Last year, Cameron Timmons took a good long look at himself in the mirror and didn’t like what he saw.

“I knew it was time to do something better for myself and my family,” said the 31-year-old from Pontotoc. “I knew something had to change.” Cameron and his wife, Morgan, have a 2-year-old son, Watson, and are expecting a baby girl in February.

Taking the First Step

Cameron, who is a registered nurse with North Mississippi Medical Center-Pontotoc, began his fitness journey by walking the halls at work. “During work and on my breaks, I’d try to get in as many steps as possible,” he said.

That May, North Mississippi Health Services waived the enrollment fee for employees who wanted to join their local Wellness Center. Cameron took advantage of the promotion and hasn’t let up since.

Pushing His Limits

He hits Pontotoc Wellness Center several days each week—often participating in aerobics classes like Total Body Sculpt, Power Hour, Cycle Fit or High Intensity Interval Training (HIIT). He’s building strength and endurance with cardiovascular and weight equipment.

“I wanted to run a 5K on the treadmill just to see if I could do it,” Cameron said. “So, I pushed myself, and now I am able to run a 5K anytime I set foot on the treadmill.”

Cameron says he’s grateful for the “strong support system” he has in Morgan, his coworkers and the Wellness Center staff.

Reaping the Benefits

“I weighed about 320 pounds when I joined, and I weigh 270 now, so I’ve lost about 50 pounds,” he said. “My triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol have greatly improved.”

His perseverance has paid off in ways he never imagined—like no longer having to shop in the Big and Tall department. “I feel younger and healthier than I did in my 20s,” Cameron said. “I feel like I’ve gotten my confidence back.”