Jeff R. struggled with his weight since childhood, suffering taunts and hurtful stares throughout his life. By early 2006, at age 50 and carrying more than 400 pounds, this elementary school phys ed teacher knew his weight threatened his health, impeded his ability to do his job, and limited his activity in general. The years of emotional and physical pain because of his weight took an additional toll — Jeff became deeply depressed, at one point contemplating suicide.

Then, in February 2006, Jeff saw a call for applicants in USA Today for a nationwide weight-loss challenge. Filled with a sudden sense of hope, Jeff e-mailed his story to the paper and was selected in March to follow the South Beach Diet lifestyle. After three months of regular exercise and eating the South Beach Diet way, the results were in: Jeff had lost 69 pounds — surpassing his initial goal by 37 pounds. Now highly motivated, he has since lost another 60 pounds, becoming the person he wants to be for himself, his family, and his students.

BIGGEST SURPRISE: “The South Beach Diet lifestyle just made perfect sense in its simplicity.”

FAVORITE EXERCISE: “I walk on a treadmill at the gym for 35 to 40 minutes five days a week.”

BEST COMPLIMENT: “I saw a woman whom I had not seen in about six months, and she burst out crying because she was so happily surprised by my appearance.”

BIGGEST HEALTH BOOST: “After just three months following the South Beach Diet lifestyle, everything dropped dramatically: my cholesterol, my blood sugar, my blood pressure, and even the pain in my knees and feet.”

BEST ADVICE: “Getting creative in the kitchen and exploring new ways to prepare delicious South Beach Diet-friendly meals has been the main reason I have done as well as I have.”

OUTSTANDING OUTLOOK: “I was afraid that I would not be around to give my daughter away at her wedding, or be here to play with my grandchildren. I don’t have those fears anymore. And since I’m much more comfortable in a plane now, I want to travel more and see the world!”