I was the winner of NBC’s “The Biggest Loser” Season 3. After losing the weight and gaining control of my life I became a “winner” in more ways than one.

At 36 years old, and 407 lbs., I decided as a long shot to attend an Open Casting Call for the Reality TV Show.

Before appearing on the show, I had attempted and often failed at losing weight and keeping it off. As the largest contestant on the show, the odds were certainly against me from the beginning. The end result was staggering; I lost 214 lbs., breaking all of the show’s previous records. In 2009, my record of losing the highest percentage rate has not been broken in any Biggest Loser 7 seasons, or in any of the other counties who compete for the Biggest Loser around the world. When I lost the weight, my frightening health concerns were a distant memory, having managed my Type 2 Diabetes, and I no longer suffered from Sleep Apnea, High Cholesterol, or High Blood Pressure.

I was accustomed to dealing with the struggles of losing and gaining weight since my adolescence. I openly admit that I grew up as a chubby kid and now realize the importance of addressing fitness and nutrition at a young age. If I received the necessary guidance as a child, then I could have prevented future health conditions that plagued me throughout adulthood and I could have avoided a lifetime of low self-esteem and embarrassment in social situations.

I have lectured at many local area elementary and high schools, health clubs, corporate headquarters, youth weight loss camps and various Health and Wellness Expos throughout America since winning the title “The Biggest Loser” in December 2006. I have had the unique opportunity to travel the country and meet many individuals face-to-face, such as myself, who continue to struggle with weight. I have had the privilege of being invited to appear on such television shows as Larry King Live, Today Show, Neil Cavuto, Access Hollywood and Oprah. The hundreds of interviews I have appeared in include such renowned publications as The New York Times and People Magazine.

I graduated from Hofstra University with my Bachelor’s degree in Accounting in 1998, and then went on to open my own business in the food industry 2004. I sold that business in 2008 to pursue my speaking engagements. I am married for thirteen years and we have three children, ages 8, 6 and one.