Brandi Parker

The first time I walked into Burn Boot Camp, I was embarrassed of myself because I was again the largest person in the room. I almost turned around and walked out. Luckily, Devan caught me before I could leave. My weight has been a constant struggle my entire life. I could never seem to get healthy eating and exercising in sync. By the time I came to BBC, I had pretty much given up on me and was to the point of thinking maybe I was meant to be overweight. It was not like I had not tried over and over again. But, I was tired of failing at every turn. When Devan approached me about doing a transformation program with him, I was skeptical. I did not believe what he told me. And, I did not believe in myself. He promised me that I could lose at least 100 pounds, never be hungry, be stronger than I have ever been and learn how to eat correctly:..all within 12 months. It seemed impossible. I agreed to the program, thinking to myself if I could just lose 60 pounds I would be satisfied with it. I was tired of being the heaviest person in the room, tired of being out of shape and exhausted, and simply tired of hating myself. I did not believe that I had it in me to come as far as I have. I am grateful to Devan for believing in me when I did not believe in myself. Saying yes was the best decision I have ever made. I lost 60 pounds within the first 12 weeks! A total of 174 pounds gone in 12 months is unbelievable, and I still get a little shocked when I look in the mirror. I mean, who knew that I actually had collarbones! The physical changes are enormous. I am much more active now. Simply moving about is easier. I do not get out of breath every time I move. I can take 5 flights of stairs up to my floor at work without stopping to breathe or rest. The first time I sat in an airplane seat and didn't crowd the person beside me and was able to lock the seatbelt without having a belt extension, I almost cried like a baby. For the first time ever, I have been able to wear size 14 pants. When you start at size 32 (sometimes larger), a size 14 is really exciting! I actually enjoy shopping now. I am no longer embarrassed of me. I do not avoid the mirror anymore. I am much more confident. And, I like me again! I am very proud of myself for all that I have accomplished. I feel like I can do just about anything now. BBC is not easy, and I still go home with muscles aching but it is worth every bit of the pain. I have decided that I am worth the time and energy it takes to get up at 4:30 every morning and come to BBC.
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