Tell John not to give up - I started with the training thing from runners world that Debbie showed us because I thought I could at least run 1 minute/walk 2 for 10 times . . . WRONG!! First I had to increase the walking part to 3 minutes halfway through the repetitions  and I had to walk the whole time on the 8th rep. cause I just couldn't do it.  Luckily I had a friend with me or I would've just stopped - but I kept going and ran the next 2 times.  And even though I now have terrible shin splints (I think I need new shoes!) and my thighs are killing me I am glad I did it.  My friend and I even did the "day 2" walk for 30 minutes (I like that a LOT better!!!) even though my shins were killing me - we just got back and I'm sort of beat.  I'm dreading tomorrow (another run/walk day) but we're gonna do it.  I hope John sticks it out with you - tell him if "misery loves company" at least he's got a lot of it!!