Teen loses 100 pounds, becomes Miss South Texas
HOUSTON (KTRK) -- The week ahead is a big one for Miss South Texas Keli Kryfko. The Houston native will be competing to win the Miss Texas title.
But with or without the title, she has already gained worldwide attention. The 23 year old has made international headlines for her incredible weight loss journey and transformation.
But Kryfko says the best is yet to come.
Teased as a child for being an overweight middle school, Kryfko had finally had enough. She says failing a P.E. test was the last straw.
"Overheard girls saying, 'can you believe the fat girl can't do it?' I remember in that moment I thought the fat girl? That's just not who I am," she said.
She started a vigorous diet and workout routine, eventually losing 100 lbs. She says her weight loss was 20 percent workout and 80 percent diet, which she calls "practically protein" with lots of protein, but with some key carbs like oatmeal thrown in. She drinks a lot of water, and tries to eat a lot of fresh foods. In terms of exercises, she swears by burpees and planks.
"I did it the old fashioned way!" she said.
This year, after totally transforming her appearance, she was crowned Miss South Texas.
"Your crown can be your voice, and I really want my crown to be the voice for those people who feel like they don't have one," Kryfko said.
Her story has gone viral, with her voice reaching people across the world.
"The past month has been a whirlwind of an experience," she said. "I went from local news channel to Good Morning America in 72 hours so it has been a crazy month, but it has been such a huge blessing, and I wouldn't trade it in for the world."
She says all the attention has been the best preparation.
"It has really made me feel a lot more comfortable going into the week," she said. "If I am lucky enough to walk away with the title, then I am ready for the job."
You can follow Keli on her website, as well as Facebook and Twitter.
