TALLAHASSEE, FL (WTXL) -- A Leon High School Teacher who was also a contestant ABC's Extreme Weight Loss has passed away.
According to school officials, Rod Durham died over the weekend. The district released the following statement
"We are saddened by the news of the passing of Leon High School teacher Rod Durham. Mr. Durham was a great attribute to the Leon family and the Tallahassee community. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Durham family at this time"
Durham gained fame during his time on ABC's Extreme Weight Loss Challenge.
With hopes to change his life, he said he joined the show for support. His journey began at 448 pounds. With cameras rolling, ABC followed him through his year long journey trying to make his dreams become reality.
In a 2014 interview with WTXL, Durham said after losing 188 pounds on the show, he felt like anything was possible, “You’re never too old to follow your dreams and make a change for you. Live for you, follow your heart and never give up.”
Durham touched many people's lives. Friends, family, and former students took to social media to express their condolences and share their stories about Durham.
The following resources are available for students, family, and friends.
HOTLINES:
- Hospice Hotline, available now for students, teachers, staff, (850) 878-5310
- 211 Crisis Hotline – available 24 hours a day, seven days a week 2-1-1 or 850-617-6333
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP) – always available for staff (850) 431-5190
Campus Presence Next Week:
- Hospice Staff will be available on campus for teachers’ return on Monday
