LA Weight Loss saved this Tennesse woman's life

Mitzi Ivey has been overweight all of her life. Coming from a family with a bigger build, Mitzi was never able to lose more than 25 to 30 pounds at a time, and only gained it right back.

Mitzi also comes from a family with health risks. Her mother was a diabetic, and suffered from her first stroke at 51. She suffered from 12 more before passing away at 60. Mitzi gained the last 85 pounds after her mother passed, making Mitzi 289 pounds. Her mother's health still did not encourage Mitzi to a healthier lifestyle.

Mitzi was also a diabetic, taking insulin and medicine for high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In August 2003, Mitzi Ivey was rushed to the University Hospital Emergency room. Her blood sugars were at 430 and her blood pressure was at stroke levels. Nine days later when Mitzi was released her orders read: "Patient dangerously obese -- must lose weight."

Mitzi was afraid. She tried several times to lose weight, trying every program and trend out there, but gained the weight right back. She asked her doctor what he recommended. He suggested LA Weight Loss, his wife was on the program and was very successful and very happy.

Later that same month, Mitzi joined LA Weight Loss. Checking in at 289 pounds, Mitzi lost nine pounds her first week, losing a total of 118 pounds in 11 1/2 months.

LA Weight Loss has taught Mitzi the importance of breakfast, eating within the first hour she is awake. She learned how to incorporate all the food groups, drinking a lot of water and making healthier choices following the LA Weight Loss program.

Mitzi was able to lose 26 pounds in the first five months of joining LA Weight Loss. She lost a grand total of 138 pounds.

Mitzi's success has been an inspiration to others in her town after being selected to be featured in a local LA Weight Loss ad. She never lets herself get seven pounds from her goal weight.

Her doctor warns her that she will always be a diabetic, so Mitzi works her hardest to never get back to the point where she will have to take medicine everyday. Mitzi has been able to maintain her weight loss for the past five years.

Mitzi has the life she was never able to have before. Her stamina is unbelievable. Her hobbies include hiking and hunting for deer and turkey, shopping with her two daughters, volunteering, and going to the beach in a bathing suit!

Mitzi could not head down the path her mother did, leaving her children behind. Mitzi can't wait for grandchildren to run after and see grow up.

Mitzi says the vanity of looking better is good, but her health and energy levels at age 53 are the biggest blessings of all. Mitzi thanks LA Weight Loss for saving her life.

Mitzi before at 289 pounds:



Mitzi today, weighing 151 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Mitzi Ivey
Hometown: North Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 52
Height: 5'7"

Starting weight: 229 lbs.
Goal weight: 200 lbs.
Current weight: 151 lbs.
Program start date: August 2003, maintaining for almost six years.

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Any kind of chips, salty foods.

Biggest motivator: Her health and size 8 skinny jeans.

Biggest obstacle: Sticking to the program and making sure she eats while traveling to keep on schedule.

Old eating philosophy: Eating without thinking.

New eating philosophy: Knowing better choices and maintaining proper portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a better marriage, and better relationship with herself and children.

Best weight loss secret learned: Food is in your mouth for about 30 seconds. Is it really worth it? Stop and really think about what you are eating.

Wisconsin native hears motivation ringing in her wedding bells

Looking perfect on the big day is something that every bride dreams about. But as her wedding day approached, Mary Behnke couldn’t quite find that "beautiful bride" feeling.

Mary has been overweight since childhood. Since the fourth grade, her weight has consistently been 30 to 40 pounds above average. Her mother was overweight, and as she jokes now, living in Wisconsin meant eating a lot of cheese all the time.

But it wasn't just the cheese. Mary regularly dined on fast foods and anything else that was convenient. She went weeks without eating a fresh piece of fruit or vegetable.

And her unhealthy diet took a toll on her body. Mary had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and a family history of diabetes and heart problems. But she suffered emotionally too. Mary was jealous of skinny girls she saw when she was out, and felt introverted, sluggish, and self-conscious.

When Mary got engaged, she couldn't find a dress that fit right. She tried on dress after dress, but couldn't find anything she liked. When she finally had to buy a plus-sized wedding dress, she was crushed. With a weight of 200 pounds, she knew she had to do something.

So in January 2006, Mary joined her local Menasha, Wisc., L A Weight Loss center. She was paired up with a one-on-one weight loss counselor who taught her the ins and outs of eating healthy.

Mary kicked her fast food habits to the curb, and stocked up on fresh fruits and vegetables, lean meats and proteins, and water. And the simple, healthy adjustments to her diet made a big difference.

During her year and a half on the program, Mary dropped 60 pounds, and currently weighs 140 pounds. She went from a size 18 to a size 6, just in time for the wedding. She had to buy another wedding dress, but it was well worthwhile.

Mary now has the attitude she once desired. She is outgoing, sociable, fun, and energetic. She can also do the things she couldn't before because her weight physically held her back. Mary loves being able to go out dancing. And when she goes out with her husband, Mary never gets jealous of the "cute" girls, because she is one! And all of her medical problems have disappeared.

Mary’s success inspired her mother and co-workers to join L A Weight Loss. They've already seen results, and hope to see more. Aside from encouraging others to get involved, Mary has gotten more involved with L A Weight Loss herself. She became a counselor, and is now manager of the Osh Kosh, Wisconsin center.

Keep up the positive attitude, Mary! Congratulations!

Here's Mary at 200 pounds in 2005:



And here she is today at a happy, healthy 140 pounds:



FAST FACTS:

Name: Mary Behnke
Hometown: Menasha, Wisc.
Age: 27
Height: 5’6"

Starting weight: 200 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 140 pounds
Program start date: January 2006

Favorite food: Chicken breast.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Slimming down for her wedding.

Biggest obstacle: Staying away from old patterns.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever, whenever.

New eating philosophy: Using food for fuel, not for comfort.

Best thing about losing weight: Having a much more positive attitude.

Best weight loss secret learned: If you fuel your body with the right foods and the right portions you really won’t be hungry.

Hawaiian rides wave to weight loss success

Losing weight is often described as riding a rollercoaster. For Hawaiian native Joycelyn Avilla, it was more like riding a wave.

Growing up in Hawaii, Jocelyn was a chubby child and an overweight teenager. She tried starving herself to lose weight, but the pounds didn't budge. She felt her weight slipping out of control.

At age 18, Joycelyn hit 200 pounds. She had her first child then, and was faced with the challenge of supporting her daughter while attending nursing school. Her time and energy stretched thin, Joycelyn sustained herself on a steady diet of fast food and soda.

Two more births and 20 years later, she tipped the scales at 266 pounds. She had high cholesterol and blood pressure, and her gynecologist wouldn't let her take birth control pills because of it. Jocelyn tried high-protein shakes, diet pills, and salad diets with little success. The few pounds she lost always came back, plus some.

Then Joycelyn heard about a local woman who had found success on the L A Weight Loss program, and decided to give it a try. She visited the center, was impressed with the care and empathy the counselors showed her.

Her personal counselor listened to her weight loss struggle, and developed a healthy eating plan that fit her lifestyle. When she hit a plateau and broke down in tears in frustration, Joycelyn's counselor was there to support and encourage her.

Jocelyn never felt deprived or hungry on the program. On the contrary, she felt full, and was surprised to see the numbers on the scale drop. Joycelyn planned out her meals, and ate L A Lite bars when she was too busy to have a meal.

After 35 weeks, Joycelyn lost 131 pounds -- half her size! Now at 135 pounds, she feels better than ever. Joycelyn's blood pressure and cholesterol are at normal levels. Her energy is high, and she does cardio exercises regularly.

She also enjoys shopping for trendy clothes and lingerie. Her husband says she looks like she did when they met, young and energetic. In fact, when Joycelyn and her daughter went out for dinner one night, their server thought they were sisters!

Joycelyn attributes her success to the empathy, knowledge, and personalized guidance of her L A Weight Loss counselors. She feels that if she can do it, anyone can. Nothing would make her happier than inspiring another woman to gain the self-confidence that she has by losing weight.

Now Joycelyn's at the top of her weight loss wave, and looking absolutely fantastic. Way to go, Joycelyn!

Here's Joycelyn at 266 pounds:



And here she is today at a stunning 135 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Joycelyn Avilla
Hometown: Honolulu, Hawaii
Age: 41
Height: 5'2"

Starting weight: 266 pounds
Goal weight: 135 pounds
Current weight: 135 pounds
Program start date: May 2007

Favorite food: Pears and apples.

Biggest temptation: White rice and breads.

Biggest motivator: Watching herself shrink in her big clothes.

Biggest obstacle: Having high blood pressure and borderline cholesterol.

Old eating philosophy: Chowing down on burgers, french fries, pizza, and white rice.

New eating philosophy: Eating meals with salads, grilled chicken, green vegetables, and peanuts.

Best thing about losing weight: Getting off her high blood pressure medication.

Best weight loss secret learned: If you watch your portions and eat frequently, you lose weight!

New life blossoms for Monique Bloomfield

Life is all about the little things -- a smile, a warm cup of tea, a sunny summer day. And if you ask Monique Bloomfield, she'll tell you it's the little things that made losing weight worth it.

Weight was never a problem for Monique until she reached her 40s. That's when her activity level and metabolism slowed, but her eating did not. Monique didn't think about what she was eating, only whether it tasted good.

By her mid-50s, she weighed 166 pounds. That was too much weight for her 5'1" inch frame to support. Monique suffered from knee pain whenever she walked up the stairs, and couldn't bend down to paint her toes or play with her dog. She also had high cholesterol, and was on medication for high blood pressure.

But it wasn't until Monique saw a picture of herself on vacation that she started seriously considering losing weight. She knew she needed more support than any self-help book could offer, and found L A Weight Loss to be an ideal fit.

Each week, Monique went to a one-on-one weight loss counseling session at the Nepean, Ottawa, L A Weight Loss center. Her counselors taught her how to make healthy choices.

For Monique, it all came down to planning her meals and thinking about what she was eating before putting it in her mouth. She added more fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and water to her diet, and eliminated many greasy, fried, and sweet foods.

It wasn't long before Monique's weight began to drop. As the numbers on the scale decreased, her energy level increased. Everyday activities became easier, and she no longer needed a nap to make it through the day.

Since joining L A Weight Loss in March 2006, Monique has lost 37 pounds! She's inched past her weight loss goal of 130 pounds, currently weighing 129.

Monique appreciates the little things she can do now, such as getting on the floor to play with her dog, crossing her legs, and walking up the steps without getting winded.

And Monique is looking as good as she feels these days. Shopping for smaller sizes fun, not to mention constant motivation to stay healthy. Monique's family is proud of the progress she's made, and so are we. Way to go, Monique!

Here's Monique at 166 pounds:



And here she is today, looking great at 129 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Monique Bloomfield
Hometown: Pemptbille, Ontario
Age: 57
Height: 5'1"

Starting weight: 166 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 129 pounds
Program start date: March 2006

Favorite food: Sugar pie.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Fitting into smaller-sized clothes.

Biggest obstacle: Making herself go to the center every week.

Old eating philosophy: Not thinking about what she was eating.

New eating philosophy: Maintaining control and a healthy balance.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining lots of energy!

Best weight loss secret learned: Drink plenty of water and eat often to keep your metabolism going.

Ann Brafford shops smarter to slim down

Grocery shopping is usually a chore. It's time-consuming to find what you want, and frustrating to battle the crowds. But it was worse for Ann Brafford. It made her gain weight.

When Ann went grocery shopping, she grabbed whatever looked good without thinking about nutrition. She avoided the fresh vegetables and fruits, and instead hit the snacks and processed foods aisles.

When she got home, she cooked the foods without paying attention to the amount of fat or salt she was adding. And when she ate them, portion size was out the door.

At 283 pounds, Ann was destroying her health. She had high cholesterol and blood pressure, asthma, and a thyroid condition. She was on medication to treat them all.

Ann was sluggish, and hated that she couldn't keep up with her grandson. Finding clothes she liked was nearly impossible. And after every annual checkup, Ann dreaded the phone call from her doctor saying her lab reports had worsened.

At 57 years old, she realized she needed to do something about her weight now. Her only other options: be miserable for the rest of her life, or die early of a heart attack. So Ann decided to join L A Weight Loss.

Working with her personal weight loss counselors, Ann learned how to purchase healthy foods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, or frozen dinners when she was in a hurry. She also learned how to order the right meals at restaurants, so she wouldn't break her weight loss plan.

The counselors were helpful and encouraging, and showed her how to cook meals from the L A Lite cookbook. Ann's family also motivated her to stay on track. With her eating in check and support system under her wings, the weight started to come off.

After 70 weeks on the L A Weight Loss plan, Ann lost 147 pounds, and now weighs 136! She went from a size 28 to a size 8.

Even better, Ann is off all her cholesterol and asthma medications. She has renewed energy, and can keep up her five-year-old grandson to the point where he says he's tired.

Best of all, Ann learned what and how much to eat. She eats anywhere, anytime, while still maintaining her weight.

Ann's family can't believe the difference they see in her. She and her loved ones are thrilled with her success, and so are we! Way to go, Ann! Keep up the great work!

This is Ann before L A Weight Loss, at 236 pounds:



And here she is today, 147 pounds slimmer. Wow, great job, Ann!



FAST FACTS

Name: Ann Brafford
Age: 57
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 283 pounds
Goal weight: 136 pounds
Current weight: 136 pounds

Biggest temptation: Buying whatever is convenient at the grocery store.

Biggest motivator: Getting support from her L A Weight Loss counselors.

Biggest obstacle: Cutting down her portions.

Old eating philosophy: Eating without thinking.

New eating philosophy: Knowing what and how to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling energetic and excited about life.

Best weight loss secret learned: Losing weight is simple when you know how to shop.

Georgia man ends weighty family tradition

Hair color, skin complexion, and height all run in families. Unfortunately for Joe Bellino, being overweight runs in his family, too.

Though Joe's parents were heavy, Joe didn't have a problem with his weight until his 30s and 40s. That's when his bad eating habits, lack of exercise, and genes caught up with him, pushing him to 294 pounds.

As Joe's weight increased, so did his blood pressure. He also had high cholesterol, and suffered from back, knee, and joint pain. And he always felt tired and out of breath.

Worse, Joe had enjoyed being a softball umpire for years, but found his weight made it much more difficult. He knew if he didn't lose weight, he would have to retire his umpire helmet forever.

Joe didn't think he could do it alone, so he signed up at his local Conyers, Ga., L A Weight Loss center. There, he worked with several one-on-one counselors who coached him through his weight loss journey.

Joe learned the importance of portion control, and ate small meals throughout the day to keep his metabolism working. He also incorporated more fruits, vegetables, water, and lean meats into his diet. And to satisfy his sweet tooth, Joe snacked on L A Lite bars.

After less than a year on the program, Joe lost 60 pounds, and now weighs 234 pounds! Since losing weight, he enjoys buying new clothes, because he doesn't have to order from catalogs that carry extra large sizes.

Almost all of his medical problems have subsided as well. And Joe feels even closer to his wife, as they enjoy cooking together from the L A Lite cookbook. In fact, following Joe's good example helped her shed a few pounds, too!

But for Joe, the best part about losing weight is all the new energy he has. He's more active than he's been in years, and doesn't have to worry about hanging up his umpire helmet any time soon.

Obesity might run in Joe's family, but he found the secret to breaking the trend. Way to go, Joe!

Here's Joe at 294 pounds:



Here he is today, 60 pounds lighter, at 234 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Joe Bellino
Hometown: Covington, Ga.
Age: 55
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 294 pounds
Goal weight: 234 pounds
Current weight: 234 pounds
Program start date: December 2006

Favorite food: Sweets.

Biggest temptation: Eating out too often.

Biggest motivator: Receiving constant support from his wife.

Biggest obstacle: Avoiding sweets.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything he wanted.

New eating philosophy: Eating balanced meals and drinking more water.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better about himself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat smaller meals throughout the day, and don't starve yourself.

Alora Gaddy determined to nix her fast food fix

Many people have a weight limit in their mind. If they ever reach that number, they know it's time to start shedding the pounds.

For Alora Gaddy, that number is 200. And at 188, she's almost there. She owes her weight gain to years of piling extra helpings on her plat,e and hitting the fast food drive-thru. She rarely eats fruits and vegetables, and can't give up her favorite snack -- chips and salsa.

The extra weight has caused Alora's blood pressure and cholesterol to rise. She has trouble keeping up with her three grandchildren, and is frustrated when she can't find clothes that fit her.

She's tried popular diet plans, but wasn't comfortable in group counseling sessions. She quickly lost interest and fell back to her old eating habits.

Now she's determined to lose 50 pounds once and for all through the Atlanta Controltrim Weight Loss Challenge. Alora wants to gain the energy to run after her grandkids, and the good health to live a longer life.

This is Alora now, clocking in at 188. Good luck in the challenge!



FAST FACTS

Name: Alora Gaddy
Hometown: Conyers, Ga.
Age: 50
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 188 pounds
Goal weight: 138 pounds

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Chips and salsa.

Biggest motivator: Getting encouragement from her kids.

Current eating philosophy: Loving food and eating whatever she wants.

Biggest reason for participating in the challenge: To lose weight for her health and grandchildren.

Former model returns to the spotlight

Models depend on their bodies for their jobs. So what happens when their bodies are no longer the slender figures that got them in front of the cameras in the first place? Diana Rahn can tell you.

Diana was used to being thin and looking good. In fact, her career as a Playboy bunny in the 1970s depended on it. So when Diana married and had a baby in her 20s, she managed to stay fit as a fiddle.

Losing the baby weight after her second child was harder, but she still returned to her pre-baby weight. When, at age 45, she had her third child, losing weight was almost impossible.

With a slower metabolism, and three children to care for, Diana couldn't shed the baby weight. A healthy size 8 for years, Diana was struggling to squeeze into size 12. And she didn't like what she saw in the mirror.

Diana wasn't feeling her best, either. She had high cholesterol, and was on medication for high blood pressure. Worse, she was out of shape and always out of breath.

Still, Diana ate what her children ate, and thought that running around caring for them was all the exercise she needed. She couldn't understand why she wasn't dropping the pounds. Diana tried a number of diets and even joined a gym, but nothing worked.

Then she heard a story about a woman who lost weight for her high school reunion. The woman's secret: L A Weight Loss. Diana decided to give it a try. In 2005, she joined her local Madison, Wis., L A Weight Loss center, and was paired with a personal weight loss counselor.

For Diana, the one-on-one attention made all the difference. She added more fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and water to her diet. And she learned the most important weight loss key to success: portion control.

Diana's personal meetings also held her accountable for what she ate. She appreciated the focus she received during each session, and also credits her food diary with keeping her conscious of what she ate.

Before she knew it, the weight began to melt away. Diana lost 15 pounds, and reached her goal weight of 140! She looks better, feels better, and even fits into size 6 pants!

Diana loves that she can shop at name-brand stores for clothes. And she loves the way people treat her now that she's lost weight. Her own success has even inspired others to join L A Weight Loss.

In the meantime, Diana has big plans for her new body. She's been lifting weights and exercising so she can enter the L A Weight Loss LYCRA bikini contest. Even better, Diana is planning to submit photos to Playboy for a "30 years later" layout.

Once a bunny, always a bunny. And Diana has certainly earned her place in front of the camera. Way to go, Diana!

Here's Diana at 155 pounds:



And here she is now at 140 pounds:




FAST FACTS

Name: Diana Rahn
Hometown: Lodai, Wis.
Age: 50
Height: 5'5"

Starting weight: 155 pounds
Goal weight: 140 pounds
Current weight: 140 pounds
Program start date: August 2005

Favorite food: Breads.

Biggest temptation: Carbs.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to fit into her size 8 and 10 clothes, and not wanting to fill her closet with larger sizes.

Biggest obstacle: Saying no to temptation.

Old eating philosophy: Eating large portions.

New eating philosophy: Eating correct portions of everything.

Best thing about losing weight: Receiving encouragement and compliments.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat the right portions, drink a lot of water, and exercise, and you WILL lose weight.

Tolly James tips the scale in his favor

Spiders. Heights. Public speaking. Small places. They're all common fears. But something that should not send a trickle down someone's spine is the bathroom scale. Just ask Tolly James of Killeen, Texas.

Tolly started gaining weight after college. As a military cook, he spent long hours making meals for hundreds of men and women. Being surrounded by food, plus having little time to exercise, equaled weight gain for Tolly.

He soon weighed 240 pounds -- nearly 40 pounds heavier than the military's weight guidelines for someone of his height.

At that point, Tolly left the military and started his own air conditioning and contracting company. But his poor eating habits and low levels of physical activity persisted, and Tolly eventually tipped the scales at 308 pounds.

He suffered from high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and constant headaches -- and was afraid to even look at the bathroom scale anymore. Tolly's doctor told him he needed to lose weight. He tried a number of diet plans, but no matter how hard he worked, he always hit plateaus, and could never keep the weight off.

Then in October 2006, Tolly joined his local Killeen, Texas, L A Weight Loss center, committed to making it work this time. He worked diligently with his one-on-one weight loss counselors, who helped him adjust his diet to achieve his weight loss and health goals.

Tolly replaced his usual McDonald's breakfast with homemade eggs and turkey sausage or a hearty bowl of oatmeal. He learned how to make healthy choices throughout the day, and to stay away from fast-food pitfalls.

Tolly also added fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meat, and water to his diet. By focusing on portion control and eating smaller meals throughout the day, Tolly watched his weight drop.

After less than two years on the L A Weight Loss program, Tolly lost 87 pounds! He passed his goal weight of 225 pounds, and currently weighs 219 pounds. His cholesterol, blood pressure, and headaches are down, and his energy level is up.

Tolly's weight loss is also helping him professionally. He doesn't have trouble crawling into tight attic spaces when servicing air conditioners anymore. Plus his new-found energy level lets him play with his kids more, and run one mile every other day. With his self-confidence sky high, Tolly finally feels like he is in control of his body.

And being in control means Tolly no longer fears the bathroom scale. He is proud of his weight, and watches his lifestyle and eating habits to stay on track. He feels he can accomplish anything now! Way to go, Tolly!

Here's Tolly tipping the scales at 308 pounds:



And here he is now, 87 pounds lighter and looking great!



FAST FACTS

Name: Tolly James
Hometown: Killeen, Texas
Age: 39
Height: 6'1"

Starting weight: 308 pounds
Goal weight: 225 pounds
Current weight: 219 pounds
Program start date: October 2006

Favorite food: Pizza.

Biggest temptation: Sweets and pastries.

Biggest motivator: Losing weight to improve his health.

Biggest obstacle: Buying cheap food instead of healthy food.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever was around.

New eating philosophy: Eating everything in moderation, especially starches.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining control and being healthy.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat small meals every two to three hours.

Stacy Long drops the weight for Disney

For many, the most anticipated time of the year is vacation. Time to get away from the office, kick back, relax, and enjoy life. But what if you don't think you have the energy to enjoy your vacation?

Stacy Long can tell you. Throughout her life, Stacy had never struggled with her weight. After her wedding, though, Stacy began slowly gaining weight throughout the years. Before too long, her 5-foot, 6-inch frame was struggling to support 212 pounds.

Stacy had high blood pressure and cholesterol. She rarely had any energy, and felt unhealthy. Stacy's weight also made her self-conscious and reserved in public. She didn't like the way she looked, and suffered from depression.

While planning a trip to Disney World with her husband and brother, Stacy knew she wouldn't have the energy to keep up with the two men. She tried dieting on her own, but couldn't drop the pounds.

When an L A Weight Loss opened in her hometown of Greeley, Colo., Stacy decided to give it a try. Her personal L A Weight Loss counselors taught her portion control, and helped her add fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats to her diet.

Stacy appreciated her counselors' support. They not only adjusted her diet and taught her to eat right, but they also held her accountable, which kept her on track. Soon, the pounds began dropping.

Since joining L A Weight Loss in April 2005, Stacy lost 76 pounds! In fact, Stacy had so much success with the program, she passed her goal weight by four pounds!

Now Stacy feels like an entirely different person. Looking better on the outside has made her feel better on the inside. And everyone notices her soaring confidence, which even led Stacy to abandon her summertime tankinis for a brand-new bikini! Her husband loves that Stacy's "a bikini girl now!"

With her new energy, Stacy is planning another trip to Disney World. And this time, she's ready. Stacy knows she can keep up with her husband without a problem, so she's invited her niece and nephew too! Good luck, Stacy!

Here's Stacy at 212 pounds on her first trip to Disney World:



And here she is 76 pounds lighter, fit as a fiddle, and ready for her next Disney adventure!



FAST FACTS

Name: Stacy Long
Hometown: Greeley, Colo.
Age: 29
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 212 pounds
Goal weight: 140 pounds
Current weight: 136 pounds
Program start date: April 27, 2005

Favorite food: Chocolate.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to feel better about herself.

Old eating philosophy: Eating less food to lose weight.

New eating philosophy: Eating the right foods often, and the bad foods in moderation.

Best thing about losing weight: Having more energy throughout the day, and knowing she's done something good for herself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Feed your body, don't starve it!

Three keys to keeping your cholesterol in check

Just three, you ask? Yes, just three! That's all it takes to lower your cholesterol and keep it down, as we discovered the other day while chatting with Jennifer Simmons, L A Weight Loss's Director of Nutrition.

But that's not all we talked about. Jennifer also recommended foods you can eat at home and in restaurants to keep cholesterol at healthy levels. She even explained to us, in plain English, what cholesterol is, anyway!

So with National Cholesterol Education Month upon us, there's no better time to tune into our interview and learn simple ways to keep your cholesterol in check. And if you know someone who could benefit from Jennifer's healthy advice, pass this podcast along!

Colorado couple's winter woes become spring successes

Spring is the typical season to clean. But winter cleaning was in order for Andy and Sheri Collier of Thornton, Colo., when their weight troubles hit rock bottom in the Rocky Mountain state last December.

Andy's struggle began when his five-year Navy career ended. At home, he regularly ate fast food, mac and cheese, and canned chili, and slacked on his workout routine. He figured he could live this lifestyle since he was young. He was right -- at first.

Before long, his muscles diminished and his stomach grew. His desk job made him sedentary during the day. At night, he took care of family responsibilities, and had little time to focus on eating right or exercising.

The effects took their toll. His weight increased to 222 pounds, and he developed a bad knee and high cholesterol.

Meanwhile, Sheri's weight struggle started after having two kids. She didn't have the energy to workout or shed her pregnancy weight, and the stress of raising young children wore her down. She indulged in fast food and sweets to escape.

When her clothes starting fitting tight, she thought they had shrunk in the wash. But then she stepped on the scale and realized she had gained weight. Her petite 5'2" frame was up to 148 pounds.

The couple tried several diets, but quickly got bored and gave up. Sheri became severely depressed, and her doctor put her on medication.

Then one night last winter, Sheri was getting ready to go out with her husband, but she couldn't fit into any nice-looking clothes. She felt more depressed than ever.

Sheri thought about calling L A Weight Loss, and talked to Andy about it. Also wanting to drop the excess weight, Andy agreed L A Weight Loss might be the answer for both of them. So Sheri scheduled a consultation with their local center.

The couple met with L A Weight Loss's personal weight loss counselors, and developed healthy eating plans that worked with their busy lifestyles. The couple started eating proper portions of lean meats such as chicken or pork, fruit, and a salad with every meal.

They visited the center three times a week to stay accountable, and get one-on-one guidance from the counselors when they experienced a challenge or obstacle. And at home, they leaned on each other for support.

Sheri and Andy also got rid of the junk food in the house. When eating out, they ordered low-fat meals that were baked or broiled, not fried. They carried their good eating habits over to their kids, and made sure they got their proper nutrition too.

The couple felt better every day they were on the L A Weight Loss program. In fact, Andy says, "We were cleansed by the healthy diet."

No doubt! Andy lost 40 pounds, and now weighs 182 pounds; and Sheri lost 31 pounds, and is 117 pounds! L A Weight Loss was so effective for them, that they both exceeded their goal weights by three pounds each.

Sheri and Andy now have the energy and flexibility to exercise and play with their kids more. And they can wear and look great in more stylish clothes!

Even better, Andy and Sheri have brought back the love and affection that was waning when they were at their heaviest. Andy feels more confident and in control of his life. And Sheri feels free from the harsh prejudice she felt when in public.

Way to go, guys! You're certainly living the springtime of your lives!

Here's Andy before, at 222 pounds:



And here's Sheri before, at 148 pounds:



This is the happy couple today, a collective 71 pounds lighter! Looking great, Andy and Sheri!



FAST FACTS

Name: Andy Collier
Hometown: Thornton, Colo.
Age: 32
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 222 pounds
Goal weight: 185 pounds
Current weight: 182 pounds
Program start date: Dec. 27, 2006

Favorite food: Chinese.

Biggest temptation: Finger foods.

Biggest motivator: Seeing the program work.

Biggest obstacle: Changing the way he grocery shops.

New eating philosophy: Making smart choices, and thinking before he eats.

Best thing about losing weight: Gaining more self-confidence.

Best weight loss secret learned: Intelligent eating is the secret! Realize what you put in your mouth will affect you later, so think about it first.



Name: Sheri Collier
Hometown: Thornton, Colo.
Age: 32
Height: 5'2"

Starting weight: 148 pounds
Goal weight: 120 pounds
Current weight: 117 pounds
Program start date: January 2007

Favorite food: Mexican.

Biggest temptation: Chips and guacamole.

Biggest motivator: Dropping clothing sizes.

Biggest obstacle: Realizing she will lose weight at her own pace, and not trying to lose as fast as her husband.

Old eating philosophy: Eating anything that was there.

New eating philosophy: Thinking if the food is really worth it before indulging.

Best thing about losing weight: Knowing how to make smart food choices.

Best weight loss secret learned: The take-off.

Texas man becomes the life of every party

Food is often the center of parties, and linked to good times and people you love. Just think birthday cake and grandma's apple pie.

But food comes into play during negative experiences and emotions as well, to comfort and console. This is typically called emotional eating. Before you know it, that bag of chips or carton of ice cream is gone.

Take Allen Gaines. Allen was skinny his entire life. A track runner in high school and college, his dad fondly nicknamed him "bones" because he was so trim.

After college, however, Allen went through some turbulent experiences, including a near-fatal car accident, a stressful divorce, and custody battle. Allen turned to food for comfort. After all, what's a pity party without the eats?

But even when his life started looking up after overcoming these setbacks, Allen ate. His second wife was his emotional rock, and incidentally, an amazing cook. Over the years, he packed on the pounds.

By 2005, Allen was weighing in at a hefty 317 pounds -- and suffering the consequences. His cholesterol and blood pressure were dangerously high, he could barely climb the stairs without becoming winded, and had to undergo three different surgeries to treat a varicose vein and two kidney stones.

Allen knew he needed to lose weight, and tried a number of diets. After years of eating prepared foods, counting calories, cutting carbs, and always feeling hungry, nothing worked. None of the diets showed Allen simply how to eat right, and he gained the weight back.

On New Year's Eve, Allen resolved to lose weight. And two days later, Allen joined his local Lubbock, Texas, L A Weight Loss center.

Allen's one-on-one weight loss counselors helped him transform his diet and his life. He learned the importance of portion control, and eating more meals but in smaller sizes. He cut out a lot of fatty foods, and started paying attention to nutrition labels.

His diet now consists of fresh fruits and vegetables, baked fish and chicken, lots of water, and an occasional steak. Allen never skips breakfast, and he cut out all late-night snacking.

The best thing Allen learned from his counselors is he can still eat the things he loves while losing weight. He enjoys eating out, and he treats himself to his favorite candy bar (just not every day).

Since joining L A Weight Loss, Allen has lost 104 pounds. His cholesterol is down, his blood pressure is normal, and his energy level has sky-rocketed. He walks every morning, and hikes trails that he hasn't been able to tackle in years. He also runs and plays with his dog.

For the first time in 20 years, Allen is spiritually, mentally, and physically in great shape. And the constant compliments about his weight loss aren't too bad to hear, either. Food is no longer the center of the party ... Allen is! Way to go, Allen!

Here's Allen before his life-changing New Year's resolution, at 317 pounds:

Here he is 104 pounds lighter, and 110 percent healthier. Looking great, Allen! Great job!



FAST FACTS

Name: Allen Gaines
Hometown: Lubbock, Texas
Age: 56
Height: 6'1"

Starting weight: 317 pounds
Goal weight: 213 pounds
Current weight: 215 pounds
Program start date: January 2006

Favorite food: Steak and baked tilapia.

Biggest temptation: Snacks.

Biggest motivator: Receiving support from family and friends every day.

Biggest obstacle: Standing in his own way.

Old eating philosophy: Eating for the sake of eating.

New eating philosophy: Eating to live, not living to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling great about himself.

Best weight loss secret learned: It's all about discipline.

Retired teacher makes the grade by giving up

When you're losing weight, thinking positive and persevering are essential to reaching your goals. Giving up is not an option! But in Bill Byles' case, giving up was the key to winning big.

Bill's weight gain started when he was a teenager. His mom loved to cook, and Bill loved to eat. He was chubby in high school and college, and tried losing some weight before becoming a high school physics teacher.

But even then he had a "seefood" mentality -- when he saw food, he ate it. Bill consumed a lot of fast food, pre-packaged meals, and pizza (his biggest weakness). His weight increased throughout his adulthood.

And it was no fun to be overweight. The worst part was the mocking he got while teaching. Sometimes after leaving the classroom, he heard kids' laughter as he walked away. He pretended they weren't laughing at him, but he knew they were.

After retiring from teaching, Bill had more time to eat, and topped out at 343 pounds. He had diabetes, high blood pressure, and cholesterol. He also had troubled bending over, and wouldn't even try to pick up a quarter on the ground.

Bill tried fad diets, and lost 75 pounds. But he couldn't keep the weight off. Finally, in March 2006, his wife said that if he didn't lose weight by her birthday, she would send him to a weight loss camp.

This jolted Bill. He knew he had to get serious about shedding pounds. Shortly thereafter, he met a friend he hadn't seen in two years. His friend was much thinner than he remembered, and Bill asked what he did. His friend's answer was L A Weight Loss.

It turned out to be Bill's answer too. The next day Bill joined his local Southaven, Miss., L A Weight Loss center. Working with the personal weight loss counselors, Bill incorporated fresh fruit and vegetables into his diet. He also started eating lean meats, and low-fat, low-sodium foods. He lost five pounds in the first two days!

Bill continued following the L A Weight Loss program closely, and dropped 120 pounds! Now at 223 pounds, he's well on his way to his goal weight of 183.

Plus, Bill works out at the gym six days a week, and walks four to five miles a day. He can do more around the house, and enjoys shopping for clothes. When he travels, he no longer needs a seatbelt extender on planes.

When he walks by a mirror, Bill can't help but stop and smile. He thinks about everything he's given up since losing weight. His diabetes and blood sugar medication. One-third of his waist size. Limited mobility. Feeling and looking old. And, of course, 120 pounds!

Bill feels fantastic, and his family is thrilled with his success. No weight loss farm for him! Congrats, Bill! Keep up the great work!

This is Bill before, tipping the scales at 343 pounds:



And here he is today at 223 pounds. Good bye, old Bill, hello new! Way to go!



FAST FACTS

Name: Bill Byles
Hometown: Memphis, Tenn.
Age: 65
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 343 pounds
Goal weight: 183 pounds
Current weight: 223 pounds
Program start date: April 15, 2006

Favorite food: Toasted pita with soft cheese spread and jalapeno peppers chopped up, or homemade pico de gallo.

Biggest temptation: None, because he followed the program to a T!

Biggest motivator: Seeing the program work.

Biggest obstacle: Having less control over what's available to eat while traveling out of town.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever he wanted.

New eating philosophy: Eating healthy to live longer and enjoy life.

Best thing about losing weight: Being able to move more freely.

Best weight loss secret learned: Drink water.

Wisconsin woman turns up the lights in Vegas

Think Vegas can't get any brighter? Then you weren't there when Connie Thone of Osh Kosh, Wis., was showing off her newfound energy, excitement, and zest for life under the brilliant lights.

But Connie's life wasn't always so dazzling. She started struggling with her weight as a child. Weight problems ran in her family, and she ate the wrong foods, never outgrowing her love for fast food or vending-machine snacks.

As she got older, Connie became an emotional eater when she was stressed, turning to ice cream and pizza. She also didn't like to cook, and usually grabbed whatever she could on the go.

Connie had high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart burn, and was on two medications to treat the conditions. Worse, she had lymphodema in her leg, which prevented fluid from flowing correctly through her body, and caused her legs to swell.

She also had joint and lower back pain, especially when she walked. As a result, Connie was mostly sedentary. She was miserable with herself, and couldn't go on trips and do other things she wanted to do.

She tried two diets, losing about 80 pounds on each. But she couldn't maintain her weight loss, and gained it back. Then she gained more weight while going through a troublesome divorce, and soon spun the scales at 360 pounds.

Connie knew her health and life were in trouble. Her doctor strongly advised her to lose weight. Connie was determined to make a change for the better, so she joined her local L A Weight Loss center.

Working with the personal weight loss counselors, Connie learned how to cook simple, healthy meals, such as baked fish with lemon. When she ate out, she opted for salads, chicken, and other lean meats. She also ate more fruits and vegetables, and cut down her soda consumption.

The individual attention at L A Weight Loss made all the difference for Connie. The counselors were always there to help her if she hit a plateau, and helped get her back on the weight loss track. In fact, she became close friends with her weight loss counselor, Amber.

After two years on the L A Weight Loss plan, Connie lost 213 pounds, and is now a trim 147! All her medical conditions are improved, and she's no longer on medications. Her family and friends are thrilled with her success.

Plus, she recently visited two friends from college, one of which she hadn't seen in two years, and they were shocked to see the new Connie. They couldn't stop gushing about how great she looked!

But no one is happier than Connie. Now she can do things she always wanted to do. For starters, she took a vacation with her friends to Las Vegas in May. She had no problem fitting into her plane seat and walking around.

She also can shop at the mall without getting winded or feeling achy. Connie also got a bike this summer and rode 25 miles with a friend. She plans on taking a bike riding trip through the local trails soon.

Now, with renewed happiness, she shines just as brightly as the big city lights! Great job, Connie! You did it!


This is Connie at her heaviest, 360 pounds:



Here she is at 147 ...




FAST FACTS

Name: Connie Thone
Hometown: Osh Kosh, Wis.
Age: 44
Height: 5'0"

Starting weight: 360 pounds
Goal weight: 140 pounds
Current weight: 147 pounds
Program start date: April 11, 2005

Favorite food: Part skim ricotta cheese with unsweetened cocoa and two packets of sweetener.

Biggest temptation: Ice cream and pizza.

Biggest motivator: Getting healthy, and looking and feeling great.

Biggest obstacle: Learning to incorporate the right foods into her diet.

Old eating philosophy: Consuming whatever she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Paying attention to what she eats, and making healthy choices.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling much healthier, and knowing she has a longer lease on life, plus making great friends at L A Weight Loss along the way!

Best weight loss secret learned: Add variety to your diet.

Marina Vozarik beats her bullies

Getting bullied is one of childhood's worst experiences. Now imagine feeling that pain 24/7. This was Marina Vozarik's life for 35 years.

Marina was lonely growing up. She was an only child, with few friends. Her father passed away from a heart attack when she was five, and her mother went back to work when Marina was eight. She was often home alone, and had to care for herself.

The constant teasing by Marina's classmates, especially boys, only worsened her childhood. She turned to food for comfort.

Then she hit adolescence, which further fueled her weight gain. Marina reached 190 pounds by age 16. Her doctor put her on a strict diet of only 420 calories a day. Marina lost 35 pounds, but cheated, and gained it back.

Throughout adulthood, Marina still felt the pain of being bullied and rejected. People gave her mean looks because she was overweight. Her self-confidence dwindled.

She tried to lose weight on her own, but as a chronic stress eater, she only got bigger. Soon, Marina topped out at 336 pounds.

Her health was in jeopardy. Her blood pressure and cholesterol were high, and her thyroid was irregular. She had trouble sleeping, experienced severe knee pain, and felt exhausted all the time.

Those close to Marina told her that her life was spiraling out of control, and she had to do something about it. But no one really believed she could lose weight. That sparked her desire to prove them wrong. So she turned to L A Weight Loss.

There, the personal weight loss counselors taught her portion control, and how to avoid food when she felt depressed. Marina never felt like she had to cheat while on the L A Weight Loss program. She could still eat healthier versions of her favorite foods in the right portions.

The counselors were her cheerleaders, supporting her throughout her weight loss journey. She also did water aerobics and walked around her neighborhood to enhance her weight loss regimen.

Marina quickly started shedding pounds. Then her mother passed away of a massive heart attack. Not wanting to experience the same fate, Marina became even more determined to reach her weight loss goals.

The determination paid off. Today Marina is 166 pounds thinner, clocking in at 175 pounds! That's nearly half her weight!

Her blood pressure, cholesterol, and thyroid are now normal. She can sleep through the night comfortably, and has no knee pain. Plus, she can buy normal-sized clothing without getting nasty looks from other shoppers.

Best of all, Marina is finally social. She feels good about herself -- no longer the brunt of cruel jokes. She's confident in her appearance, and likes to go swimming in her community pool.

She certainly proved everyone wrong! As she says, "L A Weight Loss is not a diet -- it's a life-altering experience!"

Big congrats, Marina! You deserve it!

This is Marina before at 336 pounds:



And look at her transformation! She's all smiles at 175 pounds. Way to go, Marina!



FAST FACTS

Name: Marina Vozarik
Hometown: Alpharetta, Ga.
Age: 39
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 336 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 175 pounds
Program start date: January 2003

Favorite food: Roasted pork with cabbage and bread dumplings.

Biggest temptation: Her mother's cooking.

Biggest motivator: Her parents' health history.

Biggest obstacle: Avoiding food when stressed.

Old eating philosophy: Reaching for food for comfort.

New eating philosophy: Eating in moderation, and not sneaking unhealthy foods.

Best thing about losing weight: Being able to see a bright future.

Best weight loss secret learned: Follow portion control!

Alabama sister scales back sibling rivalry

Sibling rivalry is a natural part of growing up. Brothers and sisters try to outdo one another in almost any way possible.

For Theresa Coplin of Trussville, Ala., sibling rivalry focused on weight. Her sister was slender her whole life, but the same couldn't be said of Theresa.

She struggled with weight since she got married at age 19. She didn't eat correctly or exercise much. She often fried her foods, and opted for starches and red meat instead of fresh fruit or vegetables.

The pounds piled on. Theresa quickly became fatigued after short walks. Her blood pressure and cholesterol were high, and her doctor put her on three medications to correct them. She also got lower back pain from standing too long, and snored at night.

Theresa lost the energy and enthusiasm to go out and socialize. Instead, she curled up on the couch at the end of the day and watched TV. Meanwhile, her sister remained thin. Theresa knew that if she focused and tried hard, she could look like her sister too.

When she reached 218 pounds, Theresa knew if she didn't do something about her weight, the pounds would continue to add up. She decided to turn to L A Weight Loss, which was located in the same shopping center as her office.

She signed up one day after work, and starting changing her eating habits with the help of the personal weight loss counselors and nutrition experts. Theresa learned how to eat a balanced diet of proteins, starches, dairy, fruits, and vegetables -- and enjoy the once-hated green beans! She also started grilling or baking food, instead of frying it.

During her weight loss, Theresa was able to stick with the L A Weight Loss plan because she could eat healthy foods she liked, and talk to her counselor one-on-one for personal guidance and motivation. Her doctor also encouraged her to stay on the plan.

Now, Theresa weighs 138 pounds -- the same as her sister! Her family is very proud of her, and she receives a lot of compliments on her new figure. Theresa's medical conditions have improved too, and she takes only one medication for high blood pressure -- a thrill for her doctor!

Theresa can also run and walk farther without getting out of breath. She wears more flattering clothes, and will soon be ready to flaunt her new body in a swimsuit. She continues to eat according to lessons learned at L A Weight Loss to keep the weight off.

Theresa knows she'll live a longer, healthier life now that her weight is under control. She says she wishes every overweight person would do what she did because they'd be much happier and healthier.

No truer words were spoken, Theresa! Great job!!

This is Theresa before, at 218 pounds:



And here's the new Theresa, looking fabulous at 138! Way to go, Theresa!



FAST FACTS

Name: Theresa Coplin
Hometown: Trussville, Ala.
Age: 54
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 218 pounds
Goal weight: 138 pounds
Current weight: 138 pounds
Program start date: May 18, 2006

Favorite food: Bread.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate and peanut butter.

Biggest motivator: Seeing how thin her sister was, and wanting to get off medications.

Biggest obstacle: Eating too many starches and sweets.

Old eating philosophy: Munching all the time, whether she was hungry or not.

New eating philosophy: Eating smaller meals six times a day.

Best thing about losing weight: Receiving lots of compliments on how good she looks.

Best weight loss secret learned: Grill and bake instead of frying food.

N.C. woman drops the bulk for a tighter belt

Most of us have heard our parents say, "Finish your dinner, there are children starving all over the world." Kaysie Brown took those words literally.

Family meals were always super-sized in Kaysie’s home. Hence the reason for her life-long weight struggle. She grew up in a meat-and-potatoes household, eating burgers, fries, chili, and hot dogs nearly every day. High-calorie deli sandwiches, bread, and pasta were also bad addictions for Kaysie.

These habits spilled over into her own child-rearing years. A single mom, Kaysie cooked cheaper cuts of meat, fried just about everything, and continued to pack on the pounds. She also traveled a lot with her boyfriend and always ate out.

Making matters worse, Kaysie broke her back horseback riding in 2001. She was immobile for six months. The stress caused her to turn to food and her weight increased.

By October 2006, she weighed 217 pounds and had had enough. Her doctor was concerned about her rising cholesterol and put her on medication. She also suffered from asthma. She tried several diets and weight loss plans, but nothing worked for her.

Then she passed an L A Weight Loss center near her home one day. Kaysie decided to give it a shot. Working with the center’s personal weight loss counselors, Kaysie began losing weight immediately.

She now incorporates fresh vegetables, whole wheat pasta, and whole wheat bread into her diet. At restaurants, she eats only a portion of the entree, and takes home the rest for her next meal. She also drinks lots of water.

Kaysie now weighs 156 pounds and is well on her way to her goal weight of 145 pounds! Her son and daughter are very proud of her, and are thankful she’ll be around to meet her future grandchildren.

And the best part about being thinner: Her brand-new wardrobe! She’s given all her old clothes away.

She’s also more active and takes 30- to 45-minute walks three times a week, and does yoga every day.

Dropping the weight has infused Kaysie with self-confidence and given her a new purpose for living.

Awesome job, Kaysie!

Here is Kaysie at 217 pounds with her daughter, Amy, and son, Greg:



And her she is now, at a wonderful-looking 156 pounds! Looking fabulous, Kaysie!



FAST FACTS

Name: Kaysie Brown
Hometown: Clayton, N.C.
Age: 59
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 217 pounds
Goal weight: 145 pounds
Current weight: 156 pounds
Program start date: Oct. 11, 2006

Favorite food: Seafood such as scallops, shrimp, lobster, and fish, with fresh vegetables.

Biggest temptation: Pasta and bread.

Biggest motivator: Living to see her grandchildren.

Biggest obstacle: Maintaining self-discipline.

Old eating philosophy: Eating for now, and worrying about the consequences later.

New eating philosophy: Eating to live, not living to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling healthier and fitting into smaller-sized clothing.

Best weight loss secret learned: Make healthy choices. It's not that hard!

Everything's bigger in Texas -- except the Wells

Bigger is better, right? Not when it's your body that keeps getting larger.

Just ask Larry and Dixie Wells of Sherman, Texas. They know what it's like to live an out-sized life, and suffer the health consequences.

The couple had long been regulars at the local dance hall, getting in four solid hours of exercise every Saturday night. But in 1996, Larry had a series of surgeries that caused great trauma to his spine. This put him in a wheelchair, where he slowly gained weight, eventually hitting 360 pounds.

Then the dance hall closed, leaving Dixie without her dancing partner or steady exercise. She began struggling with her weight, too, and soon passed the 200-pound mark.

The Wells also battled other health issues. Larry had severe diabetes, and took five pills daily to rein in his skyrocketing blood sugar.

In addition, he had to do sliding board transfers to get from his bed to his wheelchair, or from his wheelchair to the shower bench. But moving the excess weight caused pain in his shoulders, and limited his mobility.

Meanwhile, Dixie took a cholesterol tablet every day to combat her high cholesterol, yet her numbers never improved. She also experienced significant pain in her back, hips, and feet -- enough to draw tears.

The couple knew they had to shed the pounds, or face a lifetime of misery and declining health. They tried to lose the weight on their own through various diet programs. But after a year had passed -- and Dixie gained 25 more pounds -- they decided to get help.

They went to their local L A Weight Loss center in July 2005, and teamed up with personal counselor Paula Terri to develop a healthy meal plan. She taught them how to eat in the correct portions, and strike the right balance of vegetables, fruit, lean protein, and carbs.

The Wells adjusted some family recipes to fit the L A Weight Loss plan without sacrificing taste. One of their favorite dinners: vegetable pizza on a reduced fat crescent roll crust with a light cream cheese spread.

Plus, Dixie joined an exercise club, going at least three times to use the treadmill and elliptical machines.

Thanks to these lifestyle changes, the pounds melted away. Within a year, Larry dropped from a size 3X to size L, weighing in at 238 pounds -- over 120 pounds lighter! And Dixie now sports a size 14 (instead of size 22) on her new 158-pound frame.

The difference in their health is even more dramatic. Larry is down to half a diabetes pill daily, and has to watch out for low blood sugar, while Dixie's high cholesterol is almost non-existent.

Plus, it's much easier for Larry to transfer between his bed, chair, and shower. Sometimes he doesn't even use the board, and holds himself up in the shower. And weighing 87 pounds less makes Dixie's feet, back, and hips much happier, too.

Best of all, the couple loves looking and feeling better, and having the energy to enjoy life -- the true definition of wellness. Terrific work, Larry and Dixie!

Here's the couple at 360 and 234 pounds, respectively:



And here's Larry at 238 pounds riding toward his 200-pound goal weight ...



... while Dixie struts her stuff at 158 pounds!! Talk about a job "Wells" done!



FAST FACTS

Name: Larry Wells
Hometown: Sherman, Texas
Age: 59
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 360 pounds
Goal weight: 200 pounds
Current weight: 238 pounds
Program start date: July 2005

Favorite food: Craw fish.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to sit comfortably in a chair, and breathe more easily.

Biggest obstacle: Avoiding party food at work.

Old eating philosophy: Cleaning his plate.

New eating philosophy: Choosing healthy foods in the right portion.

Best thing about losing weight: Relieving stress on his body.

Best weight loss secret learned: The right foods in the right amounts are the key to success.



Name: Dixie Wells
Hometown: Sherman, Texas
Age: 59
Height: 5' 6 ½"

Starting weight: 234 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 158 pounds
Program start date: July 2005

Favorite food: Lasagna.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate walnut fudge.

Biggest motivator: Looking in the mirror, and seeing the pounds come off.

Biggest obstacle: Saying no to ice cream.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever looked good.

New eating philosophy: Enjoying the taste and freshness of healthy food.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling and looking 10 years younger.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eating balanced meals three times a day in the proper portions helps the pounds drop off.

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.