Starting on My GLP-1 Weight-Loss Journey

During my time in the military, after basic training and AIT, I was extremely underweight. I weighed 123 lbs and couldn’t gain weight no matter my diet or exercise routine. I was anemic and unable to donate blood. Things changed when I was stationed in Germany, where I reached a healthy weight of 140 lbs. I was content, healthy, and enjoying life.

Dahlia in her military uniform as she enjoys a light moment in a dining area while stationed in Germany, circa February 2006.

Unfortunately, this didn't last. I began the Depo-Provera shot and returned to the United States, soon realizing the poor quality of our food, even the "healthy" options. I gained 20 lbs in the first month back stateside.

From that point on, I constantly battled with my weight.

Dahlia in December 2024, embracing her style with confidence at her highest weight of 220 lbs.

Fast forward to today, I have been out of the military for the last ten years. I'm not where I used to be and have gained weight. I've tried the VA MOVE program three times, calorie counting, and various diets without success, consistently plateauing at 200 lbs. The GLP-1 shots always seemed too costly and inaccessible.

The VA has always made it very difficult to access the injection pens. Previously, you were required to complete their nutrition program, called MOVE, and then get approval to try oral weight loss medications first. Only if those did not work could you be considered for the injection. Now, however, the process is much simpler and more streamlined if you meet certain criteria.

After discussing with my Primary Care Physician at my local VA Clinic, she informed me of the changes. From that moment, I knew I could finally meet the criteria.

Once I completed the necessary steps, the medication was ordered, and I began preparing for it. It's crucial to thoroughly research any medication you consider, including potential side effects.

After conducting my research, I decided that a GLP-1 injection was essential for continuing my weight loss journey. My primary care determined that Wegovy was the best option for me.

Purple Wegovy case paired with a 0.25 mg semaglutide injection pen.

After receiving it via FEDEX from the VA, I followed all instructions and administered my first shot on May 6, 2026.

It was a relief to no longer be consumed by food cravings and noise. As I'm still in the first month of injections, I'm learning to interpret food cues, adhere to a high-protein, high-fiber diet, and understand how my body responds to the medication.

Since starting, I've significantly reduced or eliminated soda intake (I had a major caffeine addiction), increased my water consumption, gained more energy, and felt fuller for longer.

Two Weeks in, Colorful and confident: A vibrant selfie of Dahlia capturing a joyful moment.

In just two weeks, I have lost 8 lbs. My starting weight was 210 lbs, and by the end of week two, I'm down to 202 lbs.

I hope you'll join me as I document and share updates on my weight loss journey. I'll be checking in weekly.

Yours truly,