"I've always been the "big" girl of the group. It's always concerned me, and I truly hated being that girl, but I was never motivated or inspired enough to do something about it. Finally, in finding a passion for sailing, I realized that NOW was the best time to break free of that role. I truly needed and now, finally, wanted, to be healthier, more fit, and more prepared for the journey aboard. I hoped to no longer be burdened by weight or the depression caused by being overweight. So, I decided to go to the gym. Unfortunately, I failed to find much support from my friends and family members who would not join me on my journey to fitness.'

"My only hope now: a personal trainer. Yes, that HAD to be the solution. Unfortunately for me, one of those specially trained masters of fitness cost much more than just time and motivation to lose weight. That's right. Money, something I always seemed to lack. I couldn't let this stop me though. Somehow, I'd find a way and NOT just another excuse to keep living so unhappily. One night after work, I went into Team fitness where I met with personal trainer Jesse Stoddard. All the little voices started flying in my mind: What would he think of me? Would I just be another "big" girl to him? Would he laugh at me?'

"Jesse instantly silenced those fears by being exceptionally knowledgeable, helpful and willing to assist me towards my fitness goals. He was professional and yet, friendly and inviting. He inspired me to not give up and assured me that finances would NOT stand in the way of his aiding me to success. He assured me he'd make it work, and he kept his promise!'

"In 6 short weeks (time constraint caused by my leaving for my sailing adventures), Jesse continued to motivate and encourage me in the path of fitness. When not in the gym, he would send encouraging emails or calls which always made my day and helped me remember to stay focused. During those six weeks, I trained with Jesse once a week, and worked out on my own 3-4 times a week as well. I lost 18 pounds in that time and went from zero sit ups to fifteen, just as an example!'

"Since meeting Jesse, I've transformed, physically and mentally. I truly believe that the support of my personal trainer, and now friend, Jesse Stoddard, gave me the tools I needed to finally break out of my shell as the "big girl", finally able to blossom into something much more beautiful, both on the inside AND the outside.'

"Thank you Jesse!"

Fair winds and following seas,

Shanna Anjali Weatherby-Clark

November 6, 2009