FORT LEE, Va. (Dec. 18, 2015) -- Losing weight can be a frustrating journey. Those pursuing a thinner figure are bombarded with ads for magic pills and quick weight-loss schemes that simply don't work.

No one knows this better than Kari Griesbach, a military spouse and working mother of three. Griesbach said she wanted to share her personal journey battling obesity with the hope of inspiring others.

For those who have battled weight issues, Griesbach's story may seem familiar. Although she wasn't overweight while in high school, when she married and became busy with caring for her children during her husband's multiple deployments, the number on the scale started to go higher and higher. As the pounds crept on, Griesbach stopped looking in the mirror, avoided photos and lots of fun family activities.

Those days are over.

After years of trying countless diets and exercise plans, she decided to take advantage of Kenner's nutrition counseling by dietitian Kathleen Viau.

"I was unsure at first, but Kathy's message hit home right away," Griesbach said. "Ms. Viau explained the winning combination is better nutrition coupled with exercise."

Knowing weight loss is a life-long commitment, she remains committed to maintaining her weight; she is up by 5 a.m. for a 30-minute workout before heading off to work for a 10-hour work day, four days a week.

"One day, I simply realized I couldn't continue on the same path," said Griesbach. "I wasn't going to continue to let my weight determine my life. The key was to educate myself on what to eat."

From nutrition counseling and exercise encouragement, she said the Kenner dietitian was fantastic in making sure she was well prepared for long-term success.

Viau said she was in awe of Griesbach from their first meeting in December 2013.

"What I admired most about Kari is she never ever gave up once she set her mind on her goal," said Viau. "Even through the ups and down of the scale over the first 6 months we met, Kari still worked out hard and believed she could do it."

Part of her journey to success involved taking photos of her weight loss milestones; which included being able to fit into a swing, riding rides at the amusement park again and feeling confident in wearing a fitted gown to her husband's social events.

"Wanting it bad enough and doing whatever it takes to reach a dream -- that defines success," Viau said "Kari is an inspiration to anyone who thinks 'it can't be done." Whenever anyone comes to me looking for help, I give them the knowledge and tools they need to better their lifestyle, and I cheer them on along the way. It is up to them to dig deep and go strong toward their goal. Kari did just that."

Her accomplishments entailed activities she couldn't do before -- from becoming a health fitness coach mentoring others who struggle with their weight to completing her education and obtaining a bachelor's degree in business administration.

"I don't see food the same anymore and now use it to fuel my body. The need for sugary cakes is no longer a desire, which I used to crave," said Griesbach.

She lost more than 140 pounds and feels and looks younger than she did 5 years ago. With her determination, she's once again an active participant in life.

Those interested in learning more about KAHC's nutrition counseling opportunities can talk to their primary care provider or call the dietitian at (804) 734-9993.