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SAFFORD - The newest season of Biggest Loser kicks off Tuesday and season 10 will be especially fun to watch because it features two Southern Arizona women.

One of which is Shanna Masten who is a math teacher in Safford.

Amy Purdy loves the biggest loser. She watches every season.

"It's so weird because I have always, always, always watched The Biggest Loser. We tape it and never miss it and now here one of my staff members is in it," said Mt. Graham principal Amy Purdy.

Masten just started teaching this school year at Mt. Graham High School in Safford but Purdy has known her for a few years.

"She is very genuine, very caring. She cares about her kids, her own children, plus her kids here at school," said Purdy.

Masten has not always battled of the bulge.

She was diagnosed with breast cancer in June of 2009 and all of the medications she was taking to get healthy again made her gain weight.

"I think people have a concept or idea that when you are sick you lose weight but due to medication and other things you gain weight and that's kind of how she started struggling when she became ill." said Purdy.

She said Masten tried out for the show with her sister in law.

"They picked her over the person she went with so that's been a good thing for her but she really went to support one of her family members," said Purdy.

Her determination is sending a positive message for students.

"I think she is setting two good examples and the biggest one to me is never give up on yourself and put your family first," said Purdy.