Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan employees and customers lose two tons of weight

"Win by Losing" weight loss challenge is a prelude to crowning Detroit's "Biggest Loser" on Thanksgiving Day

November 24, 2009

DETROIT - Demonstrating that a commitment to healthy eating, exercise and maintaining a healthy weight is something that shouldn't wait until after the holidays, 378 Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan employees and 462 employees of Blues' customer groups lost more than 4,200 pounds in a 11-week weight loss program called "Win by Losing." The program concluded Nov. 16.

"Maintaining personal health is a year-round effort that shouldn't wait until the holidays are over," said Andrew Hetzel, Blues' vice president for corporate communications. "We now literally have two tons of proof that people can make a real difference for themselves by committing to daily exercise and a healthy diet."

The Michigan Blues continue to lead Michigan to a healthier future through involvement in several statewide initiatives to get people moving and eating healthier. For example, the Blues' "Win by Losing" contest results come just ahead of Thanksgiving Day, when Blues' CEO Daniel J. Loepp will unveil the winner of "The Biggest Loser: Detroit Edition" on WDIV-TV's broadcast of America's Thanksgiving Parade. That contest — a partnership between BCBSM, WDIV-TV and The Parade Company — has pitted six metro Detroit residents against one another in a weight loss challenge similar to the hit NBC show, The Biggest Loser.

"Studies have shown Michigan to be among the top 10 states for adult obesity. Blue Cross is taking this epidemic very seriously, and we are committed to helping our customers and members build healthier futures," Hetzel said. "We thank our employees and customers for leading by example, and working so hard over the last several months to achieve such outstanding results."

For more information on the "Win by Losing" program or to interview one of the participants about their experience, please contact BCBSM at 313-549-9884.

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan is a nonprofit corporation and independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.