Ray Taylor from Canada —  Having vision is not about having sight, it’s about having insights into life. Ray Taylor has less than five percent vision but his insights on what matters in life and how to achieve it are perfect. The 52-year-old convenience store operator saw his hopes and dreams for the future fading. After successfully completing a Body-for-LIFE Challenge in 2000 he gained back some of the weight he lost. He wasn’t proud of seeing himself slipping and knew he had to get back on track. He felt angry, scared and powerless. He took the Challenge again, failing in his second attempt. It was during his third attempt, that he reaped the benefits of change. Through planning and increased confidence, Taylor’s weight dropped from 182 to 162 pounds, his body fat percentage decreased from 22.9 percent to 13.1 percent and his pant size dropped four sizes. Just as importantly, he increased his strength and endurance and as a result of it all has been taken off high blood pressure medication. “I set out to prove that I don’t have to see what I am on the outside to know who I could be on the inside.” Bill Phillips’ words have helped me transform something negative into something very positive at a critical time in my life. Although some doors may be closing on me, many new ones have been opened. Life has taken on a whole new meaning and purpose. I feel revitalized, refreshed and reinvigorated. I look to the future with hope.”

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