Weight-Loss Role Models: Fat to Fit 2011 Winners

First Place: Barbara Bauer, age 63, Collinsville, Ill.

A member of Fat to Fit since February 2010, Barbara says she adopted a healthier lifestyle to decrease her risk for diabetes and heart conditions, and to set a good example for her grandchildren. Barb lost nearly four pounds during the Challenge, but most importantly, she is no longer on a diet. "I'm on a healthier eating plan," she says. She recently received good news: Her blood sugar levels have decreased and are now below the pre-diabetes range. Her cholesterol and blood pressure measures have moved into the healthy ranges as well. Plus, she's brought her family into the healthy living fold and reports that her grandchildren often join her at the gym.

Members of the Fat to Fit community can always count on Barb to post helpful tips and notes of encouragement and support. She openly shares insights into her own behavior with the hope that they may be useful to others in the community. Barb keeps a journal, exercises five times a week, makes healthy food choices, gets enough rest and meditates.

"Without support and encouragement from family, friends and my Fat to Fit friends, I would not be continuing this journey. I'd be where I was before — on my way to becoming more and more unhealthy. I am more convinced than ever that this is not something anyone can accomplish by himself/herself. We need each other," she says.