Get Ready for Ruby!
Sun., Nov. 9, 2008 2:13 PM PST by Staff
Ruby Gettinger is a sparkling Southern charmer with a very big problem: her weight. When doctors tell her she's facing a potential death sentence if she doesn't take charge of her health, she enlists a team of experts—and the support of her adoring friends and family—to help her make the changes that'll transform her life.
Get to know this brave beauty now with our Ruby exclusives, featuring insider scoop, message boards, video clips, her blog and more.


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Show the next 51 - 100 of 388 comments
Now loading...Tammy Fri, Nov 7, 2008, 6:19 PM
1. Ruby, You are a beautiful women and I pray for you on your long journey. I myself have started the same journey weiging in at 330 I know what it's like not to be accepted in todays society. I will be watching your show and wish you all the best.
Harold Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 6:52 AM
2. I can't wait....one more day til the show comes on!!!
Samantha Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 11:54 AM
3. Ruby you make me believe again. Thank you
tina White Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 11:55 AM
4. We live in a cold world. You my friend may change this. lets hope
penny Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 11:56 AM
5. Ruby, I can't wait to see your show. I heard you on the readio and came straight here. I fell inlove
Julia Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 1:08 PM
6. OMG, how similar we are Ruby. Thank you for telling our truth. The previews are unbelievable you are unbelievable. Thank you Ruby
Judy Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 2:34 PM
7. Dear Ruby, I saw you in a coffee shop a few weeks ago, and recognized you from the very sensitive "In my dreams...." TV spot, shot in Forsyth Park. As so often happens with famous people (and yes, you are now!), I felt I knew you, and flashed you a smile. Your face lit up with one of the warmest, most radiant smiles I have ever seen on anyone. You are truly beautiful, and I hope you realize that. Even more, I hope you can hold on to that realization through all the stress and excitement of production, and also through the quieter life that comes after "wrap" and between seasons. You go, girl!
glenda Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 5:10 PM
8. Dear Ruby You are so brave to take this to TV! I will be watching you online & rooting for you every step of the way. My family has serious weight issues. At 225 with back & pain issues I too struggle every day to take off weight. I watched my wonderful, strong & brave Mother creep up to almost 600 lbs. With support from friends & family she was able to take off 400 lbs so she could travel & enjoy her retirement. I know there will be a lot of pressure because now you have "star status" and have become a roll model. Please remember that you are doing this for yourself and for a better life. Brightest Blessings to you & I'll add you to my prayers every day! You Go Girl! glenda
Kim Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 5:24 PM
9. Hello Ruby!!! This is an exciting time for you. Tomorrow's the day! All of us will be cheering you on. I will be doing it with you from here in VA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! WE CAN DO IT!!!!!
elaine Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 6:50 PM
10. Dear Ruby, I know your pain, Just this past April i had gastric by past surgry, i weighted 450. Now i weigh 315. I didn't take an easy way out, It's very hard! It's a lifetime change. I've been really sick now just getting better. People are very mean to over weight people. I'm keeping a dairy of my lifetime change. I wish you the very best and I will be wachen your show!!!;) Good Luck!
krystal Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 7:16 PM
11. Hi Ruby!!! When i first saw the commercial for your show, i immediately started crying! For you,for me,and for everyone else in this world that suffers with their weight. Most people dont realize anymore that life isnt just about how you look,there can be much more to it,(if your strong enough to live that way),and i personally think you are! I`ve been trying to loose weight almost all my life,so i know it`s nowhere near easy. But,i also know that you can do! I`ll be here rooting for you the entire way!Remember,you are beautiful,no matter what!!! ;D Good Luck! Krystal
Kim Sat, Nov 8, 2008, 8:25 PM
12. Hi Ruby!!! You are beautiful!!!! Your smile is awesome!! I also have a serious weight problem. I am over 300lbs and 5'2. I tell you....you truly are speaking for those of us with weight problems and showing them that you are awesome. You go for your dreams and no there will be bumpy roads...but do not be discouraged. I will watch every show and I will root for you....I will also pray for you!!!!! Iowa loves ya!!!!!!
Michelle Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 3:48 AM
13. Hi Ruby, Thank you so much for sharing your journey with us all. I couldn't wait until your show aired this morning here. I even taped it so I can watch it as often as I like. I too have a serious weight problem. I used to wake up during the night knowing that I must have stopped breathing. Trying to catch my breath. Suffering with back pain. Now my knees and ankles as well. Trying to keep my job working as a nurse dealing with the pain constantly has been nearly impossible. But after seeing you and hearing what you had to say ....I have to say Ruby you inspire me. Thank you Superwoman ***** We love you Ruby..keep up the great work. We're cheering you on **** I'll be praying for you...
kd Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:04 AM
14. Ruby- you are so beautiful and I wish you all the best on your journey to losing weight. You are an inspiration for everyone!
Sharon Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:04 AM
15. Ruby, Please know that there are so many of us out here who are cheering you on and realize how incredibly lucky you are yo have such a wonderful opportunity! On behalf of all of us who have been fighting this weight battle all of our lives, you MUST stick with it and beat the odds. May God bless you and give you the strength to face the devil head on and shed all that weight you are carrying about. I am so proud of you....Hugs and kisses to you, sister
Laura Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:14 AM
16. You speak for so many people...maybe perceptions of the overweight will change. God speed on your journey, I walk beside you!
Liz Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:16 AM
17. Hi Ruby, I just finished watching your show, and I am so knowing that we all can do this. You are the inspiration for us all. There are so many of us Ruby's out here, that will learn and be inspired by you. I don't need to say good luck, because this is not a luck thing...it is a definate thing. Just know, that we will be watching and cheering you on.
Marie Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:18 AM
18. Ruby, Thank you * I am off to my weight loss class that I was going to blow off today! Will be watching every episode. All my blessing!
Amy Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:20 AM
19. Ruby, You are absolutely beautiful! Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. I too am battling my weight at reached my changing point at 321lbs. Being a southern woman (just two hours from you), I deal with the same demons you deal with everyday. Food addiction is terrible and it is the hardest to fight (in my opinion). I have been trying to overcome that myself. Find your triggers * for me it is sugar and anything with sugar in it * then stay away from those * I know easier said than done * especially since i had a sundae yesterday * provided by mother in law). Anyways, you can do it!! Just know that it won't happen overnight and it will happen. I have lost 50lbs in one year, and you can too. Now at 271lbs, I feel better and know I have a long way to go. You will be my inspiration to get back on track! Thank you for doing this show! Keep up the good work!!
Belle Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:36 AM
20. Ruby, I am 35 years old and weigh in at 365 lbs. I just want you to know that you are a TRUE reality star. Thank you so much for putting yourself out there and showing the world what we face everyday. I will be watching and I NEVER watch reality t.v. because my reality sucks enough, but you have put a new face to reality tv and I love you for it. Thank you so much. Belle
Christine Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:59 AM
21. Hi Ruby, What a beautiful person you are. You have taken a huge step not only for yourself but for others. When things get tough, rely on those friends or some of the people who are writing you they can help you through. Continue to stay focused on the things you want to do. You are in my prayers as well as others who are trying to accomplish the same goal. Chris
Colleen Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 5:22 AM
22. Ruby, You are perhaps the most beautiful and real person I have ever seen on a reality show! You go girl- my thoughts and prayers will be with you each step of the way! You will be an inspiration to all of us no matter how much we have to lose!
Lisa Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 5:50 AM
23. Hi Ruby, YOU CAN DO THIS! Value yourself, truly...and you will find your purpose. Lisa
Diane Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 6:34 AM
24. I just finished watching the first episode. Ruby, I am going on the journey with you. You are correct it is a disease. I cried while watching you at the psychiatrists' office because I too have large chunks of my childhood and life that are BLANK. My weight has been up and down for the majority of my life. I once lost weight and kept it off for more than 7 years. I thought that since I was past the five year mark that statistics indicate is the "you are cured" stage, I had "learned" what to eat and how much exercise would keep me there. Boy * was I wrong. A traumatic event and small changes in eating habits is all it took to take me DOWN and back up to my before weight. ** I commend you for allowing me and millions of others into your life as you make this transformation, spiritually, emotionally and physically. You go girl.
Bari Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 7:03 AM
25. Hi Ruby, I watched the show this morning at 5:00am...I was in tears, not because I felt sorry for you, but I saw myself almost 2 yrs ago..I started my weight loss journey in January 2007 weighing in at 479. I was living in my own tv world, my family, friends, co-workers and doctors were all concerned for my life.. I was barely able to move...I didn't have the typical conditions, but I had one that has altered my life..I was so tired of being of being tired, that I decided to go to a weight loss program, and then after I loss a 100lbs, I found a personal trainer that really cares and is passionate about what he does.. To date, I have lost 162 lbs and about 90 in.. I feels so much better.. Ruby, I see myself in you, you were ready to do it, and no doubt I know you'll be successful at....People like us can inspire others to let them know YES YOU CAN!!!
Rita Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 7:14 AM
26. I saw part of the program this morning. I wish Ruby nothing but the best. However, I hope she will learn to make the changes for herself and by herself. Many of us do not have others to cook for us and to feed us; we do it on our own. Unless others held Ruby down and force-fed her for all these years, it's not their "job" to monitor her.
Judy Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 7:25 AM
27. Dear Style network execs, Speaking as a long-time Style viewer--and a big fan of Finola, Niecy, Yoanna, Caroline Rhea, Peter Ishkans and Tom Filicia--I think it's great that the network is returning to shows with heart (especially after icky Kimora and other recent missteps). Now here we have a show that appears to be about real beauty--a lovely woman facing real obstacles with determination, sensitivity, expert guidance and good friends. Now that's style! Thank you, Ruby, for sharing your style with us. And thanks, Style network, for bringing us what looks to be your best show in a long time--perhaps ever!
Vanessa Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 7:43 AM
28. Ruby your show has changed me. My mother and sister suffer from obesity. I never understood them. I have been very judgmental towards them. I am feeling bad after watching your show. You have opened up my eyes and probably brought my family together. I will watch your show from this day forward. Thank you
alanna Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 8:13 AM
29. I love your positive attitude. I'm trying to copy you. I wish you luck and love. I also love style for airing your story. Isn't it wonderful that they realize that we are all not size 1 and it is not just go on a diet and you'll loose weight and we are not lazy. Here's to all of us.
Heather Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 8:17 AM
30. Hi Ruby! My daughter Ruby and I just watched your show. We love you! We are so excited for you and to be able to watch you transform. My Ruby is 10 years old. You two share a similar personality. She is spunky and smart and beautiful just like you! She also has a best friend named Jeff. We will be watching and cheering you on for as long as it takes! Love, Ruby and Heather
Melanie Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 8:51 AM
31. I have been waiting to see your show and it was very moving, uplifting and motivating. I wish you the best of luck and I'm sure it has inspired many of us who struggle to "face things, understand them and deal with them" You are so beautiful inside and out and are very fortunate to have such a wonderful group of friends. I'll be watching your journey every step of the way and hopefully I'll be walking right along with you in success.
Paula Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 9:10 AM
32. I never watch the STYLE network but this week a co-worker told me about this new reality show about weight loss, so I checked the site out and am anxiously awaiting the show! KUDOS to STYLE for showing a morbidly obese woman's struggles. I've been on Jenny Craig since the beginning of the year & love it and have lost 60 and have much more to go, and get so much inspiration from shows like Biggest Loser etc. and I also came very close to having Gastric bypass this year but knew I could do this myself with hard work, patience and forgiveness....and I am thrilled for RUBY and can feel that she will be a huge inspiration to thousands of us who are struggling and working so hard to reach better health and our weight loss goals. CONGRATS to all involved in the show and again to the Style Network! The DVR is all set to go and all my friends have been told too!! Can't wait!
Trish Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 10:08 AM
33. Hi,wow!!!!! You are a strong woman-for you to step out and have your weight loss journey tracked in front of the world is phenominal You are a brave soul,so kudos to you. I am too embarking in this grueling journey to lose weight and reclaim my life back. I want to own it and live life to the fullest. I want my outside to match my inside. It will take some time,prayer,hardwork,sweat & tears but i will make good on my promise to myself.I want to fall in love with life and all it has to offer. I dont want to miss out on any pleasures that may come my way. So heres to you Ms. Ruby and to the rest of us fighting the fight and battling the bulge. You are a beautiful woman and it appears that you have such a fun-loving personality. Remember to take this journey one step,one minute,one hour,one day at a time. Heres to you and your health......Good luck & God bless!!!!!!!!!!
Gail Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 10:30 AM
34. Hi Ruby! Thank you so much for doing your show. I can't wait to see your progress. Thank you for having such a positive attitude and for letting your true feelings show. This is exactly what I need right now. Your goal weight is my goal weight and I too have over 100 pounds to lose. We can do it!!
nanipnut Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 10:51 AM
35. Hello Ruby, I am so excited for you to begin this new phase in your life, your are truely beautiful inside and out. I will be watching you, crying with you, and smiling with you!!!! I wish you the best of the best and please know you are making a great sacrifice to all of us "overweight" people out there and you are an inspiration. BELIEVE
Susan Loe Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 11:03 AM
36. Hi, Ruby I just want you to know how brave you are. I also fight the BEAST I want too win the fight and you have started me to believe in my self again. THANK YOU!!! I want you to know that for every person that finds the need to stare at us that fight with this BEAST every day there are more people that feel your pain. I know from first hand experence. I would like to talk to you if you would like I would to be your FRIEND in this fight. Please email me at Susanloe&at;sbcglobal.net Thanks You Susan
Glyn Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 11:56 AM
37. You go girl!!! You are so brave to do this on tv and in the public eye.You are amazing! You can do it, and you've inspired me too!
michelle Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 12:31 PM
38. Rudy, as a weight-loss winner myself, I am so happy to know that another person is willing to do it the natural way * through diet, exercise and healing. One lb at a time, one meal at a time, one session at a time * good luck girl! Unsolicited advice: try, try to keep it simple and not look ahead and try not to focus on #'s, and never look at a "slip up" as a reason to keep slipping up. We make a mistake? So what * it is behind us. I wish you success * best of luck in happiness, good health and love! Your friend, Michelle.
Luz Maria Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 12:43 PM
39. Hi Ruby, When I first saw the brief clips annoucing the coming of your show, I was very intrigued. The more that I would catch the glimpses, the more excited I became. At about two weeks before the show was scheduled to begin, I searched for your program with my DVR and was able to schedule it. I saw the first episode this afternoon (I taped the 5am showing) and was bowled over. It holds much promise for you, for me (weighing in t 306 lbs.) and for many of us who struggle with our weight (i.e. the physical and emotional challenges). I am looking forward to watching each of the episodes. You have a wonderful spirit about you. Thank you for sharing your personal and private struggle with us. Luz Maria
Gloria Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 1:39 PM
40. Ruby you are amazing! Could I possibly be as lovable and acceptable as you are even tho I am large? I never thought it possible until I watched this first episode of your story and found myself adoring you! This is a really new concept for me...that a person can be 'wonderful' and 'beautiful' and even lovable, even tho they are overweight. Not that people in my life haven't told me it didn't matter to them...I just couldn't understand 'how' they could feel that way toward me since it is so evident that I'm 'broken' in some way. Your story is showing me how and I feel inspired. Thank you! Glo
Michelle Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 1:43 PM
41. Ruby, what a lovely lady you are! Here's another new fan out there, pulling for you. Know that you are strong and beautiful, and that you CAN make these healthy changes! Kudos to you.
Robin in Massachusetts Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 1:46 PM
42. Hi Ruby, I've walked your walk and in many ways I'm still walking it and will be right along with you during the series. My higest weight was somewhere close to 500lbs, I don't know exactly since I wouldn't get on the scale. Five years ago I had gastric bypass surgery ** my doctor told me if I didn't make a change I'd likely be dead in 18-months. I don't regret the surgery, but it was only one step in making the changes. I'm not at my goal yet, actually I had gained about 50lbs back but have lost 30 so far. My personal goal is still 70lbs away, but you've given me new hope. I've been struggling the past weeks due to personal obstacles, but have made the decision to get back on track again. I'd like to be part of the collaborative who is supporting and cheering you on to success and hopefully find my success in the process. Good success Ruby. I'm there with you! Robin
sameera Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 3:05 PM
43. hi rubyu r so betuful i know u can lose ur wight im 230lb my age is 41 iim also pretty like u every body tel meim very niceimalways smiling helping others but who ever i love they left me becuse im to fat my ex husband live me after 20 year * mostly people love with your body not with u ,i have no body in u.s.a u r like u have friend and family u can do it im pring for u god is helping u .im also looking for help my english is not good if u keep in touch with me im very happy.god bless u
April Farnham Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 3:06 PM
44. Hi Ruby, We have a wonderful person in common, she does your hair and I just adore her * she is my sister-in-law. She has been telling me about your struggle and has kept me informed on the show. I too am struggling with my weight as well. I weighed in just today at 327 lb. and know the pain of not being accepted in society, every day is a struggle just to get up in the morning, the depression along with my weight is what I think will kill me one day. I am pulling for you and from this day forward will be working on myself, my weight and finding me again. YOU GO GIRL, I will be praying for you * I know you can do it.
Judi Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 3:29 PM
45. I just saw the first episode and it meant so, so much to me. I recently lost my job and I desperately needed a pick me up- and now I see what all the fuss is about! You seem to have such a lovely spirit- I am so happy we all get to take part (in a small way) in this journey with you. You are truly beautiful in every way.
indycitygirl Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 3:33 PM
46. I saw your show today and just wanted to let you know that we are all rooting for you!! I also live in Savannah and you have inspired me to get rid of the extra weight I need to lose.Good luck to you and maybe some of us here in Savannah can all get together and go for those walks to help each other out..Much love and very proud of you!!
Linda Black Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 3:40 PM
47. Hi Ruby! I just saw your first show and I can't wait for the next one. You are a beautiful woman and just wait til you get healthier. Your trainer was right, its not about weight, it's about inches and your health. It's also learning how to be in this new lifesyle of yours...for the rest of your life. I am on my own journey and girl, I can't wait to see your face when you break that first 300 pound and then the 200 pound marks. I did the dance of real joy when I broke 200. Now off to the gym with me!!!!
Suzanne Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 4:27 PM
48. Ruby, you're a gem! Thank you for putting your story out for the world to see. You already are helping me. I watched the show already and recorded it at the same time. Your friends are wonderful and I know they will support you in every way. From one yo-yo dieter to another I'm rooting for you and joining along your journey. All the best sweetie!
manda Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 5:07 PM
49. you are amazing. you are so awesome!!!
Kyana Sun, Nov 9, 2008, 5:09 PM
50. Ruby I just wanted to say I think you are really beautiful and I am definitely cheering for you on this journey. I to am addicted to so I know how you feel. I"m only 26 so I haven't gained a ton of weight but, I do need to get things under control. I am so happy for you and I know you will succeed and I am praying for you and keeping you in my thoughts. You are so cute and funny and I can't wait til' you meet your prince charming. I hope that I can hear from you!