At one point, she was a size 24 and close to 300 pounds.
When Kelleen Burgess, age 63, decided to take control of her health, she had no idea just how incredible her journey would be or how much it would help her through the most challenging time of her life. In 2022, Kelleen had lost an impressive 80 pounds following Ann Louise Gittleman’s Fat Flush Plan. Little did she know, the habits she built would later provide her with a sense of comfort and routine, especially after the devastating loss of her son in early 2024.
Her journey wasn’t just about losing weight—it was about reclaiming her vitality. “It’s a feel-good program,” she says. “I know I’m giving my body everything it needs: the right proteins, vitamins, and supplements to stay healthy.” Kelleen even recalls her doctor celebrating her steady weight loss of half a pound a day, calling it an ideal and healthy pace. At one point, she was a size 24 and close to 300 pounds. Now, after re-starting the plan following a period of tragic personal challenges, she’s at 237 pounds and well on her way to her goal.
Rediscovering Strength in Self-Care
Though her weight crept back up during an especially stressful time, Kelleen’s commitment to her health never wavered. She rejoined the Fat Flush Plan, this time with a deeper focus on self-care. “If you don’t take care of yourself, no one else will,” she reflects. Her routine is simple but effective: two shakes a day, one healthy meal and some healthy snacks, the right supplements, and a mindset focused on feeling good. She enjoys the energy and confidence the program gives her, especially as she continues her inspiring transformation.
As an employee at Satay Bistro in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, Kelleen’s passion for food and wellness has come full circle. Satay Bistro, which is featured on The Templeton List for its organic, locally grown menu items, has been a source of inspiration for Kelleen. It’s also where she met the restaurant’s regulars Ann Louise Gittleman and James Templeton—an encounter that deepened her connection to wellness and encouraged her to keep pushing forward on her journey.
From Personal Transformation to Advocacy
Kelleen’s story goes far beyond weight loss. In January 2024, she faced an unimaginable tragedy when her son, Austin Burgess, passed away from fentanyl poisoning at the age of 33. Austin had received his associate degree and started his own business, CDA Sprinklers. He had taken pain pills, unaware that what he received had been laced with fatal amounts of fentanyl. According to the coroner, he died within minutes. “They say it was accidental,” Kelleen shares, “and he was alone.”
The loss devastated her, as it has for far too many families affected by the fentanyl crisis in America today. Amid a deep sense of grief, Kelleen channeled her pain into purpose. She and two other grief-stricken mothers founded Family & Friends of Overdose, a support group for those who have lost loved ones to fentanyl-related deaths. The group works closely with local law enforcement and is the first of its kind in her area.
“It’s heartbreaking to see so many young people losing their lives to fentanyl,” she says. “Often they don’t even realize what they’re taking. Something that appears harmless may be laced with fentanyl. And in too many instances, one dose of this poisonous substance is all it takes. Just like that, your child is gone. This group gives us a space to grieve, to connect and, most importantly, to raise awareness.”
Continuing the Journey with a Community of Support
Kelleen’s story is a testament to resilience—both physical and emotional. While she continues to focus on her own health, losing inches and building strength, she also dedicates herself to helping other grieving families navigate their loss. Her commitment to her health through Ann Louise Gittleman’s program is a reminder that self-care isn’t just about looking good—it’s about having the strength to face life’s toughest moments.
Her advocacy work with Family & Friends of Overdose has allowed Kelleen to find solace in supporting others. Still, her dedication to her personal well-being remains a central focus. By maintaining her health and staying committed to the Fat Flush Plan, she’s been able to keep her body strong, which in turn gives her the energy and clarity to keep advocating for those impacted by the fentanyl crisis.
Kelleen’s Weight Loss Journey: Tools for Success
Despite the profound challenges she’s faced, Kelleen has continued her remarkable weight-loss transformation. In spite of her tragic loss, here’s what she did to lose an incredible 80 pounds:
- Followed the Fat Flush Kit regimen for continued results
- Incorporated Radical Metabolizer to enhance her weight-loss efforts
Kelleen remains focused on achieving her personal goals and inspiring others to take control of their health, no matter what life throws their way.
In Kelleen’s Own Words
“Take care of yourself first. You have to love yourself and set an example for others, especially in the hardest of times. Ann Louise and James have been such a blessing to me, and I’m forever grateful for their support.”
