When many of us think of weight loss we think of pain. Norris Chumley is different. He thinks weight loss not only can be fun, but should be fun. This is why he's come up with the "Joy of Weight Loss" program, a very simple plan that involves bringing fun into your life, eating sensibly, and enjoying movement.

The Group Gathers

One of the "Joy of Weight Loss Groups" meets every week on Friday mornings in one of America's toughest neighborhoods, Bedford-Stuyvesant, Brooklyn, New York. This is a model, pilot group where the need and challenges are greatest: African-Americans and Hispanics have the highest incidence of obesity.

The group is led by Norris, who constructed the program based on the USDA food pyramid, sensible exercise plans, and his belief in a higher power. Norris Chumley himself lost 160 pounds and has kept it off over 12 years.

What makes this group unique is members simplify the process of becoming healthy and make it enjoyable. The group meetings are like parties: members eat, play, laugh, cry, share, pray, and learn together. Most of all, they are friends connecting with each other, and putting their faith and caring into action.

Medical Director, Monica Sweeney, MPH, MD often comes for a visit of encouragement.

A Moment of Silence