by Gina Scarpa and David McAlpine

 

Perhaps no Biggest Loser contestants have been more frustrating than brothers/police officers Dan and Don Evans. The two intentionally gained weight to get kicked off the ranch and refused to participate in emotionally healing themselves with Bob and Jillian. Within the first few weeks on the show, they both got their wish and were sent home. However, they both promised they'd be successful back home and they have proven that thus far. Today, we spoke to Don in an exclusive interview to get the truth about the weigh-ins and what he learned from The Biggest Loser.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Whose idea was it to go on the ranch?
A. Don: Neither Dan, nor I, individually decided to apply for The Biggest Loser. The opportunity presented itself at a time when we both desperately needed it. Dan and I had many discussions about our weight gain. Unfortunately, all we ever did was talk about it. We each had significant personal problems as a result of being overweight..

 

My son, Paul, was convinced I was going to "die" as a result of my obesity. Paul made multiple unsuccessful attempts to exercise with me. Finally, out of frustration, Paul took a "tough love" approach and "disowned" me, promising to take care of his mother and sister after I died. Out of despair, my wife told me, "I'm not going to lose a son because you're fat".

 

It was shortly after this occurred that the Biggest Loser Audition presented itself. After an extensive application process, I was chosen as a contestant. I believe it was a "Godsend". My participation in the Biggest Loser has been "life changing", not only for me, but my family as well. I will always be grateful.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: When you saw that you had Bob and Jillian, what was your first reaction?
A. Don: I have to admit the idea of four weeks of immunity was appealing, but how could anyone be disappointed with Bob and Jillian. They are considered to be the absolute best at what they do. I was excited to be working with them.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Was being on the ranch harder than you expected?
A. Don: After the challenge on the first night at the Ranch, Dan and I said to each other, "What have we gotten ourselves into?" Surprisingly, the workouts weren't the most difficult aspect of being on the Ranch, and I was getting use to them. For me, it was the feeling of isolation or loss of control resulting from being "cut off" from my family and the outside world. I should have realized my wife of 33 years was capable of taking care of any problems during my absence.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: What was the most important thing you learned on the ranch?
A. Don: I can do this! I'm not going to die from multiple three hour workouts. I can eat healthy and change my lifestyle. I can lose the weight.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Why did you admit this week that you gained weight?
A. Don: I admitted to gaining weight because it was the truth. My new partner, Irene, contacted me the night before the "weigh in" and told me she was already taking steps to intentionally gain weight so we would fall below the yellow line. Irene stated she knew I was prepared to go home and her plan would insure she and the remaining contestants would be safe for another week. It was a strategic move on her part.

 

It would be impossible for me to overcome my previous weight gain in addition to Irene's weight gain. It was "checkmate". The game was over for me. This was going to happen whether I participated or not. I decided to support my partner and make absolutely certain everyone else was safe.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: What made you want to go home?
A. Don: It was no secret I was homesick. I was prepared for the day I would go home, but I was also prepared to stay as long as possible. Ultimately, the decision was made by my partner, Irene.

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: How are you keeping the weight off now that you are at home?
A. Don: My total immersion in the Biggest Loser program provided me with the foundation to be successful in my efforts to lose weight. I closely monitor my caloric intake, hydration and exercise to insure I continue to lose weight. "Calories in. Calories out".

 

Q. Gina, RealityWanted: Do you have a weight goal for the finale?
A. Don: My starting weight was 309 pounds. Currently,I have lost 87 pounds and weight 222 pounds. My goal is to lose in excess of 50% of my total body weight. My "goal weight" for the finale is 150 pounds.

 

The Biggest Loser airs Tuesdays at 8/7c on NBC.

 

(Image courtesy of NBC)

 

Follow Gina @ginascarpa

 

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