Since the launch of 90in09 in January, Weaver has lost 45 lbs through a diet, exercise and mentoring programme created by 90in09 support team members Dr Asa Andrew, known as “America’s Health Coach”, and Scott Reall, author and founder of the YMCA’s Journey to Freedom programme.

“Midway through this journey to lose 90 lbs in 2009 I find myself plateaued at 45 lbs down,” says Weaver. “This has been the most trying part of the journey yet. I've been fighting the discouragement and disappointment of feeling stuck!

“Yet in the middle of the frustration I've been so encouraged by the support of my friends and the voice of God, cheering me on to obedience despite what I see on the scale.

"I fully believe that I'll reach this year’s goal, but am so glad to learn that weight loss is not nearly as important as simple obedience!”

Since its launch at the beginning of 2009, nearly 10,000 individuals from across the nation have joined the 90in09 campaign to start a healthier lifestyle.

In addition to joining the health initiative and tracking their successes, participants further have access to healthy food recipes, exercise techniques and more wellness information at the dedicated 90in09 website.

Obesity is the second leading cause of preventable death after smoking in the US and is associated with type 2 diabetes, hyperlipidemia, coronary artery disease, arthritis, gallstones and certain types of cancer.

Dr Andrew says that 80 per cent of health challenges people face today are diet and lifestyle related. Other statistics show that 65 per cent of Americans are overweight while 35 per cent are clinically obese.

On the web: www.90in09.com