He’s Two-Thirds the Man He Once Was

He’s two-thirds the man he once was

Published Friday, June 4, 2004 11:55:04 AM Central Time

By RALPH ANSAMI

Globe News Editor

HURLEY—Call him the incredible shrinking councilman.

Donald Richards of Hurley realizes he’s about two-thirds the man he used to be.

He’s heard all the jokes about his weight loss and doesn’t mind them one bit because he’s a much healthier man than he was just six months ago.

Richards thanks this newspaper for launching him on a weight loss campaign that has resulted in shedding nearly 100 pounds.

A photo of Richards with Wisconsin Department of Tourism Secretary Jim Holperin and other Iron County officials on Lake Superior was published earlier in the Daily Globe. At that time, Richards weighed 303 pounds.

He has been on a diet since Jan. 1 and tells his story not to brag, but to offer encouragement to other people who are overweight.

“To be very frank, I was quite embarrassed with my appearance and wanted to make a change after I saw the picture in the paper,” he said.

Having a brother who is a physician, Richards sought out his assistance, hoping to find a miracle drug to help him drop the pounds.

“He explained to me that there was none and that only dieting and exercise would help me lose weight. He recommended the Atkins weight loss program, along with a regimented exercise program,” Richards said.

“There are no real secrets as to what I am doing, besides not cheating. I walk from three to eight miles per day, sometimes more, depending on how much time I have,” he said.

He said low-fat steak is part of his diet, and he is fortunate to have access to his family’s farm in north Ironwood. “My folks have their own beef cattle, so I receive fresh steaks from them,” he said.

In addition to sitting on the Hurley City Council, Richards is a member of the Iron County Board of Supervisors. Earlier this year, after a council meeting he walked all the way from the Hurley City Hall to the county courthouse, rather than driving the mile. That has become the norm in his exercise program.

Noticing his drastic weight loss, fellow council and county board members have expressed concerns about his health. Richards has assured them he is healthy and feels much better than he did at 300 pounds, although he can’t seem to drive a golf ball quite as far.

“I’ve had dozens of folks ask me how I did what I did,” he said.

“It has been a long, uphill battle, but if I can do it, anyone can.”

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