What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

I. Yolanda Melendez — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 15:40:07 GMT

I'm a young 56 year-old woman who used to enjoy looking at herself in the mirror. Today, going from a size 8 to 16 a mirror is of no use to me. My motivation level has decreased to nearly zero, I refuse to allow myself to get to Zero and hang on to my hope by a thing string. Watching Katie today is my incentive to get up and run with what's best for me...EXCERCISE and changing my eating habits, which I've lost somewhere in the process. Katie..thank you!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Angie, Keller, Tx — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 16:21:04 GMT

I am in amazed at the change. This is certainly a wonderful source of motivation for all of us! Way to go!!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Donna Williston Easthampton,Ma. — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 16:30:37 GMT

I am so very happy for Katie, as I have been fighting beanning over weight for a long time. I'm 60 years old and some days feel like 80. I hope what she did I maybe can follow in her footsteps. She looks just beautiful!!!!! Thank you and best wishes.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

RHONDA TUCKER PADUCAH KENTUCKY — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 16:53:06 GMT

KATIE, YOU BROUGHT TEARS TO MY EYES. I AM 48 YEARS OLD AND HAVE BEEN 50 LBS OVERWEIGHT FOR 5 YEARS. I USED TO BE A WEIGHT TRAINER AND COUNSELOR. NOW, IM ASHAMED OF MYSELF AND WILL AVOID MIRRORS AT ALL COST. I HAVE TRIED TO MOTIVATE MYSELF FOR SO LONG AND NOT A DAY GOES BY THAT LOSING IS NOT ON MY MIND. HAVING A FRIEND TO TALK TO WOULD BE NICE....

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Anna Pruitt, Reidsville North Carolina — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 17:19:29 GMT

Hi! My name is Anna.I saw Katie's story today and I wanted to share my story. I am a 51 year old(almost 52) elementary school teacher from Reidsville, NC. I have struggled with my weight for many years. I had many excuses for not losing weight, including my thyroid problem. I also just found excuses not to eat right(this little bit of food won't matter) and excercise,(I just don't have time). January 11, 2007 was a turning point in my life. I attended a Weight Watchers Meeting and have never looked back!! I weighed 267 pounds and now weigh 180 pounds and still losing! I went from a size 24 to a size 12!! I excersie at least five days a week. I do different things so as not to get bored. I dance or walk/jog(never thought I would run anywhere).
My personal goal is 100 pounds and I will be there soon! I, like Katie am so excited when I can go into a store to shop and go to the misses department and not the plus department. I was on the verge of having to take high blood pressure medicine, my blood pressure was running 145 over 90 and now is a healthy 110 over 70. So for all who think you cannot lose weight, YES YOU CAN!!! I am living proof!
To Katie, way to go and may your life be always healthy!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Mitzi Borum , Metropolis, Illinois — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 17:31:47 GMT

As I stiffly limped home from having coffee at my mom's house this morning, I was thinking how pitifully out of shape I am at 48 yrs. old. My brain feels 28 but my body feels 88. I came in the house and immediately turned on the TV. There was Katie telling her story. It was like God was saying,''I'm letting you see this NOW and I'm sending you a message to get off your stiff rear end and DO SOMETHING!'' Well, I'm going to do something. I'm joining my local gym while I can still get around. I'm not on any medications yet and I don't want to be. I know I'll feel better. Wish me luck!!
Mitzi Borum

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Marilyn Task, Rockville Rd 30852 — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 18:16:53 GMT

A family member is over 300 pounds with 2 young children, working during the day and struggling with money. I watched your show this morning and was amazed! You suggested that you would take names of people who cannot lose weight.. The family is worried about future health problems. She is not motivated. Can anyone help her?

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Mary Ann Watson Yuma Az — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 18:23:05 GMT

this is the inspiration I needed!!! Uswually its all about a product thats expensive but today after seeing Katie I know if I just keep plugging away it will happen to anyone, motivation, motivation, etc...

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Mary — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:32:44 GMT

Katie,

You said at the end of your segment on the Today Show this morning that if your story helped one person you will have succeeded. I want you to know that your story helped me. I have been talking about getting serious and losing weight most of my life. I've lost some but always gained it all back, plus some! This time it is going to be different. I am setting a goal for myself to be a Joy Fit Club success story by Christmas 2008! I am going remove 135 lbs from my 5'2" frame - starting NOW! I am going to join Weight Watchers and get back to the gym!

This past weekend I went to a friends wedding and we posed with the bride for a photo, I asked to see the digital photo at dinner and seeing it made me really sad. Even though everyone tells me I look beautiful, I've never felt beautiful, and I certainly don't look healthy! I've been heavy since I was in third grade. I've never had a healthy relationship with food. I'm changing that, I'm going to unlearn what I need to in order to stop leaning on food to make me feel better.

Thank you and congratulations on your own success!!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Beatriz Torres-Orriola Bronx,NY. — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:37:46 GMT

Katie you look amazing. I too have been stuggling with the extra 70 lbs I've gained since I got married. I have tried everything out there for weight loss and nothing has changed. But I saw you this morning and was truly inspired. Thank you!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

myrtle kentwood michigan — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 19:43:03 GMT

I AM VERY HAPPY FOR katie,IAM GOING TO START TODAY CUTTING BACK ON MYPORTON OF FOOD.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Roni Killion — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 22:41:45 GMT

Katie's story is awesome!!! So are the others in the JOY FIT CLUB. I am very interested in healthy eating ,at the present time I have gone from 195# to 170# in the past year, I still have a long way to go.My goal is 137#.These stories have motivated me greatly. My main concern's are my husband and 3 daughters. Also a nephew, who is quite over weight.Thanks again for the motivation to help others to get healthy ,too!!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Janet Ione, Oregon — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 23:01:56 GMT

I am 44 yrs old and have had weight issues forever. Although I dont need to lose alot of weight I can gain weight easily and have terrible eating habits lately. Probably because I am in the middle of a divorce and very stressed. I would like to lose about 15 lbs but cant seem to get motivated. A friend said he would do whatever I wanted as far as meals, he would do it with me. After seeing Katies story I feel if she can do it so can I.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Heather, SLC, UT — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 23:43:50 GMT

You are such a motivation. I feel that I can accomplish my weight loss goals. If you can do it so can I! Thank you so much for sharing you experience and for losing the weight! You are amazing!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Sally Davis, Sharpsville, Pa. — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:46:18 GMT

I am 66 yrs. old and on 3/1/07, right before my 66th birthday, I had an above the knee amputation. After a bad fall in 7/4//03, and many surgeries later,I developed a bad Stap infection. At that time I weighted 202 lbs. My husband had to do the cooking and put me on a healthly "diet" of no ice cream every night and had me eat start to eat the right type of food . Today I weigh a 172 lbs., am learning to walk and still losing weight. Thank you for all the great stories of people losing weight. It helps alot.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Sally Davis, Sharpsville, Pa. — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:46:46 GMT

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Sally Davis, Sharpsville, Pa. — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 11:48:34 GMT

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Tina Morris, fellow Joy Fit Club member, Danville, KY — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:53:03 GMT

Katie, you look beautiful! Your story is amazing and I know it will help so many people. I understood your emotions when you said you were so happy to have lost the weight, but were sad at the same time. I am also sad sometimes because I realize how much time I wasted being overweight. Looking back, the food wasn't worth it! For anyone out there struggling...you can do this! Find a buddy to do this with you or join an organization like Weight Watchers if you have to. Whatever you do, start now and don't waste any more time like I did. You are not alone...

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Mary Moye, Avoca, Iowa — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 14:58:17 GMT

After seeing Shelley's story while on the internet the other day, I felt so motivated. However, I have a few stumbling blocks to motivation. Hopefully someone has some advice that will help me.

I have been married for 15 years to a man who loves to cook. Every night when I get home he has cooked a meal that sounds good to him. It usually is enough for 4 people. He hates it when I tell him I am not hungry or that its way too much food. I am guilted into eating it. I have tried to eat a small portion of the meal, but am guilted into not cleaning my plate. (Deja Vu of my childhood!) I also have to eat any leftovers, as well. He is very offended when I try to talk to him about this. I have suggested trying healthier recipes to no avail. I have tried the health approach. He is on medication for high blood pressure and cholesterol, and he travels for his job and eats a lot of fast food. He doesn't take me seriously. Is there another strategy I can apply to help me, help him, and help us both.

I really want to lose between 75 to 100 pounds and the support from the most important person is just not there.

Thanks for any advice.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Maimunah Wilson, san diego, CA — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:41:03 GMT

your story makes me motivate about losing weight,
I am 60lbs overweight,I tried before to lose weight
but it is difficult, due to health problem my husband
insist that I follow your footstep.thank you

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Maimunah Wilson, san diego, CA — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 16:41:23 GMT

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Dennis Chong, Milford, Ma — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 18:36:43 GMT

Katie... (((CONGRATULATIONS))) You are a real Inspiration to a lot of us... I am also a Weight Watchers member and have lost a total of 70 Lbs over the last 6 months and keep loosing it... I am very happy to see other success stories out there... Excercise is a HUGE part of this journey and I really love how you spare your time for it... I would like to share my pics with you, so please go to mi site... www.TradeComnet.ws

Once again, CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Ruth Anne Harris, Fairfield, CA — Tue, 13 Nov 2007 22:52:41 GMT

On October 28th I celebrated my 65th birthday with pasta and a rich chocolate cake from my sons. One week later, I joined Curves where I am giving myself a jump start to exercizing and establishing a more disciplined routine. I'm dieting but still splurging and have decided to stop that too. At 240 pounds, I have diabetes that has been well controlled but is now spiking too much from those splurges. I have a walking routine, a home exercise routine and am ready to reduce. I have a goal to be at 135 on my next birthday. I hope to come to New York after I make my goal. Thank you for your attention to the health of your audience.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Erin, Broken Arrow, OK — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 01:25:22 GMT

Katie--THANK YOU!!! You've given me the motivation to continue my weight loss journey. I too am a Weight Watcher's member, I joined in April this year after having a heart attack at the age of 41. I weighed 236, I'm 5'2" tall. I've made great strides in improving my health and have lost close to 45 lbs so far. The weight loss has slowed and now with it getting dark earlier and working full time, my exercise has slowed too. I was starting to feel out of control until I saw your video online today.

You've motivated me to not give up, to keep pushing myself and to continue to make better choices, I may have rough spots, but the goal has to be to keep going, keep starting over and keep pressing for better health, cause I am worth it and I am capable, I just have to keep putting my mind to it! You look AWESOME!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Denise Tennison, Atlanta, Georgia — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 11:54:57 GMT

I was amazed at the success. I had Gastric bypass in 2002, i was a size 8 then and now I am a 14. Still much small than I was to begin with. But I am scared to death to be fat again. I just work all of the time and cannot create new healthy habits. I want to be healthy but there is no magic trick and there is no more time in the day. Help, I am so depressed about this.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Chris Miller, Gold Bar, WA — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 17:35:09 GMT

I am a lucky person because I know Katie personally. I'm 50 years old, and I've been overweight all my life. I'd loose weight and gain it all back plus more. I met Katie at the gym when she was 234 and I watched her steadily drop the pounds. I started to drop some weight but, again, gained it back because of lack of self control. But now, seeing and knowing Katie, she has become such an inspiration to me. I'm trying to loose the weight by smaller portions, better food and of course exercise. Not only did I find a workout buddy, I found a BEST FRIEND! Thank you Katie, for being there for me!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Tonja Adair, Grand Prairie, Texas — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 19:27:39 GMT

Talk about self motivation...Sharing your testitmony was a blessing for me...Thank you for inspiring me to do a better job of taking care of the vessel God entrusted me with...I don't know you personally, but know that you are an inspiration...

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

LeeAnn, Frederick Md — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 20:25:07 GMT

You go girl!!

You are truly an inspiration to all of us!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Christina, Mount Airy, NC — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 21:05:12 GMT

Wow. That is so inspiring. Guess its time to stop
procrastinating. I have been trying for years to
lose weight. I'm about 30 lbs over what I should
be and just needed a little push in the right direction
thank you Katie. And you look great.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Sam, Honolulu, HI — Wed, 14 Nov 2007 21:39:22 GMT

THATS MY MOM!!!!! hehehe and i'm so proud of her! i know she worked SO incredibly hard to achieve this amazing feat and iim so glad she's so much happier now!

LOVE YOU MOM!!!

-sam :)

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Donna, Windsor, Ontario, Canada — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 02:03:42 GMT

Katie you have shown that we do have control over our weight. God made our bodies to be like an engine. If you feed it properly and use those muscles, you get maximum performance. Feed it garbage and be lazy, you get disease. You show that we do have control over how much we weigh. Way to go girl!!!!!!

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

IDA ESTELLE, HOUSTON, TEXAS — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 03:05:27 GMT

THANK YOU KATIE FOR THE COURAGE OF TELLING YOUR STORY AND LOVING YOURSELF--THIS IS A MOST IMPORTANT FACTOR CONCERNING WEIGHT LOSS. TO ALL OF YOU, INCLUDING KATIE, KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK AND ALWAYS LOVE YOURSELVES ENOUGH TO MAKE A DECISION TO CHANGE AS YOU BELIEVE YOUR LIFE NEEDS TO CHANGE.

AGAIN, MUCH LOVE TO YOU ALL.

IDA ESTELLE.

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Dee Close, Bartlett, TN — Thu, 15 Nov 2007 18:50:14 GMT

Katie...Your success with losing weight "the old fashion way"--diet and exercise has certainly been inspirational but has caused me a bit of uncertainty....I have done all of the preliminary tests and work-ups for Lap-band surgery. Although it's relatively safe, it's still surgery with all of the associated risks. And it's expensive, $18,500 which ins. will not pay. BUT, now I'm doubting my decision....could I be successful at losing weight without Lap-band surgery?? I'm supposed to meet with the surgeon the week after Thanksgiving to schedule surgery. I'm thinking I will delay surgery for 2 or 3 months to see what kind of progress I can make on my own. I'll get a personal trainer...go to the gym and I'm already eating more healthy foods. Have lost 26 lbs but need to lose 125 more lbs. So, your story may have prevented me from having Lapband surgery. I will get the weight off on my own without it. Thank you for sharing your story with us.
Dee Close

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

Robert Carr 3015 N. Willis Blvd.#3 Portland, Ore 97217 — Sun, 18 Nov 2007 07:09:05 GMT

Much thanks Katie for your article. I guess all ethnic groups of people like to eat. However,it seems hispanic and african-americans eat foods that are high in fat content and go to all the wrong places. As an over-weight, middle-age (fat, bald guy) man, you have inspired me to get up off my fat.........and do something about. Pray for me, as I pray for you continue success. Big Rob

What makes us change a lifetime of habits? Shock!

D .Williamson,Fresno,Ca. — Mon, 03 Dec 2007 18:48:08 GMT

Thank you for sharing your success and struggle. it gives me hope for my success this coming year.I am 52 and I weigh in at 282 and want to get back to 128.anyone have good advice to share withme on how to do this? I would appreciate it very much.