“I Got My Life Back”: Melodie’s 134-Pound Weight Loss Journey
Sometimes, one honest conversation can change everything. For Melodie, that conversation happened in early 2023.
A Wake-Up Call
In March 2023, Melodie weighed 283 pounds.
While helping decorate for her church’s annual Night to Shine event, she found herself struggling to get up off the floor.
A close friend quietly pulled her aside.
“She told me she was very afraid I was going to die if I didn’t do something to lose some weight.”
It was a difficult conversation—but one Melodie now considers life-changing.
That same friend introduced her to the Institute of Eternal Youth Aesthetics & Wellness.
Taking the First Step
After meeting with the medical team, completing an evaluation, and discussing her health goals, Melodie began a medically supervised weight loss program that included Semaglutide alongside healthy lifestyle changes.
She also committed to following a sensible eating plan through Weight Watchers. Together, those changes created lasting results.
Over the next 14 months, Melodie lost an incredible 114 pounds.
More Than a Number on the Scale
Like many patients, Melodie experienced a few side effects during treatment. But she never felt like she was navigating the journey alone.
“Were there side effects? Yes, a few. But the health benefits far outweighed them, and Eternal Youth Aesthetics was there to help whenever I had questions.”
The ongoing support from her medical team helped her stay focused, make adjustments when needed, and continue moving toward her goals.
Three Years Later
One of the biggest misconceptions about medically supervised weight loss is that patients automatically regain the weight after stopping treatment. Melodie’s experience tells a different story.
Today—three years after beginning her journey—she has not only maintained her weight loss but has gone on to lose an additional 20 pounds, bringing her total weight loss to 134 pounds.
For Melodie, the injections helped create momentum. The lasting success came from building healthier habits.
“The injections are a wonderful tool to lose the weight steadily and consistently. However, learning to eat healthy is the key to keeping it off.”
A Tool—Not a Shortcut
According to Jodi DeVries, founder of the Institute of Eternal Youth Aesthetics & Wellness, medications like Semaglutide are designed to support healthy lifestyle changes—not replace them.
“Our goal is never simply to help someone lose weight,” says Jodi. “We want to help patients improve their overall health and create habits they can maintain for years to come. Medications can be incredibly effective tools, but long-term success comes from combining medical guidance with nutrition, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support.”
Every patient receives a personalized treatment plan based on their medical history, lab work, goals, and progress. As those goals change, the treatment plan evolves as well.
A New Chapter
Today, Melodie says she is more physically active than she has been in years. She has more energy, greater mobility, and the confidence to enjoy life in ways she couldn’t before.
“I am eternally grateful to my friend and Eternal Youth Aesthetics for giving me my life back.”
Perhaps the most inspiring part of her story? She wants others to know it’s never too late.
“I am in my 60s and proof that you are never too old to get healthy.”
Ready to Start Your Own Journey?
Every weight loss journey is different. That’s why we begin with a comprehensive consultation, lab work when appropriate, and a personalized treatment plan tailored to your unique health needs and goals.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking for long-term weight management support, our medical team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact the Institute of Eternal Youth Aesthetics & Wellness in Winter Haven to schedule your consultation and learn more about our medically supervised weight management programs.