Linda Fondren started Shape Up Vicksburg to help residents of her hometown lose weight . Mississippi has been the fattest state in the nation for the past six years , a 2009 report says . She 's determined to expand her effort statewide to find more converts to her cause . Fondren offers free health and nutrition classes ; she has also started a walking tour . Vicksburg residents have lost 15,000 pounds since she started her mission .
Linda Fondren started Shape Up Vicksburg to help residents of her hometown lose weight . Mississippi has been the fattest state in the nation for the past six years , a 2009 report says . Fondren offers free health and nutrition classes ; she has also started a walking tour . Vicksburg residents have lost 15,000 pounds since she started her mission .