Click here to post your comments!
"I watched quietly as hundreds of thousands of people lost weight on the 50 Million Pound Challenge, but Pam El--the vice president of marketing who is responsible for getting State Farm to sponsor this initiative--continued to gain weight and look unhealthy. Then one day, the reality of her situation struck her. She looked at me, almost crying, and decided enough was enough.
This is her story.
Dr. Ian Smith
Dear Challengers,
For the last two years, I have read your stories and been moved by your struggles and your successes. I have lived through your trials and tribulations. Dr. Ian has urged me several times to tell you my story but I have hesitated. Why? Because sometimes reality hurts.
My life has been like the “tale of two cities.” I have found true success and happiness in my professional career. I have worked hard to get to my current position of running the marketing department for one of the largest companies in America. I have the rare pleasure of saying that professionally I’m doing EXACTLY what I want to do.
Personally, I have a wonderful life. I've been married to my best friend for 15 years and have two phenomenal step children who love me for me. I have dear family and friends who I can trust with my life and a mother and 5 siblings who taught me everything that's important at a very early age. Personally, I am happy and grateful for all of the blessings I’ve had and continue to have.
So it was hard for me to come to grips with the fact that I could be so completely successful in my professional and personal life and fail so miserably in my health life, specifically when it comes to my weight issues that I’ve excused away at times and ignored at others.
Like millions of other Americans, I have struggled with weight for the past 20 years and have failed over and over again in my attempts to get it off and keep it under control. My repeated failures have been extremely painful.
About 2 years ago, with high blood pressure and teetering on diabetes, I picked up Dr. Ian’s book, The Fat Smash Diet and started losing weight successfully and consistently for the first time in a long time. Then when all was going well, I did what I’ve done for decades. I faultered and surrendered. Again. My typical pattern—smell a little bit of success, then stop for no apparent reason.
I then took on the "challenge" of my life. I partnered with Dr. Ian Smith, to promote the 50 Million Pound Challenge to all of America.
This uniquely visionary and heartfelt initiative, which I brought to State Farm to sponsor, sent me and others out on the roads of America promoting weight loss and healthy lifestyles. We were touching millions of people with our message.
So while helping others gain control of their weight and health, what did I do? I gained weight!!!
Then my moment of truth happened. I saw myself on one of the documentary videos we had been shooting for The Challenge. I was paralyzed as I watched myself. There I was, successful, happy, hard-working and morbidly obese. 5'2" and 217 pounds. I looked tired and old. I looked uncomfortable and vulnerable. But mostly I looked like a hypocrite. I was traveling all over the country speaking to hundreds of thousands of people about the advantages of a free weight loss initiative and I looked like the poster child for obesity. A health time bomb ticking away.
I knew then and there I needed to change or this project, which is so near and dear to my heart, would be seen by the external world as an embarrassment. I also knew that I was going to become a statistic if I didn’t get serious and really turn my life around!
So I went to work. I began reading and then following Dr. Ian’s 4 Day Diet. It is a program that I credit for saving my very life. I lost 40 pounds in 6 months. I am now down a total 64 pounds, from 217 to 153. My goal weight is 140. I have gone from a size 18 to a size 10 and am very close to wearing an 8, something I never imagined would happen again in my life.
Needless to say, my entire life has changed. My relationship with food and exercise has changed. My destructive behaviors have changed. I have a workout partner who has supported me through everything and I keep a daily journal that keeps me focused and informed. My physician says I have "walked away" from the early signs of diabetes and my blood pressure medicine has been reduced and will soon no longer be needed.
I have done one of the hardest things people ever do, and I have done it successfully. I have lost weight and I have kept it off, but more importantly I have gained control of my life by getting control of my health.
Some may say, “Sure, if I traveled the country with Dr. Ian by my side, I’d lose weight too.” Let me clarify. I spent the first year and a half of my time with Dr. Ian gaining weight! It was not until I had that “moment with the video” that I found my true motivation and was able to lose and truly change my habits.
Though I did use all three of Dr. Ian’s diet books to help me with my diet and exercise, it was my own motivation that made the difference.
One thing I did learn from Dr. Ian and have confirmed it by reading your stories, “once you set your mind to it, you can do anything.”
The 50 Million Pound Challenge has literally saved my life. I know it can save millions of others.
Pam El
I am so proud of Pam. She lost weight with vigor by meticulously following the 4 Day Diet and not only did she lose more than 60 pounds, but she inspired thousands of others who have seen her success and were encouraged that they too could succeed."
Dr. Ian Smith
Comments (28)
i work in warren mi, myself and a group of my other co-workers would like to challenge any other work group to a biggest loser contest, the wieght loss will be calculated as a group, we can work out the details later. i am waiting to to hear from anyone interested.I am in the process of getting my team together now.
slim for the summer
Posted by bortz 50 million pound challange | January 5, 2009 11:07 AM
Posted on January 5, 2009 11:07
I am pleased to be a part of the 50 million pound wt challange! The challange provides a range of focus that will promote enthusiam and success for us all. I wish everyone well and much continued success.
Thanks
Patrice
PS Officer Peppers is a hunk; however lets keep our eyes on the prize, which is a healthy and slimmer version of ourselves.
Posted by Patrice | January 5, 2009 10:19 AM
Posted on January 5, 2009 10:19
NOT TO LONG AGO I STARTED ON MY OWN PERSONAL JOURNEY TO BECOME HEALTHY....I ACTUALLY WAS NOT LOSING WEIGHT AT A FAST RATE BUT I HAD A ROUTINE AND I WAS STICKING WITH IT.....I GOT DISGUTED WITH THE WHOLE THING WHEN MY BOYFRIEND WHO IS ALL OF 175LBS. AND OVER SIX FEET TALL....BEGAN TO BUG ME ABOUT WHAT I ATE WHEN I ATE WHEN OR IF I WAS GOING TO EXCERSISE....TO BE HONEST IT WAS COMPLETELY DISCOURAGING TO ME AN IT MADE ME NOT WANT TO DO ANYTHING. SO THAT IS EXACTLY WHAT I DID... NOTHING AND NOW I WEIGH MORE THEN I DID WHEN I JOIN THE 50 MILLION POUND CHALLENGE.
THIS YEAR, I AM DOING ME! I HATE THE WEIGHT AND I AM MAD AT MYSELF FOR GETTING PISSED OFF WITH HIM AND NOT TAKING CARE OF ME FIRST.... SO FOR 2009 ITS ON WITH ME FOR ME!
I HAVE GOTTEN MENTALLY STRONGER AND ALOT MORE HONEST WITH MYSELF, SO I NOW CAN HONESTLY SAY,,,THAT I CAN AND I AM GOING TO DO THIS FOR ME AND ONLY ME....THIS YEAR ITS ABOUT ME FOR ME AND I AM GOING TO WIN....I WISH EVERYONE A HAPPY NEW YEAR, AND MY WISH IS THAT EVERYONE GETS HEALTHY FOR 2009..NO MATTER WHAT SIZE YOU ARE! MMMMWWWWAAAAA
Posted by brandi | January 4, 2009 10:18 PM
Posted on January 4, 2009 22:18
Pam's story is like my own (regarding the being able to teach vs the hypocrisy). I am 57 years old, a nurse, have recently registered to take the 3Day walk (to raise finances for Breast CA research and teaching). I must walk for myself, my family (2 newly diagnosed Breast Cancer victims)and the motivation of my children (to whom I've gifted with my side of the "fat genes").
These two programs, along with much prayer for perserverance and diligence. I've got to focus and press toward the mark. There is a time-frame now. Thanks Pam for your testimony!
Posted by Beverly Collins | January 4, 2009 8:33 PM
Posted on January 4, 2009 20:33
Congratualations, PAM. You have inspired me.
Posted by Stephanie Cason | January 4, 2009 7:46 PM
Posted on January 4, 2009 19:46
I am just starting. But I am confused about the menu. It has meal 1-4. Are we required to eat all four meals. Or, is the 4th meal a replacement.
Posted by Elaine | January 4, 2009 4:40 PM
Posted on January 4, 2009 16:40
Pam, I'm inspired by your story. I wish you continued success. But, I'm just starting this challenge and praying I have success again. I've been to a weight lost center three times and have lost the weight and regained it within a couple of months. I know what I need to do, yet I don't do it. Another thing, my husband isn'y any help. He loves to cook and and also eat. And as much as I need this challenge, he needs it more. He has Type II Diatbetes and High Blood pressure. I'm praying that he does this challenge with me. Keep your fingers crossed for us both!!!!
Posted by Crystal | January 4, 2009 4:01 PM
Posted on January 4, 2009 16:01
I just joined and am excited to get started. I'm a 50 year old male looking to lose 50 pounds. I'm looking for a good team to join and wondering if anyone is interested in a new member.
Posted by kwk | January 4, 2009 12:45 PM
Posted on January 4, 2009 12:45
I have tried so many different things to lose weight I hope this is the answer. I want to be healthy and feel like playing with my grandson. I may need help and encouragement to get through this.
Posted by healthy smiley | January 3, 2009 11:47 PM
Posted on January 3, 2009 23:47
You look awesome and better yet, through your words it's obvious you feel awesome too. You are blessed. Thanks for your encouraging story. Please don't stop telling it. There's too many out here who need to hear it!
Posted by Kelly Roban | January 2, 2009 9:02 PM
Posted on January 2, 2009 21:02
I read this story and all I could see in those words was myself. I have struggled with my weight gain for the past 10 years and I will be 40 this year. I have decided fat and 40 just don't mix. I am stepping up to the challenge and I just want to thank you for the words that reminded me I am not alone.
Peace and Love
Posted by Michelle El | January 2, 2009 8:59 AM
Posted on January 2, 2009 08:59
I am enthusiastic about the progress I have made in 3 days. I hope I continue to be inspired by stories like yours. Thanks for sharing.
Posted by Annie | January 2, 2009 6:51 AM
Posted on January 2, 2009 06:51
I am new to the site. Yesterday I decided to start a team for individuals, families and friends of lapband sugery. I had this about 18 months ago and have lost about 100 pounds. I am 6,3" male and my current weight is 235lbs. I am very solid now but I must work at it each and every day. Because the lapband is one of the tools I use to maintain good health, it requires a different diet as the size of my meals are much smaller than they use to be. The lapband is not a cure all and I could blow it by drinking my calories and choosing the wrong high calorie foods but it has helped to remind me of better eating habits and lifestyle choices. My highest weight prior to surgery was 375 several years ago. I was not happy with my addiction to food. I exercise daily and work at keeping healthy every day. I still would like to lose about 25 more pounds and this is the hardest to do. I am excited to join this support group and invite any words of wisdom or advise. My team name is" lapband warriors".
Posted by Dan | January 1, 2009 5:55 PM
Posted on January 1, 2009 17:55
I just started my challenge at 4am this morning, hadn't slept much last night thinking about the changes i need to make in my life. I am 54 years old and 125# overweight. for most of my life i worked in the food industry and was physically active, weight wasn't as much of a struggle. 19 years ago i hurt my back and had to take a desk job. since then the weight has crept up & up. i know all the proper ways to lose, eat right, excerise, etc, etc blah blah blah.
but it is the emotional side that is keeping me trapped. up until yesterday, my day would start with a 12 oz soda, and at 11am i would eat lunch, a fast food dollar menu sandwich, fries & then another soda. in the afternoo, i snack at my desk all afternoon, not large quantities, just junk food. then when i get home, my husband wants his meat & potatoes - fried of course. and then there is dessert. followed by an evening of tv. lots of room for improvement, right? so today, i skip the soda and have one of the few things that i like to eat for breakfast, oatmeal. no problem. by 9am, i'm jonesin for a soda real bad, by 11 i'm getting kind of cranky, and now at almost 2 the word that comes to mind rhymes with witchy.
I ate what i was supposed to for lunch, salad, lean chicken (grilled) and fruit, have been drinking water also. so i'm not hungry, but I FEEL SOOO EMPTY, like i could eat a chocolate cake all by myself and top it off with a bowl of rocky road ice cream!! and this is just the first day! when did i become this bottomless empty emotional void that only food seems to satisfy? and more importantly, how do i change it? that is my challenge. i'm hoping that writing about it here, will help me pull thru, because w/high blood pressure, and all the problems associated w/obesity that are starting to become my life, i don't know if i'll see another new year. and i want very much to see my grandkids grow up. growing up, my family was totally dysfunctional and very negative, so i have trouble being outwardly upbeat and am socially inept. i have been in therapy and i have talked till im blue. and while i did make progress in understanding myself a little better, i've never been able to win the food battle. so forgive me for going on so, but it is very nice to have an outlet for my thoughts. thanks
Posted by cheryl | January 1, 2009 2:05 PM
Posted on January 1, 2009 14:05
Pam, Thank you for sharing your story. You look fabulous!
I just signed up as a member today. I am hoping to share your success in the new year.
I too am 5'2" and your story is an inspiration.
Posted by Looking Fly | January 1, 2009 1:16 PM
Posted on January 1, 2009 13:16
Three weeks ago I stopped smoking because I want my old body back. I decided if I stopped smoking maybe I would be able to breath better. It didn't happen exactly that way. I will still not smoke because finally I feel like I am out of my fog. Now I want to use my new breath to ride a bike and to begin my new life and get back to my new body. I have started by working out everyday this week. I will begin the meal plan on Saturday (when I can get to the store with money). I will take this the way I took quitting smoking one day at a time. My journey starts now.
Posted by Dariad | December 31, 2008 9:18 PM
Posted on December 31, 2008 21:18
Pam, you are truly an INSPIRATION to me, your work life, your personal life, and now taking hold of your Health Life. I’ve watched you over the past few years and have idolized you. You are such a great teacher to everyone around you, and yes you do lead by example. I, like you, am very happy with my personal and work life, but not my weight. I have had serious health issues over the past couple of years and now that’s completely behind me, I AM READY. So you will lead (me) by example one more time. I will read the 4 day diet and begin journaling my meals. It is MY TIME to get my Health Life in balance with the rest of my life.
THANKS for being who you are, to everyone around you, but most of all THANKS for being a guiding light in my life. I LOVE YOU GIRL.
Posted by Missy Meyers | December 31, 2008 1:05 PM
Posted on December 31, 2008 13:05
As the new year begins I am GOING to lose weight and work as hard as I can towards my goals. I am an emotional eater and have a hard year so you can just imagine how much food I've ate and I'm sooooooooooooooo ready for a change. I'm over my lack of self confidence when it comes to my look because I am a beautiful girl and I need to be proud of that. I have a lot of hard work ahead of me but I'm finally to face my challenge and do the damn thing. I wish everyone the best of luck with their journeys towards becoming a healthier person for 2009.
Posted by cat | December 31, 2008 11:09 AM
Posted on December 31, 2008 11:09
Today my mother, my aunt and I decided to join the challenge and work together to fight our increasing waistlines and unhealthy eating habits, all of us are diabetic, one of us is insulin dependent and the rest are trying to not become the same, if we all work together and have the fun we normally have when together this should be a breeze....combined we have a little (okay a lot)of weight to lose but so much to gain in better quality of life and health. We also depend on the help of our heavenly father Jehovah to help guide us in our quest to do the right things in life so we expect much with our combined determination and his help. If you would like to join our team we would love to have you, together we can encourage one another as (Hebrews 10:23-25)states "Let us hold fast the public declaration of our hope without wavering, for he is faithful that promised. And let us consider one another to incite to love and fine works, 25 not forsaking the gathering of ourselves together, as some have the custom, but encouraging one another, and all the more so as YOU behold the day drawing near." Let us work together through biblical principal to glorify Jehovah and become better able to share the good news with healthy bodies and healthy minds. By working together and encouraging one another we can do what we desire with the help and blessing of our heavenly father Jehovah.
Posted by strmchsr | December 31, 2008 12:27 AM
Posted on December 31, 2008 00:27
Hi Pam,
You are a blessing and an encouragement. I am half-way to my goal and have hit a big plateau. Your story has helped me to get focused and get moving. All the best to you.
Yours in Good Health
Posted by nanewton | December 30, 2008 9:04 PM
Posted on December 30, 2008 21:04
Hi I am new to this site. Hope to start the new year off right.
Posted by TriciaJean | December 30, 2008 6:47 PM
Posted on December 30, 2008 18:47
I am inspired as to what I am reading, but this is day 1 for me and I am so overwhelmed. I have previously lost 84 pounds, and 25 creeped back on. Right now I feel as though I might as well have 125# to loose. I am ready to commit, I just can't take failure again. Any suggestions???????Thank you!
Posted by Lisa K. Przybyl | December 30, 2008 6:44 PM
Posted on December 30, 2008 18:44
Amazing Results! Determination is really key to being successful on this Ian 50 million pound challenge.
I enjoy the participant feedback, it is so enlightening and encouraging!
Posted by Jaye | December 30, 2008 5:56 PM
Posted on December 30, 2008 17:56
Pam, I am sooooooo proud of you!!! You were already a wonderful people person, but now you look extremely happy just being in your own skin! You have such a glow! It was such a pleasure meeting you and Dr. Ian as well as getting to know your fantastic marketing team at State Farms (Mia is the best!!!!!*smile*). This experience has been life changing for me as well(still off my diabetic meds!)! Congratulations on the weight loss, the motivation, and the courage to share what I know can be painful, but worthwhile experience! Looks like I need to add the 4 Day Diet to my next level! Keep pressing toward the mark!
Forever yours in the challenge!
*Deborah
Posted by Deborah Wright | December 30, 2008 4:55 PM
Posted on December 30, 2008 16:55
Thanks for the inspiration and I can feel your pain of starting and falling off the wagon. With the support of family and friends,I pray that this is my year to began and continue a healthy life style.
Posted by RettaB | December 30, 2008 12:45 PM
Posted on December 30, 2008 12:45
I am so glad to come back to this website. I checked it out a year ago and didn't follow through. Reading Pam's story hit home today for some reason. I was doing some "vacation day cleaning and tossing" Saw some pictures of myself and almost died. Pam's words "...I looked tired and old. I looked uncomfortable and vulnerable..." struck a nerve. I am ready for a change - NOW!!!
Posted by Denise W | December 29, 2008 9:06 PM
Posted on December 29, 2008 21:06
thanks for your story, hopefully i will be as successful as you. I been struggling with my weight up and down. It has been very difficult lately to focus , I am using food as a comfort zone, well comfortable i'm not. I am having many health issues, dealing with depression because i cant get rid of this weight, this doesnt feel like me or my body. I need help , I need support, i need encouragement, I am not used to asking for help I am a junk food junkie. What am I to do?
Posted by yvonne trammell | December 29, 2008 8:29 PM
Posted on December 29, 2008 20:29
Well, yesterday I decided that it would be the fattest day of the rest of my life. My ideal goal was to start today on the right foot...But, that's not exactly what happened. I skipped breakfast (big no-no). Then for lunch I had 2 homemade tostadas that were actually pretty healthy. However, for dinner I polished off 1/2 a pizza and then topped the night off with ice cream and 3 pieces of chocolate. Crash and burn! But then I remembered this website...so I decided to join. Pam, your story is practically identical to mine, with the exception of the amazing success you have achieved with become a healthy weight again. You are an inspiration! And, hopefully with the help of this site and other challengers, TODAY will be the fattest day of my life. I hope to breathe better, have more energy, be able to play with my son without being "too tired", and feel good about myself again. Wish me luck!
Posted by Cristen A | December 28, 2008 9:03 PM
Posted on December 28, 2008 21:03