Rarely in America’s evolution to a “quick fix” society, do we hear of a person losing over 50 pounds by changing behavior, working together, and persevering to the end. More often, we think of them losing weight with the assistance of drugs, surgery, or some other unnatural mechanism.

In contrast to some of the stereotypes associated with weight loss are Jason and Cindy Kern.

Jason Kern, 37, an English teacher at Green Valley High School, lost over 53 pounds in a year. His spouse, Cindy Kern, 32, a science teacher who is also a staff member at Green Valley High School, lost 81 pounds in one year.

After a new addition to their life, the template for their lives together was altered, and they began to realize they needed to focus on their overall health.

“Our newborn son was definitely another influence on our decision to lose weight,” said the Kerns. “We want to be around for him and each other, as well as play with him–sit down and get up without having to struggle.”

The Kerns lost most of their weight by participating in the Weight Watchers program; however, Cindy Kerns adds the Health Trust’s former lifestyle management program, Why Weight, prepared her for the challenges she would have to face in Weight Watchers.

The Kerns work together as a team with mostly everything they do. They play together, eat together, and coach Green Valley High Schools Junior Varsity Softball Team together.

“We couldn’t do it separately,” said the Kerns. “You have to have a support system and supporting each other made it easier.”

The Kerns are a unique couple. Together, they radiate boundless energy because they are fueled by their focus on their overall health and their son. They are enthralled by their success.

“With weight loss, there is a hump that you have to get over and that’s believing you deserve to be healthy. Once you get over that, you will look for the stairs instead of the elevator,” said the Kerns.

Darryl Thomas

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