The 50 Million Pound Blog

To conclude which anti-aging cream is best for you, you have to earliest survey what is your biggest problem. Is it hellish under-eye circles? Or crow's feet? Or worse, both? After determining your problem, your next action is to search as a replacement for the spin-off that resolution work finery in place of you.The get the better of fetish to do is to solicit from about for recommendations, and it is unchanging better to manoeuvre a direction from a dermatologist. During your search, recall to check up on the ingredients. Unexceptionally about to use harmonious that has been dermatologically tested to avoid any allergy break-outs. The anti-aging cream which has not been tested might be cheaper, but price should not be an important factor. After all, if you sample adverse side effects from the anti-aging cream, you on aim up spending more.Choose an anti-aging cream which is chock-full of anti-oxidants as poetically as vitamins to nourish your shell while treating it. Retinol, an anti-oxidant, is a vital ingredient which is usually initiate in these anti-aging creams. Another ingredient to look after an partiality out for the benefit of is Kinetin which irons in view your peel wrinkles aside supplying more collagen to the skin. This constituent also helps to victual your skin stable in time to come moisturized.Meanwhile, alpha hydroxyl acids which should be for the present in most anti-aging creams exfoliate the skin. Dead outer layer cells are removed to reveal smoother, newer shell cells underneath.Natural innate ingredients such as grape young, conservationist tea and aloe vera are unequalled additions to anti-aging creams. They quorum the anti-aging cream's act and resolve allow you better results. If you are unsure of the ingredients stated at the labels, get efficient supporter from a pharmaceutical chemist or a dermatologist.When you be undergoing bring about an anti-aging cream that suits your incrustation needs the most suitable, you should extension your aliment repayment for model results. In this way, your outside resolve not exclusive look younger but healthier too. Keeping away from toadying, unctuous nutriment and junk food resolve better produce tonic hull cells.Finding the right or best anti-aging cream representing you and your pelt doesn't drink to be difficult. Due string the steps mentioned above and you force procure the wholesome, youthful visage you want.To wheedle rid of anti aging sign, venture Lifecell Anti-Wrinkle Cream. You can seascape the formerly and after photo here after using Lifecell, Anti Aging Cream.Article Outset:

Hello to you all,
I am a 35yr.old woman with 6 kids. I have always been big. As a child I was always bigger than all my cousins and friends. I was not a big eater I was just big. Now through the years I've gained and gained an unknown amount of weight. I have tried all sorts of diets and failed everytime. Everyone in my household is skinny. It is hard to stay on a diet when there are all these tempting foods around you. My husband tries to help but he just doesn't understand that this is a hard thing to do. He thinks that i could just say i'm going to lose weight and do it. My diets usually last a week or two. I've cried almost everytime I go shopping because nothing seems to fit. To add another complication my boobs are so big that it makes it extra hard to do certian excercise. I am 5'9, 246lbs and a size 20. I have been waiting for this wake up call that all sucess stories usually have, i'm still waiting. I want to drop 80lbs. My goal seems impossible. I need lots of motivation because I am so depressed about my weight which makes me eat even more. I never feel full after I eat large meals can anyone please tell me what to do about this? I want to be around to raise my kids and grandkids. I want to look good and feel good about me for once. I've been reading all the stories and my heart goes out to those who go thru so many obstacles that keep them from reaching their goals. On the other hand I feel so proud of everyone that meet and maintain your goals. You are the reason I have decided to try this program. I have to pray that God gives me the strengh to reach my ideal weight. I will include you all in my prayers and pray that you can reach many more people that have this same struggle in life. Tanya you are a winner and I believe you will do better than you have set out to do. Keep up all the good work Dr.Ian I pray that I can post a sucess story someday.

I praise God for answering my prayers. God, you are so wonderful, majestic. Jesus Christ, I adore Your Sacred Heart.p

Hello. I would like to wish your project of all of the best.
Personally to you of health and happiness! Yours faithfully - onoyko.
By the way my site Here is a little about me
http://russianathens.gr/modules.php?name=About
My news always here
http://russianathens.gr/modules.php?name=News
Come and to me sometimes.

Hello How i can place images here ?
I try upload it, but something wrong.

Hi

how about -

Hi, kinda new here but thought I would say hi as have been lurking for a while.
Great forum BTW

Alan Redman
for an unbeatable cure for male and female yeast infection, why not visit http://www.yeast--infection.biz. Comes with a 100% money back guarantee, and you can be infection free within 12 hours.

Today i'ue decided to make an improvement for myself- I AM GOING TO DO THE WEIGHT LOSS CHALLANGE! I am 20 years old and I weigh 2381bs, I miscarried a baby 3 years ago and went into total depression, I blamed myself for it and when i get depressed I eat alot and not the best of foods either. Then 1yr ago I switched totally and now I barely eat at all, which causes my body to store fat literally! My goal, to form proper diet plan that includes: eating the proper food diet(montel williams book eating healthy will be my guide) 3 times a day 9 in the mourning- kick it off with an 8oz cup of grapefruit juice and my a.m. stretches, leg lifts, 2 mile walk and crunches. 1 in the afternoon is lunch time-is my house cleaning time but who says you cant lose weight doing daily chorer huh when there is a will their is a way and 5 at night is dinner time-stretching and 1 mile walk is in order. and my husband Arnold is more than happy to do this with me and to help me fulfill my plan to achieve my desired weight goal.

Hi Tanya,
Your success story is very motivating. Congratulations and keep up the good work. I joined the challenge in July of 2007, and have lost 23 lbs so far. It was a tremendous struggle at first because I was not as motivated as I should have been, but I hung in there. I live less than a mile from a school and started walking around the track in the mornings before work, and again in the evenings. I also made some changes in my eating habits, one being that I gave up soft drinks and sweets. I got off track for awhile around the Holidays when my work hours made it difficult to walk. I gained about 6 lbs back but immediately got back on track when I realized this. Now, I have purchased a treadmill, but I still walk at the school's track when the weather is nice. I have incorporated a little strength training into my routine to help tone up. I would like to lose atleast 40 more pounds, but at this point I don't know if that would be too much. I don't want to look like I'm sick or anything. I guess I'll just see how it goes. I have been on "a diet" many times, but I have never stuck with it. I know I have lost the same 10 or 15 lbs over and over and over again. I have a co-worker that has also made the commitment to make a healthy life change and we have really supported each other. When our story becomes a success story like yours....maybe you'll be reading about us!! That would be nice!

Hi! Congrats on your weight loss. I just joined the challenge when our company opened it up to all employees. I think you may be a college friend of mine. Did you go to UGA and graduate in 1995 in RMI? If so this is Burt! Hope it is you....I have wanted to get in touch. If not, then I applaud you and hope to join you on the success board soon....

Well I thought I'd take the time and write an update. I am down a total of 33 pounds! I had a few back slides along the way but had my mother to pick me up when i fell off. What would i do without her? We had been walking the track at the the local high school for awhile but here in Connecticut the weather is so unpredicatable that we had to think of someplace else to work out. It became increasingly harder for some of the members of the group to meet in one place to workout. So we decided that we would do it where ever we could. Well for me that became whenever I could! I have a 10 year old daughter and a 4 year old son. My daughter can understand to give mommy an hour so I can workout. My son on the other hand gives me that look like "what does your workout have to do with me". So i started to slip off but still eating the right stuff. But without the exercise my weight was pretty much at a stand still. So I decided to buy an easel and paint for them to paint. But I made it known to them...the 4 year old especially that this is only to be used when mommy WORKS OUT! Well needless to say this idea worked out. The only down side to this is that I now am the proud owner of over 100 beautifully handpainted pictures that I need a museum to display them! But at this point whatever works.
Now let me tell you about my Thanksgiving! We all decided to go to my Aunt's house this year and she made any and everything you could think of. GREAT! Well since I had my support system with me(my mother) it was so much easier that i thought. She was in charge of making our plates. When she returned with our plates all I could do was smile. We were able to enjoy the same meal everyone else had but our portions were about a spoonful! Well as it turns out all we needed was a taste to be satisfied. Some of my other family members made little comments and thought we were depriving ourselves from a good meal. Not even close. And the funny thing was watching them an hour or so after dinner looking as if they would collapse if someone mentioned dessert. Mom and I played cards for awhile with the kids while everyone else receoveres. Knowing how well this turned out we went with that same concept for Christmas with the same satisfying results. We are back on track again.

Thanks Dr. Smith I happy to say that I have decided to take the challenge. I am a professional cosmetologist and make-up artist. Since we are representatives of the image industry,it is very important for us to maintain a healthy lifestyles and look good. Another reason I decided to take the challenge, is that I like to shop and the clothes I like do not require fat.

I really enjoyed your story and wish you much luck in your weight loss. I know how hard it is
I'm 47 now but I recall in my 20's and early 30's not thinking i would ever be big well it happen i'm 5'5 weight is 220. I will tell you first hand it is easier to lose the weight while you still young. I started walking yesterday and I did 2 1/2 miles with no problem i was walking fast too it felt so good.
I just came back from my hour lunch break I walked for 30 mins did a 1 1/2 mile walk. I'm tired but i feel so good I did it, I plan to walk another mile or two ths evening. Too all trying to lose weight i wish you well and keep in mind when you shop for food if you don't buy it you can't eat it. I'm lucky I live alone so it is easy to shop and try to eat healthy I love fried chicken but i got to let it go besides tired of my kitchen being greasy lol..GOOD LUCK EVERYONE we can do this....

I want to say that I am very proud of your success. I too want to loose weight and have just signed up for the challenge. My goal is 50 pounds.
Currently I live in the US Vigin Islands and it is difficult to eat right due to high cost of food, and it is hard to excersize due to high cost of the gym. Working out outside is not an option due to the heat and bugs. So I am certain that this will be a Challenge to say the least, but your story has motivated me greatly. I wish you the best and Congratulations, in advance, for reaching your goal!

You'll need to open a savings account for them new clothes you'll have buy. Keep doing your thang. You're motivation for the people.

Wow Tanya, 21 more pounds!!! You go. How many more do you want to lose? Good luck to you, not that you need it, because it sounds like you are in a zone and truly focused. Stay motivated. You inspire me to keep it going.
Kimberly E.

Hi All,
Thank you Dr.Ian and state farm. I started the challenge in april but did not work hard at it. I've since then had to regroup after reading T.D.Jakes(Reposition Yourself). I started three weeks ago at 252lbs. I'm as of yesterday at 243lbs. I have taken a picture of me at 252lbs and every 10lbs after this so I can see myself becoming smaller. I'm fifty two, but I'm always being mistaken for 44 or 45. There's no telling how young I'll look in 10-12 more weeks. I walk at least 45 minutes a day for five days, write down every thing that goes in my mouth and drink plenty water. I'm having so much fun. Let me know how to send you pictures. THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU.

Hello All,

It's nice to finally have someone show me how to gain control of my weight without trying to get in my pocketbook. It is also nice to see that I am not the only one that has discipline issues when it comes to remaining consistant with a weight loss program. Tanya's story as well as the others serve as a beacon of light for me that I can accomphlish this mighty goal I have set for myself. I don't want to die because I was too lazy to take care of myself. This challenge may just be the ticket I need out of this fat rut. Like Tanya, I need someone to be accountable to...and all of you are my accountability meters. I just signed up this week, July 9th and have lost a whole 1lb. That's a start. Here's to all of us reaching our goals in a healthy way. Thank you Dr. Ian, that for the information and the challenge. I turn 50 this year and so wanted to be fine at my party...but I will be ready for my carribbean cruise in September. Hopefully by then I will have lost at least 20lbs. 19 to go. My overall goal is 80lb. I stand 5ft 2in and weigh 222lb. 135 is my perfect weight. With all of your support I believe by this time next year I will have obtained it. Thank you and have a great weekend.

Tanya,
That is a great idea to invite friends and family to a challenge. I pray for the best results for you. I too like Tracy am stuck at 197. My will to say no everyday is not where it should be, so therefore, my weight is not where it should be. Last year I lost 23 lbs. and for some reason finding it difficult to lose 27 more. Support is great as long as there are committed people to go the distance. Im introducing this challenge to the teachers at my school in August, and I think at the end, we all should meet in Disney World to celebrate our success in July of 2008! Meet new friends and share stories of how we won the fight! Detroit, Charlotte, Bristol CT, Birmingham AL, all of us!

Hello Everyone,

I am a Tom Joyner listener. I heard Dr. Ian on yesterday. I am challenged with my schedule but I am determined to join the team. Tanya is a great motivator and I thank you for sharing your story. At this point I am reading all the material of the challenge because actually I can't start until after my surgery next week on the 18th. My Dr. stated automatically I should lose 10 to 15lbs with the surgery and from there it is on like Donkey Kong (as we use to say back in the day). I refuse to let my current weight of 245lb weigh me down. I am very dependent on this website to communicate with others. I will be on bed rest for possibly 4 weeks. I am determined to keep my weights next to my bed to exercise my arms and as soon as I am physically able get moving!! I refuse to give up. Once back at work I will invite others to join me. Maybe I will do like Tanya and start a money pool. Money is always a great motivator.

Thank you Dr. Ian and State Farm for this challenge and thank you Tom Joyner for featuring the challenge.
Kimberly

Hi Tanya,
Congratulations. I chose to do the same as you this year, and that was to lose weight. At the first of the year my weight was 290. On April 3 I desided enough was enough. I have arthritis from too much weight on my joints.
As of today I am down to approx 257. I cut back on what I eat. I count calories and I exercise at home on my exercise bike. I use 3 to 5 pd weights for my arms. I atarted at a size 28, now I can wear 20 to 22 and some 18's.
My goal is 170. I am 5'11". So I say thanks to Dr. Ian and all of you who inspire girls like us to lose weight. Without a support group cheering us on, we would just start slacking off. Thanks again for the wonderful story.
Texas.

The kick off for the Detroit Challenge, I believe, is this Saturday. I am excited. I am 32 years old 5.7 and weigh 192 pounds. I have been stuck at 192 pounds for a now a year. I haven't gained or lost.

Do anyone have set up support groups in there states for the challenge. I know I can motivate myself to do this alone, but I can accomplish so much more with a support group. Let me know how your support group was established within the community.

Hi Tanya. Your story was inspiring, especially the fact that you and your crew put money in a pot and someone wins at the end. That is my type of motivation! I am the same way, need to be pushed and need a major incentive to lose weight and stay on track.
But this time, alone or with a partner, I'm sticking to it. I'm in it to win. I want to lose about 15 pounds. I signed up for tje challenge today and I plan to track my progress almost daily. Good luck to everyone.

Kimberly E.

I signed onto the CHALLENGE on April 11, 2007, however I had begun my weight loss program on Feeb.28, 2007 at 166 pounds on a 5'3'' frame and 53 years of age. I wanted to be healthy and fabulous for my arriving fast 54th birthday this month, therefore I got busy after putting this personal challenge-to lose weight, off several times. I had tried many different diets only to lose a few pounds and stop, then start eating again. I've tried them all starvation, liquids, grapefruit, boiled egg,and cabbaage to name a few. However, it was not until a friend introduced me to her nutritionist did it happen...the weight began to fall off. On June 22,2007 I had lost 26 pounds and as of July 11,2007 my total weight loss is 29 pounds. I now weigh 135 pounds and have gone from a size 16 to a size 8 and it is fabulous!!!!!!!!!!!!! But the weight loss was not without pain, the excerising and water drinking but the LIFE CHANGE is great. I now know how to EAT and I am so glad!!!!!!!!!!!! My birthday party is in two weeks and I will be 50+ & FABULOUS!!!!!!!! Dr. Ian I would like to thank you for making us stop and take notice of our health!!!!!!!!! God bless each of you on this journey!!!!!!!!!

Dear Tanya,
It is so ironic that I looked at this message. I was driving into work this morning and was listening to the Ton Joyner morning show. I was a little bit skeptical about actually logging on and registering because I was a little embarassed about people knowing my weight. I have lost weight in the past, but would like to keep it off. I am 32 years old with a 7 year old daughter and I have NEVER been below a size 14. I don't want my daughter to grow up with a weight issue. I want to be around for a long time. I did enroll today and am praying that I can lose the weight. Keep up the good work.

Sophisticatedlady Louisiana

HEY TANYA,

WAY TO GO GIRL!!-:). I JUST WANTED TO SAY A BIG CONGRATS TO YOU AND TO CONTINUE TO STRIVE FOR HEALTHLYNESS. AS LONG AS YOU HAVE PEOPLE THERE TO SUPPORT YOU WITH YOUR CHALLENGE YOU CAN ACHIEVE ANYTHING YOU PLAN TO. I AM ALSO ONE OF THOSE PEOPLE WHO NEED THAT TEAMWORK TO LOSE WEIGHT. WITH ALL THE ENCOURAGEMENT WITH EVERYONE FROM THIS BLOG AND FAMILY AND FRIENDS YOU WILL GET TO YOUR TARGET WEIGHT.

All these comments are very inspirational, but what do I do once I log off? I am having a very difficult time losing weight that it is SO discouraging!!!! I am ready, I'm tired of being overweight, I'm tired of wanting this so bad but nothing is changing. What are you all doing other then encouraging each other? I don't want to sound like a "inspiration- pooper" but I just need more details. I'm 32 188pound and would LOVE to be a healthy 150! I'm not a overeater and I do eat right most of the time and I'm walking and doing pilates.Please tell me what do you eat, what satisfies cravings for you. I did join the challenge and have lost a total of 4 pounds. I just dont want to get discouraged too the point that I quit. Jennifer

It is great that we have a place where we can all support one another in our efforts to lose weight and live healthier lives. While volunteering at the Miami event, I was inspired to really take this opportunity seriously and share it with others. Members of my family and my colleagues have joined me in the challenge. I have lost 26 pounds since joining "The Challenge" and hope to lose many more.

Thanks Dr. Ian!

I DECIDED!!! I just decided and thank you Jacque (I read your comment). July 5th was my birthday and today I weighed 225 pounds. I have so much that I want to say that words fail me. At lunch today I will pick up the kit from an agent.

Thank you for all of your honesty and transparency. I saw my sister this past week and she is absolutely beautiful and she said that I could be as well with lifestyle changes and discipline.
Today is the first day of the rest of my life I will no longer exist in this skin.
Lisa G., Birmingham, Alabama
twentypearls

Congratulations Tanya! I recently joined weight watchers. My goal is to lose 49 pounds. Trust me I will acheive my goal. I can say that I finally came to a point that I am so READY!! SH

I to am starting and I commend you on starting. I am a Food service Director in a nursing home and i nit pic throughout the day. I will be 38 in a few days, and I can't stand having to look at the back of me in the mirror. I want to be able to start and finish this one goal without being distracted by something. I don't want to walk into 40 with this weight on me. I have seem some amazing looking women, and they are much older than me. However, they do not look it. One woman I worked with looked like she was 28yrs, and she told me she was celebrating her 52 birthday. I know it can be done, but I to need support from others. I am going to get my facility involved with a plan. I will keep you posted.

Dr. Smith, you are phenomenal and a refreshing inspiration to young African American males and females.

We would like to thank you for your contribution! God bless you and your cause!

My husband and I are determined to lose weight. We are the best of friends we do everything together. I have found that losing weight is a life style change and you cannot be successful if you do not adopt the proper mindset. We will stay focus and continue to strive---we know it will be a life long challenge.

Hello All,

Thank you Dr. Ian and The Steve Harvey Morning Show Crew. Shirley Strawberry, you have encouraged me! I began my challenge when your goal was to lose the first 15 pounds. I lost 8 pounds and I'm encouraged to reach my goal in losing a total of 30 pounds. Yes, I recorded my weight loss on the website. Please continue to keep your listening audience informed of your updates. This is a motivation. God Bless you and thank God for The Steve Harvey Morning Show!

Hi
I started the challenge about a month and a half ago and has lost 17lbs. I started at 160 now I'm at 143. I eat a low calorie diet, walk on my lunch, and do Tae-Bo. I do backslide but don't let it get to me. I'm trying to lose 13 more lbs and they seem so hard to get off. I'm going to have to step up. Maybe start walking longer and doing the entire Tae-Bo tape but is so hard. I'm going to keep praying and I know I'll succeed...

Hi Tanya,
I was listening to the Steve Harvey show this am, heard Dr. Ian, went to the web site and read your blog. Fantastic!! I can not wear any of the the clothes in my closet....depressing (no joke) I HAVE to lose weight. I have been a size 6-8 forever even after 3 children,(big clothes size 10).I would love to just be a 10 again again. My excuse is "no time". How do you make time? I am proud of you..Keep up the good work!

WHAT A GREAT INCENTIVE I WORK IN A HOSPITAL AND AS BEING IN THE HEALTHCARE INDUSTRY WE ARE ALWAYS AWARE OF OUR BODY IMAGE AND I'M PLANING ON STARTING THIS CONCEPT ON THE JOB.I WILL KEEP YOU POSTED.THANK YOU AND GREAT WORK CONGRATS

Hi Tanya, all of us are so happy for you and are pulling for you (and all others) to lose your desired weight. Thank you Dr. Ian for caring. I KNOW this can take a toll on you at at times :)
Tanya, as much as i love coffee in the a.m. I gave it up for our 21 day fast. IT WAS HARD. But I did it b/c it was important to me. Important to be obedient. Find something (favorite food) that you can give up for 2 days then do 5 days, etc. Your goal should increase each time. Yes, it will be hard. But think about the long term success in the end. Your health is well worth it! Put God first and you can do it!
and what a great incentive: paying folks to lose weight - good for you.

Good for you.
I recieved excellent news myself. At 33 years of age and a type 2 Diabetic since 2000, I was just told by my doctor that my diabetes is under control. I have been taken off my medications! My doctor told me I was her inspiration, and to keep up the good work.
How I did it? I stopping making excuses, and started setting goals for myself. I no longer think that working out takes up too much time but that everything else does. I take a closer look at lables and manage my caloric intake. I even keep a log of my workouts and calories on my desk calendar. While I may not be shedding pounds quickly I have noticed that I don't feel sluggish, I am not tired all the time, and yes, my clothes are getting too big!
I have a long way to go to get to my goal. I have set my mind to it. I will succeed in 2007!

Hello Everyone.

Congratulations to Tanya and everyone on the challenge for making a positive lifestyle changes. I am still going through my weight loss challenge and decide to jump on board the 50 million pound challenge. I have battled with issues with being overweight since I was a teen. I have gone through the emotional eating the name calling, the yo yo dieting, chastising and much more about my weight so I understand what most of you have been going through and probably still going through.

I am here to tell you that losing the weight, being healthy and loving yourself is attainable. You need to have patience, work hard and challenge yourself fully. Not only be willing to work on yourself physically, but develop yourself physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually for balance.

I am 33 years old, I have diabetes and I began taking my weight loss very serious May 2006. I weighed 281 lbs and I just thought enough is enough. I am tired…done, done, done, looking like this, being this person on the outside that is not I. I have too much I want to do. I want to move faster, play more, climb, hike, bike, learn to swim and my god look good in clothing. So I have being working out 4-5 days (twice a day 3 times a week), watching what and how much I eat (minimal splurges), joined a fitness challenge at work 2 times, group classes at the gym, workout with friends, work out at home at night, workout with the dog, hike, bike, walk and I dropped 73 lbs as of July 8th. I have 51 more pounds to lose till my goal weight and I encourage all of you out there that want to drop the pounds you go for it, cause no one can do it but you.

God Bless and Good Luck to all of you,
Trina
Bristol, CT

P.S.
The Internet is great tool for finding workouts if you do not have a gym.

Ok...I have finally registered and have comitted myself to this challenge. I have never had problems with losing weight but these last 3-4 years have been extremely difficult for me...I dont eat fried foods, drink sodas, or over eat. My enemy is sugar!!!! I rarely use refined sugar and I purchase sugar free syrup, but I KNOW that I am a sugar/carbohydrate addict. This will definitely be a challenge for me...I am borderline diabetic and clearly obese. I am short with a medium build and a great atheletic body structure.
I am COMMITTED to do this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

great job i to start a weight war on my job and i was like250 in jan 07 now i am 224 pounds
i have lost 16pounds since the 50million pounds challenge i think i stareted may 17,we will take the pot the two biggest losers will
spilt the the pot,i have so many reason why i need to lose weight my family has heart trouble
so keep up the good work may God bless you my post have never showen up here

I almost died from dieting so much.I want to do it right this time.I read great stories from all of you.Keep up the good work and God bless you all.

I just signed up for the challenge, and i must say i am very excited about it. I am encouraging my sisters and some other family members to join with me so that we can do this together. I am so tired of being overweight and i can't wait to loose the 50lb. goal i've set for myself. Thanks to all the comments from everyone it has truly been a great inspiration. Thanks Dr. Ian for caring enough to put forth this challenge. We all can achieve our goals just keep believing and have zero doubt.

Hi Dr. Ian and everyone,

I feel that I am in the best shape of my life physically. I will be 46 years old on July 9th and have been working out with my co-workers since the latter part of February of this year. Incorporated with eating 80% of organic foods and eating smaller portions along with cutting out sweets, I have lost 36 pounds since February. My goal was to be at my ideal weight of 155 by my birthday, I have about 15 pounds to go. I attended the 50 million pounds challenge in Miami, FL and gained a lot of knowledge especially when it come to High Blood Pressure (which I was diagnosed with a few years ago but thanks be to God I walked out of the doctors office with a prescription and have never taken a pill), BMI and what my goal weight should be for my height and age and a lot of other things when it pertains to healthy living. Thank you Dr. Ian and keep up the good work. My prayers are with everyone who is trying to lose weight but remember it is not about dieting but it is about a consistent healthy life style change. I felt a need to change my eating habits because of my 3 sons. I want to live so that I can see them graduate college(1 down and 2 to go), get married, have a family and enjoy my grandchildren. God Bless everyone.

Hello everyone!!!
I wish to remain anonymous at this point until I really commit. I am so excited, touched, elated, and heart-warmed by all of your comments.
I am 36 yrs. old and married with 7 children.After i7 yrs. and 'pre- diabetes' plus high blood pressure, has left me emotionally drained. However, I came across the ad for the 50mill. challenge in a friend's essence magazine and became somewhat inspired.
It is my goal and desire to loose the weight necessary for me to be healthy and to feel good about ME!!!
Please keep up the wonderful comments and inspiratiions.They truly mean a lot.(Some of my co-workers have been exercising for the past 3 mths. But we have not been consistent. So after hearing of this, we too decided to jump on the band wagon.) So I wish everyone well because I know we can do it!!!!!!

i am a mother of 2 and it is very hard to loose the weight that i gained but i am never going to give up i have been working out for two weeks now and i really see some improvements in my body but i have a long way to go i really need some sort of support i have none but still i keep on my girls give me some support. everyone please keep me in your prayers my starting weight was 240 i am down 230 right now .

my name is michelle i had a baby 6m ago ,it is taking me some time to lose my baby fat.how i like at my self has change.i have never been so big in my life.i am hopeing that this challenge works for me.

u are trien to lose weight i am 13 nd weight 239 pounds

Hello, I just joined the Challenge on July 9th. I started out with Fat Smash in Feb.2007. To date I have lost 36 lbs. I feel great, I can exercise without giving out of breath. I've learned how to eat the right foods and the correct portions. I still have 60 lbs to go. But, I'm determined to lose the weight and keep it off. I'm a borderline diabetic, have high blood pressure & cholestrol. I had a bad habit of eating at night. i could go all day without eating and then around 8-9pm, I wanted to eat a big meal. Now, I eat my fruits & veggies more than I eat meat. I have fallen off the program a few times, but, always went back to it. It's mind over matter with me. I'm able to walk 3 miles on the treadmill, or out side. I ride the bicycle for 3 mins and feel great about doing it. All of my clothes are too big at this time and I'm having them taken up to my new size. Starting this week I will be working out at the VA hospital wellness center and have a trainer with cardo excersices & strength training. I just hate I waited until I got in my late 40's to start. But, I have to admit it's worth it all.

Thanks
Dr. Ian for helping those who want to be helped.

Hello Everyone.

Congratultions to Tanya and everyone on the challenge for making a positive lifestyle choice.
My name is Stacy. I am 33. I joined the challenge just a few weeks ago however I have been fighting the weight battle for a long time. I was born with Cerebral Palsy. I had to where full leg braces on my legs tht had to be locked at all times. When I was 4 God performed a miracle and despite what the doctors thought, I took my first steps down the asile of my church. Today I work for several community organizations and I am a radio announcer on a local radio station. I host a Gospel Music show called "Gospel Revelations" (www.gospelrevelations.com) The weight battle began when I was a teenager. I lost 30 pounds on Nutri-system. I went away to college and gained it back plus more. After experiencing many disappointments and several years of emotional eating my weight flew out of control. At my highest weight I was well over 350 pounds. Two years ago I had weight loss surgery (lap-band). I was successful for about 6 months and managed to lose quite a bit of weight. Due a slip and fall accident that required steroid treatment my weight loss came to an immediate hault. As time went on I was very discouraged and frustrated. Even though I had weight loss surgery the scale was not moving. I was not able to exercise the way I needed to because of a herniated disc in my back a knee injury from the fall. When the scale started to move I noticed I was gaining back some of the weight I loss and I knew I had to do something. Well much to my displeasure after months of treatment for my back and knee, my leg swelled up about 3X its normal size. I was rushed to the hospital where it was determined I had at least 6 blood clots in my leg and I could have died. Prior to my weight loss surgery there was a blood clot filter implanted in my body so thankfully it saved my life. The leg was also infected because it was so swollen. I spent 8 days in the hospital on all kinds of medicines. I came home and spent about 8 months recovering (technically I am still recovering). My weight maintained. I would gain 5 pounds or so every now and then and it would also come off. The Dr said it was because of the swelling in my leg. So I had always been a fan of the Celeb. Fit Club on VH1. I decided after being cleared by my Dr. to come off the meds and ressume my weight loss efforts, I would check out The Fat Smash Diet. I read the book and I didnt stay with it at first. Then the Extreme Fat Smash came out and I was so motivated by the lay out of the plan and its ease. I started officially on the Extreme Fat Smash by Dr. Ian on on June 5,2007 and I have already lost 15 pounds. People are starting to notice my progress and I am making an affort to spread the word about this amazing plan. I heard about the challange and decided to sign up even tough I had already begun the weight loss process. I dont really exercise as much as I should because I still experience some pain in my knee and because the blood clots did so much damage to my veins in my leg, my leg is still swollen. I do what I can. Swimming and Water Exercises are wonderful because of the low impact on joints. I also use a treadmill and sometimes I even attempt a workout tape or two. I plan to add walking around the track a few days a week. I am so excited about losing weight and feeling better. I recruited my mom to be my weight loss buddy and she is losing too. The plan is easy to follow and it really really works! Trust me I have tried EVERYTHING! Including surgery! The only way to lose weight effectively is a good diet and lifestyle full of healthy choices and exercise. The tips on this challange will help you reach your goals if you stick with it. I have a long way to go, but I am motivated and I know I can do it. I am not always a perfect angel with my diet ocassionally I do allow a treat but for the most part I stay on track. I take it one day at a time. I pray everyday for the strength to keep going. God grants me peace. If I can do this, anyone can do this! Thank You Dr. Ian. Thank you for helping me reach my goals. God bless you all.

This is truly a blessing for me! I used to weigh 255 lbs. I lost 65lbs doing Atkins about 4 years ago. I have kept it off but I am so bored with it that I need a change. I have been gaining and losing the same 15 1bs for the past two years and I am fed up! I want to get to my goal weight of 155 and I know I can do it with all of your help and support. My mom died of a heart attack in 2005 at the age of 47. My grandmother died of a heart attack at the age of 36. I am 31 and I do not want to end up like that. Please pray for me on this last stint to get this weight off FOR GOOD!! I love you Dr. Ian! Keep up the good work!

Dear Dr. Smith,

I have decided to join "The Challenge" because I have had to stop working due to illness. Last year, in August of 2007 I was diagnosed with Syncope and then in October of 2007 Prostate Cancer. I was approximately 197lbs which was good for my 5'81/2" large frame. However, due to my lack of ability to exercise, I have become 230lbs. I am not allowed to go out by myself to walk for exercise and I can't do most exercise while I am alone because I could pass out. Please advise me.

Sincerely,

Frustrated Kenneth Brown

With my current diagnoses and restriction of movement, what do you recommend that I do to lose the weight in a healthy unstressful manner?

Hey everyone!
I just want to congratulate everyone for committing themselves to this challenge! Keep up the hard work, the end results are well worth it! I began this diet about 12 weeks ago and since then I have lost 25lbs, with about 10 to go!!! Please encourage your family and friends to make the committment as you did!
Thanks to Dr. Ian for creating such a wonderful challenge!!!

Hi Dr. Ian Smith:

I'm the mother of our feature challenger Tanya Davis. I have no excuse why it took me so long to respond to her beautiful story expecially when she talked about me and how she encourged me to come out and walk and excerise with her and her friends. Yes, I'm one who needs someone to stick a fire under my feet to get me motivated and I'm glad she did. I love the nightly walks we do at out local high school and the best things about it is that I feel good knowing that walking at a fast paste four times around the football field equals a mile. Tanya and her friends walk up and down the steps of the football field, not saying I'll never join them but me turning fifty-three this month, not making my age as an excuse, it's just that I started this new healthy way of life by excercising late in life, but I'm loving it. One day I'll join the "stair team" just give me time. As Tanya mention to you we heard about the challenge on March 29th, 2007, you were a guest on the Steve Harvey Morning Show. You, Steve and his morning crew Nephew Tommy, Clara, Shirley incourged listeners to go on the "50millionpounds.com" website and sign up, we said we would. By the end of the day it went in one ear and out the other. The following week you were on again, and this time we heard the word "FREE" and as soon as we went into work we sign on and loving it. I believe it's going onto this website and reading other people stories really helps me because I'm not doing this alone. Your website also provides a weight chart and acording to this chart I'm consider obese. I was one time ashamed of my weight, I'm 5'4" and now weigh 220lbs. Telling this to the 50 million challengers I feel no shame to my game, because I'm dermined to loose up to 75 pounds, why 75 because I know I can. All you challengers "KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK"

Evelyn L. Daniels

I wanted to help encourage my fellow participants in this weight loss challenge. I have only been a part of this a week now. I joined in on the 1st of July. I have lost 5 pounds thus far. I have 20 more to go in my own personnal challenge. Due to my busy lifestyle like most of us adults who work and have children and oh so many other responsibilities in this life. I suggest a way that I found helps me very much. I have substituted eating for excercise during lunch for 30-45 minutes of cardio exercise during my workday. So instead of hanging out with fellow workers or sitting around eating shooting the breeze I am now at the gym on the Treadmill or the Stair Stepper. I feel great once I am finished. Now that I have incorporated my workout within my workday I can still accomplish all of my other responsibilities. A suggestion for those who may not may not have the "luxury" of having a gym membership or the time it takes just start walking up and down the stairs at work.
Remember to eat sensible, excercise and just take it one day at a time and we will all be successful in our goals.
Lets keep fighting the fight. Good Luck EVERYONE.

God Bless

Matthew
from Long Beach, California.

Hats off to you Tanya! Keep it up girl!

Now I'd like to respond to Wanda, You wrote that you would like to join the challange but don't think you are strong enough or that you will be motivated. I want you to know that you too can have a success story just like Tanya's. Whether you realize it or not you are strong. You have made it through some major obstacles in your life! And just like you made it through those obstacles you can make it now, and meet your weight goal!
If you feel you need a partner to motivate you and you can't find one locally, i will be your partner. I truly believe that we ourselves are our biggest motivators. People look at my little weight loss and say things like, "Girl you've really motivated me", but they still haven't done anything yet. Where as others have made it up in there minds that if Regina can do it, so can i! Basically, they've motivated themselves.

I too have battled the budge for years. I've been up and down all my life. My mother died when i was in the 6th grade and boy did i put on the pounds! My aunt came from Dallas and noticed the weight and taught me how to do sit-ups. I did them all the time and by the time i got in high school i had the flatest tummy around, i even made the cheerleading squad. But all that ended when i was 22, after i had my 2nd child.

It was my third and final child that took me to my highest weight 283#'s. He was born in 1999 and i was 29 yrs old. Since then, twice i've started to eat right, excercise and loose weight. And i tell ya, there is no motivation like seeing yourself dropping pounds and feeling healthier and better about your self.

The first time i went to walk around the track, my goal was to walk around 6 times, i thought i was going to die!!! 3 months later i was jogging the staights and walking the curves 16 times!!! As i mentioned in my last entry, I ate (healthy) every 3 hours and believe it or not it gave me so much energy, i wanted to work out. I HAD to do something everyday! If i didn't walk, i did Tae-bo, or i went to aerobics, or i did sit-ups and leg lifts at home.

Well that was in 2001,4 months into it i had to have surgery (gall bladder removal). After the surgery and recovery time i gained it all back plus some.

Once again, in 2003, my mind was made up and i was loosing this weight. I started doing the same thing again. I was dropping the weight and feeling good and energetic. Many of my church memebers started asking me what i was doing and coming to the track with me, and low and behold i had to have another surgery! The surgical incision on my stomach was 3 1/2 inches long. This recovery period was much longer this time. So here again, not only did i gain back all the weight i lost, but since then i've gained 50 more pounds! That's right 50 pounds!

As i mentioned in my previous entry, it took me seeing a photo of myself and asking how in the world did i allow myself to get to this point. I had to realize that if i didn't do anything about it now, not only will i shorten my life, but i will more than likely get even bigger.

So at the end of January this year, i started again. I started at home because i didn't like the way i looked or the way i was starting to feel about myself. I went to school, church and home. It really started affecting my self esteem, but i tried not to let it show.

Now,here i am 44 pounds lighter and my dr tells me i have a hernia and need to have surgery. Well, i thought NOT AGAIN! THE DEVIL IS A LIAR! so declined the surgery. The next week (last week) my dr. calls me and tells me they saw a spot on my ovaries during the CT SCAN that confirmed the hernia. Now he has scheduled me an ultrasound for this coming Friday.

Seems i can't win for loosing, but you know what? God is still good and he is still on the throne! Not only I'm i believing that it's going to be nothing. I'm also believing that no matter what, this time i'm still gonna accomplish my goal. I wont let this set me back again!

But I've said all this to say, we all make choices everyday and we have to have a made up mind to achieve the goals we've set before ourselves. Just like i believe that this time, "IF" i have to have surgery, i will not eat lying down, i will eat only healthy foods, i will walk everyday! no matter how slow i have to move. This time I WILL WIN! i will not let my situation control me, i will control my situation.

And Wanda, so can you!
I'm sure there are some other people around you who wants to loose weight and desires to be healthy just like you do. Get with them and challange them! Money is a huge motivator. If all else fails, feel free to respond to this and i will give you my e-mail address so we can contact each other and we can go from there. Set a goal, a small one and go from there. My goal is to loose a hundred pounds by the time i graduate in December. I've lost 44 and i have 66 to go. What's your goal?

Just like Tanya, i've shared the 50 million pound challange with ladies at my church that i know wants to loose weight. And we also are putting $20.00 in a pot each month and the biggest looser of each month will win the money. So far we only have 11 people and i do anticipate that it will grow each month! (Thanks for that idea Tanya!)

Wanda, you can do it too. You don't have to dislike yourself and hide for the rest of your life. God has better plans for you and he can't bless you nor can you bless others if you're hiding from the world and your problem. I believe when it's all said and done you're going to have a huge testimony that will help others that are experiencing the same situation.

Don't let your circumstances dictate to you, you dictate to your circumstance. Wanda you are strong and you can do it, we can do it together. One step at a time!

God Bless You! And God Bless everyone else who are taking the steps to make a better healthier you!

I bought the Fat Smash Diet book last week and read it while I was on vacation. I signed up for The Challenge a couple of weeks ago and have lost 4 pounds so far. I am starting to follow The Smash Diet today. I think that the first nine days will be the hardest, but I know that I can o it. I've done good so far. I will also bump up my exercise. I'm currently 224 lbs and trying to get down to 180 lbs. I promised myself that by next Father's Day, I will be a totally new person. I'm looking forward to changing my lifestyle.

WOW!!!! What a motivating story. Keep up the great work. Eric in VA.

I am glad to here that you are trying to lose weight. I have been struggling for several years and have not succeeded. I would lose two to three pounds and that is all. I am going to make an effort to be more conscious of my eating habits. I really thank you for sharing your story.

Good luck

from
Missy of Michigan

Hello
I just wanted to say you go girl, I would like to join the weight loss challenge but I don't think that I will be strong enough to do it by myself. I know I will need some motivation. I've been fat all of my life , I've tried everything to lose weight, I eat when I'm depressed, I lost the love of my life in 2005 to cancer which was very hard for me and now my life consist of going to work and coming home, I'm ashamed to go out in public because of the way I look. Tonya stay focus and keep up the good work. God Bless You.

Hello Tanya,

And thanks for sharing your victory with others. Like you, I have been working toward losing weight for most of this year. I have however, not been as blessed to have others participate until recently. So far, I have lost 67 pounds. I have committed myself to walking my neighborhood twice daily, once in the morning and then again in the evening just after work or just after attenting class. Much like myself...lol...the process has been slow but steady. however, I have remained delegent working out seven days a week. I do indulge once a week...butterpecan ice cream with chocolate syrup....lol. One of my biggest challenges has been toning up my butt. It has remained one of my biggest asset and liabilities...lol....one of the issues is the fact that I have a rather small waste and with all the junk in my trunk it looks super sized. If you have any tips. please feel free to shoot my an email. At any rate, thanks again for inspiring my to puss forward and I look forward to hearing on your success with weight loss in the future.

Dear Dr. Smith:
My name is H K Broady. I know I belong on your new Television Show: "Everyday People". I am 53 years old five foot six and one half inches tall and I have been fat all of my life. I am still fat (although not as fat as I was in October 2006 when I weighed 349). I joined the 50 Million Pound Challenge May 15, 2007. I now weigh 305 and will continue to lose until I reach my goal of 155 pounds. I believe my status is the lowest of the low in the U.S.A. as I am fat, crippled with osteoarthritis of both hips (from a very severe car accident) as well as bilateral carpal tunnel syndrome, I suffer from Hypothyroidism, I am black and I am a woman. Despite all of these obstacles, my outlook remains very positive. This is by no means an invitation to my "Pity Party", (which is the last thing fat people need). I hold a Masters degree in Education. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, but more so, I have PhD's in "Fatitude", "Gimpitude" and "Blackitude" and I'm cute! I am confident that my participation on your show would be inspirational to your audience. God is good, I am so blessed and I look forward to sharing my stories and insights with my people.

When do we start?
H K Broady, M.S., L.M.H.C.
Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor

P.S.
I am also a "Sit Down Comedian".
"When I was 349 pounds, my arms were too short to wipe my butt!!! l.o.l. l.o.l.

It's always nice to hear positive results to and see so many people not only concerned but doing something about their health and weight. When i heard about the 50 million pounds i knew i had to get involved. I just signed up today but i have been working on my weight since Mid-January. I've lost a total of 40 pounds so far. My goal was to only loose 60 more, but the weight guide says i need to loose at least 85 more to be at my ideal wieght. Not sure if i want to get that small, but i'll definitly try.

In January i saw a photograph of myself and was mortified. I got on the scales and weighed 280 pounds. I told my husband i got to loose wieght. I asked him how did he allow me to get this bad. But no one was to blame but myself.

I started eating right, i ate every 3 hours. I ate something fried maybe once a week if any. I treated myself to something sweet (usually Eskimos Icecream) every other Sunday. I didn't eat anything after 7pm (and i still dont) I lost 15 Pounds the first month. Then i started working out.
I'm 38 years old and a non-traditional student here at the local University. I should be graduating this December.
My goal was to let my hair grow 2-3 inches and loose 100 pounds by the time i walk across the stage to receive my degree.
I started attending an abs class (CORE) every afternoon at the university. It's a shame i hadn't never taking advantage of these classes before, because i've been paying for them in my tuition.
I've gone from a size 24 to a size 16! My goal was a 13/14 but now looks like i'm shooting for a size 9/10.
Although im 240 pounds now, i look a lot smaller. Many people knew i was over weight but found it hard to believe that i was 280 pounds.
Now i exercise everyday. I do Tae-Bo and if i eat after 7 i can see a difference, so i don't do it.
I drink water by the gallons. WATER IS THE KEY! Well, at least one key.
I know everybody's body is different, but i thought i would share what has worked for me just incase someone is not sure where to start and wants to try.
I found that my arms was getting flabby the more i lost weight, so at the end of May i started attending the strength classes as well.
I stayed between 40 and 45 pounds the entire month of June, seemed like i just couldn't loose any more weight. So i figured i needed to go up a level in my excercise (trick my body).
Now i'm doing Tae-bo Boot Camp (sometimes twice a day) and it's awesome. I'm noticing a big difference. I haven't lost any pounds, but my arms, butt and legs are smaller and so much firmer now. Even though the scales don't say i lost any weight my clothes and my family say different!
I just want to wish everyone the best! Keep it up, its a way of life and i'm enjoying every step!
Remember...NO PAIN NO GAIN!!!!

Hi
Have been trying to drop a few pounds here and there, but It's hard ,especially when there's no one to encourage you or even participate in the exercises with you. I need that extra push I need help! I read the comments and seen like everyone is doing GREAT, hopefully I can get to that point. Keep up the good work everyone.

WOW! That's FANTASTIC! Keep up the good work. You are a beautiful girl, even on the outside. It is wonderful that you were willing to ask for the assistance you needed, and thought enough of others to include them in your transformation. As for myself, I am all alone in this work. I have lost some weight, but treated myself over the holidays. That's my usual downfall. The neverending "holidays" There's one every month! However, I have been motivated by your entry. Thanks.

Listen that is a heart felt story and with honor I am glad to have been given the oppurtunity to read it. I have always been this workout aholic but after I had Taylor I gave up. I don't have a low self esteem but I know I do weigh to much. I used to workout on a daily and held down a 14-16 hours 7 days a week job but now I'm lazy yes, lazy. Back in 1996 I got on my health kick again my daughter was 2. I rode my bike 5 days a week 8 hours a day and ate healthy foods and sometimes what I wanted and I lost 35 pounds in 1 month astonishing huh. I know if I try I can do it again. Well I can go on and on but Tanya I wish you the best of luck with your weight lost and hopefully 1 day you will be reading my story of my tremendous weight lost best wishes ma and tell all you friends and family good luck on their journey to a healthier life style.........

I would like to thank your featured challenger
Tanya Davis who I know personnally. Tanya, informed me of the 50 million pound challenge...
that was two weeks ago and since that time I have lost 6 pounds. I am currently enrolled in a fitness center for the first time and I am enjoying every minute. They also offer classes (awsome)! Last nite I enjoyed African Dance Aerobics, tonite I will join in on Desperate Hotwives!!! and So You Think You Can Dance..CAN'T WAIT.....

Six down twenty to go.....

Thanks Dr. Ian for your time and making a difference in our communities..

Hotlanta

Hi everyone!
I just picked up the challenge starter kit from State Farm; I also have Dr. Ian's Fat Smash Diet. I even joined a gym. I'm motivated this time. I have been struggling with my weight for 14 years; I've tried different plans and exercises, but I couldn't stick with it. I guess it's because I didn't have a weight problem as a child,teen, or young adult. I started gaining weight after I got married (16 years ago, still no children)anyway, after hearing about the "challenge" and reading the blogs I'm inspired!! It's good to see African Americans making an effort to change eating habits in our culture. Good luck to everyone whose participanting in the 50 million pound challenge. Thank you Tanya for sharing your story...I'm going to try to start something similar to your "pay to loose" inspiration with my family and friends. Have fun at Disney World.

I just want to wish all around the world a great success in this challenge. I'm struggling myself but I will not give up because I know that I can do it. Just Believe !!!! Good Luck Tanya and family! Keep Up The Good Work.

Tanya,

I am so proud of you, your mom, and the other challengers! Losing weight and staying healthy is the hardest thing I have ever tried to do. Food seems to be a challenge everywhere you go! Work events, parties, and family gatherings are all built around food! It has definitely been a challenge, but I have stuck with it. I started the challenge June 10 and I am down 11 lbs and have 15 lbs to go. I am glad to joining everyone on the road to being thin...the right way...the healthy way!

I heard about the 50 million pound challenge during the national campaign and decided to join. It took a lot of effort to find a state farm representative since I did not make it to the national mall for the kick off.

I knew that I was exercise oriented and did not feel unimpressed with my physique, but I did want to tone and tighten my body. The 50 pound challenge has deepened my commitment to maintaining my highschool weight. But it is something that I promised myself years ago. Luckily for me and two children later I have not strayed to far from it. Today I reached my goal weight of 135 and for me that is great standing at 5'4 and 1/2 inches. I would like to at some level reach 130 but think that might be a little to thin and I would have to buy all new clothes to fit the bottom half.(smile)

Thanks Dr. Ian and State Farm and all of the participants for keeping me highly motivated and I shall continue to do some form of exercise at least every other day.

Thanks fitness and health buddies.!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Angela,

What are you talking about...you only lost 6lbs! That's AWESOME!!!! I had the same issues of not eating when I should and then over eating when I did eat! I was telling Davonne that mini meals every few hours really helped. And you are so right a buddy really helps!

Good Luck! Don't forget to let us know how you are doing.

Tanya Davis

My doctor sufficiently scared me at my last appointment about my health. He said I was pre-everything-diabetic, high blood pressure and pre-morbidly obese. One the way home I heard Dr. Ian on Steve Harvey's show and knew it was time to make a significant change.

I plan to be here for a long time to come so I need to get rid of all of the pre's attached to my current medical record and live a long, full active life. God's grace has got me this far and I know that he is with me on this journey.

Jackie,

I hope you did go to the gym after posting your comment. I bet it wasn't even as bad as you thought it would be. Keep us in the loop on your progress. Maybe you can let me in on some of your exercise secrets.

Great Job!!!!

Tanya Davis

Monica Renae,

I never thought jumping on the bandwagon was a good thing until now! Stay focused and be ready for that new outfit that's coming to you on Sept 1st.

Keep up the good work!

Tanya Davis

Fina,

That's right blow the dust off that Urban Rebounder. You already lost nearly 5lbs! Definitely stay motivated because it is not easy at first. But you have your extended family(that's us) to keep you going.
Make sure you save some money because you will need it to buy new clothes to go with that new body!

Let us know what's up with you.

Tanya Davis

Angie,

Sounds like you are doing awesome! 12lbs WOW! I have an elliptical at my house as well and that machine is a killer! Plus every 10 minutes one of my kids would come in asking me to do something even though their father is in the next room. And once I get off my legs would not let me get back on! But more power to you. Your legs will look great for next summer. Let us know how you are doing.

Good Luck to you also!

Tanya Davis

Davonne,
It's really nice that you are going to be the one to break the "fat cycle". And seeing that you family has a history of health related issues I am glad to hear that you are on your way to a healthier you. You're right it is hard at first-if it wasn't we would all be thin. But just start small. Take that chubby dog of your sisters out for a walk with you. I found that eating mini meals throughout the day really helps. I was never one for eating breakfast so I would be starving by lunch time and went over board! Then nothing until dinner and I don't need to tell you what happened at dinner! So now I have my breakfast-usually a yogurt. Snacktime I am not really hungry but I will have a spoonful of peanut butter of some raw veggies. Lunch is either a soup or a lean cuisine. The next snack would be either another yogurt of or some carrot sticks. And dinner would be a nice salad,baked seafood or baked chicken. Then I'm off to the track! After doing that for the first few weeks you're good. I hope your family will follow your lead!

Good Luck and please keep us posted!

Tanya Davis

I've been doing the challenge for about a month now. I get so depressed trying to lose the weight. I need to lose about 50 pounds; doctor says my glucose levels are starting to rise. HELP!!!!!.

I had my thyroid removed about 5 years ago and it has been a battle to loose weight. I just hover around the 175-180 mark.

I work out 3-5 times a week. But finding a healthy diet and staying consistent has been a battle. I'm an emotional eater on top of it. My friends are "very" heavy and not very encouraging when you talk about losing weight. They think I'm fanatical about the whole thing because I'm the smallest out of the group.

Looking for help and suggestions.

Hi Everyone! I would just like to say that I have been watching Dr. Ian on celebrity fit club and love the results of most people. I never thought that losing 10, or 13, or even 15 pounds would make a difference on me, but after seeing some people lose that amount of weight, I figure what is it going to hurt to try. I just had a baby about 4 months ago, and although I wasn't comfortable at the weight I was at before having him, I am surly not comfortable at the weight I am at now. My weight has always been up and down, but this time I am committed to keeping it down for my son! The two biggest things that I have to stay in control of is the fact that I am not going to eat ANYTHING after 8:00pm (NOTHING.) The second thing is that IF I do have a set back, that doesn't mean that it's over. I use to always think that if I went on a journey to lose weight, and I slipped up then it was no point, I keep a food journal for the first time in my life and I push MYSELF at the gym. I AM ON MY GRIND AND ON MY WAY BACK!

Tonya,

Your blog was such an inspiration to read! I have been struggling with losing weight for 5 years. I work out about 4 -5 days per week at the gym, then rush to the diner with my workout partner for breakfast - DUH! how dumb is that? lol. We lost a whopping 15 lbs. each and stayed there. I am 5'7 and weigh 204 - I want to weigh 160 by Christmas!

We now realize that we have to change our eating habits (no more stops at the diner or Dunkin Donuts after working out)and pump up our work out routine to move beyond maintenance and into losing weight. This is the challenge for me. Also, I would love to workout with some other people - anyone in the Newark, NJ area? Please let me know.

Good luck everyone!

Each time I started to lose...which I do. And I soon lose interest of working out, than I quit,because I was bored. Since I joined this site, I don't feel alone. Now, I have something to look forward to.... I love the tracking graph and other info that is posted on this site. Thank you, Dr. Ian.

I wgt in at 170....I will update 1 week from today 7-5-07

Sheila

Hi, my name is crystal.I finally made the step 16 months after haveing my third child to loss my baby weight. I am 27 years old 5'10 and 210 pounds. i dont feel like myself in my own skin, but today is the first day of the rest of my life. and i will lose my goal weight which is 40 pounds in one year. Iam so happy for this big support system because i know iam not alone thank you so much for just being there.

God bless

Helloooo, Dr. Smith
How are you doing? I was informed by my fiance that you were going to have a tv show for everyday people with their weight problems. So I am stretching my hands out to you and hoping for an opportunity to lose weight and gain a better way of living. Okay getting to the point. I am a 42yr old mother-(who weighs 242lb,my height is 5"3's)of 4 and care-giver to my 96yr old grandmother . On an average I work 44 hrs/6 days a wk, my time is spent constantly standing at work. After work am doing errands, such as picking up my grandmother from alzhmiers day care. My weight has begun to put a strain on me, begining with my feet. I have plantar fasciitis, i have knee and ankle pain which radiates to my shoulders......"OCASSIONALLY DEEEEPRESSION!!"

Tanya,
Thank you for sharing your success story. I am in the not one more pound contest at work and some on our team are gaining instead of staying the same or losing. Your motivational technique I believe will work for our team. They love money and to know that you will get it at the end of the month is a plus. I am going to take this to work on Monday and see what they think. Again thank you for your story and motivating me to keep going even if I don't see the results I want.
Toya.

Tanya,
My hat goes off to you and your mom, you can do this. I've been reading all the testimonials and everybody is saying basically the same thing, we need support, and we do. I will be fifty years young in August, just remarried, and I'm overweight about 30 lbs. I decided to start my weight loss program, by walking and exercising each day. I am going to fifty and fabulous for ME. God bless you and your mother!

Dorothy Moore-Shields

please help me loose at lease 50 pounds I am 260 pounds I supppose to be 190 once again help me

Tanya, it's great that you are seeing the weight come off. I'm 51 years old, I walk 40 miles a week, I do push ups, sit ups, amd lift weights 3 times a week. I'm not bragging, these are my addictions and I love being this kind of addict. The reason I'm sending this is to tell you and the readers that my 1st wife got me into walking 20 years ago. I stopped walking every day for about 4 to 5 years. I noticed that I was gaining weight. In fact by October of 1998, I was wearing size 38 pants and getting bigger by the day. I said that's it!! I know how to diet. I had to admit to myself I'm a sugar addict. I treated myself like a drug addict in rehab...meaning one day at a time.
Today I eat sugar one day week(saturday)

I started walking 3 miles a day to get my leggs back. By christmas of 98, I was up to 5 miles a day. By October of 1999, I was wearing size 34 pants and that's when I started walking twice a day. 5 miles in the morning every day, then 2 miles in the afternoon 5 days a week. By 2000, I was wearing size 30/29 pants That's when I realized that I had to do cardio and lift weights. You see getting the weight off is one thing. Keeping the weight off is the fight many of you are going to have. I know, what did I eat? that was the easy part. I only eat chicken, fish, and turkey. I gave up pork, and beef 21 years ago.
I eat a salad everyday, and my breakfast is a bowl of oatmeal, and a large bowl of fresh fruit.

I work out twice a day, in the morning, and then again at lunch time. I never go to the gym I work out at home.

You see I work nights, so I get to hear the Steve Harvey show a long with listening and seeing Dr. Ian Smith. My hope is that Afro Americans( my brothers and sisters) stop over eating and try to save there lives by getting out of those big pants and into some smaller size pants.

PS: my Blood Pressure in June 07: 120/80
and I look GREAT!!!!

Well I started the 50 million pound challenge on 6/17 and so far only lost 1lb but I am not getting discouraged because I have lost more inches. Everyone if you are lifting weights in conjunction with aerobic exercise and don't see a lot of weight coming off, try and put some clothing on that you knew you could not fit before and see how different it feels. I wish everyone well and I will keep everyone updated on my progress.

Hello to All,

Dr. Ian is really trying to help us today. I want to also join the "everyday People"version. I use to email the Celebrityfitclub blog and some of the people were so discouraging. I brought up the idea a couple of years ago on the blog and another blogger stated to me and another blogger "celebrity people" its a celebrity show. I did not have energy to waste on arguing that point.
I tried so many different ways including surgery to end up with a different shape I still don't want(two stomachs my kids say). I hope I can go on the show cause we do need that extra push sometimes. I just moved in my area and have no support and no family in this state but my kids. I watch the shows and my problem is I need someone to go Food shopping with me. the money isn't always there when you are a single parent with teenagers and i try to make the right choses in the grocery store.
Keep up the good work my fellow new friends.

Rita Wilson

Hi. After picking up the 50MillionPound kit from State Farm, I decided to buy the Extreme Fat Smash book. I started last Saturday, 6/30/2007. I have lost 10 pounds and I'm only on Day 6. I admit I have not done ALL the minutes of exercise but I have walked at least 30 minutes each day. I have eaten everything according to plan, even having cheated just a little. I have only felt hungry a couple of times but nothing really unbearable. This is so cool. I started at 205 lbs. I am now 195. I am 5'6" and I can't decide on a goal weight. It will either be 165 or 160. We'll see when I get to 165. LOL. Good luck to everyone out there struggling with me.

Keep up the good work lady... I lost 5lbs last month, and Im ready to do again this month!

Well I'm starting the challenge today. As I was reading over the posts I noticed that there seems to be alot of support. I know in the past that's what I've lacked in an effort to reaching my goal. I really need you guys support. No one wants to be over weight and the people who say they are satisfied being overweight need more support than me. The truth is I'm tired of feeling useless and unattractive, you know you can only hear so many of these comments: You have a beautiful face, you should lose a couple of pounds; or you would really be beautiful if you lost a little weight. You know I tried to even be more like Mo'Nique and be happy with my weight, the truth is for the 21 days that it lasted I was fooling myself. I realized I could do so much better. I turned 34 years old, July 2nd, and I made a promise to myself that this year I would be sexier than ever. I'm not ashamed to say I weighed in at 200 pounds, (yes I am going to own that number) I'm 5'2 so my goal weight is 135...With Gods help I will achieve that goal by my next birthday...stay tuned and I'll keep you posted...Jacque

Hi my name is Airell i just joined about a few days ago and iam looking foward to losing at least 60 pounds and right now that sounds like a lot but not only will i do this, its nice to know that other people like me, would like to change they way they live. i also got my cousin and her friend to join and iam bring more with me, united together for a change. THANK YOU DR IAN, I THINK YOU ARE A REALLY GOOD PERSON!

HI EVERYONE

My name is Joyce and the reason why i want to join the 50 million pound challenge is because i have been struggling with my weight for a very long time. I fell as if i cant lose it by myself . I would fell better knowing that someone's helping me out with losing weight. I also think that it would help me with my blood pressure and cholesterol.

Thanks

Hello everyone..
I am 5'5 and weigh 190 I would love to lose 40lbs. I look at my old pictures with my flat stomach and ask myself where did I go wrong.. I can't stand all the extra weigh and I am so ready to make a change in my life.. I think I just need that extra support.. If any of you live in my area and know of any support group where a group of you or one or two get together and work out or just walk.. I would love to join.. I am in Silver Spring/ Rockville Maryland area... Thanks

Well I want to say I love all of your stories and they have motivated me even further. I decided to lose weight and Im doing it on my own. I found that alot of people are stuck in there ways and I came to the conclusion that all I need is me. I bought Dr. Ian's book and I just finished the detox and lost 5 pounds. Its not as hard as I thought it would be and I would like to thank Dr. Ian for that. The fat smash diet is easy and convenient, it taught me how to eat. I have more energy because of all the good things I am required to eat. I think some people might have trouble with it if they are picky, but I like every thing (hince my delima). I have lost a total of 10 pounds and I have 70 more to go, but I feel good and I really think I'm gonna do it this time.

Good luck and God bless everyone
Lady

Hi Tanya

I was glad to hear that I am not the only person who needs a little push to stay on track. My coworker and I have been working out and changing our eating habbits for about a month now and we have been making pretty good progress, I have lost a total of 13 pounds and still going I now weigh 278 pounds so I still need to lose about 115 pounds I work out 5 days a week and it still seems as though I havent made any progress sometimes but I do see the inches falling but I am very anxious for the pounds to come off but I know now that with GOD on my side anything is possible and with the support of my 50 million pound challenge family.

Suceeding Daily
Nadia

Keep up the good work. I agree that when you do try to lose weight alone it does not work, as well as in doing it in a group.. So congrats to you and your friends..

My Name is Bianca Jones and I was listening to you on "The Steve Harvey Show" this Morning and I am writing in regaurds to the new show you were discussing "Everyday People".

And I think I am a Great candidate because I am on my sitxth child now and after this I really want to get in a shape I have never been before I have always been over weight and I want to know what it feels like to be smaller.

Thank you

I have 99 lbs to lose good to know I am not the only one with more than 50 lbs to lose. You are encouraging. Thanks for your motivational story.

Has a time been set for the Atlanta Event?

Hi,I am a mom of seven sons just wanted you to know how happy and proud I am of you.Lets stay in prayer for each other,by the way I need to be on the show.Steve makes sure I know what I look like.I'm 5'3" 270lbs at forty-two.It's cool I am excited for you and you are beautiful.I'll stay in touch.

Hello Tonya,

Thanks so much for sharing your story which has encouraged me to finally take charge of my life and live it to the fullest! Allowing myself to remain overweight is not living life to the fullest. I don't look my best or feel my best!
I signed up today 7/5/07 for the 50 mil lb challenge and with prayer, commitment and focus I will be moving toward losing 80lbs no matter how long it takes!! Congrats on your accomplishment and continue to be encouraged!

Grace, Peace & Love
Kathy

Tanya Thanks yours story i am 50 years old and decided that after having to relocate from new Orleans in 2005 I had a change in what was impotant to me . I lost my mother that same year she was 80 and in good but she gave up after we could not return home. Since then living a better life been important to me. I have return home now but Idecide to eat right its hard because we have also bad eating habits anyone could have. I started in 2006 of changing my ways an I join the challange to help me complete my goal. I know we all will be winner I have 25 more pounds to lose my journey. I will be praying for process as well as mine. Hang in there!

dear fellow challengers:
i am very encouraged by those who share their stories. i started the challenge in may about the 7th however i did not join the challenge on line until june. to date i have lost 25 lbs and i walked approx 2.5 to 3 miles 5 or 6 days a week and since i have had 6 back surgies i have to exercise in the pool and i try to do that 5 or 6 times a week. now it seems i am at a stand still, so i increased my walking and water exercise and for 2 weeks my weight has stayed the same, however i am losing inches. i am trying to stay focused, so i am asking my church family to join the challenge. and thanks to state farm they are ordering us 150 kits. it will certainly help to have follow challenges to share with close by. i have high blood pressure and diabetes and my doctor was very excited when i had my check up last week. i appreciate dr smith for thinking of others, writing his books and encouraging me thru emails and i am so encouraged by everyone's sharing their stories. i am in this for the long term, i have 50 or 60 lbs to go.
thanks everyone!!!!
patsy

This was so encouraging-I heard about this challenge on The Steve Harvey Show and was laughed my butt off at the comparison Steve made about the lady and the french fries.I m not motivated at all ,I know I need to lose weight if only I had a support team ;Im positive I can shred these pounds....Im 5'7 360lbs--I dont feel it, but pics tell the story.
Tanya this is so empowering I know if you can do I can too.
Good Luck with your progress Sis!

I just want to say this is a very spiritual thing that we are going thru, coming together for the greater cause of making ourselves healthy for life and for our families and future generation. It is good to know that I am not the only one struggling with the weight lost. My situation is more of not eating, then when I do eat, eating too much of the wrong things... and I know this is very wrong and bad for my metabolism, Keep up the good work and stay strong, and thankyou Tanya for sharing your strategies with others and good luck with your progress. So far I have only lost 6 lbs but it is a start. Stay focused everyone and find a buddy to do it with it really does help..

Angela

Hello All,

After listening to Dr. Ian this morning on Steve Harvey, I have FINALLY signed up for the challenge. At 5'2 and 200lbs, I do not look or feel my best! In fact I wake up each morning with a sore back!! As soon as I get off of the computer, I am headed to the gym. Tanya, your story was very encouraging...you go girl! I will keep reading the blogs to keep myself encouraged! Have a blessed day.

Jackie

Hello Tanya,

You have a great story to share. That's helping alot of people get on the bandwagon. I have something similar going on with my aunt and cousin. We 3 have a contest going on as to who can lose the most weight by Sept. 1st. The 2 losers have to buy the winner an outfit. Keep up the good work and I will post pictures of my progress soon.

Take Care & Stay Motivated

Monica Renae G.

Keep up the great work Tanya! I too got fed up with all the weight I've been putting on and not doing anything about it. I have heard & seen Dr. Ian Smith on The Celebrity Fit Club, The Steve Harvey Show and on the Tyra Banks Show recently. I have started working back out on the Urban Rebounder (which I bought last year and just stored in a closet) and workout DVD and so far have lost 4.5 lbs the 1st week and this is my 2nd week. My goal is to lose between 40 - 50 lbs. I'm trying to stay motivated and positive, but it's hard work. It's great to hear stories like yours that are so encouraging.

~Fina
Alexandria, VA

I am 5 feet 4 inches and am 255 pounds. I need to lose 115 pounds! I am really trying because my health is at issue. Tanya's blog is inspirational. Thank you for sharing. DJ

You go girl!!!! Keep yo head looking up to him who gives you strenght. He will give you your hearts desire. Continue to do your best and the weight will fall off.

Keep up the good work. I am the same way I need a support system to stay on track to lose weight. You are an inspiration to many.

Great job girl keep up the good work. It'S hard but your on the right track.

Tonya, your story is very encouraging. I saw Dr. Ian K. Smith, MD on Tara Bank Show today. I found out about the Challenge online. I joined tonight. I am looking forward to feeling great!

Cynthia

Tonya,

Thanks for sharing your story. It is great that you have lost 21 pounds and still staying motivated. I have lost 12 lbs and need to lose another 70lbs myself. I have been working out 5 days a week on my elliptical machine and now have incorporated the Firm exercise program two days a week. I am looking forward to looking and feeling my best and I know I can do it!!!

I wish you God's best through this journey called weight loss.

Take care.
Angie

Hello all,

I have tried just about every diet and weighloss plan imaginable. After I lost a few pounds on each one, I would start getting compliments from people who noticed my weightloss. I would then let my guards down and before I knew it I would gain all the weight back plus a few extra pounds. Another problem I had was not really realize how unattractive I looked because of all the weight. It was just recently that I took a long hard look at myself and realized that I must lose at least 40 lbs. to look my best. I started the 50 mil lb. challenge on 6/10. Noone has noticed the 7 lbs that I have lost, but the important things is that I know. And I know that if I keep doing what I did to lose the first seven, I will lose the 41 more that I need to lose.

Hey Tonya,

I just wanted to let you know that it took a lot of guts to share your story and I'm very grateful you did. I share the same story as well as having tried everything imaginable to loss weight. From prescription diet pills, to fasting, and I just could not lose this junk in my trunk!. Well what finally motivated me, was an internship I did in Guatemala. In preparation for the trip I noticed that I was severely out of shape and had gained the "college weight" of over 25lbs! Hearing Steve Harvey' morning show and getting Dr. Ian's book made me get my butt in gear (literally). That was the only way I was able to climb down a mountain with a bunch of people 10-15 years younger than me! And 14 pounds lighter I look and feel SEXY!! NOT FLUFFY!! I'm going for 48 more pounds to work off; with support I will get there naturally!

Dear Tanya i would like to say Great JoB! you will make it!
Hello my name is Davonne, and I started on the Challenge because every one in my family is Fat! I can truly say I come from a large family! we eat EVERY THING FRIED, SMOTHERED AND COVERED! My Dad is Fat, and has high blood pressure and has had some of his toes amputated as a result of his sugar diabetes! My Mom is Fat and has high cholesterol and blood pressure! Heck we even Have a plus size pet, my sister’s dog Kody has to lose 10 lbs because he is showing signs of diabetes! And I had to have a total hip replacement because I was 407lbs! So now I am saying I don’t want to Die! So My co workers and I decided to loose weight! It was about 20 of us total! some had the gastric by-pass and lap band, some are doing the Diet pills, and some including me are doing the 50 million pound challenge we want to see in 7 months how we all fair! I know the medical weight loss people will lose Much more then we will. But I want to try to change my way of thinking about food and my relationship with food! So I started on 6/7 and OH boy No one could have told me about how hard it is to loose weight! Man I'm struggling every day and with out the encouragement from my friends and Fat Chick click members I would have been Quit But I am starting to see a little change so I will keep on keeping on!
God Bless you Dr. Ian
Davonne Roye
Philadelphia, Pa

Tanya's story sounds similar to mine. Last August one of my friends & coworker's, started losing weight because of health issues. By mid December her weight loss had become considerably noticable, and she was looking marvelous. Since I didn't want her to be looking good on her own (HA-HA)I decided to jump in on the band wagon. However, I took it a step further and decided to make it a challenge for our entire office.

January 2nd, 12 of us decided to do our own version of the Biggest Loser. The rules were simple...start your own weight loss regimine, pay $5 bi-weekly, weigh in every 2 weeks, and if any weight gain within those 2 weeks an addtional $1 had to be paid for every pound. We decided to do this for 6 months. Some of them dropped out, (if they dropped out after January 31st, they had to pay a $10 drop out fee). The contest ended last week on June 26th, and I won! To date I have lost a total of 52 pounds! I watch my carbs, eliminated soda and my passion for chocolate, and I excercise 5 times a week, for an hour. Oh yeah, I forgot to mention that I won the pot, which was $591, but most importantly I've won a healthier ME!

My friend and coworker, who motivated us, has lost a total of 77 pounds (she started her weight loss, before we began the contest @ work). She recently was able to stop taking her diabetic medication, which was her original purpose for loosing the weight. She put the drive in us that we can do better, and I appreciate her so much for that. The two of us also walk 1 mile everyday during our lunch break, & she has given me so many pointers. We are both in reach of our goal, she wants to loose an addtional 20 pounds, and I want to loose 25 more pounds. It makes it so much more easier when you have a "buddy" in the battle with you.

Tanya, continue on your journey, YOU CAN DO IT.

i am just giving you all an update on my progress. i am so excited because i have lost 21 pounds! my mother and friends are doing awesome! the only thing that was missing for my mother was the exercise.i was walking the beach with my friend and my mother also wanted to walk. the pace we walked the 3 miles was a bit much for her. so we came to an agreement to include her. we decided to go to local high school and walk the track. when we came to pick her up we were wating for the front door to open...but instead here comes momma through the garage. as the door to the garage was opening we can see jumping side to side and doing what appeared to be shadow boxing! this woman was not playing she was determined! when we got there i kept an eye on her to make sure she was ok. and i felt better knowing that if she needed a break she could sit in the stands. but she shocked herself and us and did not need to take a break. while she circled the track my friend and i would climb the stadium stairs on the football field. WOW! i though a was getting a workout walking the beach but this took it to a whole new level. there are 40 stairs in each row and 8 rows. the first time we made it accross 2 and a half times and we are almost up to 4! then we do the last mile on the track with my mom. she is ready every night and i enjoy hanging with her. i do need some advise on a good ab workout. i found a 7 minutes ab routine on one of the cable channels but after that one the next day i was afraid to sneeze! everyone here is like my extended family. so keep doing what your doing because it's working!

tanya davis

i heard about "The Fat Smash Diet" from a family member i have been on it for 2 week and i lost 6lbs in the 1st 9 days. it is great i really need to be guaded in my eating habits and it has helped. i started working out in April and i am down a total of 16 lbs and i still have a very long way to go. i really want to make this a life style not only for me but for my future kids and husband.

I thin its time to start. Count me in. I'm joining the Challenge. I want to lose the weight not only for myself, but also for my family. I hane a 3 year old daughter who adores me and needs to see her father mighty,vital and healthy. Starting today I will commit to losing all the weight I can for various reasons,most notably for health....

I have always mentally wanted to lose weight, and at one time did by cycling to work every day when I was in my twenties. Now at 51, years of neglect to myself, I want to make my health a turnaround issue to a better lifestyle. I have joined this challenge with the commitment to lose the weight(1001bs)and extend my future with my family and friends.Thank you Dr Ian.

I had not joined the website till today, however, my sisters both joined. I had been watching what I eat and snacking on almonds (natural just one handful) when ever I was hungry for about a month now when I started I was 149 now I am 138 and happy just 10 lbs to go!

All I can say is God Bless you, for sharing your story, it's more than inspirational. It's life changing, because it makes people realize they can achieve what you, and all of your family and friends are. And I'm completely thankful for that. Thanks for sharing your story, and good luck!

All this is very new to me but I think that it is about time that I give it a try. I feel that now that this has been a national statement on televison it's letting people know that it is serious and that it's a wake-up call to tell us this is our bodies. This is a life and death situation that protain to our health. I have seen what being overweight has done to people's bodies and now there is no more hiding in the closet and being ashamed I am saying that as of 06-28-2007 I am now a member of the 50million challenge, and even though there will be struggles along the way I promise that I am going to commit to this and dedicate myself to full commitment.