you’re so deep in a hole and can’t get out. Know that you CAN get out…I did and if I can, ANYONE can. I mean it!!!! Love you honey and keep your chin UP! <3
Thanks for taking the time to write this! I love hearing your words, they are so encouraging! I don’t know if I will have to face skin surgery in the future or not, but my biggest question would be if you found a way to have insurance cover it, or if you had to pay out of pocket. I have 152.6 more pounds to lose so I have a while to save if I need to!
Can’t wait to hear more from you! Rest easy and take care 
I am completely blessed and my surgeon is doing all of my skin surgeries for free. I’m not sure if my insurance would have covered it or not, but I will look into it and write a blog JUST about that since I have gotten this question many times! Thanks for asking…stay tuned and I’ll look into it!!!
xoxxo
You are so amazing! Thank you for being such an inspiration to everyone. Following you on twitter is helping me keep my head straight as I push thru loosing this weight.
Thank you so much sweetie!!! Your words keep me fighting every single day! <3
Courtney you are so AMAZING! I think it’s also wonderful that you have gotten to the point that the numbers on the scale no longer matter. I think that is the point that most everyone needs to get to. I at the moment am still worrying about the scale but I’m also only 2 months into my journey. I have managed to lose 25 pounds so far ^^ I’m working on becoming healthier in mind and body and while I have a goal weight I don’t know if it will matter much to me if I will get it exactly. In fact I am fine with the thought of somewhere between 131 and 147. My goal is set smack dab in the middle of that at 139 but I would be just fine if my body says nope don’t want to go down quite that far and stops at 147 exactly lol. Guess we’ll see how it goes. Thank you for being such an inspiration to myself and so many others out there. You are an inspiration!
Oh and I almost cried when I read about your looking down at flat tummy. I can finally kind of imagine being like that some day myself… You have done so much hard work and deserve that flat tummy. So excited for you!
Thank you so much!!!!! you are so sweet and I am so proud of YOU!!! xoxoxo <3
Hi Courtney-I just started watching the Biggest Loser a few weeks ago (I know I live in the dark ages
I am not all the way through season 11 so I don’t know who won-no spoilers 
But I realized when I watched the home visit one that we aren’t too far apart. I live in Lafayette, and am in Valpo a couple of times a year for Bible quiz meets for my kiddos. I was already rooting for you, but now that I know you’re an IN girl, I’m even more excited to follow your journey.
I love your optimism and upbeat, positive attitude. Incredibly inspiring. I am sure you have heard that a million times, but girl, it’s because it’s true!
I would ove to see you write about overcoming obstacles (especially mental/emotional ones). I would love to hear what motivates you, your whole story from start to now, what you are doing now, and how much more weight you want to lose (if any, I know you said you don’t care about the number).
I have just recently started my own weight-loss journey. I have lost 15 pounds in the past month and I have about 185 more to go. Sometimes I look at the disparity in those two numbers and get discouraged because it’s *ONLY* 15 pounds. But then I look at you and think, there was a point in time when you had lost ONLY 15 pounds.
I also have a weight-loss blog that I am using as encouragement and motivation to keep me accountable. I wrote a blog the other day that talks exactly about what you were talking about with the number on the scale-would love to have you check it out (http://fatchickfedup.com/2011/07/14/words-to-live-by/. You know, in all your free time
Thanks for continuing to inspire me! Can’t wait to hear more about your journey!
WOW!!! I am sooooo proud of you, darlin!! First of all, I love you already b/c you’re from Indiana, but mostly because you started off on this weight loss journey ON YOUR OWN and I know, as a Hoosier, you will continue to fight!!!
15 pounds is HUGE!!! Trust me, i know how hard it is to lose weight on your own and 15 pounds is no joke. Don’t look at the 185 and feel defeated. Take it ONE POUND at a time. or TEN pounds at a time. Make small, attainable goals b/c it will make this journey SO much easier for you both physically and mostly mentally! Remember that it’s a mental game for the most part & you have to stay focused in your MIND. If your mind is right, the rest will follow and that is a FACT!!! Again, congrats to you and know that I am praying and rooting for you!! xoxoox
Courtney- you are such an inspiration, I have watched BL from the start and you will always be my favorite contestant. Unlike other contestants you NEVER EVER EVER complained and always had a smile on your face. And even more impressive was your weight loss at home before you even got on the show, that says so much about your character and determination. I have a question for you, my mother has struggled with her weight for about 37 years (pretty much since the day I was born) She will be 65 this year and hasn’t seen a doctor in 25 years! This means she doesn’t know her blood pressure, whether or not she has diabetes and she has never had a mammogram! I am a nurse and this is a tough thing for me to accept. Her weight contributes to her health risks and as she is getting older I see it limiting her mobility and her ability to spend time with her grandkids, which makes me so sad! SO to my question, how did you get started at home, she has been successful at home with weight watchers and has lost 50-75 lbs in the past but always plateaus and then usually gains her weight back plus more. I try so hard to relate but I have never had a weight problem and have always had a healthy relationship with food. I love my mom so much and you and your moms journey inspired me…how would you advise me to help my mom start on her journey? Thanks so much for inspiring us all!
Liz
I think the main thing that you should focus on w/ her are BABY steps!!!! and maybe trick her into those! Because trust me, I know first hand that you can change NO ONE unless they are ready for a change. I know that’s hard to accept, and my mom had to accept that when she kept trying to change me for so long. She then realized that I needed to find it within myself to want it bad enough. BUT at the same time, your mom is getting older and sometimes older people are set in their ways and need to be pushed a little more to make that change. Try to get her to ween off of one thing that she turns to for comfort. For me, it was soda. I weened off of it and in the first month I lost 15 pounds! I then weened off of fast food, added more water into my diet, added more fruits & veggies, lean protein, etc. I started WALKING, WALKING, WALKING (this is seriously KEY!!!!! and will probably help your mom HUGELY if she does it religiously) and just continued to implement SMALL changes. The small changes all added up and it was very worth it in the end!! Good luck and I hope your mom gets right where she needs to be both for her sake and yours
Thanks so much for your reply Courtney! Your advice means so much to me. I wish you the best in everything in your future.
Courtney, thanks so much for sharing with all of us! You are such a motivator and positive role model. I just loved watching you and your mom on the show, you’re definitely my favorite team ever! It was such a great season. I definitely appreciated your smile and positive attitude.
My first question is how did you motivate yourself before you went on BL? I’ll start lots of times, but after a few weeks give up because the weight loss is not fast enough for me. I KNOW what I should do, I’m choosing NOT to do it consistently. I need to lose about 65-75 pounds. Thank you for your comment about the scale and the “number”, that’s definitely true and all of us need to remember that!
I also wonder how to find a good gym and trainer. I live in Grand Rapids, MI so I definitely need to get started at one before cold weather sets in again! Are there specific questions to ask on the phone, should I personally visit each one, what do I look for, etc?
Thanks again for your inspiration and willingness to encourage all of us!
Lori
Luv the blog. U r such an inspiration. Lost 94 &hubby down 150. We r doing it together &it is so worth it. May u have a speedy recovery.
Aqua and pink have always been my favorite colors. Ashley from season 9, and you have inspired me to finaly lose the baby weight. Using beachbody programs and Shakeology as a supplemennt, I have lost around 25 lbs. I have also become an online coach with beachbody, I never knew how great it could be to help others along their journey, and it helps keep me accountable, I have too many clients depending on me now. Way to go Courtney, live the life you deserve!
Courtney,
I have followed your story for awhile, pre BL and you have always been an inspiration for me. I remember when you started your journey & how positive you were (& still are) in your posts on FB. I am so glad you are doing so well recovering from your surgery. You deserve nothing less than the best ~ you rock, sweetie!
Thanks to you, this season of BL, & a few health issues, I have finally gotten to a point in my life where I am going to make this work. I had been held back by 2 previous knee surgeries & finally had my knee replacement last year. The beginning of this year, I had to be hospitalized on 2 separate occasions for diverticulitis & a staph infection. As a result, I had my ‘A-ha’ moment & realized that I had to make some major changes. And so I did; no more fast food, processed meats; eating more fresh veggies & fruits along with more legumes, beans and more fiber. I rarely eat meat any more; I have a really difficult time processing red meat & maybe eat chicken once every other week. I eat fish 2-3 times a week & I love it. I am down 40 lbs & am going to Curves 6 days a week. This Saturday I will start my first Zumba class & I am actually excited about it. Thank you, Courtney. You are such a positive influence for so many, myself included. <3 ya, sweetie!
xoxo
Jerrie
Courtney
Many blessings and prayers to you. I’ve watched the show since the 1st season and you are by far the most inspiring. Your truly beautiful. You said something during the show that affected me in a way I couldn’t begin to imagine, one simple saying “change your mind”. I’ve been over weight and so sad my entire life and I keep this saying with me always, it’s amazing to me that those words have inspired to do things I should have been doing for 30 years
Thank you!! 8 lbs to onederland finally!!!
Thanks for sharing your experience. I am one of those people who only has 20lbs to lose. These aren’t those vanity lbs Jillian is always talking about, I went and got new life insurance and to get a cheaper rate, I have to lose the weight to be a healthy weight. Anyway, it’s been awesome watching you this past year and seeing how happy you are. I was able to lose 5lbs in 6 months, running and doing weights and I think the biggest thing I’ve learned is that it doesn’t come fast, especially when you get to the end.
Good luck with all the healing. I totally understand the extra skin problem because I’ve had 4 babies and my stomach is all sorts of stretched out. My kids tell me all the time there are creams for my stretch marks 
I tell them they’re my battle wounds and I wouldn’t give them up for anything (OK, sometimes I would, but I want them to have a good image of themselves)
I can’t wait to see the rest of your journey and I’m hoping I can get to the end of mine
What a strong women you are. I love reading your tweets And this blog is a dozie for your first one. Your are an inspiration everyday to so many of us. Thank you for that. A few blog thought…life on and after the ranch. What you were doing before the ranch. What is your nutrition/workouts like now. Do you have a trainer or do you put your own workouts together?
God bless you Court and many prays for you
PS all the best to you and Alex. It is so important to find someone who feels eating right and working out are an important part of like.
Courtney, I’m so happy and proud of you and for you!!! When you exited BL , what you said on the scale about “people don’t have to come to the BL to lose weight, just believe that you can do it, etc..” really got me inspired to start my own weight loss journey!!! I’m 53 and my blood pressure was really starting to climb! I joined a gym on April 1st, 2011, and now have lost 34 lbs! The heat here in Texas has really zapped my energy this summer and I’ve slowed down a bit in my workouts, it’s so hot in the gym and I take meds that affect me with heat and humidity. But I’ve gotten to where I get up early in the morning and walk my dog and ride my bike all over and on some new bike trails the city has opened and I will be starting up my workouts again when it cools down a bit! I’ve gotten to stop taking a midday high blood pressure pill, two potassium pills, and a half of a water pill, and now a half of a 100mg blood pressure pill!!! My doctor is delighted to be REDUCING my meds and so am I!!!I was taking 3 different types of HBP meds and 3 potassium pills and 1 and a half water pills , thyroid med, a baby aspirin in the morning, a midday HBP pill and a 25mg HBP pill and antidepressant and anti-anxiety pill in the evening! My blood pressure was reading about 160/95 then and now it’s in the normal range!:D I hope to lose more of these pills as my weight goes down!
You and your Mom have both been so inspiring to me personally! Both of you have had a wonderful attitude and a get-after-it mindset! I’m glad you’ve started blogging and I’ve enjoyed following you on FB and twitter too! I also read your Mom’s blog!
My daughter is 30 and she’s overweight too. She has a job and a family to care for and has found it so difficult to find time for herself and eat right while feeding her family things they like! She and I live about 350 miles away from each other, but we’d text during BL and we’ve been encouraging each other in our weight loss! We both really identified with you and your Mom! Thanks so much for being so open and honest about your journey and sharing it so freely! May God Bless you and your family now and in the years to come with much happiness!!!XOXOXOXOX:D
First off Courtney, congratulations on EVERYTHING!!! You look amazing & I love, love, love your personality! You were my fave on BL and I still follow you on FB. I will definitely be reading your blog! I have something I’ve wondered about from BL & just in general. I really want to start running again, but am just not sure how to start. I’m in the process of losing weight – I’m down about 18 pounds, still have about 45 that I want to lose. I lost almost 50 pounds a couple years ago, went thru a divorce & gained it all back. We got back together a year later, and now I’m trying to lose it again, but my motivation is just not there. I know running will help, and I really enjoyed it, but I guess I’m just scared & confused. I had to cancel my gym membership due to finances (we’re trying to buy a house), so now it’s just gonna be outside. I do have an iPod, which I’ve heard that helps, but I just don’t know how to start out with “weight loss running”. Any pointers you have would be fabulous!!! We are heading to Hawaii in 3 weeks & although I won’t hit my goal that I set for myself (too much stress affected me), I am trying to think positive and accept that I need to put on that swimsuit to enjoy myself. I live in jeans & t-shirts, so the thought of shorts & a swimsuit is brutal. But I’m working on that positive attitude & loving myself. It’s just taking a little more effort than I thought!!!
Question for you Courtney… Do you think that your skin issue is the reason you had soo much trouble losing weight at the end of your BL journey and is the reason your journey on BL ended and also a reason that you couldn’t lose more weight at home to win the at home challenge for the season finale? Had you not had your skin issue, do you think you could of gone all the way to win BL or the at home challenge?
Courtney. I have suffered with this weight problem all my life, and I am sick of it. I love hearing that this is possible. I do put up alot of excuses though. I am on about 11 Meds daily now. Were you on meds before the weight loss and how many are you down to now? Some of my pills I can never come off of. But the blood pressure meds (3 of them) and colestrol meds I want to change. Oh and maybe the anti depressents i can change too. I did good before my spine surgery in 08. I got down to onderland, but now I am almost 250 again. I found part of my problem is I don’t eat enough calories or enough of the correct food. Went I eat more and am more active (like at youth camp. I am the craft director) I drop weight like crazy. Anyways I could go on all day. Keep healing well OK.
Hugs, Monica
Wow Courtney- I was a fan of yours (& your ma) on Biggest Loser. I just saw the video- you look absolutely beautiful! You are an inspiration to me! I so appreciate your positive spirit (& your faith). You seem like a believer (in Christ).
Courtney, okay, let me just say that you are TRULY amazing!!! I was never a huge BL fan but you guys this season got me… mostly you. Your nmbrs wouldn’t be there, but you were all smiles and moved on. OMG.. it’s that attitude right there that has helped me the most. Your passion and your incredible determination that convinced me.. shoot… i can do this!!! I have about 150 lbs to lose (i’m down 24 so far) but I’m getting SO aggravated with the slowness of the journey. I’ve read this blog, as well as the others and I think i’ve refound my motivation.. once again.. thanks to you!! I’m SO excited to see your pictures when you post them. You’re truly an inspiration to many many people Courtney and BL or not, it’s your journey that has helped me on mine. XOXO Laura / Chicago
Court, I know you have TONS going on right now.. But when you get a minute.. I used to weight 360lbs plus myself and am now 202lbs and went to see the plastic surgeon and now after getting all excited about getting rid of all this skin.. My dreams are kinda crushed finding out I need around $10k to make this happen.. Can you offer any advice?? I had Lap Band survey Dec 08″ and I was told it would be covered
how dissapointing after comming sooooo far.
Courtney,
3 years ago I started my weight loss program it was to last 80 weeks for me to get to where I wanted to be I gained 25 extra weeks with weigh in challenges as of last Oct I got down to my all time low which was 349 lbs. I started at 477 in the past year I have put back on 90 lbs of that I had gone through a terrible break up a little over a year ago in November this year and fell into a depression not even the biggest loser show season 11 could get me out of my slump I so much enjoyed all of your guy’s success and keep track of most of you I had saw a few weeks ago that you where offering the grocery list that was given on the show last season is there any way you can Email me the list and some recipes My program that I was doing I was eating the same thing over and over and it just got old I need something new to eat and try please help me if you can I so much appreciate all the fun stuff you challenge us with I need to just take a grasp of them and use them in my daily lives I’m going to take the new season and use some of bobs tips and the other trainers tips and finally get rid of another 100 lbs I somuch need to do this for myself