The 50 Million Pound Blog

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I first learned about Dr. Ian by watching a Celebrity Fit Club show about 2 1/2 years ago.  A co-worker and I purchased his book so we called his office.  Low and behold, Dr. Ian actually answered the phone himself.  He thanked me for purchasing the book and told me that I could do it if I followed the program.  I also asked him if he could do a reality show with regular people wanting to lose weight (this show later became the Biggest Loser, HA!).  He laughed but never said he would do it.  Nonetheless, we still loved him! 

Anywho, I tried following the detox twice and failed.  I gave up on it and became depressed.  In April 2008, I received a bonus from my job and on that same day received an e-mail about a party.  As I scrolled through the e-mail, I found an ad about a fitness boot camp in Chicago.  I took all of my bonus money, $500, and put it into the program.  From that point, forward, I would drive 50 miles into the city on Saturday and Sunday to attend the boot camp. 

After a couple months, I changed the way I ate.  I added more lean protein, veggies and good carbs to my diet.  As time went on, I started to see a change.  I became motivated and decided that I want more flexibility in my schedule to be a mom to my girls, they were raising themselves because I worked 10 hours a day.  So I decided I would quit my job as an Executive Assistant and become a fitness instructor.  This was in October of 2008. 

Today, I am an AFAA Certified Fitness Instructor with the boot camp that I went to.  I am also the Director of Operations for the program.  I recently did a six week challenge with some of my clients and the results were phenomenal!!!  I had two members who lost over 10 lbs. and 3 inches around the waist and hips!!!  I cried, they cried!!  It felt so good to share my journey with others and motivate them to better health and wellness.  Of course, I have trials that I am trying to endure such as not losing my home but it looks like I may lose that fight.  I am going to keep pressing on.

Now, I am moving on to my next challenge and that is to place in the 2010 Grand Prix Natural Bodybuilding and Figure Championships.  In order to do this, I have to follow a very strict, almost boring diet and I am training with an IFBB Pro Bodybuilder.  I am 30 weeks out from the competition and excited but a bit scared.  I need all the motivation I can get but I also have to push myself to make the next journey in my life come true.  I plan on being an IFBB Pro Figure Competitor and Fitness model by November 2010.  I'll let you know how the journey goes!

Kind regards,

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I began searching the web for different weight loss ideas, because I have tried every diet imaginable, at times losing a lot of weight, only to gain it back. I know who Dr. Ian is, so when I found the 50 million pound challenge, I read further. I decided this was the "life" change I was looking for. Diets do not work, and I wanted to try something that would be a permanent change. 

I began the challenge on December 29, 2008 with a beginning weight of 240, and currently weight 192. I have lost 48 pounds. I still have a lot to go, but I am committed. I AM an emotional eater. And I have learned that the key to success for me is to deal with the emotional aspects and find alternative means to express emotions.

Currently, I go to the local YMCA 4-6 times per week and keep track of all my food choices. When I make a choice that is not so healthy, I move forward from it, and do not beat myself up over it any more. I feel so much better and healthier. I have a lot more energy, I am sleeping better than I ever have in my entire life and I live each and every day for that day. Through counseling, I learned to deal with all the things I had bottled up inside me and I have learned the most important key for me --- don't dwell on what happened yesterday, don't worry about tomorrow's path or tasks, but instead, live in the moment for today. Focus on what I need to do this moment. As a result, I am able to live each day to the fullest and am most of the time a very content person. The most frustrating thing is plateaus. Where I lost a lot of weight in the beginning, it has taken almost 2 months to lose just 7 pounds. But I know that can change in a moment.... I think Dr. Ian's plan has helped me tremendously because it is a plan of life change, not just a "diet".

Thank you to Dr. Ian for providing this plan for FREE. I still have a long way to go, but I focus on today.

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My name is Stara Holmes and this is my story.

I was like most college students and gained more than the freshman fifteen. With my mom and dad being more on the heavier side, I was always a little thicker than some of my classmates, but never obese.

Once i graduated highschool and left my parents house I entered college and began to eat at fast food reasturants and eat lots of fried foods and sweets late at night.

Once I graduated from college I began working at a local headstart as a teacher. It was our duty to get a physical exam. Once the exam was over my local doctor advised me that I was very obese.

At the age of 25 I knew there was a high chance I could face the risk of heart attacks, and diabeties at an early age. Once I left the doctor office I knew it was time for me to make a change. I was young and still had most of my life ahead of me.

I started searching for diets but most of them failed. I began a life changing journey, and started the 50 million pound challenge. I have lost a total of 85 pounds. This challange gave me motivation and determination to make change in my life.

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I learned about the challenge on TV. At first, I didn't think I would be able to lose the weight so I didn't sign up on the website. I did not want anyone to know if I failed. I had recently broke off my engagement and lost my job. I found that I would try and cope with it by eating.

I stepped on the scale and saw 250 one morning. I shook my head and decided that I was done being overweight. I have been obese my whole life.

My goal is 160, but I take it one pound at a time and when I lose 10, I celebrate by trying an old pair of jeans on. It motivates me because each time, I get them a little further. I can now get them over my hips.

I have stopped eating fast food. I eat it maybe once a month now. I practiced leaving some food on my plate, then I ate on small plates. Now I leave some food on my smaller plates. I try to get to the gym 3 times a week and do 20 minutes. Each time I go, I push myself to go faster or harder. I am jogging again. After I exercise I reward myself by jumping into the pool to cool off. I do 2 laps in every stroke I know and then relax stress away by floating or working on a tan for once.

Some things that helped me a lot was that I told people about my goal and I keep them updated. Not only do I not want to disappoint, but the encouragement is helpful. I recruit friends to swim with me and work out with me.  Now my friend is down 20 pounds. It really helps to have music and a friend. I also try to schedule times to work out. That way I can't be distracted. I have promised to myself. And if someone asks me to do this or that, "I have plans for something already." 

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Happy, Energetic and Proud - that's me. It all started one year and 2 months ago when I weighed 240 lbs and could not stand looking at myself in the mirror. I was very uncomfortable in my own body and realized something had to be done. I would look at celebrity fit club to see how Dr. Ian helped those individuals lose weight and said to myself ''Hey I can really do that.'' Then one evening while looking at television I saw his 50 million pound challenge commercial and decided to join. I'm so happy I did!

I lost 82 lbs the natural way, exercise and a healthy diet. It was hard work but trust me it's all worth it in the end. Determination and staying focus plays a major part in it as well. I started with a goal weight of 175 lbs but with the help of the 50 million pound challenge, not only did I meet that goal but I also passed it and now weigh 158 lbs YEAAAA ME!!

People please trust in yourself and don't let nobody tell you it can't be done because I'm living proof of that it can...GOOD LUCK 2 ALL' much love!

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Success is contagious. Marilyn Winters, Craig Nash and Jennifer DePree can attest to that fact as word of their stories is spreading and inspiring thousands around the country.

To propel their affect, these 3 Challengers were recently filmed in the making of 3 soon-to-be released Challenge commercials!

On the set, Marilyn, Craig and Jennifer took time to answer a few questions. We posted their interviews on our YouTube Channel, and have included them below.

Take a look, post them on Facebook, and/or share them with your friends and family.

Thank you!

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Dr Ian thank you so much for what you are doing to help people get healthy.  I listen to Steve Harvey Morning show and that's how I first heard about the Challenge.  I know I wanted to be a part but did not start right away. I am a mother of 2 girls, and want to be an example to them as well rounded African American woman.

I am normally a very healthy, Muscular build person, ex-military, active person.  I had a stressful job in civil service, and my eating habits changed to not eating enough of the rights foods, or not eating at all.  A few years of this and the weight ballooned to 176 at one point.  At this weight I am very uncomforable and have to do something.  I would usually find some weight loss product and loose 8-10 lbs, and each time I would gain it back.  This has been my pattern for 10 years.

My sister told me about the "4 Day Diet" so I researched it and bought it. I liked the every 4 days eating something different, because I know I get bored easily. The book sat on my shelf for months. TWO months ago I took my blood pressure and it was higher than normal and it scared me. I knew it was time to do something. 

I took the book of the shelf and started reading. I decided I will do whatever this book says. It started out with dealing with MENTAL Preparation which I knew for me would be key. I did all the exercises and got myself prepared mentally. I immediately started moving, walking, then jogging, aerobics at home. I knew I had to do something at least 4 days a week and I had to mix it up, so I would not get bored. I started taking suppliments again. I like liquid suppliments to ensure more absorption. I did not feel hungry or craved anything. I drink my water, which was not easy for me; because I drink a lot of tea & ice tea in place of water. Now, I prefer water over anything else. I am now 3 lbs from my goal of 150 which I choose because of my muscular stature.  I love the way my kids comment on how I look.

I have a whole new look, and I am now noticing I am turning heads of strangers.  I am on my way to being that example to my kids and to my family and friends.  Thank you again Dr Ian for life changing experience.  May God Continue to bless you, your family and your ministry to the world.

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I weighed 285 lbs in January of '09 (in the tuxedo on the right). I saw pictures of myself in my best friends wedding and was completely disgusted with myself. It was the heaviest I had ever been. I decided that I had to do something, but what? Well, luckily I was watching the Bonnie Hunt Show the day that Dr. Ian Smith was on to promote his book, "The four day diet." He spoke about the new website that he launched.

I decided to dive in head first, completely committed. What did I have to lose, besides the pounds? I followed the meal plan, walked for one hour per day, and did cardio exercise for at least a 1/2 hour each day. And six months later, look at me now. It was hard work, but Dr. Ian's 50 Million Pound Challenge gave me the tools I needed to make it happen. Thank you Dr. Ian! I could not have done it without you! I have lost 80lbs. in six months and could not be happier. I look and feel amazing! I owe it all to you Dr. Ian, and your 50 Million Pound Challenge! If you REALLY WANT IT, YOU CAN DO IT! I am living proof. If you're tired of being overweight, step up to the Challenge and give it your all, IT REALLY WORKS!

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Hi, I'm Apuya Spruill and this is my journey on THE FAT SMASH DIET.

I learned about Dr.Ian Smith's diet on THE TYRA SHOW. I was impressed by his team's weight lost. Also, I was impressed how the team spoke highly about Dr. Ian Smith's plan, which intrigued me.

I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis, which motivated me to join. At that moment, I knew I had to change my entire lifestyle. I've lost weight in the past but it was for vanity. This time it's for my health.

I began my journey on July 17,2007. My starting weight was 223lbs. and a size 16/18. I followed THE FAT SMASH DIET step by step as instructed. Six months later on January 17,2008, my weight was 140 lbs. and a size 7/8. WOW!!!!

The weight literally fell off. My co-workers, friends and family could not believe what they were seeing. I was transforming right before their eyes.I am only 28 years old and I've tried at least 15 diet plans. And none of them really worked. THE FAT SMASH DIET was the easiest plan for me to follow.

It's been almost 2 years now since my journey began. I've successfully kept 73lbs of the 83lbs. off. I still follow the THE FAT SMASH DIET. It's just a part of my life now.

Therefore, I must stay focused. The keys to my success of losing and keeping my weight off are:

• Daily Prayer
• Dedication
• Staying Stress Free
• Loving Me
• Keeping A Food Journal...Of course,measuring cups and scales.

Hopefully, my story has inspired you yo keep moving on your journey. Trust me the final results are AWESOME. And thanks to Dr.Ian Smith for the thousands of lives, including mine, you have saved. My journey is far from over but I am loving the ride.

Sincerely,

Apuya Spruill

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I learned of Dr. Ian and The Challenge thru a newspaper article that I saw a day too late - it was about a meeting of the Pembroke Pines team that was held the day before I read the article.

I had retired from work at the age of 61 due to stress, and unfortunetely I eat from stress.  I retired on a Friday, and started a new eating and exercising program the following Monday, which was May 4th.  The first week I couldn't get going, still too stressed out, I lost nothing.  Then I put it together and by June 25th when I joined this program, I had lost 25 pounds.  Three more pounds the next week puts me at 28 pounds overall.

I am probably one of the biggest people doing this, I started at 387 pounds, and am down to 359 at the moment.  I am 61 years old, so with my high weight and age I have to be carefull about how I go about this.  I am eating approximately 1400 calories a day, and all healthy foods.  I walk in malls every other day, and the days I dont walk, I exercise for about 30 minutes with light weights and rubber stretchy bands that fit over a door.  I will gradually work into more exercise, but can't stress my body too much at first.  I also just did a complete blood test and will see my doctor soon for the results which I expect to be good.

I am out to prove that at 61 years old I CAN lose weight like a young person, and that I CAN do it without the operation that so many have had.  I have seen people with the operation put a lot of weight back on after they lost a ton, and their life is also not easy, with food sticking, and throwing up frequently.

I now must battle a tough time - in 1-1/2 weeks my wife and I leave for a trip up north to a few cities as we have two weddings to go to that are 3 weeks apart up there.  It will be very hard to be eating out for over three weeks and stay to 1400 calories a day, and exercise will be tough too.  I will be tested, and I will do my best, and my goal is not to lose, but to stay the same, however, even if I can keep it to just a small weight gain, I will knock it off as soon as I get home and then continue on my journey.

I think one key to dieting successfully is to eat ONLY things you enjoy, don't be forced into eating foods you do not like.  I eat oatmeal, pickled herring, bananas, almonds, peanuts, Lean Cuisine dinners, veggie burgers, frozen fish patties, gefilte fish, crab meat, corn, carrots, bagels & lox, etc.  I eat small quantities, but I ENJOY what I eat.

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I have done them all: the diets, the programs and the classes. I’ve have read the books and hired the trainers. I’ve gone up and down on the scale. My clothes have ranged in sizes from 14 to 22.  I too avoided the mirrors and the outings. My refrigerator became my closest friend and confidante. 

It amazes me, how something like weight can have so much control over your life for so long. 
I decided I wanted my life back. 

I wasn’t ready to just give up.  I knew the likely outcome of being obese for so many years was diabetes and heart disease.  I didn’t want this for myself.  Furthermore, I didn’t want my children to have to take care of me years from now due to health issues.  Finally, I wasn’t going to be on the stage with Dr. Ian Smith wearing a size 22 anything! My goal was to be in a size-14 dress by the 14th Annual Sisterhood Showcase. 

To date, I have lost more than 50 lbs. and I can wear a size-14 dress.  I started working out at least four days a week and began to watch what I ate. We all know the formula for weight loss is exercise and calorie reduction, but to make it fun, I’m trying new recipes and spices this time around.  Also, I’m participating in spinning classes, and working out with friends. 

Maintaining your weight is an ongoing process, and the challenge is more mental than anything.  We all know what to do.  We just need to do it.     

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More than 36,500 women attended this year's Sisterhood Showcase in Memphis, TN.

Hundreds joined us in the fight to regain control of our health, including the ladies of the Healthy Church Challenge.

Thank you to everyone who met up with Dr. Ian and The Challenge!

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I first learned of Dr. Ian on The Yolanda Adams Morning show.  I was pleased to hear of a program where I could actually change my eating habits, loose weight gradually, and maintain it the lifestyle.  After looking at the shopping list and daily menu's I decided this was something I could do. 

My goal:  140 lbs by age 40.  I started my new lifestyle on Dec. 31st, 2008.  My starting weight was 256 lbs.  I have lost 20 lbs as of today.  The thing that motivates me the most is being happy with me.  I have finally at age 38 found happiness in being the woman that I am...weight and all.  When I look in the mirror I smile at myself everyday.  I embrace every pound on my '5-4" frame.  Having said that...I realize to truly love myself is to take care of myself.  It's important to take care of this temple God has given me.  It's important to seek a healthy lifestyle not just for myself, but for my loved ones. 

I watch what I eat and the amount I eat.  I drink plenty of water & beverages that are low in calories.  I eat whole wheat everything.  I eat lean cuts of meat and periodically red meat.  I hate eating vegetables...so I blend most of them up into a smoothie for breakfast and as a snack.  I eat a minimum of 4 meals a day.  I exercise 5 days a week.  I have increased my workout gradually to 45m-60m of cardio & alternate toning different areas.  Before I couldn't last 3 minutes on any given machine.  I joined a gym to keep the motivation and to vary my routine.  When I'm too tired to work out...I do it anyway.  The most important thing...when I fall off the wagon one day...I get back on the next.  I am never defeated.

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I've seen Dr. Ian on television, I believe this challenge is great way to help motivate people and I'd like to share my story:

I consider the healthiest way to lose weight is through diet and exercise.  After all, we consumed the food that made us heavy right?  Then it should be our responsibility to correct our bad behavior and teach our bodies a healthier way of living.  I started my journey in April 2006 at 297 lbs and I currently weigh 190.  For the first six months I walked everyday and tracked every item I put into my mouth.  After a while I started choosing healthier options on my own, my body started to crave healthier food, a healthier lifestyle and lots of daily activity.  I have about 30 lbs left to lose before this part of my journey is over.  I love my new wardrobe and I don't even mind my picture taken nowadays =) However,  the best reward is the fact that I am now living every single day to the fullest, I know I can achieve anything I set my mind to and my size will no longer get in my way!!!

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I been on diets before but never this long have I been so serious about changing. I gained this weight when I was pregnant with my son. I became so overwhelmed being a single mom, working, and tring to make life easy for my son. I forgot that taking care of myself was one of the most importante things I had to do to be here for him. So at 263lbs I decided I'm not getting any younger and this weight will not just magically disappear. I love my son more then anything, so I'm going to be here and teach my son how to live life heathly from my own experience. I know now what my biggest fear was is to have people treat me different or look at me different. When actually it wasn't about them it's about me and how I feel.

So I had a conversation with myself and I said Starr how can you teach your son how to live heathly if you (meaning myself) are not practicing what YOU preach exspecially about how someone protrays you because people will always have something to say. Thats the day I decided to start my journey. I spoke with my friend about it and she kept saying you should get in with the 50million pound challege. I just ignored her for the first couple mouths. Then one day, about three months after I started, my friend said I'm telling you Starr to do it. So here I am so happy to be a part of something so wonderfully life changing. I'M GOING 2 MAKE IT!

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Acclaimed gospel recording artist Marvin Sapp is joining the The Challenge and taking his quest for healthy living on the road with his U Made It tour!

Many of us enjoy and connect with Marvin's passion, work, and talent. Now we can all connect in Marvin's journey to set better examples by living healthier and wiser.

“I have struggled to lose weight all my life and have finally decided that enough is enough.  I want to alleviate health concerns and set a good example for my family and church, so I am happy to have the support system and resources of Dr. Ian Smith and The 50 Million Pound Challenge to successfully create a healthy lifestyle,” says Sapp.  “I will be talking about my efforts with my fans and supporters online and on tour.  Together, we can improve our health and lives.”

Join Marvin's team today and catch the inspiration in a whole new way.

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As a result of watching Celebrity Fit Club I found out about Dr. Ian's Fat Smash Plan. The thing that attracted me to The Fat Smash Plan was the ability to transition this type of plan into a lifestyle.  Over the years I have discovered that many of the diets currently out on the market yield quick results that do not last.  My goal was to lose 40 lbs. but more importantly to implement and maintain a lifestyle that includes healthy eating and daily physical activity.  Being 38, I wanted to remove the potential to develop any diseases that could be a direct result of excessive weight (and age).  I implemented the Fat Smash Plan and have now reached my goal weight. I was 210 lbs, I am now 145 lbs.

I continue to exercise daily including cardiovascular and resistance training. Surprising, the small things really do make a difference, such as parking further away from the Mall entrance instead of driving around for 10 minutes looking for a closer space.  Now I actually return the grocery cart to the cart return instead of leaving it in between the vehicles. In the past I have been on diets that eliminated complete food groups only to regain the weight. I now incorporate all food groups but in smaller portions.  I stick to fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains.  I enjoy the occasional treat but limit the portion size.  If I want a special treat I will have it when I go out for dinner instead of buying it to have at home where the tendency to overeat exists. 

In addition, by making yourself accountable to your friends and family you are more likely to stay on your plan instead of cheating. I have developed a team at work where we "check" one another if we see the oth er "back sliding." Instead of smoking breaks we take "walking breaks" helping our lungs instead of hurting them. Our team collectively has lost over 400 lbs. We rewarded ourselves with new clothes and shoes! Not food! The most important thing to remember is to choose a plan that you can maintain as a lifestyle, which the Fat Smash allows you to do! It took me a long time to "accept" that the quick fix diets are just that..quick... but "slow and steady"  does win the race!  I look great and feel even better!  Kudos to Dr. Ian and the 50 million lb Challenge! Keep up the good work!

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I have been battling my weight for most of my adult life.  About 10 years ago I had reached 337 pounds and at that point I realized I needed to make a change in my life.  With cutting my portion sizes in half and lots of exercise I got my weight done to 262 pounds. After several changes in my life including marrying the most wonderful women in the world and relocating to Columbia, South Carolina, by July of 2007 my weight had gotten back up to about 294 lbs. 

It was at this point I just got sick and tired of the weight, so I decided to make a change in my life.  This was when my wife and I went out and purchase the Dr. Ian book "The Fat Smash Diet".  After my wife and I read the book, we both decided to follow the program in the book.  In addition, I decided to join the 50 Million Challenge and I set a goal weight of 250 lbs.  I continued to workout at my local fitness center increasing my workout days to 6-7 days without using a personal trainer. Since following the plan in the book, I am at a weight of 194 lbs. I never dreamed that I be this size.  I use to wear a 46 pants size, but today I am wearing a 36 size. I am thankful for the support of my wife, making sure that I have healthy meals and snacks, and being my cheerleader.  I am also thankful to Dr. Ian's book because it changed my life. Through this entire journey, I give God all the Glory and Praise because he gave me the strength to loss the weight.  As you can see from the pictures that I have attached this was a complete life changing experience for me.

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To my fellow Challengers:

It excites me to see that so many of us are on this journey together.  After reading so many inspirational stories, it’s my turn to step up and share mine. 

As a long-time volunteer for the American Cancer Society (ACS), I know that being overweight increases the chances of being diagnosed with cancer, heart disease and diabetes.  In my volunteer role with the ACS, I am privileged to travel to locations around the country talking with fellow volunteers about the importance of living a healthy lifestyle.   The short version of the message we share for prevention and early detection is eat healthy, be active, and follow the guidelines for preventative screenings.
 
Imagine you are one of the volunteers I am talking to and you look at me and see that I am 130 pounds overweight.  How believable is that??  So much for practicing what I preach! 

I am passionate about the work that I do for the ACS.  Those of you reading this who volunteer in your communities know exactly how I feel.  I don’t mean to dwell on my work with the ACS, but a new initiative introduced in 2007 is what finally got me here to the Challenge. 

When “Fight Back” was introduced, we were charged with making a change to save one person’s life.  The life I was committed to saving was my own.  I signed the form with my pledge and went back home.  I’m a procrastinator.  I didn’t take action right away.  I don’t know what I was waiting for. 

Fortunately, the 50 Million Pound Challenge was introduced at our company and I was ready. 

And am I glad I did!  During my journey, I’ve done things I never could have imagined doing even one year ago.  At 48, I am proud to say I am a triathlete.  I completed two triathlons last summer and have signed up for two more this year.  I am an Ironman wannabe and hope to complete my first one in honor of my 50th birthday. (Yes, my 20-something children think I’m having a midlife crisis!) 

I feel great.  I love being a Challenge team leader.  It’s a bit humbling that my success has helped inspire others to begin their own journey.  Right now, I have convinced 30 coworkers to “just say no” to the elevator and escalator and take the stairs.  This group logged over 50,000 stairs last week alone!!  Watching their excitement inspires me!

Having said all of that, I will be honest.  It hasn’t always been easy.  In the middle of last year after I had lost 50 pounds, I lost my focus and gained back nearly 20 pounds of what I had lost.  (Happily, I’m almost back to the 50 pound mark again.  YEA!) 

My family and friends are a great support system.  I love that my older son is my strongest advocate and supporter.  Don’t tell him but I’m hoping to run a marathon with him soon.

What am I doing to keep on track?  I had been a “Fat Smasher” but now am following the 4-Day Diet.   Portion control has always been my biggest challenge.  I learned a tip last year that has been a great help.  I call it “2 cup, 1 cup”.  Basically, I keep my food to two cups for each meal and 1 cup for each snack.  (I do measure most things but I’m not totally crazy.  For items like a piece of fruit, I just count that as a cup.)   I know it doesn’t sound like much.  Check it out.  Two cups of food is really a good amount. 

I journal.  I had planned to use my journal to track my food and exercise but what I’ve discovered is that I use it more to plan my day.  I spend a few minutes each evening to plan my food and exercise for the following day.  When I deviate from my plan, I make a note.  That helps me keep on track and if I don’t have the weight loss I expected, I can probably determine why by reviewing my journal.

I try to be active whenever I can.  I’m following a training plan I found on the internet to get me ready for my upcoming triathlons.  (The internet is a great resource!)  Something simple that I believe makes a big difference is adding steps during my work day.  I’ve gone “stair crazy”.  I skip the elevators and escalators and only take the steps.  (I even park at the top of the parking deck to make sure I get in a few more!)  And, I schedule meetings away from my work area. 

If I have any words of wisdom to share with you it would be these:  Don’t give up.  I know you can do it.  Enjoy everything that this journey has to offer. 

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I heard about Dr. Ian's The Challenege while I was watching an NBA game. I have read a lot of the stories here and this has inspired me to start the challenge along with the rest of them. I have tried going on diets, and I have even gone to the gym to try and lose weight. Unfortunately I havent had much success. I realized as I got older it became harder to reach my goals so I gave up and went back to unhealthy eating habits.

I am in my eyes overweight and from the BMI calculator, I fall under the obese section. I want to do this challenge because I want to be around and keep up with my 2 lovely children. So far this is my first week, and I am staying away from the scales. I am going on how my clothes fit rather than weight. Although I havent made any progress yet, I wanted to let everyone here know my situation. So with everyone's support, I know I have the backbone I need to get through this challenge.

My goal is to lose 35 to 40 lbs. This way, I can finally stop worrying about my health. I want to be in the best shape of my life and to feel the best in my life. I was an everyday smoker, and 2 years ago finally gave it all up cold turkey. It was a difficult move but a definate health benefit. I also gained a lot weight after quitting. I started going to the gym off and on, and one day I landed in the ER because I started having chest pains a little after walking p 5 flights fo stairs. Although the doctors ruled out cardiac, my GP wanted me to see a cardio and I passed the stress test and nuclear stress test.

After all this you'd think I would be good to go but not so. Then came my worrying and thats when I began to panic inside. My chest would tighten up and i would say to myself, it will be ok.  I managed to lose 12 pounds to 185, but then somehow gained it all back.  I am now at 200lbs and at 5ft 5, this is considered obese. I started doing everything from Slim in Six videos to Tony Horton's P90X, but I would always do it all half way and not finish the whole routine. Same a pplies for going to the gym. Now I realized that I am at great risk for diabetes, heart disease, and high cholesterol and I finally want to do something about it. Is it too late? I certainly hope it isnt, but with everyone's success stories and support, I believe I can do it. Thank you all for listening to my story.

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I am a veteran of the armed services. While in the military I injured my back and since have gained a lot of weight, (almost 100 lbs.). It is nearly impossible for me to lose this weight with an injured back but I know I must do so to live a better life, feel good about myself and be a healthy human being. The road to weight loss will not be an easy one for myself... and hopefully people can hear my story and be motivated to help themselves lose the weight! I am dedicated to living a more enjoyable, healthy life. I am sick and tired of people thinking I am fat and am not able to do the same things as everyone else. This weight is doing nothing but holding me back in life.

I plan on eating right (no diets, just healthier eating, portion control), exercising to the best of my abilities (find the right exercises that fit my inablilites according to my back injury), and just be a better human being = all-around health. I have been keeping pictures of myself. lf looking the way I do now around my house to keep me motivated and also pictures of what I used to look like thin and attractive. I will suceed - YES WE CAN!

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My name is Daniel Eley, this is my story. I was like most Americans, I was overweight, and actually I was obese and tired all the time. I had high blood pressure, my joints hurt so bad I couldn't walk up stairs, I was borderline diabetic, and had acid reflect to the point it would wake me up at night gasping for breathe. My wife was worried, my kids were concerned and I was scared. I needed to do something, I had tried almost every diet on the planet and nothing seemed too worked or last. But what could I do I had failed so many times in the past? I had given up the very thought of ever being healthy. Desperate, I decided to try one more time and that is when I began a life changing journey, that is when I started the 50 million pound Challenge, I saw it while watching an NBA game and logged on. My above conditons are gone and to date I have lost 81 pounds, body fat is 14.6%. What I needed was accountability and a challenge to keep me on track to achieve my goal.

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As far as I can remember I was never a small kid. My mother tells me that I started gaining weight on our family vacation to Singapore when I was 5 years old. In my teens, I remember being teased as being over-weight and always dreaded getting on the weighing machine in front of my classmates at our annual health check at our school. As far as I can recall I was always a fat and overweight. My parents have been pushing me forever to lose weight and get fit.

The weight never seemed to get off and I gained more after graduating college and my marriage. Due to a medical problem in 2002, I found out that I weighed about 360 pounds. My doctor at the time told me if I need to live longer, I need to lose weight. Period. That was a wakeup call.
This was the first leg of my journey. I started with a low carbohydrate and high protein diet and in addition was on a tread mill 40 minutes a day. I knew this was drastic but I had to do it for me and my loving wife. She was very supportive throughout and would work out with me just to give me company. She didn't have to lose any weight. I lost about 80 pounds in 6 months. I came down to 280 pounds.  I came down from size 52 jeans to size 46. Due to personal circumstances, I went to maintenance mode for a while.

Recently, in June 2008, I had my in laws visiting us from India for a couple of months. With all the "love" my cloths started feeling tight. I weighed myself and my eyes literally popped out. I was back at 300 pounds. I knew I cannot go back where I came from. This was the start of second journey.

With the power of internet and presence of community of Dr Ian Smith's 50 Million Pound Challenge, I set my target at 200 pounds. I followed the same diet and exercise pattern but it seemed to get more difficult as I started getting closer to my target weight. I am at 220 pounds and feel great. I have inspired a lot of people around me to get healthy as they see me as a living example and not just someone on TV.

Dr. Smith's community is a big factor of my progress. The tools, community/blogs and most of all the inspiration to keep going has really helped me.

Thanks again. Sid and Nidhi

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"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

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I am new to the 50 million pound challenge. My wife told me about this after she saw an advertisement on T.V.

Weight is something that I have struggled with my whole life, as many others have. The thing is, I now have a daughter. She is our first child and will be 4 months old this month on the 19th. She is my motivation. I want to be able to set a good example for her so she doesn't have to go through what I had to.

Even now, just writing this, as I think of my past struggles, I'm tearing up. I have to be the best father that I can be, and this is one of those ways.

I would feel as though I was a failure as a father if I don't do this for her. It would absolutely break my heart to see my child obsess about her weight and be judged by her peers.

I just want to share my journey with others and more importantly I want to be able to show my daughter someday how much I love her.

Thank you.

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I first heard about the 50 Million Pound Challenge & Dr. Ian at my sorority (Zeta Phi Beta) national leadership conference. The sorority had recently announced at the national level that each of it's regions would have a team and I was very excited about participating.

Prior to joining The Challenge, I had lost about 75 lbs over the course of a year and a half as a member of a popular weight loss program. Since joining The Challenge in July 2008, I have remained a member of that program and have lost another 11 lbs and am still losing!

My goal is to lose a total of 150 lbs, so I have 64 more lbs to go. What has worked for me is keeping track of what I eat and how much of it I eat. I have cut back on fried foods so much that I've lost a lot of my cravings for it. O

ne of the best pieces of advice I've received over the course of my weight loss journey was "Don't make any changes that you can't live with." Depriving yourself of the things you love is almost asking for failure, so I allow myself to eat things like full fat cheese, just in moderation. In other places, where it's easier for me to cut back, I've made changes like using fat-free milk.

Another key to my success has been overcoming mental barriers to weight loss. I had to train myself to believe that I was not destined to be overweight and that even if I have a gain, at least I am aware of it and can do something about it!

The small gains along the way no longer send me into a funk, I just dust it off and recommit to taking the weight off. Because I have so much weight to lose, tackling it in small increments has helped keep me motivated. I don't think of it as 150 lbs, I think of it in terms of 5 lb goals until I get there!

I will admit that exercise was my biggest challenge. I lost the first 40 lbs without exercising consistently, but started to realize that if I wanted my weight loss to LOOK GOOD, I was going to have to get on an exercise plan.

I started out small - doing workout videos at home with my boyfriend. After a bout 3 months of working up my stamina, we joined a gym. I was excited to see that I was actually able to complete 30 minutes on the elliptical machine compared to the barely 5 minutes I could do when I first started trying to lose weight.

I have gone from a size 26/28 to a size 16 and am committed to reaching my weight loss goal and being the healthiest me I know that I can be!

It might sound cheesy but this is the best thing I've ever done for myself and I refuse to let myself down!

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Hi, I am a thirty year old African-American female. I was introduced to the 50 Million Pound Challenge through our local radio station here in Columbia, SC.

I have joined the Challenge for three reasons.

First and foremost I not only want but need to be healthier than what I am. I have no children and pray to have children one day as well as see them grow into adults but how will I if I leave this world before them, all because I chose to live an unhealthy lifestyle.

Next I am getting married September 5, 2009 and I want to be and see a different me before that day, not for anyone else but for me.

Last I am so tired of being fatttttttttt it is affecting my mood, my attitude, and me as a person. This has been a struggle for me my entire life. I have tried everything and some things did work but of course I gained the weight back. I need a changed, I want a change, and I am going to change.

For the past two weeks I have cut out my sugar and most of my carbohydrates, since then I have lost seven pounds, my goal is to keep going and not to give up.

My only creative strategy is not that creative at all, walking is the key for me. I can cut back eating all day long but If I don't walk my results are not that good.

Sooooooooooooooooooo Dr. Ian I ask that you give me a chance and allow the world to share my struggle as well as see me over come it.

Thanks A Million!!!!

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My sister told me about "The Challenge" and suggested I use it as a motivational tool. My goal was to lose 15% of my body weight which came out to a total of 37 lbs.  With only 5 more lbs to go, I KNOW I can do it.

The keys to my success:

• Find a fitness program you enjoy.  I hate to run but love to spin.  I currently ride 2-3 hours a week.  Cardio!
• Eat smart.  Watch portion size on meats.  Limit processed foods.  Nothing FRIED!

I want to be able to enjoy all that life has to offer and be the best husband for my wife and father for my kids.  Getting and staying in shape will help me accomplish this goal.

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One lucky voter will win $1,000

The Challenger of the Year contest is underway and your vote will help decide which Featured Challenger from 2008 made the greatest impact inspiring others to lose weight and get healthy.

How the contest works
A total of 12 Featured Challengers were chosen to participate in the 2008 Challenger of the Year contest based on the impact their stories had on other Challenge participants. The Featured Challenger earning the most votes will become the 2008 Challenger of the Year and receive a $1,000 Visa® gift card.

Vote early and vote daily for your chance to win $1,000!
Anyone can vote by visiting the Challenger of the Year contest page. Voting for the contest runs thru midnight December 29. Each vote (a maximum of one per day) earns an entry into a drawing for an additional 1,000 Visa® gift card. One lucky voter will be randomly drawn from all votes cast for this $1,000 prize. So vote early and vote daily!

Have a comment for one of the contestants?
The Challenger of the Year contest is also an open forum for you to communicate directly with the contestants. Post your comments for any of the contestants here or directly on the contestant’s Featured Challenger page by clicking the link next to their photo below.

Meet the contestants
Here are the contestants for the 2008 Challenger of the Year contest. A summary of their Challenge journey and details about who is leading in the contest is available on the Challenger of the Year contest page. Click the link below to read their original Featured Challenger blog story.

Remember vote early and vote daily!

Tikia Brown-Montgomery and Michael Montgomery, Indianapolis, IN

Charmen Daley, Orlando, FL

Tahira Davis, Cleveland, OH

Marcella Jones, Yorktown, VA

Anna Mary Lopez, Orlando, FL

Femi Martin, Brandon FL

Christopher McCray, Hampton, GA

Kenya Morgan, Salisbury, NC

Craig Nash, Chicago, IL

Michelle Thomas, Colorado Springs, CO

Lawana Williams, Southfield, MI

Deborah Wright, West Haven, CT

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I became familiar with Dr. Ian on Celebrity Fit Club and heard about the Challenge on commercials. Every time I saw the commercial I was proud of Dr. Ian for sharing his knowledge with those people who needed it, never once realizing that I was one of "those people".  I had been big all my life and never really noticed when I gained a little weight every year.  The breakthrough came when I stepped on the scale and it read 250 lbs!  I now weighed more than my husband who is a competitive body builder!  I was in shock!

I've had high blood pressure since I was 25.  I have a family history of heart attacks, strokes, high blood pressure and diabetes.  Now at 30, knowing my history helped me see my future and I realized it was time for a change!  Then I saw another commercial for the Challenge and immediately logged in.  I was so excited!  We all have heard that you need to eat right and exercise to lose weight but finally, concrete advice and an actual meal plan!  The meal plan has changed my life. I have always had a hard time with my diet.  I never planned ahead and only ate when I was hungry both of which were a huge mistake.  I would end up ravenous and my search for food would inevitably lead me to a fast food drive thru line. I rarely ate more than twice a day but they were huge meals full of empty calories.

The meal plan has helped me organize and improve my eating habits.  Using Dr. Ian's tools, I now shop weekly for the food I will need and I pack my meals daily to take to work.  If I decide to eat out, Dr. Ian's plan provides the structure for what I am allowed to eat.  I order my meals according to the meal plan.  This plan has also helped me to realize that exercise is the key to success! Dr. Ian suggests that you just start moving and increase the program as you go.  That is exactly what I have done.  When I first started on the treadmill I walked at a slow pace with no incline and slowly increased both every two weeks. Currently, I walk at a fast pace for at least an hour five days a week, sometimes on my treadmill and sometimes around the neighborhood with my walking partner.  Also, I weight train twice per week with light weight and high repetitions to tone my muscles.

The Challenge has really helped me take control of my life.  All of the tools and the advice have made the difference for me.  I started at 250 lbs on September 17, 2008 and my gooal is to lose 100 lbs by the end of July 2009.  So far I have lost 20 lbs!  For the first time in a long time my blood pressure is normal with no medication! There's no stopping me now!  I'm on the move!  Thank you Dr. Ian and the Challenge!  Go Team BFF Club!

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I learned about Dr. Ian by watching "Celebrity Fit Challenge," I was not a regular viewer but caught the show a few times. While watching the show I always wanted to be apart of that challenge but was not motivated enough (Lazy). I use to always say if I could go on the show, sit in front of that panel and be instructed as they are, I could lose weight but always use that excuse "If I could be on the show."

In July of 2007 my 9 years old son, who was then 8 years old was in the Dojo sparring and lost the fight because he became fatigue. I told my son that he is a good fighter but a good fighter who is not well conditioned will lose all the time. The next day I took my son to the park to run and at that moment when I reached approximatley 1/2 a mile I was holding my knees gasping for air. My lungs were burning and I just thought I was going to die.

After my run, I was confused and didn't understand. I knew I was overwieght  but didn't realize that my 6 foot frame had packed on 340 lbs. Unfortunately the environment that I am from, large is healthy and that's what had be transcribed for me to understand, not the fact that me being overweight has contributed to my High Blood Presure and Atrial Fibrillation. I took a quick look at my situation (Children, Life, Career) and weighed my options. The two options were clear, to die early or take control of my life, so I logged on to Dr. Ian's 50 Million Pound Challenge.

Once I became a member of Dr. Ian's 50 Million Pound Challenge I felt good about taking control, I immediately spoke to my wife and kids and explained to them the change that was being made for the family and we began to empty out all the junk food out of the house. My wife agreed to cook healthy and cease the frying of any foods in our home. We didn't choose a diet, we chose a new way of life. I set small goals such as food intake a day, cardio duration, and calisthenics. I cut out soda and fruit juices completely but I drank tons a water a day. I excercised 3 days a week for about 15 mins beginning, which would be 1 mile walk and run, which would take me 11 to 12 mins and 5 mins of push ups and sit ups. I did that for approximately 2 weeks until my one mile walk/run was a solid run. I then increased to a 1.25 miles and 10 mins push ups and sit ups and I stayed with this routine for about 3 weeks and countiuned to increase. After about a year of working out I was able to run 4 to 5 miles every workout and I was running 5 days to 6 days a week.

My waist was a size 47 and I am now 37-38, my jacket size was 56 long and now I am a 46-38 long. My neck size was 19 1/2 now it 16 1/2. I no longer run long distance because it began to take a toll on my ankles, so now I spin 4 days to 5 days a week for approximately 45 mins to 1hr a workout.

The 50 Million Pound Challenge has allowed me to regain my life again. I have more control and confidence. I have been a working in Law enforcement now 12.5 years and I am in better shape now than I was when I graduated from the Police Academy. I recently tried out for the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and passed all the PT requirements with flying colors and that including 1.5 mile run less than 12 minutes.

On December 9th, 2008 A&E will be showing a show called "Manhunters" it a 21 episodes series featuring me Rasheen "Pep" Peppers in approximately 8 of those episodes and while your watching it you literally see the dramatic weight loss I just describe to you and you can log on to A&E to hear me discuss my wieght loss to the world and what the 50 Million Pound Challenge and God my Lord has done for me.

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I was very excited when I learned the challenge was for all Americans and not just African-Americans, as I thought after seeing the ads. THANKS, DR. IAN!  Although I didn't really participate or login for the first few months after I signed up, my motivator (or should I say, the final straw?!) came when I failed to make my required Army Reserve weight. This can cost your career and is quite embarrassing (to me).

I already did cardio and weights, but just enough to maintain and I felt I could eat whatever I wanted because I worked out.  NOT!  So I cut back on calories by finding low-cal foods that I liked to eat, such as fat-free jello and pudding for snacks, and I eat yogurt or a banana for breakfast.  I eat very light meals, veggies and meat. Sometimes I just want good old-fashioned peanut butter sandwiches on 40 calorie bread.  I switched out soda for diet soda and diet green tea and I drink lots of water.  Sometimes I splurge, yep, sure do!  But I always get back on track.  Before when I splurged, I would say, "See, I failed, why try?"  Not anymore, I get back to what I know is right and keep on, keeping on!

I have increased my workouts, too.  I run longer (40-45 min, instead of 30) and sometimes I just run 20 minutes and do the stairstepper or the bike for 20-25 minutes) depending on how my body feels. I increase the challenge by running as fast as I can for 30 seconds every 5 minutes, then slowing back down or while on the stairstepper or bike I increase the resistance.  If I am feeling out of sorts, I may just walk.  I always run on the treadmill (unless the Army Reserve makes me run on a track or cement) because I feel the impact less on my old bones. And those times when I feel I've overdone it, I rest a day or two or three (I'm no spring chicken you know!) I also lift heavier weights for less reps.  I work out 3-5 days a week.

I fell for the media hype that when you get past 40, it's nearly impossible to lose a pound, much less keep it off, so I was defeated in my mind.  Although I haven't even lost into the double digits yet and it's taken me awhile to get there, I am proud of my progress so far (down one size) and glad that I am on my way to a healthier me, inside and out!  Thanks for your support and the 50 Million Pound Challenge!  Thanks Dr. Ian! 

Go, Team Potter's House, Go!

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On April 14, 2007, one day after my 23rd birthday, I was diagnosed with high blood pressure and type 1 diabetes and my weight was 315lbs. I knew then it was time to do something about it. I'd told myself many times before that I needed to get in shape but I was never motivated enough to stick to it. But after leaving the doctor's office and crying and saying to myself "Christina you are too young for all of this," I was determined that day to make a change in my health and in my life.

I heard about Dr. Ian and The Challenge by listening to one of my favorite morning radio shows (The Steve Harvey Morning Show), so I decided to join the challenge to see if I could maybe help more young people who might be going through some of the same things. Joining has also given me that extra push I needed to keep going. It feels good to be able to share my story and to read about other people who have also taken the challenge to change there life style (if you look at it we are helping keep each other motivated).

My exercise plan is very simple; I go to the gym three times a week. I spend 30min on the treadmill followed by some weight training to shape and tone those "problem areas." On the days I'm not at the gym I try to continue my exercise by dancing in my living room for at least 30-45min (to make sure I get my cardio exercise in). This along with a 1600 calories diet and CONSTANT PRAYER has been the key to my success.

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As many of you read in Dr. Ian's email from this morning, we'd love to hear how the Diet Tools are working for you!

Your stories, perspective, and encouragement inspire thousands to stay committed or even join us in the cause to save lives.

If the Diet Tools helped you reach a goal, or helped jumpstart you on a path to health, then please click here to share your story with us!

If you haven't heard of our Diet Tools, please register or login today and sign up to use the free:

• 30-day Diet Plan
• Activity Tracker, and
• Online Journal

These tools help us exercise the discipline we need to live healthier. Please join us in the fight against the negative effects of being overweight... and commit to truly live.

Thank you for helping us make history together.

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I guess my motivation is the guy that worked at 7-11.  He is the one who got me to see me for me. I was at the 7-11 getting my usual snicker bar, coke and potato chips which I ate every night before bed. While waiting in line he kept staring at me. When it was my turn to pay, with 4 people behind me, he said "you look beautiful, absolutely gorgeous.”  I was blushing. Then he said to all the other people in line, "Pregnant people are gorgeous aren't they? How far along are you?" The lady behind me then said "Do you know if it is a boy or a girl?" All the other people joined in with their baby stories.

I was devastated because I was not pregnant. I told them I was 6 months pregnant and the sad part was they believed me. One person even said I was going to have a big baby. I paid for my snacks, left the store and went to an empty parking lot to cry while I ate my snack for the last time. That was February 28, 2007. I cried for 4 hours straight. I had lost my husband and my self to obesity. Morbid obesity, massive obesity!

The next day I typed out what the store man said and I began my journey to 140lbs. I didn't go to any Jenny Craig or weight watchers because I was too fat and embarrassed. I stopped all fast foods cold turkey (boy was that hard), I stopped all cokes (even harder) and I joined a gym. I joined Gold’s Gym because they had an all ladies gym behind closed doors and no one would see me. They had a cinema room that you could watch a movie and I watched all my favorite movies while I walked. I went to the gym 5 days per week for 1-2 hours doing mostly cardio. I ate plenty of tilapia and broccoli. I drank protein shakes in the morning. I started reading food labels at the grocery store and on anything I ate that had a label to read. I educated myself. I was determined to regain my self, forget the husband I needed to get ME back. 

I lost 65 pounds in 5 months and I have kept it off for over a year. Yes I have relapses but never over 5 pounds before I start reading the letter I typed to myself that wonderful day at the 7-11. I consider that day as a blessing and a wake up call. For me, I needed something tragic to happen in order for me to see what other people saw when they looked at me.  Just as they didn't like it, I didn't like it either.

When I look back on everything, I see the low self esteem and I now see the health issues that being obese and having low self esteem can bring on. I still don't have a significant other but I am totally enjoying the process and my low self esteem is a thing of the past. I have no health issues none! What I did gain from this is a high level of self esteem, a friendly personality and a gorgeous smile!

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I first learned about The Challenge around a year ago when Dr Ian and The Tour came to St Louis.  I heard about The Tour and concert that day and made the decision to drive downtown to attend the event.  It wasn't until the first of the year that I got SERIOUS! I saw a picture of myself at my line sister's birthday party and I realized that I looked 8 months pregnant although my baby was already 13 months old!

I had already joined Weight Watchers at Work 2 months prior and managed to actually loose 4 pounds over the holiday season, instead of gaining.  I was learning how to eat correctly and realized I had to kick in the exercise if I wanted to really see results. I am a wife, the mother of a toddler, a homeowner, a manager who works full time and very active in my church. I had to figure out how to fit exercise into my other responsibilities!  My solution was to prioritize and exercise in the morning BEFORE going to work; therefore, I have no excuses to miss my workouts.

I signed up with a personal trainer at the gym near my home that I was already a member of.  I also got a friend to sign up with me to keep the costs down and to work together to motivate each other.  I now get up at 5 a.m. every weekday morning, and 8 a.m. Saturday mornings, and spend 45 mins-1 hour at the gym 5 days a week.  I take step class, weight lifting class, spinning class, boot camp class, or do cardio and circuit training on my own or with the personal trainer.  I work out and then come home, get myself dressed for work, finish getting my daughter ready for daycare (my husband gets her breakfast, bath, and clothes on) and we head out the door.

I found that I like being a part of a community and had to find a variety of activities that I enjoy, such as classes at a gym. I need accountability and I have to track my progress, logging what I eat, how much I exercise, and how much I weigh every day. It is very satisfying for me to SEE the progress and that motivates me to continue to make good choices.  When I have a bad day or week, I just get up and get back on track, like the righteous woman God created me to be! 

I recently stopped working with the trainer and I have lost 28 pounds and 7% body fat since the first of the year.  My trainer took before and after pictures of me and I was very happy with what I saw in the photos this time!  I have 25 more pounds to lose to meet my goal.  I know I will make it with God's help and all of the amazing support I have from my husband, friends, co-workers, and Weight Watchers.  It really is a community effort.

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I was diagnosed with Type II diabetes in November of 2005 when I lost my vision.  I had gained a significant amount of weight and had become very ill due to the stress and worry of my entire family losing everything from Hurricane Katrina in Mississippi. 

Due to this tragedy, I was dealt with the blow of caring for a house full of Katrina victims with nothing.  My household size grew from 5 people to 20 people. Soon after my diagnosis, I knew that I must do something because I have 3 boys and a husband to live for. 

I had become very ill and I hated life due to the weight gain and dealing with my illness that I had begun to deny.  One day my 5 year old son leaned across my bed while I was feeling very ill and said to me, "Will you die?  I don't want you to be sick anymore." His eyes were filled with water.  I knew at that moment that I was not going to be selfish. I was hurting the ones that I love the most.  I then decided to make a life change.

I moved back home to Mississippi and started to walk 3 miles every other day on the beautiful Mississippi Gulf Coast beaches and became more conscious of my food intake.  I have lost a total of 25 pounds and counting.  According to my last doctor report, my cholesterol has dropped 100 points and my A1C has gone from 13 to 4, which means my doctor is contemplating taking me off of my diabetes medication. 

I am very happy to have been introduced to 50 Million Pound Challenge.  It is my motivation.  I obtained my free kit from our local State Farm Agent here in town and read the postings from Dr. Ian.  Thanks Dr. Ian for all you do.  I have 50 more pounds to go, and I pray that I continue to succeed.  It is a struggle daily.

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My name is Kenya Morgan. I first heard of the weight loss challenge through an advertisement. I decided to lose weight when my health became a real issue. I had very high blood pressure that couldn't even be controlled by the strongest medicines. My heart began to suffer and I was on a heart medicine because of the weight gain and the blood pressure. I suffered blackouts and extreme fatigue because my heart was beating so fast due to the extreme hypertension.

My motivation was my husband and my children, and the fact that I knew I couldn't survive long in this state of health and weight. I started my weight loss on March 13, my son's 10th birthday. I began walking each day. As my strength grew I began jogging and running up to 8 miles a day. I ate grilled chicken, salmon and lots of fresh vegetables. I ate six small healthy meals a day, stopped eating sugar and drinking sodas. I only drank water – 80 ounces or more a day. I weighed in one month later with my doctor and had lost 30 pounds.

My initial weight loss goal was 145 pounds but I continue to lose. I am currently 127 pounds and feel great. I am no longer on heart and blood pressure medicine. My key to weight loss has been to try different healthy recipes to cook because when you aren't bored you won't relapse.

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I have been the poster child for Murphy's Law Syndrome and now I am pleased to say that I am the poster child for a living a more balance and healthy lifestyle. On April 25th, 2007, I stepped on my physicians scale to read the number of 254.5 lbs and then be told that I was in the early phase of having Diabetes called Pre-Diabetes. Who knew that diabetes had a preparatory phase? Certainly not me. I was still in the recovery phase from a really bad car accident only months previously. I honestly did not feel like going through all the work losing weight but on the other hand, the ease of death was not an acceptable alternative.

One morning on the way to take my son to school, I heard Dr. Ian discussing the 50 Million Pound Challenge on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. I figured that I could use all the support and guidance I could get, so I signed up a few weeks later. I was down 14 pounds by then. It was no easy feat to keep myself on task because of injuries related to my car accident but the one internal stimulus that kept me motivated was my commitment to break those generational curses predicated on me by the ignorance of others. I didn't want to be a statistic, or take a hand full of pills on a daily basis to control conditions that living a healthier lifestyle would accomplish.

As a single mom, I had to ask myself - what messages and habits was I passing along to my child? The only constant in life is change and to quote an old cliché, "If we do not learn from the past, we are doomed to repeat it." My strategies were and are simply. I had to eat to lose and 80% of weight loss battle is nutrition. It was an amazing revelation that in order to lose pounds, you have to eat more. I began incorporating more natural and unprocessed fruits and vegetables into my eating regimen, drinking half my weight in ounces of water, and completed some form of daily exercise. The stronger I became, the more I did and the more I wanted to do and now I am studying to be a personal trainer.

I had setbacks with my health and I injured my back again, but as long as my nutrition was on point, I was able to maintain my weight with minor fluctuations. In a matter of months, I had gone from a size 20 to a size 12. I thought that a size 12 was my ultimate goal but the numbers still reflected that I was overweight and therefore still at risk. With the knowledge and encouragement of Dr. Ian, I have since relaxed my misperception of perfection and an ideal body to what is healthy and right for me. So, I say thanks to the staff and family of the 50 Million Pound Challenge for keeping me accountable through reminder emails, blogs and community events.

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Dr. Ian recently shared Shay Thompson and Jesse Blackstone Challenge success stories on the Steve Harvey Morning Show. Read how The Challenge made a difference in their lives.

Shay Thompson believes in a lifestyle of change
I first learned about Dr. Ian listening to the Steve Harvey morning show on my ride into work.  I thought it was very interesting and caught my attention.  Although this man's vision was worldwide with great care and concern--it struck me as very motivational for my own self how he would reach out to others this way. One thing is for sure, this nation is in a crisis of many things and obesity is right at the top.

I'm now 48 blessed to be here years old and healthier than I've been in years.  I'm an ex-veteran, with serving in the U.S. Army for 10 years and now a Computer Engineer, but was always physically fit. But from the slow but sure erosion of life's struggles and pressure, I gained more than 75 lbs over a period of 25 years.  Unhappy and miserable with it all, I took a stand in "prayer first" and then with myself and asked the Lord for a change in the way I thought. It all starts in the mind so that it can become a "lifestyle of change!"  I had a physical exam and checked with my doctor for advice on becoming a healthier me. It was a blessing that at almost a size 24, I had no heart problems, cholesterol, high blood pressure or diabetes...but it still didn't mean that I wasn't a candidate for all of the above. 

I had the power to change it all and within a realistic amount of time. I started out with working out at Curves for 2 1/2 years at first weighing 262 lbs., over a year now with Weight Watchers and I also swim 2 days a week. Now I've moved onto a bigger challenge in motivating my muscle group to burn more calories, so I'm 227 lbs (and fine too)! My goal is 70lbs total...so far I've lost 35lbs. and 32 inches....so I'm 1/2 way there!!!!!!

My main source of remaining tenacious is prayer! Once I acknowledged that I couldn't do it on my own is when change took place. I pray consistently for discipline, determination and consistency. There are a lot of things that will work, but seek healthy and wise counsel first because everyone's body is different. So you can set realistic goals for yourself and achieve them!

I'm also a very active member at The Potter's House in Dallas, Texas so if I can help anyone there or on Dr. Ian's website, I'm available to support, encourage and help carry the load...after all we're in this thing together!

Blessings to All,
"Shay"

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Jesse Blackstone is focused on helping himself, community
I learned about the challenge last December while doing a photo shoot that was sponsored by State Farm. I later did my own research and discovered that The Challenge has been active over a year and the public still has not grasped Dr. Ian intentions especially minorities. Getting in the public’s consciousness may take a minute but it is well worth it. You shouldn’t put a price on your health, especially when the answer to it and long life is available to you. We parish because of lack of knowledge! My photo shoot went well and you can see it in Ebony, Jet, Essence and Vibe magazines to name a few. Since December 4, 2007 I have lost 35lbs. and have a peace of mind that comes with the total package of being physically, mentally and spiritually grounded!

I have a couple other projects that involve our youth’s education and existence. First, the Pie program which began in New Orleans but was put on hold because of the flood. The website is (pieinteractive.com) and it will inform you on everything you need to know about the program. Second, the Blair Holt Scholarship fund (located in Chicago, Illinois) began after Blair Holt (son of Ronald and Anette Holt), my fraternity brother and adopted nephew, was fatally shot on a public bus. Blair was riding with fellow students while headed to work at his grandmother’s store. He covered a fellow student with his own body and lost his life in the process. Now his father is a force and motivational speaker for parents against gun violence.

So this 50 million pound challenge falls right in line with the work that is before us! Thank you for the challenge!!!

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UPDATE: Check Jennifer ...90 pounds lighter!

 

CONGRATULATIONS JENNIFER!

My husband is a huge Cavs (and Lebron) fan and he told me about it.  I started a healthy diet and exercise plan faithfully a little over a month ago.  I bought a scale, started keeping a food and exercise diary, and I have my husband measure me once a week.  Every morning, I step on the scale to see my progress.  It is exciting to see the pounds just drop off!  To lose the weight, I work out everyday - sometimes just walking my dog for a mile or two, sometimes working out to Fit TV, and sometimes walking 2-3 miles to go to the library or the local video store - it saves gas and it gives me GREAT exercise!  I try to eat at least 4 servings of fruits and vegetables a day and I strive for upwards of 25 grams of fiber a day as well.  In just a little over a month, I have lost 17 pounds and a pant size.  I wish I would have done this a long time ago. 

I don't eat past 7:00 p.m., and if I do, I eat a serving of fruit or a sugar-free chocolate pudding.  My weight loss goal is to lose 100 pounds total - to weigh 140.  I keep a spreadsheet that tracks my inches lost, I keep a food diary into which I write EVERYTHING that I eat as well as my weight that day, and I also write my weight on a calendar everyday so that I can see my progress more clearly.  I was motivated to join the challenge and to start losing weight because I was tired of not being able to shop at the cute, trendy stores because they don't carry a size 18W.  My goal is to be a single digit clothing size, whether it is an 8 or a 2, whichever is my healthy size.  I know I can do it!!!  The picture above is of me and my husband, taken at a friend's wedding about a week before I started eating healthy and exercising.

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Well...on May 16 I decided that I wanted to lose weight because I was 238 lbs and unhappy. I knew that for my 25th birthday, I wanted to get baptized, and I was also starting a new career in radio broadcasting. These things combined let me know that my life was changing in a positive way, and the only negative vibe I was receiving, was in regards to my weight, and health. In addition to that, my father was diagnosed with prostate cancer, and his doctor made it clear that it was time for him to lose weight as well, so that was all the motivation I needed.

I joined the challenge, because of my previous employer. A weight loss campaign was implemented and I wanted to be a success story. I am now down from 238 lbs, to 185 lbs and still dedicated. I have stopped eating red meat and pork. I drink water regularly and I try to exercise at least three times a week. Thank you Dr. Ian for believing in all of us, and I wish everyone luck!!!

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Let me just start off by saying that growing up, I was always the chubby kid, or the cute little plump girl, and in my family healthy eating was not encouraged. Every meal was prepared with as much fat and flavor as possible, and I loved it. Throughout high school and college I tricked myself into believing that I was ok with my weight. At 16 I was diagnosed with arthritis of both knees and my right hip, my doctor encouraged me to loose weight, but I felt that everything was ok, because I had done diets I would loose weight and hear others tell me I was getting "too skinny," and I'd go back to eating.

But that pretend confidence and self love began to fade for me in the earlier part of 2007, when my weight ballooned to almost 300 pounds. My grandmother died in April and as I sat preparing for her funeral, I realized that it was a struggle for me to bend over and put on my shoes. It was embarrassing to have a friend work the shoe onto my foot and then buckle it. I was still stubborn; it took me another few months before I decided to make a change. My true breaking point was when I had to stop half way up the stairs to my apartment to catch my breath, I knew then I needed to change.

I work for a small medical practice and one of our patients who works for a popular weight loss program would talk to me about joining and I ignored her. That was until I knew I needed change. The best day of my life was the day I walked into the meeting.

At the same time I had just read about Dr. Ian's challenge, so I figured I could do both and be extra motivated to loose the weight.

I encourage everyone, drink your water and make sure you log what you are eating; you'd be surprised at how that encourages you in your weight loss journey.

Initially I joined both with the mind set that this would not work, but I slowly saw the pounds coming off and I knew that I could do this. I am not at my goal, but just loosing the first 50 pounds I felt as if I truly was a winner. I still have quite a way to go but each day that I can walk without having to stop and I can put on my shoes without help, I know I made the right decision.

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I have felt like I have been struggling with my weight all my life, but in retrospect, I have been struggling with a negative self image that later became a weight issue.  I have been blessed with the most wonderful fiancé anyone could ask for who has been supportive of me throughout my many ups and downs. One day in summer of 2007, he called me from Pittsburgh and told me that he heard a spot on the radio discussing Dr. Ian's 50 million pound challenge and told me to check out the website.  Since I was busy studying for the bar exam, I briefly checked it out and joined the site.  Then on July 26, 2007, the day after the bar exam I got on the scale and was horrified by what I saw 242 pounds! I realized what a sad way this was to start my new life as an attorney and eventually as Mike's wife.  It was at that point that I decided to buckle down and get my health and body together.  I made a promise to myself that by our wedding day May 10, 2008, I would be at least within ten pounds of my goal weight and I am on my way! 

Along this journey I have joined one of my sorority's teams, and created two others for the undergraduate chapter that I was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. and one for my chapter of which I am now the Vice President, Gamma Chi Omega chapter.  We are using this as an avenue to satisfy both the health targets of our sorority as well as making 2008 a year that we ring in with healthy habits and positive attitudes.  With the success of passing the bar on the first attempt and the joy of marrying the man of my dreams, I want to start this chapter of my life with the right foot forward.  By entering my marriage with a healthy lifestyle, we are setting our future family up to have healthy habits.

I am proud of my progress, blessed to have found this avenue to make myself accountable and excited both for myself and all others who are taking this challenge seriously...because I know for me this is a "Serious Matter."

After gaining A LOT of weight living the sedentary life of a student, and eating my way through bar study, I passed the bar exam and began the practice of law.  During that time I also became engaged to the love of my life and began planning our wedding immediately post bar exam.  I knew that I had to make some HUGE changes in my life in order to start our lives as one on a healthy foot.  I changed my eating habits, added regular exercise and quickly began noticing changes in my energy and clothing.  I found a buddy to walk/run with, started healthy cooking habits with my now-husband, and got my chapter of AKA involved with the creation of a team on this site.  I was able to lose 45 pounds by our wedding date and have continued my journey to good health and healthy living!  I plan to make my goal weight in 2008 and am well on my way!  Thanks Dr. Ian and the 50 million pound challenge!

The Challenge partners with Alpha Kappa Alpha
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. is one of The Challenge’s most active champion organizations. Collectively, AKA has formed about 90 teams with more than 900 team members. These teams have lost more than 5,000 pounds. Last month, more than 50,000 members of participated in a synchronized walk for Emotional, Spiritual and Physical health – called the 1908 Global Centennial Walk. Like the Challenge, the walk helped AKA raise awareness about the importance of fitness.

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Hello my name is Christopher McCray.

I was diagnosed with type II diabetes in 1999. Since then it has been an up and down battle with my weight.

Coupled with the diabetes, I suffer from Hypertension for several years as well.

I believe I hit rock bottom when I topped out at 345 lbs.

I made a new start moving from East Orange, New Jersey to Atlanta, GA in 2005, but we all know what that great Southern cooking can do to you. 

I am 41 years old and on October 5th of 2007 I was engaged to my High School sweetheart and best friend since 9 years of age.

Our marriage in May of 2008 is what motivated my decision to change and get healthier or else I wouldn't be here to enjoy the beginning of rest of my life.

In Novemeber of 2007 I started my weight-loss program by first cutting out sugar and my intake of starches and 5 small meals a day,basically eating like someone who had gastric bypass surgery. I then began a juicing and a cleansing program to get rid of all the old junk inside me.

Currently, I workout at the Gym and home 4-5 times a week.

I love working the eliptical machine for about 60 minutes each day and strength training at least 3 days a week.

I can't stress how much water, water and more water has been a key to my success.

I am now weighing 295 and more active and feeling better than ever.

I know I have a long way to go but this time it feels like I've changed my eating habits and life forever.

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Dr. Ian shared the story behind the letter below this morning on the Steve Harvey Morning Show. Craig's story demonstrates the powerful influence of friendship.

Enjoy, and please allow the words of Craig's story to encourage you as they have us and many others.

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Michael,

I just want to drop you a quick line to thank you, State Farm and The 50 Million Pound Challenge for changing my life forever, as of today I have lost over 198 pounds and I feel great! 

What do you do when you’re going the wrong way?  You TURN AROUND!  As you already know because of a tragedy in 2001 my life/weight started heading in the wrong direction fast.  I ballooned to as high as 415lbs in 2003 to 406lbs in 2006.  I cared about my health because I wanted to live and I had seen better days in my college and military years, but I just couldn’t get it together on my own. 

So what does an overweight person do? 

A) Surgery
(Not an option for me when I considered the risk of not waking up) 

B) Reality show
(Almost an option but I was rejected twice after being flown to California for auditions) 

C) Believe I can, find resources & support and start applying it to my life  
Option C was for me.    

I started turning around on March 1, 2007 at 390lbs and with the support of two great friends I started eating better and working out on a regular basis.  I was motivated to lose 105lbs by August 07, but I wanted more. 

I heard Dr. Ian on the Tom Joyner Show and I knew “The 50 Million Pound Challenge” was just what I needed – 24 hr info, support and motivation when friends aren’t around.  But, I needed one more friends to help me out and that was you! 

Mike, you and State Farm provided “The 50 Million Pound Challenge” kit that has kept me going on the road to a better me.  On August 6, 2007, I joined the Challenge (praisehim3571914) at 285lbs and I started visiting the internet site 3-4 times a week to update my progress, get tips and check out the success stories.

I have been and continue to be encouraged by you, State Farm and “The 50 Million Pound Challenge” to make wise decisions and apply the lessons learned going forward to maintain my transformation.  I hope someone can find inspiration from my story and pictures to” Turn Around” and move their life into a healthy direction.

Michael as a friend and State Farm agent you are awesome, thank you for making the difference in the lives of so many people.

Sincerely,
Craig Nash 

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I heard of The Challenge listening to the Tom Joyner Morning Show and watching Celebrity Fit Club. 

I took a look and signed up because my wife recently gave birth to our daughter Kaitlin and she talks to me all the time about getting in shape so I can be around for my family. What's better motivation than that? 

My father has high blood pressure and has recently turned 60, its great to have him around.  I have a great family and I want to be around many years to leave memories of good times with my child thru my life as my father has planted in my life. 

I am loosing weight for love; for the love of my wife, my parents, my friends and most importantly my daughter. Being a father is the most significant thing I have done thru the grace of GOD and I want to get healthy enough to be here to raise my baby girl up to an upstanding woman someday. And, I want to stay attractive to my beautiful wife. 

I want to stay helpful to my parents as they age and stay active with my two sisters and my friends. 

In Feb. I was 313 pounds, I started a weight lost competition at my job (where I am on the recreation comittee). We have weekly checks on progress and prizes for the most weight lost with an overall winner at the end of a 3 month period, then it begins again.  Its sponsored by the company and its motivational. 

As of April 14th I am down to 280 pounds and I and my goal is the get down to 220 pounds. 

I watch what I eat and cut out the sweets and junk food and grill everything on the gas grill my wife got me for Christmas. I stay active playing with my daughter everday and taking her for walks in her stroller. 

Wish me luck.

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Dr. Ian Smith, Challenge Members, this is truly a blessing, given the opportunity to share our Challenges, accomplishments and goals with our brothers and sisters.

When I received a card in the mail from Dr. Ian informing the city of Detroit about The 50 Million Pound Challenge, & how we could become involved, I knew at that moment that this was something special.

When I got to work I shared the information with my co-workers and friends, I was so excited and looked forward to attending the rally in Hart Plaza. The day of the rally, I wasn't able to attend and was very disappointed, but I did not let that stop me. When I logged on to the web site and learned about The Challenge I knew that this was something that I wanted to be apart of.

I signed up and started a team Sisters Inspiring Sisters. I am proud to say that we are 129 members strong and growing. Every time I log on and find that we have a new member, I get even more excited and determined to reach my goal.

As team leader I knew that I had to lead by example. I would send e-mails out every week to all team members encouraging them with a word,  thought for the day, or just sending them love.

Dr. Ian this Challenge has helped me to stay focused and determined to lose weight and be a healthier and happier person.

I work as a receptionist and most of the day I am sitting, so I made up in my mind that no matter what, I was going to walk on my lunch break for 30 minutes and eat a healthy lunch the other 30 minutes.  This has helped me tremendously, I have lost a total of 23 pounds (praise God). I have not been on any diet plan even though I plan to start your extreme fat smasher diet soon.

I feel great. I am 41 years young and I feel better than I have in a long time. Thank you Dr. Ian for being obedient and helping the world become healthier and more knowledgeable about our bodies and what it takes to live longer healthier and happier lives.

Love & Blessing

Lawana R. Williams

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You can hear Lawana and Dr. Ian Friday morning, May 16, live on the Steve Harvey Morning Show!

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I learned about Dr. Ian from TV, I also work for my Uncle who is State Farm agent. After getting the info from him I figured i'd give it a shot. 

My husband is deployed right now for the next 5 months. After having a baby last June I took this as a time to refocus on myself and try to lose the weight. 

I have joined a gym and in 2 months I have lost 16 pounds and 9 inches.  I still have a long way to go (as u can tell by my picture) and I had to LEARN TO LIKE water but IT REALLY DOES help.  Also I drink green tea 4 times a week.

My strategy is if you go work out and look at how many calories you have burned, then when you come home and want that pizza or hamburger or peice of cake-THINK ABOUT THIS-How hard did you just work to burn all those calories that you are about to put back into your body.  This really helps me to push the food away and really think about what I eat.  Also I DO NOT eat anything exept water after 7pm.

I WISH ALL OF YOU THE BEST OF LUCK and I hope to see "less" of us all in the weeks to come!!

GOD BLESS!

Stacy

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I was 191 pounds before I got pregnant with my first.  I was mentally tramatized because I heard stories of woman who never lose their baby weight and I was already starting out overweight. 

Throughout my pregnancy, friends and family would always tell me, "you're eating for two now" and they would serve me huge portions of food and always try to encourage me to eat more, as they do in our culture.

I went to the throne and said "Lord, I can't do this alone, if I promise to do my part you have to promise to do yours. I don't want to be fat!" So I started to say "no" to my family and friends, which can be a sign of disrespect, especially to the elders in the family when they cook.

I ate moderately throughout my pregnancy gaining only 25 pounds. I breastfed which burns lots of calaries and is best for your baby and:

• I portioned my food accordingly,
• Drank 1% milk,
• Cooked with Extra Virgin Olive Oil,
• Bought lean cuts of meat and baked or sauteed the food I usually enjoyed fried, and
• I walked 15 minutes everyday.

Us Latin and African American people know how to cook and cook with flava so I had to learn to stop those cultural traditions that were killing my family and take charge of my health for me and my future generation. 

I ended up losing so much weight just by making small changes, that I ended up being 20 pounds thinner than I was before I got pregnant in the first place -- 171 pounds!

I just had my second baby in October 2007. I gained 35 pounds this time. So I was back up at just over 200 pounds when he was born.

I'm doing much of the same things I did before, and currenlty I am 188 pounds.

For those of you mommy's out there... it's definately harder to lose the second round of baby fat, but I won't give up. I'm a stay at home mom with two baby's under two and most of the time I don't have time to eat, let alone eat right. When I do eat they're usually screaming in my face which makes me eat faster but I think about Dr. Ian's tips and how I must slow down and enjoy every bite so I do.

And, as for excercise, I use my kids as weights and do strength training! I also run back and forth from task to task trying to get my heart rate up! Soon I will get back out there and start my walking.

Dr. Ian's visit to my church really pumped me up. Just the fact that someone cared enough to give us free stuff like the pedometer and water bottle really inspired me.  I drink water like a mad woman, I carry it wherever I go.

My goal is to be 150 pounds by the time my second turns 1 in October! My dream is for my husband to be able to pick me up and carry me like his bride!

Another tip, I weigh myself every morning and I have (ironically) a state farm calander nailed up in my bathroom where I document my weight daily. That way I see it, and my husband see's it, so he can encourage me and praise me when he see progress or motivate me when he doesn't and it works for me too because when I get discoraged I flip back the calender and get to see how far I've come.

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I learned about The Challenge riding into work one morning and listening to the Steve Harvey Morning Show on the radio. I rushed into work so I could hear the rest.

I was already dieting and exercising at the time, but Dr. Ian really made me want to meet my weight goal even more. I felt like joining this Challenge could do that.

I've lost 33 pounds since I've joined The Challenge. My total weight loss since my life change in February 2007 has been 56 Lbs!

I'm very proud of myself and I know you are as well, Dr. Ian. I've been tracking my weight on the web site. I get weighed almost every Monday at work, and I keep a print out of my weight loss to remind me of all of the hard work and effort I put in. I have included before and after pictures of myself as well.

I just want to thank Dr. Ian  & Steve Harvey because if I would have not been listening to the radio, I would have never really gotten to hear the importance of this 50 Million Pound Challenge.

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I made a "New Years Resolution" in January of 2007 to lose 100lbs.  I didn't really get serious about it until August of that year. 

It took watching sad stories of morbidly obese people on Discovery Health, realizing that I was one of those people, and a conversation with a really great friend of mine who happens to be a personal trainer. 

He encouraged me to read the book "Mastering the Zone" (a lifestyle of a balanced way of eating), and I have been in the ZONE ever since.

I eat three meals and two snacks daily and I drink LOTS of H2O!! In addition, I weight train twice a week with my trainer and I exercise at home 3-4 times a week for at least 45min. 

I did not make my goal for that year but what I accomplished was far greater. I learned how to eat, I'm more mobile than I have ever been, my self confidence is through the roof, and I've lost 82lbs in 5 months!!  NO Pills, No Surgery! 

I saw a commercial about the 50 million pound challenge in August and I joined immediately.  I get so excited every time I see my weight loss tracker.

Thanks Dr. Ian , I am determined to give up MY pounds and NOT the fight!

Click here to submit your story and be featured on our site!

Just like you've heard on The Tom Joyner Morning Show, you can become a Challenge star and influence thousands with your story!

We're looking for Challengers who've either:

• Made the biggest change to their lives, or
• Lost the most weight.

You never know how influential your story can be.

Please submit your story today!

Post your comments here! 

I first heard Dr. Ian speak of The Challenge on the Steve Harvey Morning Show and although I was motivated, I was also my own worst enemy. 

The more I motivated myself to do this, the more I convinced myself that I would fail.  I kept looking at the big picture and the ton of weight I needed to lose.  After going to the doctor and being told that I am now a diabetic, I started to focus on many smaller goals instead of one large goal. 

I soon realized that it was the very little goals that I started to achieve that kept me motivated to continue.  Like being able to step on the scale and see a number instead of the letter E!  LOL (okay, its funny now, but it used to discourage me). 

It was also the comments that started coming from my family, my staff and my church family that finally made me realize that I really was starting to make progress.  Who knew something simple as eating 6 small meals a day instead of skipping breakfast or dinner would truly help you to lose weight?!?!?! 

Just the fact that I have now come down from a size 28 to a size 24 has me convinced that these small milestones over time will truly help me get to that one large goal! 

My schedule is so hectic and chaotic, working/commuting 60-70 plus hours a week, but I'm still able to find time to exercise daily (like walking to the train station instead of taking a cab) and REST at night. 

Thank you, Dr. Ian and staff, for the motivation, emails, updates and tips... One small step today... one large goal tomorrow!

Click here to submit your story and be featured on our site!

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First of all, I have been obese and eventually morbidly obese since grade school. In July 2006, after tipping the scales at a whopping 265 lbs, and only being 5 feet tall, I decided to change my eating habits and add exercise. 

The pounds started to come off easily… then I hit those darn plateaus. That is when I happened to be reading the Jet Magazine and I read about Dr. Ian's Challenge. I couldn't wait to go to my local State Farm agent to get started…

When I started the Challenge, I was at 205 lbs, and I currently weigh 170. I have set a goal to be 140 lbs by July 25, 2008, and 125 lbs by Dec. 31, 2008.

Some of the changes that I have made are:

• I am religiously at the gym 5 days a week--because I enjoy being there not because I have to be,  
• When cooking for my family our foods are either baked or grilled,  
• Veggies are a must when they use to be obsolete in my house, and
• I can't mention how much I love water.   

I have had so much encouragement and praise throughout the process of my healthy lifestyle change. So many people have come up to me at the gym just to tell me that I look great, or keep up the good work and that I have inspired them. Just knowing that I can inspire others to change has been the greatest thing that can happen to me. 

When I got started, I honestly wanted to take the easy way out and get Bariatric surgery. Fortunately for me, my job does not cover any of the expenses. But, this has been a fun and adventurous challenge for me (losing the weight that is), and educational as well. Not only have I learned so much over the past 16 months, but I can teach my kids, friends, and anyone else who would listen.

Click here to submit your story and be featured on our site!

 Post your comments here!

When my husband & I first got together, his weight was 220 & mine was 170. He now weighs 370 & I weight 240.

We got tired of people telling us we need to lose weight. Every time we see a long lost friend the 1st thing that comes out their mouth is, “Man you guys have gotten big, what have u been eating!”

We got feed up with people telling us that so we decided to make a change!

I found out about Dr. Ian on Celebrity Fit Club, & we've been following him every since.

It was very hard at first for us because we were so use to eating fast food, fried foods & all types of sweets. We started our diet on 12/3/2007. My husband has lost 12 pounds & I have lost only 7. But, we'll push forward to reach our goal weight with the help of Dr. Ian & the 50 Million Pound Challenge participants!

Thank you.... Tikia & Michael Montgomery

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SUBMIT YOUR STORY!

Valentine's Day is coming up next week and we want to hear from those of you who are taking on The Challenge as a couple. Send your story and photo, and you just might see yourselves on the homepage!

Please don't underestimate how influential your story can be... you never know who you can inspire!

 POST YOUR COMMENTS HERE!

Hello Dr. Ian and fellow participants,

I am so glad to share my story. I've always stuggled with my weight, but I didn't realize how much of a problem it was until this year.

It was my company's 100th Anniversary, and the General Manager decided to complile a DVD of all employees. I thought to myself "I can't wait to see it." Once I finally watched the DVD, I couldn't believe that was what everyone saw when they looked at me (187 lbs). I decided then and there that I needed to do something about it. Then came the 50 Million Pound Challenge.

I thank you so much, I am now 163 lbs, losing more and loving it. Drinking water has been a key part of my success.

Over the last past six years, I had given up on myself and losing weight.  The turning point came when my doctor informed me that I had gained an additional 15 pounds over the summer of 2007 and had now reached 234 pounds. 

I remember the drive home and how I cried at how I had allowed myself to get so out of control.  I couldn't fathom that I had put on exactly 100 pounds at 5'7" since graduating from college. Enough was enough! 

So I set forth in buying Dr. Ian Smith's book, Fat Smash Diet to get some helpful tips with what I needed to do nutritionally. Also, I started exercising and became more active.  There was no excuse to be so lazy at such a young age; therefore, I dusted off the kicks and got to walking everyday. 

My most prized memory in my journey came when I stepped on the scale and it read 199 pounds.  So far I have lost a total of 53 pounds and I have reached 181 pounds.  Now, I have so much more confidence and reassurance that I will continue to follow this healthy lifestyle. 

Thank you so much Dr. Ian Smith for saving me from obesity, high blood pressure, and sadness.

-----

Upcoming Event in Florida...

The Tampa Tribune contacted Femi to capture more of her story and announce the upcoming Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. Dr. Ian will present at the festival on Saturday, January 19 and join the crowd in 2k walk. There will also be free health screenings available.

Femi demonstrates how one story can motivate an entire community. Join her and share your story today!

POST YOUR COMMENTS HERE!  

Growing up I was always very active. I played sports year round and had the hardest coach to keep me motivated, my dad. I never had any weight problems until I got sick. I had three cancer scares that put at least 50 pounds on me each time. I tried dieting and exercise but I would stop because I didn't see the results fast enough.

About a year ago at the age of 32, I ended up in the hospital having what I thought was a heart attack. Come to find out I had a weak heart due to stress. When my son asked me if I was going to die, it made me change my life.

I started working out an hour a day and started the Atkins diet. To keep me encouraged my 10-year-old son did it with me. I wouldn't have been able to do it with out him. I tell everyone: make sure you have a buddy and losing weight is much easier. My goal was to lose 100 pounds. I reached my goal in 10 months and my son lost 20 pounds. Unfortunately, I didn't find out about The Challenge until April and I started in December of 2006.

I wanted to be a part of this Challenge, to encourage others and to keep me motivated. This Challenge always reminds me that I am not doing this alone.

Karen Smith Jacksonville, FL

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I have always had a special relationship with food.  It was always the most exciting part of every experience.  Food had always been a struggle for me, even as a child.  But when I became an adult, all of a sudden weight was also an issue.

I spent most of my adult life pretending that it didn't matter that my weight was spiraling out of control.  I found ways to justify why I was and why I needed to be the size I was.  I kept buying clothes because clothes kept getting smaller.  I threw out my scale because it wasn't telling me anything I wanted to know.  I avoided cameras because they weren't showing me anything I wanted to see.  And I ate out of defiance to show everyone that I didn't care what they thought or what they said.

But then the chest pains started.  And the frequent nosebleeds and I knew that if I didn't do something, I was going to die.  My New Year's resolution for 2007 was to be committed to health and on January 1, 2007, I took my first step toward my goal.

I increase my vegetable intake, cut fried foods out of my life altogether, cut down on carbohydrates and eliminated sodas and juices from my life.  The results were astronomical, but I feared that at any point, I could relapse.  That's when I heard about the 50 Million lb Challenge.  All of a sudden, I wasn't alone in this struggle.  Being apart of this community, I received a lot of healthy tips and was able to make adjustments so that I kept up my momentum until I reached my goal.  Since January 1, I have lost 97 lbs and surpassed my very ambitious goal and everyone's expectations.

My family, friends and colleagues are in disbelief.  People see me and don't recognize me.  This is the best thing I've ever done for myself and I am grateful to Dr. Ian Smith and the 50 Million Lb Challenge for the roll you played in my success.  Having achieved this, now I know that I can achieve other goals that I have set in my life.

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I joined the 50 Million Pound Challenge on July 9, the same day that my sister, my brother-in-law, and I started Dr. Ian Smith's Fat Smash Diet.  We all wanted to lose weight and had my upcoming wedding as an even greater motivation.  We've had some ups and downs along the way (thank God the program is so forgiving), but we've stuck with it.  When I originally tried on a wedding dress back in May, I was barely able to squeeze into a size 12.  I went back for my dress fitting on September 16 and easily fit into a size 8 dress.  My results have been phenomenal and I haven't even completed the full 90-day program.  I started at 160 lbs and am now down to 138 lbs.  I've lost over 20 lbs and several inches, dropping two clothes sizes.  My sister has also had amazing results.  When she ordered her dress at the beginning of July, she couldn't finish zipping it.  Now, she can put the dress on without unzipping it.  I am especially excited for her because she has struggled with her weight for her whole life. 

I thank God for Dr. Ian Smith and the message he is spreading in our community through the 50 Million Pound Challenge.  Never before have we seen anything like this, and my prayer is that it will continue to grow and that as a community we will not only meet this Challenge, but surpass it!  My life and the lives of people around me have drastically changed.  I hope that all the other Challengers will decide, like I have, to never go back to the way you were.  Let's make this a lifetime commitment to be the healthiest people we can be!

Christie Thomas, Durham, NC

The Challenge is about each one you being part of a community of change that is striving to live longer, healthier lives. The comments following each of the Featured Challengers' stories are proof that each of us spread hope and help motivate others in the fight when we share what we are experiencing.

Did you know that your stories are also grabbing the attention of the media? Dr. Ian and the Challenge team receive multiple requests from local and national media outlets who want to know about you. Are you willing to share?

Whether it's on our blog or in a magazine, we want your stories! Click this link and follow the instructions on the form to submit your story.

Dr. Ian's words have proven true... our influence IS greater than what we imagine. Please take a moment to share your story and commitment to The Challenge... you never know who's life you can help change, or even save.

Thank you for your commitment.

POST YOUR COMMENTS HERE!

My name is Nashanna Madison.  I am a 29-year-old mother and wife.  In High School and all through college I was always athletic and competitive participating in sports like basketball and volleyball.  I must honestly admit back then my popularity and true measurements (36-24-36). 

When I had my first child 7 years ago, the weight piled on and stayed on.  After having my daughter, Kristian, my weight skyrocketed from 145 lbs to a whopping 250 lbs and in clothes, I was wearing a size 24.  I was so ashamed to be shopping in the plus-size area and would try on smaller sizes hoping they would fit.  When I looked in the mirror, it felt like I was trapped in someone else’s body.  Depression set in and I gave up on getting back to my normal weight.  My confidence, self-esteem and happiness went out the window.  I developed high blood pressure and severe swelling of my feet due to almost being 300lbs.  Being on blood pressure medicine at such a young age, made me realize that I did not want to live the rest of my life like taking pills to control what I needed to control myself. 

Dr. Ian Smith came out with his book, Fat Smash Diet; I purchased it in a hurry with hopes of changing my life and getting back to my normal self.  In the first phase, I lost 8lbs.  It was so hard to let go of meats, but after a few days, I got used to it.  Weight loss is really a mental thing and your mind really has to be made up if you want good results.  I walk 2 miles a day 5 days a week and work out with a personal trainer on the weekends.  I would say my younger sister Ricketa & cousin Patricia encourage me every day letting me know that this weight loss battle can be conquered.  My sister has been overweight since childhood and used to be almost 500 lbs.  We stepped up to the plate together and joined the 50 Million Pound Challenge.  Dr. Ian Smith has changed our lives, gave us hope and is teaching us a healthy way to take care of our bodies and it’s FREE. 

My sister and I recently met Dr. Ian Smith in Birmingham, AL.  He is a wonderful man and has truly been a blessing to me.  He really listened to us, made us feel good about what we were doing, and offered advice that will guide us for the rest of our lives.  Since joining the 50 Million Pound Challenge, I have lost 28 pounds.  I recently purchased the EXTREME Fast Smash Diet and the next time you all see me, BRICK HOUSE will be playing in the background.  Thanks Dr. Ian Smith and State Farm for creating awareness among the African American community and teaching us how to eat and live healthy lifestyles.

Nashanna Madison, Birmingham, AL 

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My name is Ricketa Love and I want the world to know how the 50 Million Pound Challenge and Dr. Ian Smith’s Fat Smash Diet books have changed my life. 

In the beginning of my weight loss journey I was so overweight that I couldn’t bend down and tie my shoes.  I am 28 years old and hearing a doctor say that I could die at a young age due to obesity made me turn my life around. 

One day I was watching Celebrity Fit Club. I saw a lot of myself in Bone Crusher because he took on every challenge and won. Although I’m overweight, I am always ready for a challenge.  In high school I ran track, played softball, volleyball and even danced Hip Hop.  My true CHALLENGE in reality has been weight loss. 

When Dr. Ian released Fat Smash Diet, I purchased it online.  After the first nine days of detox (Phase I), I lost 10 pounds in one week.  For the first time I found something that worked.  Daily, I get up every morning at 5:00AM & walk 2 1/2 miles around my neighborhood with friends.  On weekends, I ride my bike, work out with a personal trainer and exercise in my swimming pool.  My weight loss goal is to get down to my ideal weight between 150-175lbs.  To date, I have lost a total of 86 pounds in 11 months. When I first started I was weighing close to five hundred pounds.  I was so uncomfortable in my own body.  It was hard for me to do some of the basic things in life like taking a bath and even putting my clothes on without being tired or out of breath. Losing weight has made a dramatic change in the things I able to do now. 

My cousin, Patricia (skinniest family member (LOL) told me that Dr. Ian Smith would be launching the 50 Million Pound Challenge on Miles College Campus.  She made me and my sister come to her house and register. My total weight loss is 86lbs and since registering for the 50 Million Pound Challenge I have lost 12 lbs.  I met Dr. Ian Smith and it is an experience I will never forget.  He looks you in your eyes and he listens to your story.  He brought tears to my eyes and made me feel like somebody.  Dr. Ian Smith’s book has taught me that if you just keep your body moving and eat healthy along with drinking plenty of water, you can lose the weight and feel good about yourself.  It is amazing what your body will do when you take care of it. Take care of your body and your body will take care of you.

When I get down to my goal weight I will continue to live a healthy lifestyle.  Thanks Dr. Ian Smith and State Farm for CHALLENGING ME to live a healthier life style. 

Ricketa Love, Birmingham, AL

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"I am a 26-year military service officer stationed at Fort Belvoir, Virginia with the Defense Logistics Agency. I actually began this program on April 16, 2007 after seeing the results for two friends in Texas who lost 50 and 55 pounds respectively.

"I bought the "Fat Smash Diet" book and started the program at the beginning with the Detox. Since that time, I have lost 27 lbs. I am currently at a plateau of 206-208 lbs. My energy level has gone up and the fitness center where I work out has gotten the bug due to my success.

"I am a 49-year old male, I run/jog 4.5 to 8.0 miles three times a week and I would definitely recommend this program to anyone who is serious about losing weight and developing a healthy lifestyle for living.  I am approaching my goal of 195lbs. and look forward to reporting my progress and sending a picture of my success."

SAMMIE L. DAVIS, JR.
LTC, QM
Defense Logistics Agency (DLA)
Army Reserve Element (ARE)
Operations Officer/Deputy Commander
Fort Belvoir, VA 

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“I first heard about The Challenge on the Steve Harvey Morning Show. My mother and I drive more than 60 miles each day to work. We are used to being among the few people sitting in traffic who are smiling because of what we’re listening to on the radio. But on the morning of March 29th 2007 we weren’t smiling when Dr. Ian came on and began talking about The Challenge.  Here was someone not only explaining the importance of being healthy and losing weight, but also letting us know how he was going to help us get there— for free.     
 
“We talked about how great it was and when I got to work I went online and signed up.  A few weeks went by and I went back to my old habits. I spoke to my mother again and reminded her of the day she called me upset because the clothes she wore last summer didn’t fit.  We talked and both agreed we didn’t want to be fat anymore. Okay, that's fine and good, but what were we going to do about it?
 
That’s when we came up with the idea of paying people to lose weight. We started making calls, a lot of calls, to friends, family and co-workers.  We came up with a dozen people willing to push themselves and the ones they love to lose weight and we’d pay each other for success.  We decided to each pitch in $5 each week, or $20 a month. The person who lost the most weight and checked in at least 4 times a week with a breakdown of what they ate and how much they exercised would have the chance to win $240 at the end of each month!  “I don't even have to tell you that once it became a contest everyone’s weight went down.  Now we e-mail each other daily just to keep each other on track. I even kicked it up a notch by walking with my friend 3 miles
on the beach 5 days a week!   I also started listening to a cardio salsa DVD 5 times a week that helps you really work up a sweat.  Even though it’s a competition, it's fun and really helpful to know that we’re looking out for each other.  Almost everyone who is doing The Challenge with us is going to Disney World in July of 2008. And the majority of us being on our way to reaching our weight-loss goals by then made this even more exciting! 
 
 “I’ve lost 13 pounds so far and have about 70 to go.  And for the first time I know I can get there. I’m one of those people who can't lose weight without support.  But I found out I’m not the only one trying to achieve the same thing.  Why not do it together.  Long story short, I just wanted to say thanks because not only am I losing
weight but I am gaining friends! 
 
KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK EVERYONE!!