OMAHA, Neb. (KMTV) -- Some people climb the steps at First National Tower on Saturday for the thrill of it.
For Justin Ellis, it's a milestone in his weight-loss journey.
"Well if they can do it, why can't I?" Ellis said.
Ellis lives in Yankton, S.D., and came to Omaha on Saturday to climb the stairs of the First National Tower during the Trek Up the Tower event.
Ellis's journey started in August 2015; he was inspired by another man's story of life-changing weight loss.
Omaha native Jim Clements started a Facebook page called Jim Gets Slim’ to document his weight-loss journey.
The page inspired Ellis.
Ellis and Clements began messaging online sharing tips and encouragement. Clements suggested Ellis make a Facebook page, so it would help motivate him.
Ellis' Facebook page, 'Getting Tiny' shows his transformation. Once at 386 pounds, Ellis has dropped 80 pounds.
“Sometimes it gets tough, you just gotta keep going," Ellis said.
the journey continued today, to the top of the tallest building in downtown Omaha.
Ellis and Clements met for the first time, and together, trekked up the tower.
“This isn't just some guy posting stuff on Facebook, trying to encourage others,” Clements said, “this is a real thing, and that's something that I'm really excited about. That's the stuff I am really looking for in this journey."
