Councilman's dramatic weight loss - DC Breaking Local News Weather Sports FOX 5 WTTG

A city councilman is issuing a challenge to residents, but says he is not asking his fellow citizens to do anything that he has not done himself.

Excess weight has always plagued Atlanta councilman Lamar Willis and he has tried many times to shed the pounds, but it was not until a life-changing rejection that he decided to challenge himself and commit to change.

When you see Willis, you want to hear the explanation as to how and why he went from weighing more than 300 pounds to dropping over 100.

He says his weight-loss journey began last years when he tried to obtain life insurance. It didn't seem like there would be a problem, but the insurance company denied him a policy.

So, for the sake of his 13-year-old daughter and 8-year-old son, the councilman started walking.

Willis has lost more than 100 pounds and shows no signs of stopping. In fact, he is just beginning.

Just in time for New Year's Resolution Season, he is rolling out his 100 Mile Challenge, encouraging citizens to walk 100 miles across the city throughout the year.

He has lost the weight and gains energy, confidence and better health. He also says he wants others to know the 100 pound burden that weighs them down can also be shed.

And he also was able to get his life insurance policy.

Starting in January, Councilman Willis will begin the 100 for 100 initiative. He will join citizens during a series of runs throughout the city until he reaches 100 miles. The miles can be sponsored and the proceeds will go to a health-related charity.

For more information visit Councilman Willis' website at lamarwillis.com.