Brett – S. Ankeny, Iowa: I think it is appropriate to recognize the three Farrell's team members that provided the inspiration to drag my butt down to Farrell's each morning at 4:20. Brain, Nancy and Dan are stars in my book as each personally touched and changed my life. These three, and others like you, is what make Farrell's such an awesome life changing experience. I could not ask for a better coach than Brain and if not for him, I never would have signed up for Farrell's 10 weeks ago. It was simply the best decision I have ever made. 10 weeks later, I feel great about who I am and where I am in life. I also want to credit Nancy for continuously pushing every class member and turning up the intensity of the workouts over the 10 weeks. These three and the other team members at Farrell's truly care about each student.

I was taken completely off guard and humbled Saturday night with the announcement that I had won the award. I have noticed the personal accomplishments of each student and I felt that there were others that were much more deserving than I. I was simply floored by the announcement and deliberated about not accepting. You see, it was never about the money, although, it does pay the annual maintenance fee.

Farrell's has been one of the most positive experiences in my life! After a long combat tour in Afghanistan and a shocking divorce, I had reached a low point in my life where I struggled with my personal health and self esteem. I had reached a point where I was living a destructive life style of being depressed, eating unhealthy, and drinking way too much. Over time, I started running again and made some improvements, but I hit a wall that I simply struggled to climb over.

Now, I have more energy and embrace each day with vigor and a positive attitude. I simply cannot envision my life without Farrell's. You see, it is not about the money or winning or losing. It is really about a journey that changes your life...and at Farrell's, everyone is a winner!