y “Be the Change” message is most visible and actively relevant for me when I reinvest in my community and the people of Iowa and beyond. I’ve had lots of opportunities to give back and pay my good fortune forward, many of which are really near to my heart. The whirlwind that has been my life since being on “The Biggest Loser” is never more fulfilling than when I have a chance to support non-profit organizations and efforts devoted to making others’ lives better.

Cancer is a terrible disease that touches many, many lives. For me and my family, it’s colon cancer. Both of my grandmothers and my father have had colon cancer. My dad and my mom’s mother are both survivors, so of course, that’s one of the charities that catches my heart. This past year, I was able to organize a team and run the 5K Get Your Rear in Gear event to raise money for our local chapter of the Colon Cancer Coalition.

Go Red for Women is a new charity involvement for me for the local chapter of the American Heart Association. Daniel, Rodney and Gigi Filer and I heart health fitness and nutrition with a group of women. I hope to continue to do much more to broaden the awareness of heart health for women.

Toys for Tots is a well-known activity/toy drive during Christmas. This year I participated in a telethon on KCCI Channel 8 TV to solicit toy donations, along with Daniel and other local celebs.

The Pound for Pound Challenge is something that started with “The Biggest Loser” and I’m continuing participation whenever I’m available in my hometown with the Food Bank of Iowa. A great cause for an ever-increasing need.