Dale Romans, a prominent figure in horse racing, has undergone a remarkable transformation, shedding an impressive 180 pounds. This article delves into Romans' weight loss journey, exploring his motivations, methods, and the impact it has had on his life, both personally and professionally.
The Turning Point
Romans' weight issues were a lifelong struggle, exacerbated by the stressful lifestyle of a horse trainer. The earlier mornings at the barn, long afternoons at the track, and late-night dinners and drinks were all catching up to the 57-year-old, pushing him close to 400 pounds. In 2020, a severe bout with COVID-19 landed him in the hospital, further highlighting the health risks associated with his weight. This experience served as a wake-up call, prompting him to address his long-standing weight problem.
The Gastric Sleeve Surgery
After years of struggling with various diets and facing the inevitable toll on his body, Romans decided to undergo gastric sleeve surgery in December 2021. This involved surgically removing approximately 80 percent of his stomach. The decision wasn't easy, but after consulting with trusted individuals who had undergone the procedure, he felt it was the right choice for his health and well-being.
A New Approach to Food
The surgery drastically altered Romans' relationship with food. The days of devouring an entire pizza in one sitting are gone. Now, he consumes only a slice or two. Similarly, a burger is limited to half, and most of the fries are left behind. He says his stomach fills quickly. Instead of a whole pizza he orders an appetizer.
Lifestyle Changes
Romans didn't rely solely on surgery for his weight loss. He also embraced significant lifestyle changes, including:
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- Dietary Adjustments: Romans adopted a more mindful approach to eating, focusing on portion control and making healthier choices.
- Regular Exercise: He rediscovered his love for golf, which he had previously given up due to his weight. He now hits balls every day and also plays pickleball with his partner, Tammy Fox.
The Impact of Weight Loss
Romans' weight loss has had a profound impact on various aspects of his life:
- Improved Health: Romans' doctor told him that the surgery had potentially added 20 years to his life.
- Increased Energy: He says that going to work is a lot easier and more enjoyable.
- Enhanced Relationships: His partner, Tammy Fox, is thrilled with the change, noting that they can now do more activities together and have fun without worrying about his health.
- Professional Benefits: While Romans isn't sure if his weight loss has directly impacted his training methods, he believes it has improved his overall well-being, which in turn benefits his work.
Romans' Advice for Others
Romans is now sharing his story to inspire others struggling with obesity. He encourages them not to be afraid to seek help and to consider options like gastric sleeve surgery if they have fought weight issues their whole lives.
The Backside Brawl
In an odd twist, Romans' weight loss even played a role in a physical altercation. Following a verbal dispute with Eddie Musselman, publisher of "Indian Charlie," a fight broke out. During the scuffle, Romans' pants fell down due to his recent weight loss, causing him to trip and fall.
Beyond the Physical: A Story of Love and Acceptance
The story of weight loss extends beyond mere physical transformation. One account details a weight loss group leader's journey to self-acceptance and helping others find the same. The leader, who had struggled with her weight her entire life, started a weight loss group called BABES (Beautiful, Accountable, Babes, Exercising, Sensibility). The program focused on sensible eating, regular exercise, and mutual accountability. However, the leader realized that the key to lasting change was not just about the numbers on the scale but also about self-love and acceptance. She shared her personal story of overcoming insecurities and finding self-love, which resonated deeply with the women in the group. They began to focus less on the numbers on the scale and more on how God was at work in them, leading to positive changes in their self-image and attitude.
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