Weight-loss group powers through setbacks

This winter hasn't exactly been easy for a group working to get into shape to enter the third annual Miner's Mayhem together this spring, but they remain committed to their task.

Miner's Mayhem, which has been set for June 21, involves obstacles spread across a seven-kilometre-long course, wrapping around Adanac Ski Hill and Rotary Trail.

Yvette Bisaillon, Jason Roy, Anne M. Matte and Joanne (who didn't want her last name used) have been training for the race at Body Balance Studio in Blezard Valley. They're all trying to lose a significant amount of weight.

Since we last checked in with them in mid-January, they've collectively lost another 48.5 pounds. That's despite medical problems and a bad bout with the flu some group members have struggled with.

“Everyone is doing great,” said the group's trainer and Body Balance Studio owner, Clint Knott, in an email.

“Some people have gone off course a bit. Some have been sick or dealing with medical problems, but they are all staying positive and getting back on track.

“If something happens in life, you just have to say it's a new day and I am back on track today. You can't do anything about what happened yesterday, but you have control of what you do today.”

Bisaillon said as soon as the snow melts, the group will be meeting at Adanac to climb the ski hill in preparation for the race.

Despite going through some medical issues, Joanne said in an email she's continuing to train and is trying hard to eat a healthy diet. She's lost seven pounds over the past month and a half.

“I am feeling nervous and excited for the Miner's Mayhem, and am looking forward to it,” she said.

Matte, who has also been experiencing some medical problems, said in an email she has lost eight and a half pounds.

“I am walking, showshoeing, cross-country skiing on my own, and get inspired, prodded, and pushed by Clint and my support group – my peers in this adventure,” she said.

Although he was sidelined by the flu for awhile this winter, Roy said in an email he's lost 11 pounds since mid-January, and is “feeling great.”

Bisaillon, who has luckily been free of illness and medical issues herself, said she's lost 10 pounds since mid-January, and hopes to lose another 40 before she takes on the Miner's Mayhem.

She said she's extremely focused on preparing for the race.

“We all want to do it, we're all excited, and we can't wait until it's over,” Bisaillon jokes.

Northern Life plans to check up on Jason, Yvette, Joanne and Anne periodically over the next few months as they train for Miner's Mayhem.

@heidi_ulrichsen