Ruby is an inspiration to all us 'fat women'. She shows great courage and willpower that I've not seen before. Yes, it does include personal drama, but the bottom line is...she is exactly where many of us have been and are trying to reach a good weight and feel good. Please keep "Ruby" on the air. By viewing all of her trial and tribulations, many women and young girls are now brave enough themselves to venture out and try ways of losing weight for themselves, not for others. Losing weight is a wonderful self esteem booster that will transcend into our daily lives. By the way, isn't Michelle Obama targeting obesity as her health campaign?
14 Reviews
Depends What You Want From The Show
LovelyLabrys25 May 2010
Warning: Spoilers
For those wanting facts, figures, statistics and advice, this isn't really the show for you. If you are wanting a show that focuses on the psychological cause of a persons obesity, again this isn't the show for you. There are elements of those things in 'Ruby' but they are not the purpose of the show.
The reason that i love the show, and that it has been such a help to me, is that it just follows the everyday life of a lovely woman on her weightloss journey.
So many of the things that are minor issues on weightloss shows are actually major issues in the life of obese people, and this programme shows that. Accessing building, sitting on the sidelines while your friend take part in activities, standing in waiting rooms because the seats are too small etc etc. The show allows us to celebrate each small struggle and victory along with Ruby. Buying her first pair of jeans is very emotional to watch.
We are all used to seeing people fighting, and winning the weightloss battle. With Ruby, the empathy factor is huuge, because her experiences are our experiences. When she struggles for so long and then overcomes, we feel that we can overcome.
It is rare in the it shows that concerns and experiences of the family, friends and professionals who go along on the journey with her.
The reason that i love the show, and that it has been such a help to me, is that it just follows the everyday life of a lovely woman on her weightloss journey.
So many of the things that are minor issues on weightloss shows are actually major issues in the life of obese people, and this programme shows that. Accessing building, sitting on the sidelines while your friend take part in activities, standing in waiting rooms because the seats are too small etc etc. The show allows us to celebrate each small struggle and victory along with Ruby. Buying her first pair of jeans is very emotional to watch.
We are all used to seeing people fighting, and winning the weightloss battle. With Ruby, the empathy factor is huuge, because her experiences are our experiences. When she struggles for so long and then overcomes, we feel that we can overcome.
It is rare in the it shows that concerns and experiences of the family, friends and professionals who go along on the journey with her.
You need to see the show before posting a comment.
gdlkall28 December 2008
Ruby is such a good show because at it's heart is a whole person, rather than a gimmick, and the show follows her attempt to overcome a life-threatening obstacle by taking responsibility for herself and dealing with her feelings; to keep pushing forward, despite setbacks and self-doubt; and to learn to trust and rely on others for support and guidance.
Each episode shows people overcoming fears and taking risks by telling the truth. In fact, we watch Ruby and all the others, even her doctors, struggle against their own limitations with an openness and depth unusual to television.
This is the real stuff of what it is to be human, and one of the surest survival plans available to any of us. Luckily, the editors preserve the honesty, insight and charm of this group so events seem natural rather than set up.
An earlier comment's inaccuracies may be based on a hasty impression or misperception:
--The life-threatening dangers that motivate her struggle are noted in each episode, and her fear and her doctors' warnings are not glossed over or minimized. The weight issue is never "a ticking time bomb that is cheerfully ignored." --The episode where an old boyfriend visits is shown in perspective for exactly what it is and contrasts sharply to the love and support of the real people in Ruby's life like Jeff Parsons. We watch Ruby forcing herself to see this for what it is and triumph by overcoming this distraction and staying on course. --There is a great deal of medical information, in fact much of the series follows Ruby's work with each individual in her medical support team including a physician, a psychiatrist, dietician, and two fitness experts. It is hard to comprehend the comment that "no medical facts or helpful advice is proffered".
This show deserves a full viewing.
Each episode shows people overcoming fears and taking risks by telling the truth. In fact, we watch Ruby and all the others, even her doctors, struggle against their own limitations with an openness and depth unusual to television.
This is the real stuff of what it is to be human, and one of the surest survival plans available to any of us. Luckily, the editors preserve the honesty, insight and charm of this group so events seem natural rather than set up.
An earlier comment's inaccuracies may be based on a hasty impression or misperception:
--The life-threatening dangers that motivate her struggle are noted in each episode, and her fear and her doctors' warnings are not glossed over or minimized. The weight issue is never "a ticking time bomb that is cheerfully ignored." --The episode where an old boyfriend visits is shown in perspective for exactly what it is and contrasts sharply to the love and support of the real people in Ruby's life like Jeff Parsons. We watch Ruby forcing herself to see this for what it is and triumph by overcoming this distraction and staying on course. --There is a great deal of medical information, in fact much of the series follows Ruby's work with each individual in her medical support team including a physician, a psychiatrist, dietician, and two fitness experts. It is hard to comprehend the comment that "no medical facts or helpful advice is proffered".
This show deserves a full viewing.
Ruby's My Hero!
smgereaux9 February 2011
Contrary to another poster, Ruby is an inspiration for everyone; not only those with weight problems, but also those dealing with dysfunctional families, damaged personal relationships, and fear! Ruby's been working exhaustively to confront her demons which include food, her mother, her father, her lost memory, her on-again/off-again boyfriend, and she never, ever gives up. She's lost hundreds of pounds and continues to push herself beyond most limitations and accomplished feats I would be terrified to attempt (and I'm a fairly normal sized, healthy woman). Ruby is definitely aware of the health risks which accompany her weight problems, and that is why she's aggressively working to change her lifestyle. But what is most enchanting, most encouraging, and most enjoyable is witnessing her adorable spirit and upbeat personality! I love Ruby, and I wish I lived near her!
Why doesn't Style show more of RUBY
ilovenyc198914 January 2011
I love the Ruby show. It's the only show on television that tells the truth about weight and addiction. My mother is very overweight and I am the opposite. I starve myself not to be like her until I started watching Ruby. Ruby has helped me and my mom come together and fight our addictions. I want to say that no one knows how hard it is to be someone like Ruby, myself or my mom unless you experience it first hand. Ruby allows us to watch her fail, battle and win. Fighting an addiction isn't always successful like other shows and commercials try to portray. She is very real. I had a life-changing moment watching her show last season! I love Ruby I love her show, she is fighting very hard and so am I. My mom and I went on vacation for a week and my mother ate just like I did and gained over 20 pounds. I felt so bad for my mother. It isn't fair for people like my mom and Ruby. I know people that had the surgery and than lost it and gained it all back, there is so much of addiction then any of us realize. Watching Ruby will change your life. Ruby is hilarious, real, intriguing and beautiful! The most important thing about Ruby is she spills out her soul. Watch Ruby I promise it will change you!
RUBY Gettinger
leecake891 March 2011
"Ruby" is a reality show. Reality for Ruby means not only losing the weight, but also trying to find out the truth of obesity and what it means in her life. There is so much to teach about this disease. The Biggest Looser is instant gratification TV. Several of those contestants gain the weight back once they no longer have the 24 hour support from trainers and nutritionists. If you had compassion, you would see that the contestants are put through hell and mentally beat down to lose weight. Obesity is a symptom of abuse. Those contestants have beat themselves up mentally their entire lives and suffer more abuse from trainers just to make a TV show for your viewing pleasure.
Ruby is undergoing intense psychotherapy while learning how to exercise and cook for herself. She is not at camp 24 hours a day sheltered from society. Ruby does not get her meals, trainers, or counselors for free. She is living her life in the real world, teaching herself and others to not be afraid of change and to face their biggest fears. She has more courage and strength than anyone I know. Ruby is inspiring people to face their addictions. What could be more inspiring than that? I hope I have inspired you to learn something about addiction and obesity. You may even learn a little empathy and compassion along the way.
Ruby is undergoing intense psychotherapy while learning how to exercise and cook for herself. She is not at camp 24 hours a day sheltered from society. Ruby does not get her meals, trainers, or counselors for free. She is living her life in the real world, teaching herself and others to not be afraid of change and to face their biggest fears. She has more courage and strength than anyone I know. Ruby is inspiring people to face their addictions. What could be more inspiring than that? I hope I have inspired you to learn something about addiction and obesity. You may even learn a little empathy and compassion along the way.
Do we need more reality? If so, what kind...
MarieGabrielle16 November 2008
Just a question, as we have seen so many variations of secondary stories, oddities, aberrations and health issues.
In some instances, reality TV can work; i.e. the Health Channel has episodes where they review nutrition and weight loss issues, and physicians recommend certain regimes for the patient. Also, shows like "Sell This House" may be productive, as they help the audience.
Then the flip side. "Real Housewives" (from wherever); "The Swan" and other trash TV which capitalizes on the weaknesses (and petty cruelties) of others.
Frankly, this show seems to weigh in as the latter (pun intended). While Ruby may indeed be genuinely attempting to lose weight and take control of her life, as well as (in this evenings episode) recreate a relationship with her former boyfriend (who is stipulating she must lose several 100 lbs before he gives a relationship with her a chance). The fact that her obesity is a ticking time bomb is cheerfully ignored, while she gets a pedicure (Rather offensive).
The show basically insults its object (Ruby) as well as the audience. While it pretends to be constructive, it basically puts her issues into the middle of a circus, no medical facts or helpful advice is proffered, and this degenerates into another 7th grader lunchroom mentality show. Skip it.
In some instances, reality TV can work; i.e. the Health Channel has episodes where they review nutrition and weight loss issues, and physicians recommend certain regimes for the patient. Also, shows like "Sell This House" may be productive, as they help the audience.
Then the flip side. "Real Housewives" (from wherever); "The Swan" and other trash TV which capitalizes on the weaknesses (and petty cruelties) of others.
Frankly, this show seems to weigh in as the latter (pun intended). While Ruby may indeed be genuinely attempting to lose weight and take control of her life, as well as (in this evenings episode) recreate a relationship with her former boyfriend (who is stipulating she must lose several 100 lbs before he gives a relationship with her a chance). The fact that her obesity is a ticking time bomb is cheerfully ignored, while she gets a pedicure (Rather offensive).
The show basically insults its object (Ruby) as well as the audience. While it pretends to be constructive, it basically puts her issues into the middle of a circus, no medical facts or helpful advice is proffered, and this degenerates into another 7th grader lunchroom mentality show. Skip it.
I love Ruby
bonnieallens14 January 2011
Ruby's show changed my families life. I am happy to find out she will be back March 6. Why does Style take so long to show Ruby? I wish I could see her weekly it helps me to stay on track. She is an amazing girl! The best thing about Ruby she is walking the journey like the world. I would love to meet her one day and thank her!
I think losing that amount of weight is great, but she will hit a wall because of her emotional issues have a major impact on weight gain and loss. What amazes me about Ruby she never gives up. The idea is to grow on this journey and that is what she is doing. Ruby's weight can come off and that is hard work!
I support Ruby100%.
I think losing that amount of weight is great, but she will hit a wall because of her emotional issues have a major impact on weight gain and loss. What amazes me about Ruby she never gives up. The idea is to grow on this journey and that is what she is doing. Ruby's weight can come off and that is hard work!
I support Ruby100%.
Really? Ruby?
diamondsareagirlsbestfriend4 March 2012
I admit, being a hard-core junkie reality TV fan, I watched the first two seasons of this show on Netflix over the weekend. And while I love an underdog-beating-the-odds story as much as anyone else, by the time I was done watching, this woman really got on my nerves!
I do not look to take anything away from a woman who has taken control of an ugly addiction in her life. Ruby really made positive changes, has terrific friends (not to mention hot roommate Jeff), and has a creative mind that helps her to overcome plateaus and challenges.
Still. The incessant WHINING. Ruby's voice constantly sing-songs its way through every complaint, every triumph, and just about every turn that her life holds. RUBY.. if you are reading this, go back and watch your reruns. This is a serious flaw that can be fixed with a little effort.
That, and her annoying habit of using euphemisms, rather than just telling it like it is. "I'm so HACKY." "What the HELICOPTER." "I'm going to the Christmas doctor." Really? A grown woman who can't say the word 'gynecologist'? Seriously? The immaturity of the language is unnerving at times. She often made me want to shake her, and tell her that she makes the average 12 year old look more mature than her.
All in all, I can't give it an all bad review, as the people in Ruby's life are intelligent, entertaining, and have engaging personalities. The next time I have nothing to do on a weekend, and when more free seasons are available on Netflix, I'd probably give it a go.
I do not look to take anything away from a woman who has taken control of an ugly addiction in her life. Ruby really made positive changes, has terrific friends (not to mention hot roommate Jeff), and has a creative mind that helps her to overcome plateaus and challenges.
Still. The incessant WHINING. Ruby's voice constantly sing-songs its way through every complaint, every triumph, and just about every turn that her life holds. RUBY.. if you are reading this, go back and watch your reruns. This is a serious flaw that can be fixed with a little effort.
That, and her annoying habit of using euphemisms, rather than just telling it like it is. "I'm so HACKY." "What the HELICOPTER." "I'm going to the Christmas doctor." Really? A grown woman who can't say the word 'gynecologist'? Seriously? The immaturity of the language is unnerving at times. She often made me want to shake her, and tell her that she makes the average 12 year old look more mature than her.
All in all, I can't give it an all bad review, as the people in Ruby's life are intelligent, entertaining, and have engaging personalities. The next time I have nothing to do on a weekend, and when more free seasons are available on Netflix, I'd probably give it a go.
Inspirational
tauras95-972-7416719 February 2011
Warning: Spoilers
Ruby is one of those shows that not only shows the good side of weight loss but also the struggles along the way. The ups and the downs makes the weight loss struggle an inspirational motivation for every person out there. I wish her and all that watch her the very best life has to offer. The first time she showed the struggle to get out of bed, I was so excited for her. The show has been an open book and of her struggles her dreams and her hopes. In the first season she attempts to walk a mile. I'm not going to say if she makes it or not, but even her attempt was inspiration to all who made the journey with her. Her struggle with her ex-boyfriend is also very interesting, does someone love you for who you are or who your becoming, or is just to be on television? I hope this next season answers some of those questions.
Ruby changed my life
sammybarnes19891 March 2011
Since I started watching Ruby my life has changed.
I thank God that Ruby has the want and the will power to come forward for all of us at home on our journeys!!
I joined Overeaters Anoymous and have now lost 26 pounds!! 3.5 pounds last week!!
I am so happy Ruby came to TV she started the weight journey trend. Ruby keep it up and always know you have a huge support system out here and you are NEVER alone!! I love you!! and Ill be praying all season for a huge success!! Good luck!!
Watch Ruby she will change your life!
I thank God that Ruby has the want and the will power to come forward for all of us at home on our journeys!!
I joined Overeaters Anoymous and have now lost 26 pounds!! 3.5 pounds last week!!
I am so happy Ruby came to TV she started the weight journey trend. Ruby keep it up and always know you have a huge support system out here and you are NEVER alone!! I love you!! and Ill be praying all season for a huge success!! Good luck!!
Watch Ruby she will change your life!
Ruby gives hope
herbalgal249 February 2011
Ruby is an inspiration to all who are addicted to food. She has a very strong will, and it is not easy today to battle, but she finds strength. I thank her for sharing her progress with us. She has come a long way despite losing her father and her dog. It just breaks my heart. These sets backs can make anyone give up but she still tries to make progress. I have learned from her that not every diet is right for everyone. Also she is very brave for sharing her emotions, and how they do have an effect on us losing the battle. I give her so much credit for coming this far. I like the way she takes control over her own life, because every exercise is not right for everyone either. I wish her luck and hope to see her again this season. God bless you Ruby and keep the faith. Love you and want you to win the battle.
Love Ruby!
dunedin22 February 2011
A delightful reality show with heart felt commentary. Ruby has a personality that pulls you in and you are on her journey. The show focuses on a woman's perspective of being obese. Ruby, in her Southern Savannah style, smiles, jokes and cries her way into self discovery.
Ruby Gettinger enjoys life. She is not ashamed of her weight,which is refreshing. Most reality TV shows stars seem to be victims. Their drama stems from the victim's plight to remain a victim. Ruby is not a victim. Ruby just smiles. Yes, she has issues, but she seems to meet them head on. A refreshing change in television.
The photography on the show is wonderful. The shots of Savannah are captivating. Makes me want to live there!
Ruby Gettinger enjoys life. She is not ashamed of her weight,which is refreshing. Most reality TV shows stars seem to be victims. Their drama stems from the victim's plight to remain a victim. Ruby is not a victim. Ruby just smiles. Yes, she has issues, but she seems to meet them head on. A refreshing change in television.
The photography on the show is wonderful. The shots of Savannah are captivating. Makes me want to live there!
Ruby is the only honest show I've seen on TV!
stevemyers1114 March 2011
Ruby is the only honest show I've seen on TV! She is helping so many people. I just wanted to tell everyone how Awesome I think Ruby is. She made me search deep inside myself. I too lost some years of childhood due to abuse . I lost My family because I was honest with them. I had to tell them the truth, but just like Ruby's family they pretend not to know anything. Ruby has been the best therapy I've had. I am fearful for Ruby and what she may find out. I hope she is strong enough to make it! She makes all of us strong. Just go to Ruby's Face Book http://www.facebook.com/RubyonStyle and read how many lives she is changing. I believe that she is guiding us all along on her journey. If you have any addictions or hurts please watch Ruby she will change your life! I'm so proud of Ruby and think she is doing a awesome job for us all!
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