Allen grew up a middle child in a large family that found comfort in food. It was not until well into his adult life that he paid the ultimate price. Allen has gained well over a hundred pounds since his days as a young college student.

The pressure of his obesity has finally made an impact on Allen's career as a firefighter. His brothers at the department ride him about his weight and are scared they may lose one of their own in the near future. Everyday Allen feels the pressure of putting his life and his fellow firefighter's lives at risk. He is worried that he may not pass the physical this year and is ready to grab this addiction to food by the horns. Allen's daughter is the apple of his eye and he does not want her to be teased about her overweight father anymore. Allen wants to make the lifestyle change that will help him become a better husband, father and community servant.