Over the next few weeks, the Sunday Observer will share the stories of each challenger, how they got to where they are and their commitment to becoming better versions of themselves.

WHEN Eileen Wapp expressed an interest in entering the Jamaica Observer/Gymkhana Absolute Fitness Challenge, her colleague asked if she wanted to enter for “Rupee”. “Rupee” is the affectionate name for her husband Rupert Wapp.

However, when Wapp really thought about the question, she decided for the first time that she was going to do something for herself.

She told the Jamaica Observer in a recent interview that the last time she remembers herself being slim was when she was in her 20s.

Now 46 years old, Wapp weighs 248 pounds.

“Perhaps for the very first time I was choosing to do something for me,” said Wapp. “This time it isn’t about my husband, or my daughter or all the demands of the many roles I (play) as a woman, a mother or wife.

“This one is about me, my body and my health,” Wapp continued. ” I want to start feeling happy and energetic again.”

Wapp told the Sunday Observer that she asked her colleague to submit the entry for her but up to the deadline, when she asked her colleague if she had written the entry, she said no. She was therefore very surprised when she received a call some time after confirming that she had been selected to be a part of the fitness challenge, since she thought her colleague waited until it was too late to make the submission.

Working out has now become a staple for Wapp.

“It has been wonderful,” said Wapp. “I look forward every day to come to the gym.”

She also makes it her duty to walk home every night after using the gym.

“I am feeling better in myself; when I wake up in the mornings I feel much better,” Wapp shared.

She is elated she decided to enter the challenge and “Rupee” is just as excited for her.

Wapp is using her experience to influence the lifestyles of the members of her family, taking lessons from her journey in the challenge into her home.