The Journey -- I have been on a journey my whole life trying to figure out what it is and what it takes to be fit and healthy. I have been battling the bulge since early childhood. Food and desserts (sweets) were always rewards when I was growing up and I find it is still used today as a reward. I find that most of my friends will reward themselves with sweets and I, too, used to do the same.

I've been on every diet from Dr. Atkins, Weight Watches, Slim Fast, Jenny Craig and all of the over the counter medications that exist for weight loss.

By the time I was forty-five I was on blood pressure medication for hypertension, and was battling high cholesterol too. I had all of the following health problems: obesity, hypertension, high cholesterol, fibromyalgia, depression, menopause, Crohn's disease (which is a disease of the small and large intestines), and hypothyroidism. I hope you notice that I said, I had. Very much past tense for most of the above mentioned health problems.

In 2003 I hit the 3-Fs (fat, female and fifty) and couldn't stand to look into a mirror, because all I saw was a whale at 270 pounds and I was so ashamed. I began a scripture weight loss program called First Place in September 2003 along with joining 24 Hour Fitness and took off 85 pounds. But then I hit a brick wall and was just staying the same weight. I guess I became content with weighing 185 pounds, but I still wasn't healthy or fit because I still had all of my health issues and took a lot of prescription medications.

Then fast forward to January 2007, 24 Hour Fitness started the "Biggest Loser" program. I decided to make a change in 2007 and to really follow through on my continued New Year's resolution of weight loss, fit and healthy. I was given a great, fantastic, well-informed trained trainer. He figured out my personality and what makes me tick and at the same time always kept safety at the forefront. When I began with my trainer I weighed in at 216 pounds and 40% body fat.

Other changes that my trainer introduced me to were the Apex supplements and my number one "Best Friend", bodybugg . I managed to go on vacation and all of the holidays without gaining weight, but instead lost weight. I now weigh 144 pounds and have gone from a size 18-20 to an 8.

I feel great, and only take one prescription medications today. All of the other medications have been replaced with Apex. My Crohn's disease has not put me in the hospital in nearly a year. My hard work, my trainer's hard work, Apex, bodybugg and God's faithfulness unto me is a great combination. Just a note: I have to say how very thankful I am to my trainer and the fact that he didn't give up on me and that he continues to do this, because he didn't really think I was serious about the training or the long term commitment. Guess what, SURPRISE! I am still serious about the whole program.

I think I just may be addicted to something really good for me. I'm now 3-Fs ( Fit, Female and 54). Hello and watch out New Year, a more fit determined me.

Starting weight:  216 lbs.