Student thanks Rich South HS classmates for support in weight loss journey

CHICAGO (WLS) -- When videos go viral online of African American men, the subject matter may not always be positive. Some young men in south suburban Richton Park are trying to change the image of African American men - and in the process, changing their own lives.

Some students at Rich South High School are going all out to help a classmate lose weight. A video showing their effort has gone viral.

On Thursday, senior Nehemiah Cole thanked what has become his support team.

Last Friday, the principal of Rich South High School posted video of Cole working out, but more importantly, Cole was being cheered on by others from the Males Mentoring Group of Rich South.

"I'm amazed," Cole said. "I'm proud I have people supporting me."

The young men meet three times a week to share whatever they are dealing with in their lives.

Rich South's principal started the mentoring group this school year and is thrilled to see that the students' support of each other is getting so much attention.

Cole said he has lost five pounds in two weeks.