Contestant Name: Jennifer Howe
Before Weight: 187.2lbs
After Weight: 160.4lbs
Before Waist Measurement: 32.75”
After Waist Measurement: 28.25”
“Life is all about choices. We are constantly making choices that impact our lives either on a small scale or on a much larger one. Sometimes these choices only relate to our lives, but other times may also affect those who surround us. As I have “grown up,” I have come to realize that I am the one behind these decisions. I am the one who is choosing how my life is going to be. Over the past year, I have come to realize that life is too short to waste it being unhappy. And with that, I made a choice to change. I made a choice to put myself first and pursue happiness.
Over the past 6 months I’ve had to make decisions that are probably, and hopefully, the hardest ones I will ever have to make. It is through this transformation challenge that I have really learned to understand, challenge and appreciate what my mind, spirit and my body are capable of. When I first met Neil for this challenge, I found myself in tears and scared of the thought of failure and not being good enough or able to stand a chance against the others. I was very overwhelmed and second-guessed my decision to be part of the competition. Under Neil’s & Erika’s guidance, I was able to take a step back and scale back to take one day at a time and do the best that I could for me. Doing what I was capable of to better myself and not worry about the others. Day by day, and week by week, I slowly began to experience changes that I never thought were possible. I felt more energetic, healthier, was becoming stronger, leaner and most importantly happier. I found which people in my life supported the person I am, what my goals are, and the person I was searching to become. I am beginning to meet people with similar interests, mindsets and goals, and am able to talk to them with confidence and a smile on my face.
As this challenge comes to a finish, I know it is just the beginning of my journey. Looking through some personal items, I found I haven’t weighed this much in 18 years! Some where between grade 8 & 9 to be exact! It has entered my mind to possibly get into competitions, which would NEVER be anything but a pipe dream before. Constantly throughout the day I am mind blown at the changes that have taken place. I am still learning to accept the body I have. Every time I look in the mirror, I am reminded how I have worked hard to shape the person that I am becoming. Along with the need for an entire new wardrobe, came the need for a new mindset. I have learned I am capable of succeeding, of making difficult choices and working hard to get what I deserve. And most importantly, I have learned what it means to feel happy.”
-Jenn
