Best foot forward

As Traci has discovered, a lifestyle change is not only about losing weight; it is about facing fears and growing and learning as a person. Despite the roller-coaster ride, she continues to stay on track.

WRITER: JAMES COMBS

Traci, a firstgrade teacher at The Villages Charter School, turns in a letter of resignation to the school principal. She is taking a school year off to fully concentrate on her weight loss and health goals. She plans to return to the classroom in the 2014-2015 school year.

Traci has taken a fresh perspective on eating and now buys organic fruit and vegetables at Fresh Market in The Villages. That has paid big dividends, as she has lost 70 pounds.

Traci overcomes a longtime fear by accompanying her husband, Chad, to his softball game.