Sherry Gates takes beauty into her own hands

For many women, the beauty salon is a place to relax. They can sit and chat, get their hair and nails done, and walk out feeling fantastic with a great new style. So you know you have a problem when the beauty salon makes you feel anything but pretty.

That's how Sherry Gates felt when she sat down for her appointment, and had a hard time fitting in the chair.

Sherry had struggled with weight issues her entire life. She ate for comfort, and frequently indulged in fast food. Then, when Sherry gave up smoking, her weight ballooned.

Her embarrassment at the beauty salon, however, was the defining moment. After that, she called the Sparks, Nev., L A Weight Loss center, and scheduled an appointment for the center's grand opening in May 2006.

Sherry's personal L A Weight Loss counselors transformed her diet, exchanging fast food binges for fruits, vegetables, protein, and lots of water. And her dozen cans of calorie-packed soda per day were cut down to two cans of diet soda.

When she began her weight loss process, Sherry continued wearing her old clothes until her company's December Christmas party. Then, she showed up wearing smaller, tighter clothes.

It was the first time people noticed her 115-pound weight loss -- and they were amazed! Sherry literally turned heads all night.

Now she wears cuter clothes all the time, and enjoys doing things she previously couldn't, like riding amusement park roller coasters.

The best part: Sherry's self-confidence has soared. She's happier, has more energy, and can do more than ever before! And she looks great, too! Bravo, Sherry!

Here's Sherry at 257 pounds:



And here she is 115 pounds later. Way to go, Sherry!



FAST FACTS

Name: Sherry Gates
Hometown: Sun Valley, Nev.
Age: 44
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 257 pounds
Goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight: 160 pounds
Program start date: May 8, 2006

Favorite food: BBQ marinated chicken.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivator: Maintaining her new look.

Biggest obstacle: Resisting the urge to go out for Chinese food.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Ordering healthy entrees like salads when she goes out to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Being happier and more social.

Best weight loss secret learned: A well-balanced meal is the easiest way to eat healthier.