Chuck answered TLC.com's questions about his current lifestyle and weight-loss progress. His answers are below; they offer an inspiring look at an entirely new Chuck.
Q: Describe your typical day.
A: I get up early and take a shower. Then, I go to the coffeehouse and to work. I work hard, and then I'll come home, see my son and go to bed. I do a lot more errands and shopping then I used to.
Q: What kind of exercise or activity do you engage in to work toward your goals?
A: I can go do many more things and have been way more active. I just joined a gym. I like to do things myself and not have other people do them for me. I have had a lot of surgeries, and I am always recuperating.
Q: Who or what is your motivation for keeping the course of your weight-loss journey?
A: My motivation is to be able to make more money and be the man I used to be. I would be happy to be self-sufficient. I would like to prove that I can be a strong worker and keep my promise of becoming healthier.
Q: What is your biggest obstacle in staying on track with weight loss?
A: I'm not taking time to cook. It's hard for me to stay away from convenience food, and I waste a whole lot of food because I prepare too much at a time. It's really hard to keep check on how much I am eating.
Q: How have friends and family reacted to your weight loss?
A: Everybody has been very supportive and proud of me. I have referred a lot of people to get help. Overall, I have gained self-esteem and confidence.
Q: In five years from now, how do you envision your life -- and your body?
A: I want my business to expand by opening up a new location. [Note: Chuck owns a tow truck company.] I would like to be under 200 pounds; I'm under 300 pounds at this point.