Elizabeth Carol, Senior Management Analyst in the Development Services Department, was struggling with health issues. She was 150 pounds overweight, had borderline high blood pressure, and at her heaviest, was a size 26. Elizabeth was tired all the time, self-conscious about her weight, and never wanted to be photographed.

Read more to find out what she decided to do about it.

Flu season is upon us! There is no guaranteed way to prevent anyone from getting the flu, but getting a flu shot and taking some simple precautions will reduce the risk.

The flu vaccine reduces the average person's chances of catching the flu by up to 80% during flu season, so it is important to get a flu vaccine. Many people are unsure of whether or not to get the shot, because of rumors that it will cause the flu. Not to worry! The flu shot does not cause flu illness. Here is how it works: Flu vaccines are available as a shot or nasal mist. As an injection, the flu vaccine contains dead flu viruses that will not cause the flu, but will prepare the body to fight off infection.  Getting a shot of the dead virus means you are protected against that particular type of live flu virus. The nasal mist vaccine contains weakened live flu viruses. The mist is not for people with weakened immune systems or certain health conditions.

Because the vaccine prevents infection from only a few of the viruses that can cause flu-like symptoms, it is not a guarantee against getting sick. But even if you do get the flu after getting the shot, the symptoms will usually be fewer and milder than someone who had not received the vaccine.