This week, 51-year-old David Jones was eliminated from “The Biggest Loser.” The week prior to being voted off the popular NBC television show, Jones inspired viewers with his touching reason for losing the weight and getting fit — his family.
“If I couldn’t do my job and especially if I couldn’t take care of my family…I can’t think of a lower point in my life I could be. I’ve got to get this taken care of and I’ve got to start it now,” said Jones during episode five of season 14.
As a mother, I found myself hoping that dads across the nation were tuning in and taking notice.
Jones, a police officer and father of seven, shared his struggles with trainer Bob Harper and Dr. Huizenga in an emotional moment. My tears flowed as Jones described his close relationship with his oldest daughter, Tiffany, who suffers from Rett Syndrome.
“Tiffany and I have a really special bond,” Jones tearfully explained. Going on to describe the specific challenges of caring for Tiffany, Jones admitted that his weight was holding him back.
In my opinion, there were two important lessons for fathers during season 14, episode 5 of “The Biggest Loser.”
1. Stand beside your children, whatever their struggles.
David Jones said the following about helping his daughter to walk: “She can walk, but not very well. And, so when she’s walking, you want to be right beside her.”
Not all children require such a high level of physical care, but all children need the emotional support of their fathers. Having a father who is physically and emotionally present significantly impacts the development of a child’s life. Researchers have found that children with involved caring fathers:
- Exhibit higher levels of confidence and self-esteem
- Have increased IQ and better grades
- Are less likely to experience depression
- Get into less trouble at home, school or in the neighborhood
2. Take Care of Yourself.
David Jones is a perfect example. It wasn’t his love for his daughter that was failing, it was his body.
Jones is not alone. The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 71 percent of American men are overweight. This statistic means that the majority of men are at risk for health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke and certain types of cancer.
In addition, men are less likely than women to see their doctors for regular checkups. A recent survey by the American Academy of Family Physicians found that 55 percent of men have not been to the doctor for a physical exam in the last year.
What does this mean for fathers? It means it’s time to start taking your health seriously.
- Go in for regular checkups.
- Participate in health screenings, such as prostate exams and colonoscopies.
- Take steps to lose weight. Researchers have shown that even a small decrease in body weight can result in significant health improvements.
Sources:
https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubs/usermanuals/fatherhood/chaptertwo.cfm
http://www.ahrq.gov/ppip/healthymen.htm
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/lose-weight-gain-tons-of-benefits
