Dwanda Farmer loses 68 pounds

Former weight: 289 pounds

Current weight: 221 pounds

Pounds lost: 68 pounds

Height: 5 feet 9 inches

Age: 43

How long she's kept it off: She started in 2006 at 289 pounds. She is working toward a goal weight of 175 pounds.

Personal life: Farmer is a self-employed grant writer and community development specialist. "I am active in my community and politics," she said. "I live in the Mechanicsville neighborhood in southwest Atlanta and work from home." In 2009, she was a candidate for Atlanta City Council Post 1 at large.

Turning point: "In 2006, I was part of the initial Subway Get Fit Challenge [featured on WSB-TV]. During the course of that year, I lost a total of 23 pounds. I was discouraged because I worked very hard, worked out more than ever before, ate a lot less, avoided alcohol and dessert," she said. "In 2007, I found a new drug, Byetta, to combat my Type 2 diabetes and really began focusing on portion control and eating less food and more meals each day. "

Diet plan: "I now eat four to six small meals each day and a couple of snacks. I try not to go more than four hours without eating," she said. "I added a lot more fruits and vegetables, avoided fried foods and sugary desserts."

Exercise routine: Currently she walks 2-3 miles twice weekly and uses exercise DVDs as well. "In 2009, I began working with [personal trainer] Kenya Crooks, and he helped me focus on making my body perform at a higher level," she said. "We used Piedmont Park and worked out three days a week. We ran a lot, did way too many crunches, push-ups and crazy muscle confusion exercises, but it paid off."

Biggest challenge: "Maintaining control of my diabetes, avoiding dessert and getting exercise on a regular basis." When life gets hectic and her weight goes up, she regains control by weighing herself weekly to stay committed to her goals.

How life has changed: "I feel more comfortable in my clothes and social circles. I get lots of compliments and I no longer run from the camera, even though pictures add 10 pounds," she said.