Those needing a bit of inspiration won’t have to look far. During the past 18 months, Warsaw native Jose Gutierrez has transformed his body from 515 pounds; losing 120 pounds and dropping seven pant sizes by changing his diet and incorporating exercise into his routine.

Dedication and change is necessary, Gutierrez noted. While the orthopedic machinist isn’t a health professional, he does understand the battle many face when it comes to weight loss.

In May 2014, Gutierrez set his sights on becoming healthier with his wife and two children at the center of his focus. “That was the main thing,” he explained. “I have to do this not only for myself but for my family. So I can be around as long as possible for them.”

Determined to get in shape, he began by first consulting his physician. Just like other appointments, his doctor advised Gutierrez he needed to lose weight for his own well being. It was then Gutierrez shared with his doctor he planned to join a gym. Encouraged by the news, the doctor challenged him to lose 50 pounds before his next visit.

Just as Gutierrez promised, he and his wife Stephanie enrolled in a gym membership. Since then he said, “I haven’t slowed down.”

Following his doctor’s recommendations, Gutierrez began to eat less, cutting his portions in half and incorporating 30 minutes of exercise into his daily routine. Admittedly he said, “The first month, it was pretty difficult. It was the first time in I don’t know how long, I’ve been that active.”

Dismissing thoughts of quitting, Gutierrez kept pressing on with noticeable results, he informed, “I went back three months later, 55 pounds lighter and just blew (the doctor) away,” laughed Gutierrez.

Continuing with regular checkups, he could see the hard work and sweat pay off as the pounds began to fall.

After losing more than 100 pounds the family is able to spend time together like never before. “I have energy to go out and do stuff. Beforehand I really wouldn’t feel like doing things with them. I was too tired to do anything.” Adding, “We took a family trip to Indianapolis and went to the Children’s Museum and we went to the zoo spending a whole day at each one. Before, I don’t think I could have done that all day. So, it was really nice.”

His determination motivates him to keep working toward his goal weight of 250 pounds. “I still try to challenge myself everyday,” reported Gutierrez.

For those starting the year wanting to lose a few pounds, he suggested making small changes and don’t give up. “Take it a little bit at a time. Don’t put too much on yourself at the starting line.” And, “Keep going. Everything happens one step at a time, one rep at a time.”