"The show was plan A - to do it with diet and exercise," he recalled recently. "It was not realistic, but I knew this could save my life."
Now a svelte 215 pounds, Erik continues to inspire others with his message to increase awareness about type II diabetes and other health issues.
Erik also is spokesperson for the national educational campaign Diabetes & You: Step It Up to Get it Down (www.stepitupdiabetes.com). Recently, he took the time to share his story with me.
Q: When did you first realize you had a weight problem?
A: Always had one. It came to peak just months before I went on the show. For six months to a year I did not weigh myself at all. I had gone up to 407. I was always concerned, but I was not doing anything about it.
So, I went to a weight-loss clinic. I was really depressed about it. I gave it a few weeks and then decided to opt for weight-loss surgery. I was going to have lap-band surgery and the surgery was scheduled for Feb. 14. Then my brother mentioned the casting call.
Q: Wow, that's amazing. Talk about divine intervention. So, would you say the show was a major turning point in your life?
A: Yes! The show was plan A. I knew it was not realistic [that he would be chosen], but I knew this could save my life. I knew I could do it with diet and exercise. I just needed help.
Q: How old were you when you were diagnosed with type II diabetes?
A: Actually, I was diagnosed with diabetes on the show and on camera.
Q: Gee, that must have been a shock. However, you were able to reverse your condition with the skills you acquired from the show, right?
A: Yes, my diabetes is under control. I didn't go on any medications. Things were under control after I lost the first 50 to 60 pounds and exercised regularly. Now I work with Step It Up and spread the message to go see your doctor.
