Pamela Kennard-Hil to start anew in Atlanta

Weight gain is not discriminatory. Even people you think would be in great shape can carry excess pounds. Take Pamela Kennard-Hil, a physical therapist who started struggling with her weight two and a half years ago.

That was when her firefighter husband died suddenly on the job, and Pamela decided to start over. She and her four sons moved from Los Angeles to Atlanta, where Pamela's best friend lived.

But the transition didn't go well. The stress of losing her husband and trying to raise four kids wore Pamela down. She turned to food for comfort, eating mostly potatoes, french fries, fried fish, and fast food. Her weight increased to 201 pounds.

With high blood pressure and low energy, Pamela knew she needed to change her life. So when she heard about L A Weight Loss and the Atlanta Controltrim Weight Loss Challenge, she jumped at the opportunity to shed 50 pounds for good.

Pamela is determined to become a healthier person, and a better role model for her sons and patients. And once she reaches her goal weight with this challenge, she plans on tackling another: the ING Georgia Marathon on March 30, 2008.

Here's Pamela now at 201 pounds, soon to slim down!



FAST FACTS

Name: Pamela Kennard-Hil
Hometown: Atlanta
Age: 47
Height: 5'9"

Starting weight: 201 pounds
Goal weight: 151 pounds

Favorite foods: Fried fish and chicken.

Biggest temptation: French fries.

Biggest motivator: Having her kids by her side.

Current eating philosophy: Filling up on fried food.

Biggest reason for participating in the challenge: To become a better mother and physical therapist.