by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Jacksonville native Julie Hadden was in the national spotlight as a contestant – and eventually first runner-up – of weight-loss reality show “The Biggest Loser” two years ago. Monday she was in the spotlight again, albeit on a smaller scale, when she told the story of her television experience and overcoming adversity to Meninak members.
“I’ve struggled with my weight my entire life,” said Hadden. “It steamrolled out of control and I was embarrassed in my own skin. You can’t pick the moment when you get that ‘Aha!’ moment that sparks change.”
Hadden’s moment came while watching her son swim by himself one late afternoon at the pool. At the time she weighed 218 pounds and didn’t even know the place to start to lose 100 pounds – until her friend told her of the Jacksonville auditions for the “The Biggest Loser.”
Comparing it to the frenzied auditions of other reality shows, Hadden along with thousands of others gave their best stories on why they should be chosen. She originally didn’t have a story, she said, but used a bit of humor and was cast over the course of a year.
When the cameras started to run on the first day, so did Hadden and the other contestants – in the 105-degree desert. The 18 contestants were informed teams were to be chosen by the first two winners of a mile-long run in the sand, with the six contestants not chosen going home.
“Going on national television and then getting sent home without losing a pound,” explained Hadden. “That was my biggest fear.”
Unfortunately, her fear came true. She wasn’t selected.
On the car ride back, though, the cast off members were surprised to find out they were going to form a team of their own and compete in secret under the tutelage of the show’s most successful trainer.
From there, Hadden’s days were filled with strenuous four- to six-hour workouts with cameras catching the emotions and successes. The work ultimately paid off when she lost 97 pounds – or around 45 percent of her body weight.
“It was an unbelievable experience,” said Hadden, referring to her metamorphosis and television and workout experiences. “It shows you’re capable to do the things you think are impossible.”
The weight Hadden lost isn’t unlike the weight that others carry in various forms, she told Meninak members. It doesn’t always have to be physical in nature.
“We all carry excess weight,” said Hadden. “Financial weight in this economy, the weight of being unforgiven. It is possible to reduce it.”
Meninak President Bunky Johnson said he found Hadden’s story uplifting while also proving a point that other Meninak members can see.
“She overcame much and changed her life,” said Johnson. “Many people, especially younger generations, are becoming increasingly overweight and her message can be inspirational to them.”
It was a long road for Hadden and one she still walks to keep a balance, but the end result was worth the price.
“I got my life back,” she said.
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