Transcript
What led you to the Challenge?
For years, my weight has been up and downlike a yo-yo. I've gained and lost over 1,000pounds in the last eight years. I’d work hard tolose the weight then gain it all back. I’m 33 andwas back up to 450 pounds. I was eatinganything I wanted: a lot of Chinese food andfood from the local taco truck, and I wasdrinking a lot of Jack Daniel’s. I have healthproblems: asthma, neck pain, and arthritis. Mydoctor put the fear of God in me saying,"You've got to lose weight.” Plus, I needed toget my finances under control. I had been over-generous with past boyfriends and went intodebt. I also have student loans. One of my co-workers, Marty Perry, encouraged me to takethe Challenge.
What changes have you made?
I’m limiting carbohydrates and calories andhave learned a lot of different dishes online,like a delicious pilaf with lamb simmered withbell pepper, onions, tomatoes, and cabbage.Eating riced cauliflower instead of rice was agame-changer! I love cooking Cajun dishes onthe grill with shrimp and corn on the cob. Forsnacks, I have celery and peanut butter or fruit.I still have Chinese food occasionally becauseI'm a firm believer that if you never allowyourself food you love, you’ll probably go rightback to your old ways. So far I’ve lost 30pounds and I’m very motivated. I’m taking mydogs to the park — I love being outdoors innature and I go fishing for relaxation, but I letthe fish go! I’ve become closer to my family,traveling to spend time with my sister — who isgay like me — and her wife, as well as mymother.
What do you think has helped you staymotivated?
My buddy, Russell, and I encourage each otherand I am inspiring others, like my sister who’salso trying to lose weight. My fiancé, Gustavo,who lives in Brazil right now, is very supportiveof me losing weight and getting healthy. We’dlike to adopt kids and I want to make sure I cantake care of my family, save up for our weddingnext year, and buy a house. How has your spending changed?
I set a budget, limiting how much I spend oneating out and drinking. I’m saving $1,000 amonth and one of my big wins was paying offmy credit cards. How are you feeling now?
I have a long way to go, but I’m more positiveand optimistic, and I’m excited about thefuture. I’m less stressed and more focused ongratitude for my loved ones. I’m also buildingwealth by improving my credit and movingtoward financial freedom. My advice to anyonestarting the Challenge: Keep an open mind,make a plan, and execute your goals one stepat a time.
Devin Hummel
Distribution Center #7078Elwood, IL
$5,000 WINNER
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