As part of the new push for wellness awareness, Kathy Abbott, Lahser’s health teacher, arranged a presentation from reality TV show contestants Matt Hoover and Susie Preston from The Biggest Loser Season 2 on April 18, 2008. Now husband and wife, the couple met on the show and has since been touring the country, talking to high schools about how to live healthy lives by exercising, eating well, and maintaining a positive attitude. They also discussed their experiences on The Biggest Loser and what made them want to change their lives. Over 350 students attended, interested in learning how to make the most of their lives.

Matt Hoover, from Iowa, weighed 339 lbs and was “caught up in his past” when he was inspired to participate in the reality show. Suzie Preston, from Seattle, Washington, also decided to go on the show to change her life for the better. She had something to prove: overweight people could do whatever non-overweight people could accomplish. Before The Biggest Loser, her weight was 227 lbs; by the end of the show, she was down to an outstanding 132 lbs.

The presentation was very inspiring for those looking for a lifestyle change. As Matt Hoover said, “stop talking about what you could have done in the past, and start talking about the future.”

Q & A from the event:

Q: What is the hardest part about losing weight?
A:The hardest part was definitely keeping it off, and just the overall maintenance. It was a huge lifestyle change, and the environment we live in makes it easy to become obese.

Q: Do you have any tips for overweight teens?
A: Start being active now, and watch what you eat.
Q: What was your favorite part about being on the show?
A: Afterwards, and how it has changed my life.

Q: Why do you think obesity has become such a big problem in the United States?
A: The convenience. People can just pull up to a fast food window, and get food in minutes. People can purchase pounds of food for a very small amount of money.