My name is Stanley Edmonds, Jr.,  also known as Stan, Pops, Big Stan, Coach, Big Coach, LB, Big Baby and Dad.  I am a 46 year old husband, father, son, teacher, coach and friend to many.  Those that know me, know that I love sports.  In my childhood I was very active in playing in a variety of sports.  When I was in high school at Indian River I played basketball all 4 years.  When I graduated I went to Norfolk State to play basketball but ended up playing football.  Training for football was different from which I knew from basketball.  I started lifting weights and eating more to gain weight in order to play football.  I was very active but I continued to get bigger and bigger.

Over the next 20 years I got bigger and bigger to where I am now.  I haven’t let my weight stop me from doing what I wanted to do but it has stood in the way in different situations in my life.  I have 2 sons that are both teenagers who I have never gotten on a roller coaster with because of my size.   I can’t sit comfortably in a booth when going out to eat, there are a lot of chairs that I can’t sit and I can’t drive a lot of cars because of my size.  My weight has hurt me from getting my dream job as a head football coach because they think my size is a hindrance.

Well, I have come to a point in my life that I want and need to make a change.  I want to be here a long time for my wife and kids.  I no longer want to be that big guy amongst everyone.  I recently, went to Houston, Texas for a consult with a weight loss doctor.  The doctor approved me to get the surgery if I lose 50 pounds and have $15,000.  I have prayed about this and I’m going to do everything possible to make this happen.  I’m going to change my eating habits and increase my physical activities.  Unfortunately, I don’t have the $15,000 and I need your help.  If you can find it in your heart and wallet to help me reach my goal, I would really appreciate it.  I want to come out of this with people saying “you know we used to call him Big Stan.”