Morning Y’all! It’s that time again… Transformation Tuesday! I am excited to bring you Mark, we met at the New Balance Good Form Clinic the other week and realized that in true Savannah fashion, we had mutual friends. And even better, they are mutual run friends. So let’s meet Mark 
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In 2008, I was working for a major bank in Metro Atlanta and we were preparing for an annual breast cancer walk/run. Throughout the day we would ask various customers to provide donations and give them an overview on the walk/run which happened to be a 5K. After giving our spiel to one customer, he took one look at me and simply asked “Do you think you’re gonna make it?” I replied with a laugh and said “Oh sure, I’ll be fine.” He responded with “Well, you might want to invest in some roller skates.” Shortly after that, my weight was no longer a laughing matter.
It took from about eight months to a year to lose a total of 70 lbs. I went from 250 to about 180.
Start small…eliminate high calorie options or soft drinks from your diet. Watch your portions and remember to “treat” but don’t “cheat” when choosing unhealthy foods.
I would say wardrobe, haha. Not only was it expensive to replenish my clothes in different sizes, but I had to get past certain colors that used to make my look like a tomato or marshmallow due to my size. Needless to say, I got over that…along with stripes, haha.
Chocolate Milk…it’s not as bad for you as everyone thinks. I usually have some after every run (My signature choice of exercise). Research shows that it has the right mix of carbs and protein to refuel muscles.
6- How is life different now than before, outside of diet and exercise?
I feel extremely confident and excited about my future now. Ever since I allowed myself to make better food and body choices, I am now able to make excellent life choices. I’m currently pursuing my Master’s in Middle Grades Education and starting my first year of teaching.
7- Bonus Question- Where is your favorite run spot in Savannah?
Anywhere (well, almost anywhere) downtown or throughout my neighborhood (Ardsley Park)…I still find myself gawking at the pretty homes in those two areas. Oddly enough, they keep me focused on the task at hands because there is so much beauty to look at in my hometown…so I gotta keep moving!
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Thank you so much, Mark! Doesn’t he look amazing, y’all? And no, the Green Jacket is not from the Masters Golf Tournament… it’s part of the Legendary St. Patrick’s Day Celebration down in Savannah. Come on down, Y’all!
It really really IS start small huh?
Baby Steps = BIG success later.
You are so right!!
Amazing story, great success!
Thank You SO much for featuring me on your blog, let me know when you’d like to go for a run!
Let’s go!!
I personally know Mark. I knew him when he was bigger and loved him just as much as I do now. I have always been proud of his determination to become healthy. He has and always will be the biggest sweetheart. It is an honor to have Mark as my friend and know that he can do anything that he puts his mind to! Hugs and kisses to one of the greatest friends I know!
Thank you for your sweet words. I can’t wait to run with him and learn more about Mark!
Fantastic story… always wonderful to find inspiration and motivation around us.
It truly is!
wow! so inspirational! thank you!
I’m so glad to see this awesome rockstar featured on your blog! Such a great inspiration!!
He is, isn’t he