8/13/2004
Jill of Edmonton writes:

Hi Cindy...I thought you did an amazing job throughout the whole "Taking it Off" season....the ordeals you went through preceding the show must have been very stressful. You're a very strong woman and I admire you for doing what you did on the show! I was just wondering where you got your sexy pictures done...you looked amazing! I've been going to the gym for awhile and love the results that I see and would like to get it on film so I can capture this moment in my life. Could you please give me some information on how I can get in contact with them??? That would be great!!!! Keep up the good work - you look awesome!

7/21/2004
Kristin of Toronto writes:

Hi Cindy,
I've always shyed away from watching episodes of "Taking It Off" because I thought it would be an easy way for me to trigger myself back into my eating disorder, which I have had since I was 15 (am almost 24 now) and am in the process of recovering from. Once by accident I guess I turned the tv on when you were speaking about having an eating disorder...and since then I've been watching the show. I just wanted to say that I think you have amazing strength and courage to be able to admit to having struggled with something such as anorexia or bulimia, and to be able to take on a healthy lifestyle of healthy eating and excersizing, without getting back in to being obsessed by numbers on the scale, restricting, calories, etc. etc. That's a point I hope to be able to reach very soon...I know there can be a very thin line between trying to excersize and eat healthy just in order to get to a normalized weight and spiraling down into the world of eating disorder thoughts and behaviours...but you are doing such a great job and it serves as such an inspiration to me and many others I am sure. Let's me know that not all diet plans⁄excersize has to lead to unhealthy practices, and that it is possible to beat this. Thank you so much!

6/24/2004
Ali of Edmonton writes:

Hey Cindy,
I am Daryl's good friend. We stopped by juice fare a few times during the course of the show but I never got to meet you. I only caught the show a few times but I saw one episode with you and it broke my heart. I have struggled for years and years with an eating disorder and totally found that I could relate with you in so many ways. I am pretty sure D told you about me and that I was having a hard time during the show. It was so nice to see you throw it all out on the line and try your absolute hardest on the show. I know that the biggest part of it is just getting over the nagging thoughts and poor self esteem. I am happy to say that I am doing good though. Thanks so much.
-Ali

5/26/2004
Mike of Vancouver writes:

Hi Cindy -- I've been watching this show off and on for the past 6 months, and by chance I actually saw the finale show today. You did an amazing job - your honesty is refreshing and I am sure it will help others who are watching out there. I was pulling for you as were many others I am sure! On a side note, being a small business owner myself, I can understand the risks and challenges -- good on you for even taking on such an endeavor! Best wishes to you always.
Mike

5/23/2004
Crystal of Canada writes:

Cindy,
I have been watching Taking it off and have been amazed what an amaing role model you are. I have struggled with my weight for many years, including suffering from an eating disorder so seing you conquor your fears and see you go through this transformation hits close to home. You are so beautiful, inside and out and I just want to say thank you for sharing your story with us. You are a role model to those who watch the show. I hope one day I will be at a place in my life where I can look at myself and face my struggles too. Thanx Cindy, and good luck in the future and in all you pursue!

5/16/2004
Steve Connell of St. Albert writes:

Cindy:
Have been a fan of yours since the new season started. After watching last show and how emotional you were my heart was melting. Am divorced, father of 2 grown sons and support you all the way. Keep up the great effort.

5/13/2004
Corrie-Ann of Edmonton, Alberta writes:

You are truly an amazing woman for doing all this on camera in front of millions of people!

You have a great head on your shoulders and you have many people out there watching you and cheering you on.

You will be in my thoughts with positive thoughts and prayers, you CAN do this!

I believe you can overcome your fears with your body and conquer them.

Keep on doing great!

With lots of love,
Corrie

4/28/2004
erica of hamilton ontario writes:

Cindy keep up the good work you are doing amazing. Keep your head held high and you will succeed.

4/28/2004
steve of north vancouver writes:

Hey cindy, i just started watching "taking it off". The other day i saw the episode where you had that semi-nude photo shoot...WOW! for a 41 year old mother you are a FOX... congratulations! -steve

4/18/2004
Brad of Manitoba writes:

Hey Cindy

I just wanted to say that you are doing GREAT!! But I personally do not think that you need to loose weight. It is my opinion that you are beautiful just the way you are. It is very rare that a lady attractive as your self seems to be down to earth as you appear on this show. try not to judge your self on this whole weight issue instead judge your self in life and from what I can see that would make you amazing. Just wanted to say great job thus far and hope you find happiness

4/15/2004
lawrence of nova scotia writes:

cindy congratulations.you look great.since august 2003i have lost 55 pounds.from a 44 waist to a 33.you will agree it does feel good to lose the extra baggage.keep up the good work. i eat more healthy and i walk between 1and half to 2hours.

4/1/2004
Stevi of Winnipeg writes:

Hi Cindy,
I am also an ex-eating disorder person whom has recently lost 60+ lbs. It was really difficult to keep on track to do it right this time not fast. Just keep at it you will feel so empowered by the this new sense of control. You do however look beautiful now, this will only enhance what you already have.

Woo-Hoo go Cindy go!!!

3/31/2004
Danielle of Edmonton writes:

Cindy, I seen you at the northend club fit many times...I think you look great...how did you get on the show? and how can I stop my bindge eating?

3/26/2004
Christie of Toronto writes:

Hi Cindy,

I was a big fan of yours on the show. You should be proud of your success. Like many of your fans, I suffer from any eating disorder and am wondering how you were able to shed the pounds through your diet without being triggered back into your ED habits. Did you see a dietitician or follow a meal plan? Always remember that you are beautiful!

3/18/2004
Trish of Calgary writes:

Hi Cindy, I just watched the last episode. I am so sorry that you business didn't go well. Keep positive and things will get better, concentrate on achieving your goals, visualize the end and the road will be easier.

3/18/2004
Patty of Courtenay, B.C. writes:

Cindy you look fabulous and those photos! I hope that you look at them and see a beautiful woman rather that looking for flaws! I loved your relationship with your daughter and I loved the episode where she talked about how much she loves you and thinks you are a great mom. It is tough being a single parent and you obviously are doing something right there. I'm sorry to hear about your store because I know you had a lot invested in terms of time, energy, effort and money. Good luck in the future Cindy, you will survive.

3/18/2004
Angie Werner of Edmonton, Alberta writes:

I was really cheering you on all along for overcoming your eating disorder and being a single parent and a business woman all in one. But, then I saw the episode where you were complaining that you did not have enough money for groceries which is a legitimate concern and I really felt for you coming from a single mother home. And then the episode right after that you had lip injections and permanent make-up tattoos done. The last time I checked this stuff was not free and maybe you need to re-organize your priorites, and worry about getting groceries instead of expensive cosmetic surgery. You have lost my vote on this one!

3/17/2004
arlene of cape breton/ nova scotia writes:

WELL I HAD TO TURN YOU OFF MY HUSBAND WAS ALMOST IN THE TV LOL LOL

NOT TRUE YOU LOOK WONDERFULL AND YOU DID GREAT , GOOD LUCK AND GOD BLESS. ARLENE

3/15/2004
producers of Taking It Off of Edmonton writes:

Check out Cindy's after photo under the "photos" section

3/15/2004
evelyn of edmonton writes:

you look absolutely perfect. i can't believe that you think that you're overweight? where?? good luck cindy!

3/14/2004
Pauline of Vancouver, BC writes:

Hi Cindy, I just wanted to say good luck! You are doing an awesome job, at sticking to your plan. As I am 5'2" and in my forties I can totally relate to your situation; I mean a two pound weight gain on us is the equivalent to five on someone taller! Fortunately, it works to our advantage when we lose weight at it shows more quickly. Anyway, Good Luck!!

3/14/2004
Michelle White of Edmonton, AB writes:

Hi Cindy,
I think that you are doing a great job helping people understand about eating disorders. I saw one episode were you had someone from kinetix helping you with the program. I am really interested in trying the program myself but would like someone to help me understand the program as I find it a little confusing. How do I get in touch with someone from Kinetix?

3/13/2004
Lisa Thomas of Winnipeg writes:

I just want to let you know that you are strong and you can do this.My favorite saying that keeps me going is this"I have the devine right to have it all. And I hope this this will help you.

3/9/2004
From the producers of Taking It Off:

We've noticed that the subject of eating disorders has sparked a great deal of discussion on this forum.
Since we believe that eating disorders are a serious and widespread problem that is still misunderstood by many Canadians, we've decided to pass on some helpful links.

Below are several easy-to-understand, but medically credible articles explaining eating disorders. Following them are links to resources across the country where more information and help is available.

BACKGROUND ON EATING DISORDERS:

Canadian Psychological Association: Accessible definition of eating disorders and options for treatment
http://www.cpa.ca/eating.htm

Health Canada: Article on the causes and consequences of eating disorders
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/pphb-dgspsp/publicat/miic-mmac/chap_6_e.html

Calgary Health region: Understanding eating disorders
http://www.calgaryhealthregion.ca/hlthconn/items/eatdis.htm

Canadian Dieticians Association: How to recognize an eating disorder
http://www.dietitians.ca/english/faqs/faq_7.html


NATIONAL NON-PROFIT RESOURCES:

National Eating Disorder Information Centre: Canadian resources
www.nedic.ca

ANAD: Association for Awareness and Networking around Disordered Eating
A non-profit grass roots service provider that receives funds from the provincial and regional health authorities
www.anad.bc.ca

MARITIMES:

Eating Disorders Action Group, Halifax: A community based, charitable organization dedicated to promoting healthy body image and self esteem and to supporting individuals who experience disordered eating
www.e-d-a-g.com/main.htm

QUEBEC:

The Hot Line for Association québécoise de l'anorexie et de la boulimie: Call (418) 832-0574 or (514) 630-0907
To help and support for those with anorexia and/or bulimia and the people around them

Eating Disorders program, Douglas Hospital, Montreal, for the treatment of adults 18 or older suffering from anorexia and bulimia nervosa.
www.douglashospital.qc.ca/clinicalservices/adultclinicalservices/specialized/edp.asp?l=e

Ste. Justine Hospital, Adolescent Medicine Division:
Treatment for teenagers with anorexia or bulimia
3175 Cote Ste. Catherine Montreal, Quebec H3T 1C5
(514) 354-4721

ONTARIO:
Sheena’s Place: Free support program in Toronto for people with eating disorders and their families
www.sheenasplace.org

Hopewell Eating Disorders Support Centre of Ottawa
www.hopewell.on.ca

Body Image Coalition of Peel: A non-profit organization serving the Region of Peel, comprised of the communities of Brampton, Caledon and Mississauga,Ontario
www.bodyimagecoalition.org

MANITOBA:
The Eating Disorders Association of Manitoba Inc. (EDAM): A non-profit organization providing support and information
http://www.edam.mb.ca

SASKATCHEWAN:
BridgePoint Center for Eating Disorders, Saskatchewan: A non-profit community-based organization that provides treatment and support services to individual's with eating disorders, in partnership with Saskatchewan Health
www.bridgepointcenter.ca
.

ALBERTA:
The Eating Disorder Education Organization of Edmonton: A non-profit organization with the objective of increasing awareness of eating disorders
http://www.edeo.org

The Calgary Eating Disorder Program: A part of the Calgary Health Region and the Southern Alberta Eating Disorder Network, it provides specialized services to all age groups
www.crha-health.ab.ca/eatingdis/index.htm


Eating Disorders Program, University of Alberta Hospital, Edmonton: A part of the Capital Health Region
www.capitalhealth.ca/Health+Services/Find+a+Service/ServiceDetail.asp?ServLink=2316

BRITISH COLUMBIA:
Eating Disorder Resource Centre of B.C.: A non-profit organization for education and referral
www.disorderedeating.ca

Vancouver Island Association for Ending Disordered Eating (formerly B.C. Eating Disorders Association): A non-profit organization of professionals, family members, former and recovering individuals with eating disorders
http://www.preventingdisorderedeating.org

St. Paul’s Hospital: British Columbia's designated program for the treatment of adults with severe anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa
http://www.stpaulseatingdisorders.ca

FOR AMERICAN RESOURCES:
The Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center: U.S. resources
http://www.edreferral.com

3/7/2004
D. of vic BC writes:

I don't have a TV but I look you up on the internet and I am very proud of what you are doing. I have had B. for a long time now and I am not ready to change. But I am so happy to read about who is changing

3/4/2004
Lynda of Edmonton writes:

When I first saw you on the show I couldn't understand why someone as gorgeous as you would be worried about her weight but now that I know more of your story I just wanted to say that you are doing wonderful with what you've accomplished, YOU LOOK FANTASTIC & I LOVE SEEING YOU WITH YOUR DAUGHTER CAUSE YOU CAN SEE THE LOVE AND CARING THERE. Keep up the great work.

3/4/2004
Lynne Edwards of Mississauga ON writes:

Low self esteem, negative thinking, the blame game.. From last night’s show it was especially revealing as to what leads to overweight. These people need therapy, not permanent makeup tattoos or expensive home gym equipment.

2/19/2004
Erica of Ajax. Ontario writes:

Hi Cindy,

Congratulations on your accomplishments so far! I started watching the show with interest after I learned you had recovered from an eating disorder. Like you, I have a history of eating disorders (bulimia)and twenty pounds to lose. However I still have relapses from time to time and have a difficult time controlling my sweet tooth! What type of meal plan do you follow?

2/16/2004
ROSE BARON of HYDE PARK, UT. USA writes:

DEAR CINDY I HAVE NOT SEEN THE SHOW YET. THE TAPES SHOULD ARRIVE ANY DAY NOW. I WAS REALLY CONCERNED ABOUT YOU DOING THIS SHOW, AND TALKING ABOUT YOUR BULIMIA. I CAN SEE BY THE E-MAILS YOU RECEIVE THAT YOU ARE HELPING A LOT OF PEOPLE. I AM PROUD OF YOU FOR THAT, BUT, REMEMBER TO TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF. LOVE YOU LOTS, MOM

2/15/2004
Cheryl of Lacombe, Alberta writes:

Hi Cindy:
Congratulations on what you have accomplished so far. I look up to you and your struggle with an eating disorder. I am 6'1 and have lost over 150 pounds. I know what being afraid of the scale and food are all about. Would you be able to tell me where you got your bodyfat testing done and how much it costs please? I have heard that is the most accurate way to get it tested. Good luck in your journey, I'll be rooting for you and the others!

2/13/2004
Jesse of Edmonton writes:

You are truly an inspiration to people wanting to make the healthy choice. Although you may not have much to lose it is all in how you feel about yourself...if you want to lose 20 lbs.. damn it you should feel proud when you do it. Keep up the good work. You are an amazing mother and truly an inspiration. Keep your head held high and continue smiling....

2/4/2004
Bara of Alberta writes:

Hello Cindy!
I am happy to see a person like me on Taking It Off this seaon! You and I are nearly the same age, we are the same height, and about the same weight. After reaching a high of 144lbs I am down to 133. Years ago,I also went down to 100 lbs by starving myself and purging when I did eat. I KNOW how you are feeling! My approach to weight loss is the same as yours, exercise and healthy eating. I joined Weight Watchers to give me some accountability and am pleased with the slow, steady results.
Regarding Kimberly's comments in an earlier post, she is really misinformed! Fat is fat, regardless of the total weight on the package! At 5'2" tall, our healthy weight range is from 109-136lbs. You must take your sex, age, and body structure in consideration when finding a goal weight. At 5'2" 137-159 is considered overweight, 160 and over is considered OBESE! That fact that you (and I) were less than 20 lbs from obese is a reason for us (and others) to take our weight loss seriously!
We can do this girl! I will look forward to following your progress on TV.

2/2/2004 12:00:00 PM
Kimberly Yip of Prince George, B.C. writes:

Just a quick note to express my disappointment in your new season of ’Taking It Off’. It is an insult to all of us who actually have a weight problem to see someone like Cindy on your show. How tall is she? Because at a 140lbs.
she sure looks to have a healthy body to me. If your show is trying to promote unrealistic body images you have succeeded in profiling Cindy. Is she striving to be a waif? If she does actually need to lose 20 lbs. (is this an ideal, healthy weight for her or just a ’wish’?) you should have picked a candidate who actually has a weight ’problem’ who’s health is at risk. Although I have seen just one episode, (and have read her profile on-line) I believe she belongs in an eating disorder support group, not a weight loss program on T.V. meant to inspire others.

Kimberly Yip
Prince George, B.C.

1/29/2004
charlie of calgary writes:

i'm a mother of a small child and i too suffer from an eating disorder. Growing up i was always thin but quitting dancing, working in restaurants, getting married and having a child have taken a tole on my body. i also have advers reactions to the numbers on the scale and a one pound weight gain can send me back on a bulimic binge. watching you lose weight and being healthy after having an eating disorder gives me hope that i can do it too.

1/26/2004
Diana of Edmonton writes:

Hi Cindy,

First of all, I will like to say thank you for being on the show and showing light to a serious epidemic "eating disorders". I too suffer from it. I've been on each side of the scale, and experience all the types of abuse that comes from that disease. I have been as low as 130 to as high as 260lbs. I have vomited, taken exlax, eating less than 300 calories a day, starved myself, and eaten so much food that it made me ill. Keep up the good work on the show. One motto I use in life is "The only way to failure is to quit". Take care.

1/23/2004
Christie of Grande Prairie writes:

Good luck! I too have been down to 100lbs because of an eating disorder, and I know how hard this is going to be for you to drop the weight in a healthy manner. Just do not give up! I find it difficult to make myself exercise every day when I know that if I just started the unhealthy habits that I used to have I could lose the weight a lot quicker. But, I also know that it won't stay off, and that I will get sick again. So have faith, and keep up the good work!!

1/22/2004
Phil Alain of Edmonton writes:

Just wanted to let you know that you are inspiration in all that you do. You will change a lot of peoples lives for the better with this show. I strive to overcome my own obstacles all the time and watching you do this regulary is only another motivator.

1/22/2004
ROSE BARON of HYDE PARK, UT. USA writes:

DEAR CINDY
EVEN THOUGH WE DO NOT GET THIS PROGRAM IN THE STATES, WE ARE CHEERING YOU AND ALL THE PARTICIPANTS ON. GOOD LUCK TO ALL OF YOU.
FROM MOM & DAD

1/22/2004
Gene Baron of Salt Lake City Utah writes:

Hi Sis, Good luck with the show. I am sure you'll do great, and with any luck you might even be as HOT as your little brother when it's all done.

1/22/2004
Diane Baron of Logan, Utah writes:

I want you to know how much I admire your courage & your honesty in being on this program. All of us that have an eating disorder understand one of the hardest things about it is it's secrecy. I know you will be a strength to so many people with ED's & hopefully to all the young girls that may get caught up in this at a young age like we did. You are my inspiration to keep on the right path to being healthy, my shoulder to cry on when I'm feeling weak & my strenght when I feel no one in the world really understands me. You are my beautiful & very courageous big sister & I love you very much. Diane

1/21/2004
Tam of Calgary writes:

Dear Cindy, I turn on the show now just to see you and hear what you have to say. I can relate to you 100% and when I watch you its like watching myself. I two get the creeps when my husband of 4 months touches me, How can he look at me and still love me when I don’t love myself or at least my body. After seeing you tonight I have decided that I will make an appointment to go to the gym and work out. My thoughts are with you as you embark upon your journey

1/19/2004
Guinevere of British Columbia writes:

Dear Cindy,
I just wanted to say congradulations. You are so beautiful. I am a 16 year old girl. You have inspired me to keep going on with being healthier even with my eating disorder and over excerising habits. Thank you

1/19/2004
Joy of Edmonton writes:

Cindy,

First of all you are amazing- looking for 41! Second, I have not experienced the same eating disorder as you, however I have struggled with binge eating disorder for the past year after a difficult breakup and professional expectations of maintaining a certain size and fat percentage.

It has been a long and hard battle but I am pulling for you as I know I too will overcome my struggles. It is something you live with one day at a time but I see you as having the commitment and common sense approach to succeed! I will be watching you and praying for you!

1/16/2004
gaeta of winnipeg writes:

Dear Cindy...I'm excited and grateful that you are in this session of Taking it Off. I'm with you...rooting for you, identifying with you and challenging myself to keep up with you. I hope you soon see the beauty in yourself that I have already seen. My I once again see my own. You're an inspiration..thank you. sincerely...Gaeta

1/15/2004
Sue of Canada writes:

How brave of you to share your story. Know that you can succeed and many people with be cheering for you.
I look forward to following your progress and the story that unfolds over the next 6 months.
Good Luck!

1/14/2004
Evelyn of Toronto, Canada writes:

Wow, I never thought they would put a woman who doesn't have much weight to lose on the show, but I am so glad because you represent the average woman, with average weight problems. You are beautiful! Do you have any tips? What have you been doing? It's so inspiring to have someone with similar goals as me on the show! Rock on!

1/14/2004
Matt of Edmonton writes:

Like the "Cindi" from the first year, you might have the most trouble because you, comparatively, have so little weight to lose. You're already amazing looking but i hope you reach your goal and feel great about your body!

1/14/2004
Nathalie of Calgary, AB writes:

Hi Cindy,
When I read your profile, I felt like I was reading something about myself. Specially your comments about not wanting anyone to touch you and that you've given yourself the creeps. The eating disorder... been there too and I feel that only now, after 10+ yrs, I have kicked it in the butt! I will turn 30 this May and I feel good, strong and empowered. I have been eating healthy, excercising normally and feeling really good since Jan 1st. I'm proud of you, even though I don't know you. What you went through and what you are doing now for yourself are VERY similar to my own experience. If I could give you a big hug to show you my support, I would! Instead, I'll hope that you get this little letter and know I am a real woman who understands you and supports you %10000!! Hats off to each of you for acknowledging YOU ARE WORTH IT!

1/14/2004
Dorian of Vancouver writes:

Bravo for your bravery. I watched TIO religously last season, but this year, there is someone who is a role model for me, and that's you. After battling my way back from an all time low of 5'8" and 86lbs, I'm trying to get back in shape and healthy. I'm so proud of you that you had the strength to not only admit to yourself that the problems could very easily come back, but to share that with the world, that takes guts. Good luck, and remember that there's a lot of us out there rooting for you.

D