Derrick Williams, 37, of Dunwoody sheds 75 pounds

Former weight: 305 pounds

Current weight: 230 pounds

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In 2006, Derrick Williams weighed 305 pounds.

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Family

This picture was taken in December 2008; Williams has both legs in a single pair of pants. He weighed 235 pounds after losing 75 pounds. Good job, Derrick!

Pounds lost: 75 pounds

Height: 5 feet 11 inches

How long he’s kept it off: Williams started in September 2007 and met his goal in December 2008; he’s kept it off for 6 months.

Personal life: “I am a single father residing in Dunwoody Ga,” he says. “I share custody in raising my 8-year-old-son, Darius Williams. I also work in Dunwoody for Crawford & Company.”

Turning point: “My turning point was literally sitting in the car eating a footlong steak and cheese with fries and passing out in the parking deck — I said enough was enough,” says Williams.

Diet plan: “I primarily followed a modified eating program consisting of 5 to 6 small meals per day that always includes a portion of protein and carbohydrate,” he says. He starts the day with 2 boiled eggs, grapefruit followed by a midday protein shake. Lunch is a chicken breast sandwich on whole wheat with steamed vegetables and green tea. Dinner is grilled tilapia with brown rice and a small salad.

Exercise routine: “Running is my primary exercise which I perform daily now,” he says. “I have a yoga session and a plyometric session once a week, in addition to weight training a couple days a week.” Plyometric exercises involve moving at a high intensity, usually jumping, to cause rapid muscular contactions which build strength and coordination. “I was able to train during my lunch hour,” he says. “I have a great support group at work as well as the gym.”

Biggest challenge: “My biggest challenge remains with nutrition,” he says. “I tend to make some bad food choices from time to time. However, I tend to get back on track with a strong workout.”

How life has changed: “Prior to my weightloss, I had become socially inferior,” he says. “I wanted very little face-to-face interaction with my friends who [were] not aware that I gained over 100 pounds since college. Having a strong support group along with the ability to inspire others [has] kept me moving forward.”

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Be an inspiration: Be an inspiration: If you've made positive changes in your diet and/or fitness routine and are happy with the results, please share your success with us. Include your email address, a daytime phone number and before and after photos (by mail or JPEG). Write: Success Stories, c/o Suzanne Van Atten, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Sixth Floor, 72 Marietta St. N.W., Atlanta, GA 30303; or e-mail ajcsuccessstories@gmail.com.

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