One year ago Clinton Terrell weighed nearly 500 pounds and would not have considered walking over any part of the Arthur Ravenel Bridge. Today, at 237 pounds, Clinton is literally half the size he was just 9 months ago. He’s also pumped and ready to take on the Cooper River Bridge along with co-workers that have supported him through his life-transforming quest to lose weight and get healthy. Take a quick look at Clinton’s story:
One day last June I had a moment of truth. I took the short walk from my car to the door of the credit union branch and was out of breath. At that moment I knew I had to make a change or life really had nothing for me. I contacted a friend at MUSC, and signed up at the MUSC Weight Management Center . Their program includes diet, exercise, nutrition training, group meetings, and medical assessments. One of the first things they did was to weigh me. I had been terrified of scales for years, knowing my weight was out of control. But I was committed to doing this – determined to make a change and have a better, healthier life – so I got on the scales: They read 491 pounds. I had a little work to do!
I made two phone calls as I left MUSC, one to my mom and one to my supervisor. I could hear the catch in mom’s voice as she gave me her support. By the time I got home she had cleared the refrigerator of everything but a gallon of water, and completely emptied the pantry so I would have no temptations there! My supervisor, Leesa, said that she would fully support me and we’d make the schedule work so I could attend the required Wednesday evening group meetings at MUSC.
Instead of setting a weight goal, I had different ones:
- To have better quality of life
- To be able to shop in regular stores, without having to visit “Big & Tall” sections or specialty stores for my clothes. Even my work clothes, my “brandwear” had to be special ordered.
My 30-week program required a 12-week fast eating the required protein bars, shakes, and drinking water, followed by 18 weeks of transition and stabilization, gradually adding in moderately sized portions of fruits, veggies, and meat. In the first week I lost 21 ½ pounds and decided the shakes and bars weren’t all that bad! By the next week I’d lost another 10 and knew I could DO THIS!
My co-workers have encouraged me the whole way. They even helped keep tempting foods away from the branch! My friends and I now do social things differently, like going bowling or to a movie instead of out to eat. Last Fall I walked in the Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure and this month I will walk the Cooper River Bridge – things I never would have dreamed of doing.
Clinton’s story has certainly inspired me. How about you?
Clinton… I am so very happy for you. Your goals are spot-on for a sustaining, long-term successful life style. Your story will serve as an encouragement to others. Congratulations for taking these beginning steps toward your new journey that will surely be filled with a lifetime of happiness and good health.
We are so proud of you and what you have accomplished! Keep up the great work.
Clinton,
You and your story are an inspiration that’s going to lead many others to a happy and successful lifestyle. What better goal is there in life but to lead others to a better place?!….and you my friend, are a leader!!!
Way to go Clinton. You are an inspiration!
Whoop whoop!!
WOW!!….. SIMPLY ASTONISHING!! Who would think such a transformation could be made in 9 months. My hats off to your drive and determination. All the best with sustaining these life style changes!!
I consider it a privilege working for Clinton and being able to watch his transformation into this healthy life style has been amazing. He is truly an inspiration to us all! His teller line has been his cheerleaders the whole way! And we are so very proud of him!!
Congratulations, Clinton! Thank you for sharing your inspirational story with all of us…really does prove you can do anything you put your mind to!!!
Clinton as someone who has tried and struggled to lose weight and become more healthy, I salute you. You have what it takes to do whatever you set your mind to. You Rock!
Clinton, You are an idol to many! I am so proud of you and couldn’t be more excited for you! This is a new chapter in your life and I hope you continue sharing your success. Congratulations pal! TEAM CLINTON!!!
WOW!! Your story is amazing!
Definitely an inspiration to many!!
Way to go Clinton! You should be so proud of yourself and your accomplishment!
Clinton, I am so proud of you! You truly are an inspiration! Many of us don’t have the self-control to lose 5 pounds much less HALF of our body weight! Truly amazing! Much Love!
Clinton… It takes discipline and self-control to accomplish what you have done. You have inspired me.
Way to go Clinton!!! The changes you have made these last nine months are amazing. You committed to your goals and have succeeded. Congratulations… Now keep going!
Absolutely inspiring. Thank you for sharing your story!
What an inspiration to so many people! You rock, Clinton!
So happy for you! I know everyday wasn’t easy, but I am sure everyday was worth it. I wish you continued success as you strive to reach the new goals you set. Congrats!
Clinton you are amazing, I am so happy for you , there is nothing you can’t do ……….
Awesome job Clinton, keep up the amazing work!
So proud of you for what you have accomplished and for sharing your story. You are a inspiration and the truth is you are the one that pushes us to stay on track! Watch out now he’s just begun
TEAM CLINTON!!!
What a great story! Very proud of you, Clinton!
Clinton, I am so proud of your strength and determination. You are a great inspiration to others. Keep up the great work.
Clinton…..after having heard your story and actually meeting with you a while back, I commend you at your accomplishments! Your journey to a “new life” has begun. just don’t forget to “stop and smell the roses” along your selected route.
My kudos to you young man…..congratulations on a new lifestyle!
Loraine (friend of Rae’s)
Fantastic! We’re proud of you.
So happy for you! Way to go and way to inspire! =0)
Congratulations, Clinton!! Thank you for sharing your story. I am so happy for you… Your drive and determination are a true inspiration to so many! Enjoy these moments of accomplishments, and the many more to come leading a healthy and happy lifestyle. Go TEAM CLINTON!!!
Clinton, I am so amazed by you! You look great and I am glad to have been able to see you at different stages of this journey. Congratulations!!! I am so proud of you!! Good luck on the bridge run!!!