Over the past six weeks, coaches and local program coordinators across Special Olympics Kansas (SOKS) took on the Fit & Trim Challenge, dedicating themselves to improving their health and fitness. The results were nothing short of inspiring, and at the forefront of this transformation journey is Sarah Erickson, who lost an impressive 20 pounds and emerged as the challenge winner.
But for Sarah, this challenge was about far more than weight loss. It was a chance to reclaim an active, healthier life and reconnect with what matters most to her—family, fitness, and her beloved Hays Buffaloes. Throughout the challenge, Sarah’s commitment to meal prepping, hydration, and fitting in workouts where she could, despite her busy schedule, set a powerful example of perseverance.
Reflecting on her progress, Sarah shared, “WOW. Honestly, I am shocked! Looking back at my week 1 photo, I can see a difference, especially in my midsection. But for me, it is about so much more. Regaining the ability to live an active life with my children and participate in activities with my beloved Hays Buffaloes has been a driving force for me.”
Her journey didn’t just affect her physically—it transformed her life in more profound ways. Sarah noticed less stiffness and more mobility, making daily activities easier, allowing her to fully engage in life with her family. She experienced better sleep, clearer skin, and increased energy—all small changes that made a big difference. “Small changes can lead to big results. Thank you for putting this together. I can’t wait to see how far I have progressed in the next six weeks!” Sarah said with enthusiasm.
One of the most significant impacts Sarah experienced was being able to live life actively again with her children. As a mother, this was a driving force in her commitment to the challenge, but it wasn’t always easy. Sarah balanced her job, family life, and even struggles with foot pain. Despite these challenges, she consistently found ways to prioritize her health. “I know to be successful I need to make ME a priority (something I struggle with). Taking time for the things that are important is key, and I plan to keep pushing forward.”
The Power of Healthful Habits
Throughout the challenge, participants were encouraged to focus on three core areas: hydration, nutrition, and fitness. For Sarah, meal prepping was key to staying on track, allowing her to balance protein, fruits, and vegetables. By bringing her trusty hydro-jug everywhere, she met her hydration goals, even during long days at the state fair or while juggling work and family commitments.
She summed it up best by saying, “Making sure I have protein or fruit and veggies to snack on helped me stay on track. The increase in my mobility and energy levels alone has been so worth it!”
Sarah also emphasized the importance of consistency, whether it was in planning balanced meals or pushing herself to get in her steps and workouts. Even when life got in the way, she knew that small, incremental changes could lead to big results.
A Community of Success Stories
While Sarah’s transformation is at the forefront, she wasn’t the only participant to make meaningful progress. Other participants shared their personal experiences, each finding success in their own way.
SueAnn Wanklyn, who finished the challenge with a 7.4-pound weight loss, used her deep knowledge of fitness to jumpstart her journey back into routine after undergoing multiple surgeries. She shared, “Fitness is old hat for me as I taught Jazzercise for 6 years, weightlifting for many more, and even ran a 5K. But after major back surgery, knee surgery, and a hip replacement in the last 4 years, I needed the boost to get back in the swing. So—THANK YOU for the boost!” SueAnn’s focus was on regaining strength and flexibility, adding in weight training and jazz aerobics to tone her body as she continues her fitness journey.
Irl Johnson, who lost 8 pounds, also found the challenge reinvigorating. “It was fun. I enjoyed testing my limits and will continue to do so,” Irl said, underscoring the positive vibes and motivation that carried him through. Like many participants, Irl faced some setbacks but remained committed to improving his overall health. “Right now, I’m wearing a 2XL, but I’m hoping one day to get back into an XL. This challenge gave me the push I needed to keep striving for that.” For Irl, the challenge was about more than just weight loss—it was about regaining control and setting goals for the future.
Terra Morehead, another standout participant, lost 9.5 pounds and reflected on how the challenge helped her find a rhythm. “This was fun. I didn’t hit my goal, but I lost almost 10 pounds, and I’m going to keep going on my own.” Terra found that increasing her daily steps and focusing on healthier choices, even amidst the temptation of attending sporting events and busy weekends, made a big difference. “I felt better and definitely had more energy. I just need to stay on task with eating vegetables!”
Jessie Lopez, a consistent participant, shared how the challenge reignited her passion for healthy living. Although the journey wasn’t always easy, Jessie felt proud of her progress. “I think I’m doing good!” she shared, emphasizing the importance of staying committed to the challenge despite a demanding schedule. Jessie’s focus on achieving balance—between work, fitness, and hydration—allowed her to stay motivated and keep pushing toward her goals.
A Journey of Transformation
What makes this challenge remarkable is not just the numbers on the scale, but the changes participants made in their daily lives. From prioritizing hydration and healthier eating to finding new ways to stay active, the Fit & Trim Challenge proved that personal transformation goes beyond weight—it’s about finding strength, energy, and joy in life again.
Sarah’s success, as well as the success of all participants, is a reminder of the power of small, consistent changes. Whether it’s through meal prepping, hitting hydration goals, or simply showing up each day with a renewed sense of purpose, everyone who participated in this challenge is a winner.
As SueAnn said so wisely, “It takes 6-8 weeks to create a habit. This challenge was a great way to jumpstart a fitness routine. As a Special Olympics coach, I need to set an example for my athletes. If I expect them to make better choices, I need to show them I will too!”
Moving Forward
As we close this chapter, the impact of the Fit & Trim Challenge is clear. Participants not only shed pounds but also gained confidence, strength, and a new outlook on their health. With 70.1 pounds collectively lost, the real victory is in the healthful habits and lifestyle changes these incredible individuals embraced.
A special congratulations to Sarah Erickson, whose inspiring progress has earned her the title of Fit & Trim Challenge Champion.
Thank you to everyone who participated—your hard work and dedication have been truly inspiring!
