Woman Reclaims Health After Hormonal Disorder Battle, No Ozempic Required

Defying the Odds: A Personal Triumph Over Cushing’s Disease

In a remarkable journey of perseverance, a woman shed over 10 stone (6.3kg) in just two years, overcoming a rare hormonal disorder. Her success came without the aid of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, showcasing the power of lifestyle changes.

After her diagnosis with Cushing’s disease in October 2020, Hannah Mai, 37, experienced significant weight gain. This condition, triggered by prolonged exposure to elevated cortisol levels, presents with distinctive symptoms. These include weight accumulation in the midsection and upper back, and a rounded facial appearance.

Cushing’s disease, which Amy Schumer also recently disclosed she was diagnosed with, prompted Mai to seek a solution. She underwent brain surgery in February 2021 to address the root cause – a pituitary tumor. Following surgery, she started taking steroid medication to manage the condition.

In 2023, Mai stopped using the steroid medication, and committed herself to weight loss. Starting at 20st 5lbs (approximately 129kg), and a dress size 26, she began a transformative journey. She credits daily Pilates sessions and a high-protein diet for her remarkable transformation.

Pilates and Diet: The Winning Combination

Mai shared her perspective on Ozempic, and how it has been used for weight loss. She believes it helps those who need it. But she feels it’s possible to achieve results through dedication. Her focus, and the positive mindset she developed, were key to her success.

“Once I started losing the weight, I just kept going.

It isn’t easy, you really have to push yourself, and focus on who you want to be and think about who you want to be.”

—Hannah Mai

Mai‘s weight struggles began around age 30, when she gained a significant amount of weight quickly. She weighed around nine stone, and increased to 16st in a few months. Seeking medical advice, she was often asked if she was pregnant or if her weight gain was hormone-related.

After extensive research, Mai discovered that her symptoms aligned with Cushing’s disease. She printed out a list of her symptoms, and shared them with her doctor, ultimately leading to her diagnosis.

The Pituitary Foundation estimates that small, benign tumors in the pituitary gland are the cause of around 70% of spontaneous Cushing’s cases. Mai‘s surgery addressed this issue.

Mai said that after coming off of steroids, she knew it was her body and felt better. She embraced a rigorous plan, eliminating sugar, dairy, and gluten after being diagnosed with celiac disease. Her regimen includes a low-carb, high-protein diet and daily Pilates.

The Road to Recovery and a New Lifestyle

The I Feel Pretty star Amy Schumer said that she was also diagnosed with the same condition in February 2024. Schumer had been getting steroid injections to treat scars from her breast reduction surgery and Caesarean section, and believes that this caused her to develop the condition.

As per a 2023 study, over 40% of Americans struggle with weight management. Mai, who is now raising money for The Pituitary Foundation, slimmed down to a size 10. This was the size she wore before her diagnosis.

Looking back, Mai expresses pride in her achievements and feels happier. While she acknowledges a lingering worry about potential weight regain, she is focused on her progress. She uses her story to inspire others.

Hannah Mai‘s journey provides hope, showcasing that positive change is attainable with consistent effort and a supportive mindset, even when faced with complex health challenges.