From 265 pounds to running a 5k

When Gail Winkler went to the doctors and weighed seven more pounds than she did just a few days earlier, she knew she had to do something to take charge of her body.

But it wasn't that simple. Gail's weight had increased the effects of her sleep apnea, acid reflux disease, and fluid retention in her feet.

Gail was barely 50, but she felt like she was 80. That's when she went to the L A Weight Loss Center across the street from her office. In the last three years, she's dropped and kept off an amazing 117 pounds, and she's even decreased reliance on prescription meds for her various ailments.

What's more, her new body has encouraged her to return to her first love--teaching--and to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity.

Gail before, tipping the scales at 265 pounds:

After, at 147 pounds:

FAST FACTS

Name: Gail Winkler
Hometown: Russellville, Tenn.
Age: 48

Starting weight: 265 pounds
Goal weight: 155 pounds
Current weight: 147 pounds
Program start date: August 2003

Biggest motivator: Getting rid of her chronic health problems: sleep apnea, swollen feet, and acid reflux.

Old eating philosophy: Lots of canned goods with additives and preservatives.
New eating philosophy: It's all about fresh or frozen fruits and vegetables.

Best thing about losing weight: Having the energy to finish her first-ever 5k!

Best weight loss secret learned: People are too quick to think that gastric bypass is their only option, rather than the last possible resort.