After being diagnosed with PMR Arthritis, Arlene Alexander found herself facing pain, limited mobility, emotional frustration, and medications that brought new challenges of their own. Even simple tasks became difficult—but deep down, she knew this could not be the end of her story.
What began with one small decision to move again eventually led to a 60-pound weight loss, a renewed sense of confidence, and an unforgettable moment on the 2026 WNBF Kelowna New YOU Transformation stage. This is Arlene’s story of patience, resilience, and learning to trust the process.
1. Before starting your transformation journey, what was life like after being diagnosed with PMR Arthritis, and what challenges were you facing physically and emotionally?
After the initial diagnosis nothing seemed to resolve itself quickly enough. It took over a year of trying different medications some causing weight gain, to finally find one that worked for me. During that time it was a real struggle dealing with the pain while still having to go to work everyday. Getting out of bed was a real struggle, walking was difficult, sometimes I needed help getting out of a chair. Needless to say my emotions were high, being frustrated that the medications didn't seem to be working. I wanted to understand it better so I did my own research and learnt about the anti-inflammatory diet and low impact exercises to help ease stiffness.
2. What was the turning point that made you decide it was time to take control of your health and begin your transformation?
Finally resolving the medication issues was a huge relief. In December 2024 I was feeling so much better, I could focus now on getting active again while still living with my arthritis. January 2025 I saw that my friend Mikkie at Deem Health & Fitness had a Biggest Loser Challenge and I was able to do this online with a live trainer as I am not located near the gym. I thought it was the perfect opportunity and joined. At first it was a challenge, we had to modify my exercises and I didn't want any flare ups with my arthritis to set me back. I was really happy to get moving again.
3. Throughout your 60-pound weight loss journey with Deem Health & Fitness, what were some of the biggest challenges you faced, and how did you push through them?
Most of the challenges came from the physical variety of training different muscles each session as best as I could to get the most out of each workout without going overboard and causing a flare up. Being patient and finding that happy medium was paying off, because after time it all became easier. Learning and understanding my food intake with macro eating was also new to me. One of the first things that stuck with me from Deem Health was to "Trust the process" which I did and the results became more evident.
4. How has losing 60 pounds changed your life beyond the physical results?
It really has been a huge mental weight lifted from my shoulders as well, My day to day living with arthritis has improved significantly. Less joint pain, better sleep, most of all gratefully. I have such a better outlook now living with my arthritis, and looking forward to new challenges and goals.
5. What did it mean to you to step on stage and compete in the 2026 WNBF Kelowna New YOU Transformation Category?
I felt honored that Mikkie at Deem Health & Fitness had given me the opportunity and confidence to participate. She could see how far I had come. All the hard work paid off and it was all worth it. It was a experience that I will never forget.
6. What advice would you give someone who is struggling with their health, dealing with a medical diagnosis, or feeling overwhelmed about starting their own transformation journey?
Every journey starts from a single step. Start with small goals. Think what's the best thing I can do today and celebrate those small achievements. Sticking to basics like walking and eating healthier go a long way. Stay curious and try to learn what you can about your diagnosis to help with any set backs. Showing up and trying your best on those hard days are easier said than done but consistency and commitment over time will will eventually give you positive results. Be proud of yourself no matter the accomplishment big or small.
7. What role did the support from Deem Health & Fitness, your coaches, family, and friends play in helping you achieve this transformation?
They all definitely played a huge role in my journey. Mikkie and the trainers at Deem Health gave me so much information and motivation from there vast knowledge and experience. My family and friends especially my husband gave me so much encouragement. My husband was also my accountability partner, always checking in to make sure I get my walks and workout done each week. I am truly gratefully to all of them.
