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Conversations with Kiawana Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiawana Smith.

Hi Kiawana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I’m a 45-year-old woman with seven children and six grandchildren. I had struggled with my weight for over 20 years. I had tried various diets and exercise programs, but nothing seemed to stick. Finally, one day, I decided enough was enough and made a commitment to myself to lose weight and get healthy so that I can live and be here for my children.

I started by setting realistic goals for myself. I wanted to lose over 200lbs in two years which meant I needed to lose an average of 2 pounds per week. I also knew that I had to have a tool to help me. So I decided to see a biriatric doctor to get a gastric bypass. I also had to make some changes to my diet and exercise habits because I knew the gastric bypass surgery and just a tool to reach my goal.

I began by cutting out processed foods and sugary drinks from my diet. Instead, I focused on eating whole, nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains. I also started tracking my calories using a food diary planner, which helped me stay accountable and make healthier choices.

In terms of exercise, I started by going to the Kroc center walking for 30 minutes a day on the treadmill and riding the elliptical 30 minutes five days a week. As I got stronger, I added in strength training and other forms of cardio, like zumba classes and water aerobics.

Over time, I started to see progress. I lost weight and gained confidence in myself and my abilities. I also found that my new healthy habits were becoming second nature, making it easier to stick to my goals.

Now, eight years later, I has lost over 200 pounds, I had seven rounds of plastic surgery to remove over 50 pounds of skin and is feeling better and looking sexier than ever. I am so proud of the hard work I put in and is excited to continue on my health journey to inspire women who was just like me.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It wasn’t smooth. I was going through a divorce at the time and wanted to give up and eat.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I am a Nurse and my primary role is to provide healthcare services to patients. I specialize in various areas such as post-op care, emergency care, critical care, and mental health. I am known for my expertise in providing compassionate care to patients and their families, ensuring their physical and emotional needs are met.

I am most proud of the impact I have on the lives of my patients. Seeing them recover from plastic surgery, illness or injury and being able to provide comfort and support during their difficult times is a rewarding experience.

What sets me apart from others is my dedication to lifelong learning and professional development. I continuously strive to improve my skills and knowledge to provide the best possible care to my patients. I also have excellent communication skills, which enable me to build strong relationships with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.

Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
The most important lesson that I learned as a nurse is the importance of empathy and compassion in patient care. I have learned that patients not only need medical treatment but also emotional support, and being kind and understanding can make a huge difference in their recovery. Additionally, I have learned the importance of continuous learning and staying up-to-date with the latest medical advancements to provide the best possible care for my patients.

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Image Credits
365 photography

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