Former tennis coach wins weight battle, game, set, and match

Many of us go through life in total control of our health. We eat right, exercise, and stay active. But then an unforeseen event happens that sends us over the edge. Suddenly, we can't find the motivation to stay healthy.

That's exactly what happened to Cheryl Chenet. A former physical education teacher at York College, City University of New York, and former coach of the men's tennis team, she had always been able to control her weight.

Then, five years ago, tragedy struck. Her husband of 38 years succumbed to colon cancer. She eventually turned to food for comfort and increased her weight to 248 pounds, which increased her blood pressure.

She soon needed spinal surgery to repair nerves crushed from supporting too much weight. Cheryl persevered through six weeks of healing, but soon her aches and pains returned. It was then that Cheryl's doctor told her to lose weight.

Cheryl decided to join the Raleigh, N.C., L A Weight Loss Center. Dieting wasn't new to her, but other diets she tried didn't work for her. She wanted a lifestyle change, and that's exactly what L A Weight Loss offered.

Cheryl's desire and determination were matched with the support from her one-on-one L A Weight Loss counselors. She cut out sugar and salt, and replaced her chips and chocolate cravings with Jell-o, unsalted nuts, and other low-fat snacks.

Since starting L A Weight Loss 14 months ago, Cheryl has shed 84 pounds (!), surpassing her goal weight by six pounds.

At 164 pounds, Cheryl has gained back her self confidence, and has the energy and motivation to keep in shape with water aerobics three times a week. And with her weight down, Cheryl is off almost all of her blood pressure and cholesterol medications!

Great job, Cheryl!

Here's Cheryl at 248 pounds before her lifestyle change:



And here she at a stunning 164 pounds!



FAST FACTS:

Name: Cheryl Chenet
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
Age: 59
Height: 5'4½"

Starting weight: 248 pounds
Goal weight: 170 pounds
Current weight: 164 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Favorite food: Lamb chops and steak.

Biggest temptation: Giving into her sweet tooth with pastries.

Biggest motivator: Seeing the pounds come off.

Biggest obstacle: Attending social events where junk food is served.

Old eating philosophy: Eating a little bit of everything. It adds up!

New eating philosophy: Staying balanced and being aware of what she eats.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling good about herself and how she looks.

Best weight loss secret learned: Food doesn't have to be sweet or salty to taste good. The secret to weight loss lies in smaller portions.