Taking It Off: Make Contact!





	For information about the show or to contact the producers send an e-mail to info@takingitoffonline.com. If you have a question or would like to share your feelings with one of our 8 participants please send an e-mail to chat@takingitoffonline.com. Selected comments and questions will be displayed on this page along with reponses from the participant(s). Please indicate to whom your e-mail is directed and tell us if you do not want your name included. E-mails may be edited for content or length. All messages become the property of Takeoff Productions Inc. Messages will be screened before being forwarded to the participants. Please Note: The opinions expressed in the following letters are solely those of the respective authors. The content does not necessarily reflect the views of the producers. Dear Shannon, I try and watch you on TIO but I have a night job. Your are me and I am you; same weight (now you've passed me) same attitude and same size. I would like to know how hard/easy Dieting for Dummies is? I have bought and tried Weight Watchers, Body for Life and Atkins did great on Atkins but too hard and gained it back. Body for life cost $40.00 for the book and I now feel sick about buying it. I want a real womans opinion and how this diet makes you feel and any tips about working in an office where the 100 or so other (mostly over weight) woman are sitting at desks for 8 hours eating candy, junk etc and are always ordering take out, planning potluck dessert night and potluck dinner night? Hope to hear from you. Sincerely, Leona Schmidt RESPONSE I have debated over these questions forever as you might well imagine from the horrible tardiness of my reply. Do not go out and spend anything on the book. I debated on sending it to you and I will if you wish but the book's name said it all. It is all common sence. Sad but true. My trainer Greg told me white flour turns immediately into sugar and is like poison to your thighs. There is something to rethink and cutting out white bread and pasta (alternatives of course) will make a huge difference. Pot luck can consist of anything you wish to bring. You know the ingredients in your choices. Drink lots of water before the event and remember this is a social event not a licence to indulge. Have a little bit of everything that interests you . Denial will only come back to haunt you. Avoid any desserts and go for a special coffee instead. When the ladies bring in something sweet for you all to try, have a health smart or sweet power bar if the urge overtakes you. You will never feel guilty and your thighs will thank you. It will always be a stuggle but remember the just sweets of your reward. Thank you for watching and I hope you get to watch all the episodes. Shannon Cindy, Wow, I can't believe the progress you have made in the last few months! Congrats. I have to admit that I didn't really understand why you were on the show for the first few episodes considering you weren't overweight. But then I realized that you weren't trying to be skinny, you were aiming more for fit and strong which is great. I am glad to see that you went for the muscular look instead of the Hollywood waif look. I would love to be as fit as you, I am in the process but as you know it's hard. I can't believe you were in a competiton, that's amazing. You must have felt so proud. What was your routine like in the weight room? I currently do weight training about 3 times a week. Is that enough? What was your body part split and what kind of exercices did you do? Thanks for the inspiration! Cheers ~JAN RESPONSE Hi Jan, thank you for the compliments and support! To get right to your questions regarding my routine.....my trainer had me doing straight cardio with conditional sit-ups for the first 3 months. The cardio workout was basically walking at various levels and paces inorder to build me into a runner. The conditional sit-ups not only toned my stomach area, but gave me the strength to hold myself straighter when walking and now running. Once I began to run, I continued with just a cardio and conditional sit-up routine for the next month. There after I started doing my sit-ups on incline benches (a struggle at first even after all those conditionals). I actually didn't start to touch weights until I was within 10lbs. of my goal....the idea was to try to lean out more first. I continue to workout 5X's a week - I do 2 cardio workouts each day plus my sit-ups. I start with a run and I end with a run. If I'm going to work my legs that day, my 1st cardio is only for 15 min., but a high intensity run. My 2nd cardio will either be a walk or a low intensity run. Same goes for when I work my upper body with weights. However, I will run a high intensity run for 25-30min. on one of these days (on an upper body weight day). When I do my weights I alternate days. One day will be upper, the next will be lower etc. My weight program is for light weights, but lots of reps and in sets of either 3 or 4. However, right now I am in training for my next competition and I have two heavy weight days with lower reps. I hope that this isn't too confusing-the main thing is to find a routine that is safe for you and challenges you. It is true when they say, 'no pain no gain'. The pain isn't from hurting yourself though, you do have to be careful that way, but your body will feel the pains of getting into shape, my trainer taught me the difference between this and injury pain. When he put me on weights for the first time, be it upper body or lower body, I would do 3-4 days consecutively and burn out the pain that I felt. Believe me, it works and you never feel that pain again, unless you take an extended break from doing the exercise. I remember not being able to walk down my stairs without wanting to sit on each stair and go down like we did when we were kids. Anyways, you mentioned that you are doing weights 3X's a week...good for you! Depending on where you want to go with your fitness level will determine how often you want to workout. I would like to see myself go to 3X's a week...if I stop competing, but then again, I am enjoying where I'm at and really do want to maintain this level of fitness - I love feeling strong! I wish you all the best, Cindy Way to go all! I am on this journey with all of you. I am down from 236 to 224 and my husband has also joined in and lost 10 lbs. He now watches the show with me on Monday eves. The evenings are the most challenging for me. I am married, but my husband is gone all week with work, and being alone can equal being bored, then being bored can lead to what can I eat. I remember Charlene saying that on the show. I definitely hear you there. I too have been almost at my goal (7 years ago) and like you said Karen, people treat you differently- My sister contested to that after her weight loss also. Actually I can relate to all of you in some way. Greg- You are very determined, and might I add a good looking man under there. I can’t wait to see the last show to see exactly what you end up looking like. What a difference. Dajana - Your family seems closest to mine. Every day is some sort of celebration to eat. Congratulate both of them on their own weight loss! Charlene loves clothes as much as I do. Also when her mom said how proud she was of her, it made me cry. You look great ! Shannon- one of your comments from a few weeks ago still stays with me every day- it was when you said that most of these models and women at your consultation were around the same age as you , but because of the weight, you looked so much older. I am 35, and totally agree. I have never looked older. Cindy- My husband is a commercial pilot in the states, and is gone all week. The show that you dropped your husband off at the airport, and were explaining how you dread the days leading up to it ,hit home with me. On Monday morn very early I drop him off, and find myself having to fight food cravings, and trying to keep busy. You have to be a very independent woman to run a household by yourself. Congratulations on reaching your goal. You look great. Jeff- you are looking great. The pressure to lose weight must be huge for all of you after saying you were all going to do this. You have expressed this the best. Oh, and what a cute little girl you both have. Karen- you look beautiful. The last episode you were absolutely glowing. I too have to find some time out to pamper myself too. Good idea. Shauna- your body and mine are the closest in shape so I can relate to you the most. I’m 5 11 though. I like your new approach to fitness, it seems like you are in it for the long term. You looked beautiful in the blue dress you picked for the wedding. I am going for my 4 k walk-sometimes run now..........best to all of you. I’ll be watching on Monday. ...nothing tastes as good, as fit feels!!!! Michelle Victoria BC Hi Karen, I’ve watched your show a few times, but have not seen it for a while. I just saw your photos on the website and wanted to tell you that you look amazing...you are so beautiful. Anyhow, the reason I am writing is because I have a weight problem. My mother just finished telling me that I am getting fatter! I am the mother of a 3 year old child, am only 25 years old and I am the heaviest I have ever been. I have an extremely poor self image despite having a university degree, a wonderful husband and family and a job I love. I have a gym membership that I never seem to use. I feel like such a failure for not being able to lose weight. The thing is I know what needs to be done to lose it. Do you have any advice for me? S.S Edmonton, Alberta Dear Karen, Way to go!! I’m so proud of you. I am very touched by your story and grateful that you chose to share it. All the best! Brigitte RESPONSE Hi Brigitte. Thank you for the words of support. They mean a great deal to me. My whole reason for getting involved with this was to help others who are in similar situations. Filming was a lot of fun, but hearing back from those who are watching each week is AMAZING! I hope you continue to enjoy the show. Best wishes. Karen Hello and congrats to you Karen!!! You look great and I just wanted to send my best wishes... KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!! Stay positive and you go girl!!!!!! Please congratulate everyone else too!!! You all look great!!! Take care and stay HEALTHY!!!!!! Sincerely, Becky RESPONSE Hi Becky. WOW! You’ve just made my year! The energy you transmit makes me want to get up and run around the block a few times! Sometimes it seems like the battle is endless, but words of encouragement like yours help to keep me motivated and focussed. Thank you and God bless! Karen Hi Karen My boyfriend and I are big fans of the show. I just wanted to tell you how wonderful I think you are doing! You are an inspiration to me and I think you are lovely (hope that doesn’t sound weird). Good for you and I hope you have continued success! Best wishes, Stacey RESPONSE Hi Stacey. Weird? No way ... I love it! Anyone who has ever struggled with their weight knows that their self-esteem takes quite a beating. Because of this, a few kind words does wonders! Thank you for cheering me on. It means more than you could know! Best wishes. Karen Hi Karen, First of all I have to say that this show is great. I’ve truly been inspired by this show and you personally to get my butt into gear. Karen, I too have a fear of gyms. I would really like to join one, but feel self-conscious. Could you share with me what helped you get over that fear? I agree with a lot of what you say. One being, how we shouldn’t feel like we need to mutilate (stomach stapling, liposuction etc) our bodies just because we don’t "fit" in society. Also, I really appreciate your advice and the top ten list you made. I’m also always late for everything, lol. Which is probably why I have trouble fitting everything into one day. There just doesn’t seem to be enough time. But seriously, there is one thing I definitely have to say...Now I don’t personally know your previous personal trainer, but from what I saw on the show...I didn’t think she was fair to you. She seemed like she was pushing you too far and didn’t care about what you were feeling. I’m glad to see you like your new trainer.(The one helping you with boxing) He seemed positive and helpful. And, you looked like you were just loving that workout. I really admire your confidence and determination. You go girl! Thanks for inspiring me, Kyla P.S. You are a beautiful person right now, inside and out (from what I’ve seen) and don’t let anyone tell you different. RESPONSE Hello Kyla. Thanks for the lovely letter! Yes, gyms can be intimidating places, can’t they? Even after four years, I still find them a bit scary at times. What helped me initially was approaching it slowly. I tried to stay within my comfort zone at first, working out mainly in the "women’s area". Gradually, I would spend more and more time out on the main floor. I was surprised to find that the people who seemed most intimidating were actually very nice and extremely supportive! Even though our goals are different, we are all there for the same reasons ... to become stronger and healthier. The societal pressures surrounding body image seem insurmountable most of the time. It is a sad reality that leads to desperate people doing desperate things. That’s why we have five and six year olds dieting! The beauty industry is a multi-billion dollar business. Perpetuating these beauty myths serves their purpose well, and although there seems to be gradual progress in this area, I can’t see this changing any time soon. We shouldn’t be afraid to speak up when we see negative stereotypes of larger people in the media. I firmly believe that discrimination based on size is one of the last acceptable forms of discrimination in our society! All we can do for the moment is stubbornly refuse to buy into these myths, and try to love ourselves, and each other, regardless of size. The bottom line is - if I can do it, anyone can!!! So get out there and find something you enjoy and DO IT! Good lucky & have fun! Karen Hi Karen, I’ve enjoyed following all 8 of you on the series. I really admire the progress you’ve made. I’m very interested to hear what you and your friend have put together for those of us that would like to get healthy and lose weight in a comfortable environment. The highlights for next week’s show (Sept. 18) hint that we may find out. Can you enlighten me before next week. Thank you. Jackie RESPONSE Hello Jackie. The class you saw on the show was a test run for my business which will officially open in the early part of 2002. The reason it is taking a little longer than expected is that I am currently in the process of getting my certification which would enable me to teach some of the classes! This is an exciting time for me. Five years ago I would never have dreamed of stepping foot in a gym, and soon I will be actually teaching fitness classes!!! So keep your eyes open during the next few months. It will be really exciting! Karen P.S. I am still trying to come up with a catchy name for my business. If you have any ideas, I’d be happy to hear them!!! You’re All My Heroes !! I love the show and wish it was on every night. Hopefully it will be one day. I’m originally from Sherwood Park and Edmonton, so it’s a thrill to see places I’ve been . I too fight the battle of the bulge, and each week tune in to know I do not walk the path alone :o) I’d love to be in the show if you film it in Saskatoon ! ...lol... Thanx for putting this on the air ... few people would care to have tried I think :o) Your Friend, Meaghan RESPONSE Hi Meaghan! Thank you for your kind words. I have to say that participating in "Taking It Off" has been one of the most exciting and rewarding experiences in my life! The best part is hearing back from those who have seen the show and can somehow relate to something one or more of us is going through. I guess the biggest message is exactly what you said... "you’re not alone!" So keep fighting the good fight and don’t let little setbacks throw you off track! Best of luck on your journey. Karen Hello, My name is Nancy, and I just love your show!!!!!!! Kudos to all of you losing weight........ how does one become a participant on the show?????? Please let me know, I have lost 16 lbs. already, but I am at a standstill, I am stuck, can you help? if you can please let me know............ Also, Karen, this is for Karen, you had mentioned that you would be setting up a support group for overweight people in order to help others like yourself lose weight, have you done this yet, please let me know if you have I would love to join your group!!!!!!! Thank you very much for your time, Sincerely, Nancy RESPONSE Hi Nancy. Congratulations on your success to date! Don’t let the fact that you’ve hit "the wall" make you lose your focus entirely! Everyone goes through this (as you can probably tell just by watching the show!) Start back at it today by going for a nice long walk. Even something that simple can get you back on track! As far as my business goes, we will be starting our first class in January or February of 2002! So keep watching. We’d love it if you joined us!!! Karen Hi Karen, Kudos to you and everyone on the show. Here in Ontario there are lots of viewers rooting for you all. I caught the show last week and the nutritionist on the show was talking about increasing your protein intake. I can relate to this since I used to live in northern Canada. It was great when we had fresh fish or caribou from the area. Both are excellent protein sources. But often we had to buy meat in the local grocery store and it was just was sooo expensive. So, I started eating chickpeas as a regular source of protein. I know you aren’t keen on fresh vegetables, but adding in chickpeas to your stews, or mixing up some chickpeas with an oil/vinegar dressing may be a few ideas. Then again, perhaps you can’t stand chickpeas!!! IN any case congratulations on your exercise & dieting successes. You are an inspiration to the rest of us. Cheers, Sherry RESPONSE Thanks for the letter and the great ideas Sherry! I can use all the advice I can get! I’m not a wonderful cook, but I can do chickpeas!!! Glad to hear that you are enjoying the show. All the best to you. Karen Hi Karen, I love watching the show. What I am wondering about is the exercise business you were thinking of starting. I think it is an absolutely wonderful idea. Are you still planning it? Or am I totally behind and it is open right down my street? :-) Thanks....Kim RESPONSE Hello Kim. I am so pleased to hear that you like my idea of conducting fitness classes for people who are too intimidated to go to a gym. It is so thrilling to see it all coming together! (I am in the process of becoming a certified fitness coach so that I can teach some of the classes myself!) Our opening is scheduled for early in the new year, so keep watching for it. It’s really exciting!!! Thank you for your words of support! Karen Hi Karen, My name is Terri and I live in Moncton, New Brunswick. I’ve been following the show since week 12 and I wanted to contact you and say how excited I am for your success. Reading your profile, and watching the show, I identify so much with your life and your struggle. I even experienced the hair loss problem too! It turns out I am anaemic, and I now take supplements. It makes me wish we lived closer together so we could be "workout buddies". I weigh 255, and like you I’ve been overweight (and dieting) all my life. I’m 37 years old. I joined Weight Watchers in January of this year and lost 23 pounds the first 9 weeks, I spent the next 6 months gaining and losing the same 1 pound...then I gave up and quit going. I’m trying so hard not to give up on myself, and get back on track. Exercising regularly is my biggest folly. I belong to a great gym, and I have 2 beautiful dogs that love to take brisk walks with me. (I also have 5 cats) But I find myself getting lost in the big picture and feeling I’m just never gonna get there. Watching your progress of integrating a healthier lifestyle and esteem building into your daily life is very inspiring. I’m not alone, and I’m not a big ol’ loser. I’m also single, with no children, and I admit my growing fear of what my future holds paralyzes me. It’s been a real struggle for me to see myself as worthy in a society that idolizes beauty and thinness. You and your fellow participants give a real view of the process, and you all do it with dignity and grace. For that I applaud you all! Keep it up Karen, you are a true winner and you are helping me (and I’m sure many others) take it one day at a time. Thank you. Sincerely, Terri Moncton, NB RESPONSE Thank you so much for the moral support, Terri. I can honestly say that losing weight is the hardest thing I’ve ever done in my life! But persistence pays! There are studies that have shown that people who are overweight and exercise are healthier than people who aren’t overweight and don’t! Scales are evil things - avoid them whenever possible! (I know that’s easier said than done!) But seriously, if all of your good efforts went down the drain because of some silly numbers, then you may be better off not paying attention to them! It can be tough living in such an appearance-obsessed society, but try not to buy into the crap the media bombards us with (again, easier said than done.) The self-loathing that is perpetuated by these unrealistic ideals is epidemic, and it has to stop! While there seems to be some progress in this respect, it will take time for society to rid itself of the beauty myths it holds onto so firmly. Until it does, try to maintain a balance in your life - don’t let this weight-related goal become so all consuming that you forget to enjoy each day. So get out there and walk your dogs! You’ll feel better (and they will too!) I wish you good health. Karen P.S. I’m glad you got your hair loss problem sorted out! Hey Karen! I just wanted to send a quick e-mail and thank you for the inspiration you have given me. I have been watching "Taking It Off" since it first aired, and it wasn’t until I saw a recent segment on you that I was truly moved. You and I were approximately the same weight when we began our weight loss journey and I currently weigh near the same amount you did during the 9/17/01 episode. When I gained weight, I became too embarrassed to go to a hair stylist or get my eyebrows shaped or visit a manicurist anymore. I would have felt too self-conscious sitting in a stylist chair or lying horizontally while someone was near me. And because of my feelings of discomfort, it’s been two years since I’ve gotten my hair cut or done anything to make my external appearance more pleasing to me. But after seeing the segment of you (at a day spa?) getting a massage and having your nails done, I just felt so relieved. There you were, pampering yourself and not letting your weight keep you from doing so. As much as it may seem like a trivial thing, it meant so much to me to see someone having the courage to do something I haven’t had the courage to do for a long time. So, thank you Karen for allowing yourself to be an example and inspiration to people like me. :) I wish you all the success in the world. :) Be well... Wendy RESPONSE Dear Wendy: Thank you for your amazing letter. The whole reason I got involved with "Taking It Off" in the first place was to reach out to people who know how painful and far-reaching this battle can be! As we have all learned from recent world events, we should never take life for granted. While losing weight is one of the toughest battles you will ever fight, don’t let a stupid number on a scale determine your self-worth or place limits on what you can accomplish. Be good to yourself and love yourself every step along your weight loss journey. Even if you never lose another ounce, you are a worthwhile, loveable person!! My thoughts are will you. Karen Hi! Thank you so much for writing in. I hope your weight loss journey will be a little sweeter with the following tiramisu recipe. I believe there is nothing wrong with indulging ( in moderation) now and then. Good luck and thank you for your support and kind words. Take Care, Dajana Tiramisu Non-fat spreadable cream cheese 8 oz. Icing sugar, sifted 1/4 cup Instant pudding mix, vanilla 1 package Envelope dessert topping 1 (such as Dream Whip) Skim milk 1/2 cup Ladyfingers,approximately 40 Hot double strength prepared 3/4 cup coffee Granulated sugar 1 tbsp. Kahlua liqueur 3 tbsp. Cocoa 1-2 tsp. Beat cream cheese, instant pudding mix and icing sugar together in large bowl until smooth. Beat dessert topping and skim milk together according to package directions. Fold 1/2 dessert topping into cheese/pudding mixture. Lay 1/2 ladyfingers in single layer in bottom of 9x9 inch (22x22 cm) pan. Combine coffee with sugar and Kahlua. Drizzle 1/2 coffee mixture over ladyfingers. Spread with 1/2 cheese mixture. Repeat with another layer of ladyfingers,coffee mixture and cheese mixture. Top with thin layer of the remaining 1/2 dessert topping. Lightly sprinkle with cocoa. Cool for 3 hours ( flavour is even better if left in the fridge overnight) Cuts into 12 pieces ( or in my case--one big piece for me!) ENJOY!!! 1 piece -- 204 calories, 5 g protein, 3.2 g Total fat Dear Taking It Off, I am really enjoying the show. I started my own journey to fitness and weight reduction in June 2001 and have found the show to be informative, comforting and interesting. So far I have lost 10 pounds and a lot more to go, but like the participants on the show, I am already feeling much better about myself. I watch the show every week. I also like how it is taking place in Edmonton, I live in Edmonton and I think it is neat that these people are walking around the very same city I am. I think it is about time we stop focusing all of our attention and programming on the "perfect people" and see what regular everyday people are up to. It turns out they are very inspiring. I hope you continue on with the show after this first season is over. I will definitely be a loyal viewer. Thank you, Andrea Edmonton, Alberta First of all, kudos to you for your hardwork and great results so far. I watched the show on Monday September 3 2001, in which you discussed some hair loss problems. During this episode they did a nutritional analysis of your diet on the computer which was printed out for you and provided a detailed report. Would you have any information on this program? It would be a great help in my weight loss goals. Thanks, Maria RESPONSE Hi Maria. Isn’t technology great? Robin would be the best person to answer this one. The program she used was totally cool, however, if you or someone you know is experiencing hair loss I would strongly recommend that you seek the advice of a doctor as well to rule out any underlying medical causes. Best of luck to you! Karen RESPONSE Maria, In regards to the computer program I used to analyze Karen's food intake - it was Food Smart, Nutrition Mangement Solutions. They can be contacted at www.food-smart.com or at 1-800-656-6434. It is available for purchase by the public. There are also some sites on the internet that you can use for free. The information you receive from these programs is useful and accurate, however, your situation may need an interpretation of the information and to make it applicable to your lifestyle, body, etc. and for that I would recommend hiring a nutrition professional. So if you are after numbers only, these type of programs are great. But if you want more information then I would recommend you find a registered dietitian to set you on the right path. Good Luck! Robin Dear Greg, I cannot tell you how much pride and hope there is behind you. You are there working hard, very hard, and a life change like this certainly doesn't come over nite. But there is a giant community just loving you for doing this. There is a whole world of unspoken feelings (pain, hope, shame, defeat, victory, happiness, and love...mostly love) that is uniquely inherent in the person that weight has taken advantage of us, has taken our lives from us. Much love to you Greg, I'm right behind you, Joe in BC RESPONSE Dear Joe in B.C.: Thanks for the encouragement. You never realize how much of your life you've lived in low-gear when fat slows you down, and I'm hoping to keep my tranny on overdrive now that I'm lighter and well-exercised. Nothing in life is 'overnight' no matter what they tell you. I'm so sick of junk email that promises "eat whatever you want, as much as you want" and pop their magic capsules for a "brand-new you." What malarkey. I'm enjoying life more, getting more done in a day, and very pleased that my coworkers finally seem to be noticing more of the human being in me rather than just my waistline. All the best to you, too, Greg 'Dr K Hi People You are all an inspiration to me at this time. I'm in the process of "taking it off". I find that with food in moderation and going to "work" every day my body is shaping up nicely. I call my daily walks my work. Everyone gets a kick out of me going to "work". Keep up your "work". Barbara RESPONSE Dear Barbara: Thanks so much for thinking of old loose-skinned me. There really is no magic pill. It's energy in, energy out. Translation: always burn off more than you eat, and you'll lose weight. Chemistry 101. Sigh. It sounds so easy on paper, but in the real world of fast food and faster schedules, it's a battle fought one mouthful at a time. I'm getting there, but it's no cakewalk, and I'm truly, deeply appreciative of your encouragement. I wish you every success with your program. One bad day does not a diet kill; it takes a bunch of 'em. If you have a bad one, get right back on the wagon. I've lost a bit of weight because I stumble in the right direction; I've had very few perfect days. All the best to you, and God bless, Greg 'Dr K' PS -- You say your body is shaping up nicely. It's a good feeling, isn't it? Hi Greg, I have just started watching the program a few weeks ago. I love your attitude and applaud your spirit! I felt a little protective of you on Tuesday episode when you where dining with your family and you wife began to challenge your efforts. It looked like an attempt to sabotage your mind set. I think that you are going about it in just the right manner, look at your success so far. Keep doing it!! Linda Pefferlaw Ontario RESPONSE Dear Linda: Families can be funny that way, but not always in a hee-hee laugh-it-up way. Wendy and the kids love me, and have encouraged me a lot. But sometimes when they see me succeeding, I suppose it's a subtle reminder that they too could benefit from a bit of exercise and tummy tuck. So they try to play with my head a bit, in a fun, teasing way. But I say HAH! It's my time to get in shape, and they can get on the no-gravy train, or be left at the station. I'm really touched to think that you could 'feel' protective of me -- God knows I need all the friends I can get in this most lonely of battles -- me versus me! I think it's also a tribute to the great directors and editors we have for Taking It Off that the show has managed to touch the emotions of viewers across Canada. Please keep on being 'protective'. Guardian angels are in scarce supply for fat men! :) Greg 'Dr K' Greg Witnessing your family's response to your request for support or at least acknowlegement of respect for your objectives was tough! Their cynism reflects memories of earlier endeavors. They may sense this time it is different because it's obvious you are rocking the boat. No one likes change and they appear to be responding to your success with sabotage. Are they afraid you will succeed? When you do "come out of your shell", would they feel inadequate and are they afraid your respect for them would diminish? They are certainly not taking advantage of this weight loss opportunity; they are not ready. As Robin Williams would say "First, you must believe!" You are doing great - please continue to believe in yourself! It is your journey. A 45yr young Believer who also has teenagers and husband who are happy with who I am, just the way I am! Debbie RESPONSE Dear Debbie: In my family, cynicism is an art form! And 'rocking the boat' is a daily occurrence. My wife, Wendy, is joining me on my diet soon, and we hope to become gym buddies as we sweat and eat sensibly on our way to Mr. Stud Muffin and Mrs. Ooh-la-la status. I will keep working hard to inspire them to action. As the Borg say on Star Trek: "Resistance is futile!" Greg 'Dr K' A message for Greg... I don't think we get the show here, but a friend of mine tipped me off to the webpage to Taking It Off. Just wanted to say GREAT JOB!!! As you probably already know, this is a lifestyle change, not a DIET. Diet assumes that this is a temporary state, and it "will end eventually". Just remember that no matter what you do, make sure that you can do it FOREVER! So, if you like cabbage soup or grapefruits or both...I have this "diet" for you lol! Just kidding...keep up the good work! My mom is on her way to a healthier, smaller body too. I just talked with her by telephone the other day...she just cleared the 300 mark! All the things you mention, like the steering wheel not being so snug, less joint pain, EVERYTHING, it is like a mirror image of what my mom is going through. Even in the beginning, she was very disappointed because "she couldn't tell a difference". I prodded and PRODDED for her to think of things that were easier. Boy, after the first 20lbs it was tough...she couldn't hardly think of anything positive! Her attititude has changed 100% for the better, as I'm sure that yours is too. From your writing I can tell that you are a pretty happy guy in general, but you will be ready to leap for joy as you accomplish your goals. reb ps: Watch out for people that make negative comments. Regardless of how successful you are in life, there will always be those few people that have to rain on your parade. Don't listen...keep moving! There is no room for beating yourself up...you've got work to do! pps: I, too am on the road to better health. I don't have near as many milestones to cross, but I do know what you're going through...I wish you all the best! Hello and congrats to you Karen!!! You look great and I just wanted to send my best wishes...KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK!!!!!!!!!!!!! Stay positve and you go girl!!!!!!! Please congratulate everyone else too!!! You all look great!!! Take care and stay HEALTHY!!!!!! Sincerly, Becky Hello to all - I happened to stumble on to your show when it debuted and am I ever glad I did - I never miss it. As a 33 year old 5' 9" 240 lb female, I have reached my peak in weight gain and need to do something about it. It has been an issue all my life and I think I'm ready to start conquering it, thanks in part to your program. You all inspire me and I appreciate it. As much as I enjoy watching the successes week after week, it also helps to see some of you have a not so great week every now and then. It helps deal with the fact that not every week is going to be a good week in the struggle and that's ok. I don't usually write to people in tv programs but you are all so real to me and I just wanted to express my support and thank you for all being so honest. Keep up the good work!! Debbie G. Dartmouth, NS DEAR CINDY AND DAJANA, YOU BOTH ARE AN INSPIRATION TO ME. I AM 220 AND MY IDEAL WEIGHT IS BETWEEN 120-145. I WOULD LIKE TO BE 125 AS I WAS 10 YEARS AGO. I DO WORK OUT AT THE GYM--BUT ONLY LIKE THE TREADMILL AND BUTTMASTER. I GET BORED VERY EASILY WITH THE OTHER STUFF AS IT ONLY SEEMS TO PUT MUSCLE ON ME AND I DON'T LOOSE ANY WEIGHT - EXCEPT IF I ONLY USE THE TREADMILL. COULD YOU BOTH PLEASE HELP ME AND TELL ME WHAT OTHER APPARATUS I COULD USE? I WANT TO LOOSE THE WEIGHT FIRST THEN PUT THE MUSCLE ON AFTER. I EVEN MADE AN APPOINTMENT TO SEE A DOCTOR FOR A GASTRIC STOMACH SURGERY ON NOV 14 AS THE LAST RESORT. HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM THAT YOU ARE ON? DO YOU ANSWER YOUR E-MAIL WHEN THE SHOW IS OVER? PLEASE RESPOND ASAP. THANK YOU. JANINE I have been watching Taking it Off with interest since the beginning. I am happy for everyone who has shown such determination and resolve to change their lives. Greg has made the biggest change and I want to encourage him to keep on. You have come so far, and whenever temptation sets in remember what life was like before the program. It's disappointing however to see your family trying to sabotage your efforts. They should be ashamed, because if anyone show be supportive it should be family. So in conclusion, do not let anyone let you down. Don't let anyone tempt you to fail when you have shown such resolve to succeed. You are on your way Greg!! Don't let anyone bring you down. To Cindy, I can relate to you most. I have not had a child or a weight problem beyond an extra ten pounds. But, I do believe you have every right to take part in this program. It's hard to lose weight no matter what the weight. By leading an active lifestyle you will set a positive example for your child to follow. At the point you are at now, you should concern yourself less with weight and more with body fat percentage or inches lost. There is no reason to ever stop trying to improve your physique. It should make you feel proud as new challenges are set and then achieved. So keep up the hard work and don't let anyone say you don't have a right to care about your health. Cindy and Greg might be at opposite ends of the weight loss spectrum, but that does'nt mean one weight is easier to live with then the other. They are both doing amazingly well, and I will watch with much interest in upcoming episodes. No name I am sure enjoying watching Taking It Off, and watching the battles that all of you are fighting and winning. Of course weight loss is not just one battle, its a war, with the biggest battle of all being the one to maintain the weight loss. I am also working hard to lose weight - 75 more pounds to be exact (I've already lost 15). Watching you guys and what you go through is such a learning experience for me and its also very motivational. I've addressed this letter to the three of you for a specific reason: Karen - I met you once at the Grand Trunk pool and you told me about how you were going to participate in the program and how excited you were. I've been watching your battle and I've been so pleased at your success. I hope to see you at the gym again so I can marvel at how wonderful you look and how far you have come. Shauna - You used to work at my bank and I remember how you were always so perky and full of fun. Doesn't look like you've changed much that way! I've also enjoyed watching you because I used to go to High School with your best friend Leanne, which makes watching your battle with weight loss and exercise all the more personal for me! Greg - I've never met you, but your ability to keep your sense of humour throughout this process has been so motivational for me. Every time I watch you weigh in I jump for joy at how you've succeeded. And I am very glad you were able to adjust the tilt of your Toranado so you can "drive like a man". I'll be watching for you at the car wreckers! So watching this show, with you three in it has made my battle seem so much more acheiveable. I have a long way to go, and I'll be sad when the show is done, but I'll remember what I've learned from you three and I know that we'll all be successful in our battle! Tamara in Edmonton RESPONSE Hello Tamara! It’s so great to hear from you. I’m glad you are enjoying the show! It has been an incredible journey so far, and the people I’ve met through "Taking It Off" have become wonderful friends and a major source of support. The best part is hearing from people who have been inspired by the show and are motivated to make positive changes in their own lives. I feel truly blessed. Keep up the good work at the gym. Perhaps I’ll see you there again sometime soon! Karen I love the show. Would you consider doing a series in Regina, Saskatchewan????? Leanne Business Analyst Hi Shauna. I was driving down the road the other day, looked to my left and there you were! You look fantastic and I give you every credit in the world for doing what you've done. I myself am an overweight individual who has had a hard time lately with my weight. I moved from my home in Ontario to Alberta 1 year ago and since I didn't know anyone I became quite acquainted with my couch. I'm 40 pounds heavier now (over 200lbs) and feeling more alone than ever. When I first saw TIO I was so happy I cried. Finally, we the overweight get a little piece of tv programming. It's amazing to know that my skinny friends watch it too! I am sure you've heard 'good job' about a thousand times already but in your shoes I'd say 'keep it comin'. Thanks for giving me hope in my otherwise hopeless task of getting my weight off. Thanks to the show I've joined the Running Room and can run for 10 minutes now without needing an ambulance! Your courage has inspired me beyond my highest expectations. Thanks for being you. -Donna Kehoe RESPONSE Hi Donna, Wow, thanks for your letter! It's really great to get such positive feedback. I completely understand your frustration with weight gain... I've lived it for so long. Good for you for taking up running! The exercise will make such a huge difference in how you feel. I've been trying to mix things up a bit to keep myself interested. I alternate between running, Tae Bo, cycling, dancing and my rowing machine... I get bored quickly so it's one of my coping mechanisms! I still weigh more than I did in 10 years ago but I feel a hundred times healthier than I ever did then because I have become active. I'm sure your feeling the benefits already. Stay true to your goals... and if all else fails find a group of seven people to weigh yourself in front of every two weeks... it sure helps!! Cheers, Shauna Hi - I have been really enjoying the Taking it Off series. My onlycomplaint is that it will be over too soon! It has been informative andinspirational to watch these people struggle to lose weight. I waswondering, after the show is over, if there might be some way youcould keep fans aprised of future successes and struggles of the showparticipants. I don't know when the episodes finished filming, but having apeice at the end of the last episode, or just after it, that shows how theparticipants are doing now (I assume that by the time the last episode airs,several months would have passed in the lives of the participants) would beneat to see. Otherwise, perhaps such updates might be provided on yourwebsite. This show has become an important inspirational part of my personalweight loss journey, and I don't want to see it end! Thanks for listening Kate To Robin Anderson (TIOs wellness and diet expert) Hi - I have enjoyed watching you work with the variety of people on Taking if Off. I was wondering if you can recommend any books that have solid, basic nutrition information and suggestions for healthier eating (similar to your wellness tips but more in depth). There are so many books on the market, but I think many of them are just in support of the latest fads. Also, I have been sticking to a healthier eating plan for about three months now. I eat five times a day (three meals and two snacks), but still find days when I just feel so hungry. I'm drinking lots of water, and my weight loss has been slow (about a pound a week), so I think I'm eating the right amount. Will the hunger pangs go away when my body adjusts to the healthier plan, or will I have to fight them forever? Kate It seems that you should have nutritionists involved with this programme. If there were, how did I miss them. - Anders Anderson Dear Shauna, I'm really enjoying watching the show, and can relate to everyone of you. I've always struggled with weight, and as I get older, it seems harder to lose. When I got married, I weighed 130 pounds (5' 9"), and now 8 years later I have peaked at 195. I've had 3 children in 3 years, and now that my youngest is 2 1/2, I'm still carrying a lot of "baby-fat". I'm now trying to find a program that works for me, and I'm trying to stay positive. I'm very fortunate to have a husband that says he loves me the way I am, but will still support me in my struggle to lose weight. Cindy, my husband used to travel quite a lot. We have now been married 21 years but we joke that he has really been around 10 of those years. It is really tough being a stay at home mom. It is about the only job where you never get a day off. What helped me was I went to a mom and tot group that was a waste of money but I liked the women there. I asked some of them to come to my house. I am very shy and it was hard for me to do that but I was desperate for human contact. I was surprised to find that all the woman were. We met each Thursday for years. None of us missed a day unless we were sick (and even then some of us dragged ourselves out of bed for it). 2nd thing - get a baby sitter once a week. I notice you bring your baby everywhere. You need a break sometimes. I went for an art course - I kept that time even if my kids were sick. It was my time off. It is really important for your santity. Keep up the good work. suzy dunkelman RESPONSE Dear Suzy, Thank you for taking the time to write me a letter through our website. I do appreciate your kind words and support. I do understand the importance of being able to take time to myself, actually my time is working out at the gym. It's through this routine that I am able to reach my weight goals and now my competition goals. I am also very fortunate to have a lady (and her husband) take care of my children when I need them. They are like grandparents to my boys and I am very grateful to have their help. I also have girlfriends who have children all around the same age as mine and we are our own support group-yes, it is very important to take time to yourself and to have a support group that you can talk to when things get crazy. Thank you for your thoughts. Cindy This is a message for Charlene!! Hey there, my name is Christina (I am Shannon's niece!) Actually I am writing because I started watching the show because of course my aunt, but I am very interested in your progress because of course your height and body type, and weight are similar to mine. So I'm rooting for you and I know that the show has wrapped up but I hope you can still continue with your success... Christina D ----- Shannon -I just wanted to let you know that I am really enjoying watching Taking it Off. I am working on the same goals of slow, permanent weight loss. I am trying to view it (this time around!) as a permanent lifestyle change in the way I eat and exercise. It is working, but it can be hard to wait for the results when the scale moves so slowly! But it is worth it, and I will be healthier in the end. I am similar in weight to where you were when you started, so I feel an extra connection with you. I also wanted to let you know that I love your sense of humor about the whole thing. You have a great attitude, are honest with yourself, and find the funny side of struggles. Keep up the great work on all fronts! A fan in Ontario, Kate RESPONSE Wow- Kate in Ontario. Thank you for your warm response to the program. I am so glad you get me. Everyone wants the quick fix - myself included! I have a ways to go but this summer I was able to go sleeveless. The little fat hanging over my elbow has been eliminated. I can touch my toes. My thighs are not fighting for space. TALK ABOUT GRAPHICS.!! WAY TOO MANY DETAILS. I think you get the picture. It is the small things that add up to feeling good again. Never forget how you feel right now! Be gentle with yourself. Remember this is a lifestyle change. Do not give up your life. Find a social outing that involves exercise. What a new concept that was for me. Think about cute clothes over the winter you may get into. Think less layers. Think about all those tent dresses that will look horrible on you next year. Think 30 lbs in 6 months. Only 5 a month. We can do it. Thank you again for getting me. I appreciated the kind words. Shannon Hi to all of you! Though I'm currently watching the "Taking It Off" series, I realize you've now stepped away from the limelight. I want to thank you very much for sharing so much! Your experiences verify that we are not alone and that realization encourages us to continue - the strength is there. Debbie Fleming St. Albert P.S.: Dajana: I sent Oprah an e-mail telling her what a great story you and your team's journey would make. I too am a person who has struggled with her weight for most of her lifetime. It is a very personal and private topic, one that I do not discuss with everyone. I have had my ups and downs, currently I am on a down. The biggest obstacle I face is looking back at the times when I was thinner and thinking why wasn't I happy then? Why am I constantly unhappy with the way I look? I was unhappy at a size 9, unhappy at a size 16 and currently unhappy as a size 13. I know that size and actual weight shouldn't matter as much as being healthy. Even though I say that my only goal is to get physically fit (less fat more muscle), I am still looking for that miracle pill, the one that will erase the weight in less than a month. I am on a difficult journey, hoping for success to be at the end of this journey. I look forward to hearing of your gains and losses. Unfortunately I cannot see you on tv as I don't have cable. I will continue to check the website. Sincerely Janice in Edmonton RESPONSE Thank you for the support and the email. It's always great to know in some small way we are not alone. I guess what I need to know is your age. There is a comfort and confidence that comes through that. It's a kind of acceptance of who you are. I deal with women everyday at work. (I'm a bridal consultant). I don't believe I have never met anyone that was ever totally happy with their body and does not wish they could change something or all about their shape. I have and do meet however; people comfortable and accepting in their own skin- so to speak. The average size woman is size 12. If you have a bridal party of all size 6's and you arrive being a size 13. Yes - you do feel it. The same goes for the media when the average frame on television is size 6. Barbara Walters is a size 8 and just dropped 5 lbs. because her clothes were getting tighter. That is where we get our concepts sadly from. I am going to end up exactly where I started if I don't examine these issues. It's a mental thing without a doubt. Five years ago today, my husband had a heart attack -just 9 days after his 40th b-day. I know if his way of thinking did not change he would not be with us today. This is from a calendar THINK AND GROW RICH July 18/97 A year to the day of his accident. You cannot control events of your life, but you can control your reactions to them. You have made choices that brought you to where you are today. If you don't like where you are, make choices that will take you where you want to go. DON'T REACT - ACT. My weight has been so slow and gradual. I want and I am used to the quick fix. If I had not started when I had I know this summer I would be wearing layers upon layers of clothes and hoping for rain to justify it. I am not where I want to be but I am on the journey. I realize now we are all on a journey that will not end at a certain point. We are all works in progress. Tomorrow will always be tomorrow. If we go through life thinking tomorrow will be better. What will become of today? Life is a struggle so enjoy the fight. If you are needing tips I can supply those. As it is right now I have rambled but I am hopeful you will understand it comes from within and it starts today. Thank you again for the letter. Your friend in life Shannon