Katrina Gossett Tells Her Weight Loss Story From a Wheelchair

"This weight loss is something I never thought I could achieve with my SMA - at least not without starving myself," Katrina Gossett of Baker & Daniels wrote in a story called "Weight Loss From a Wheelchair: My Plan" and published in the Winter 2011 issue of Quest, MDA's research and health magazine.

"I knew that I needed to get healthier, but I'd given up hope and made excuses - until my wheelchair scale gave me the cold truth," Gossett continued. "Once I made the decision to lose, healthy food choices and support from family and friends have helped me shed 36 pounds - and counting. What's to stop me? Not SMA."

Gossett, 25, has spinal muscular atrophy. She is an attorney with Baker & Daniels in the firm's Indianapolis office.

"Motivation isn't always easy," Gossett continued. "There are times when I crave a giant hot fudge sundae or an entire pumpkin pie. Several things have helped me with these moments." In the Vol. 18, No. 1 issue of Quest, she wrote:

• First, nothing is completely off limits so there's no "forbidden fruit" syndrome, plus I've found substitute treats like my 60-calorie mousse.
• Second, I'm motivated to make good decisions every time I think about reading my scale on Saturday. I'll keep weighing myself weekly even after I reach my goal, so I can sustain my healthy diet in the future.
• Third, knowing the calories of most of my foods helps me because I don't want to break the bank for one piece of candy.
• Fourth, and probably most importantly, I've been sharing my success with my family and friends who have been very supportive. It's exciting to be able to call my aunt or friend and say, "Guess what … I lost 30 pounds!!!" (Happy dance!) Knowing that others know about my fight and that they're proud is very helpful. They don't judge my every food choice; they're just there to celebrate with me - and there is much to celebrate.