Linnea Lockwood doesn't stop at just one victory

Conquering the weight loss battle can be just the motivation to help you conquer life's other challenges. Just ask Linnea Lockwood. She used her weight loss success as a catalyst to take control of other aspects of her life.

Linnea struggled with her weight throughout her life. In her forties however, a series of unfortunate events sent Linnea's weight through the roof.

In 1999, Linnea's husband suffered a serious accident at work. He required years of physical therapy and was unable to work, so Linnea became the sole supporter.

But her husband's personality changed as well. He became verbally abusive, and Linnea turned to food for comfort. As her self esteem plummeted, her weight escalated.

Linnea became a carbohydrate junkie. She piled her plate high with pizza, breads, baked goods, and pastas, and covered everything with heavy cheeses. Her biggest weakness was ice cream.

Then it got worse. Linnea's company lost its funding, and she and her department was laid off. She suddenly found herself in a crumbling marriage with no way to support herself. So Linnea turned to her hobby and passion of art, and became a jewelry designer.

Linnea also worked two other jobs to support herself and her husband. But at 240 pounds, her weight held her back. She was always uncomfortable, and had no self-confidence.

Worst of all, she felt invisible. People wouldn't hold doors for her, and avoided waiting on her when she was shopping. Plus, Linnea suffered from high blood pressure and hypoglycemia. She knew she was putting herself at risk for diabetes, and wanted to get healthy.

Linnea tried a number of diets, but nothing worked. Then motivated by the show Biggest Loser, Linnea decided to try something different. In November 2005, she joined her local Clayton, N.C., L A Weight Loss center.

At L A Weight Loss, Linnea found the accountability and camaraderie she needed. She worked with her one-on-one weight loss counselors to adjust her diet.

She cut down her carb intake, and added plenty of fruits and vegetables. Linnea gained an appreciation for the flavors of foods, and loves cooking L A Weight Loss recipes in her new pressure cooker.

Linnea's new diet helped melt away the pounds. After losing 83 pounds, she now weighs 157 pounds -- eight pounds lighter than her goal weight! She looks great and feels even better.

Linnea's best friend didn't even recognize her the last time they met. Her health issues have subsided, and she has more energy than ever. Linnea earned her real estate license, and is confident giving presentations in front of crowds.

Linnea's self-esteem is through the roof, and she's happy being herself. She loves shopping now, and has filled her closet with smaller sizes.

Linnea's new weight has given her the courage to start a new life, and she's off to a great start. Way to go, Linnea! We're so proud of you!

Here's Linnea at 240 pounds:



And here she is today, looking fabulous at 157 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Linnea Lockwood-Gambino
Hometown: Clayton, N.C.
Age: 49
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 240 pounds
Goal weight: 165 pounds
Current weight: 157 pounds
Program start date: November 2005

Favorite food: Grilled chicken salad.

Biggest temptation: None -- nothing tastes as good as thin feels.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to lose weight for her 50th birthday.

Biggest obstacle: Hitting plateaus.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything she wanted, anytime she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Thinking twice before eating anything.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining better health and a new identity.

Best weight loss secret learned: There is a relationship between how much sodium you eat and how much sugar you crave.