Mother-daughter duo rely on each other

Kathy Fendley and her daughter Emily Jenkins are from Knoxville, Tenn. They decided to join their local LA Weight Loss center together in January 2006. Kathy and Emily share similar stories with their weight struggles.

Kathy was active growing up, but was always heavier. In college, she lost 50 pounds, and after that, she would yo-yo. Emily struggled through middle school up until after college. Both women knew their choice in food was not the healthiest. They would eat a lot of fast food, and Kathy would skip meals and instead eat a milkshake. She found ways to justify her eating.

When Emily was asked to be in a friend's wedding in August 2006, she knew she wanted to get the weight off. She asked her mom to join the LA Weight Loss program for the added support. Kathy was very excited to get the extra weight off too, but she knew she would not be able to lose as much as Emily would.

Little did Kathy know, she and her daughter went pound for pound. Along with eating healthier, receiving one-on-one help and support from LA counselors and each other, Kathy and Emily exercised at least three days a week. They would do a circuit training that LA Weight Loss offered, walk outside or on the treadmill, weight train, and all around became more active.

Emily also wanted to lose weight for her own wedding. Ever since Emily was a little girl, she dreaded picking out her wedding dress. She thought she would have to pick a dress out to cover her up. But when she did marry just about a year ago, she could pick out the dress of her dreams.

The mother-daughter duo thanks LA Weight Loss for their healthier lifestyle. They have noticed a change in their overall quality of life. Kathy loves taking her daughter shopping and seeing how excited she gets when she feels comfortable in what she wears.

They no longer dread putting on a bathing suit to go to the beach. They always make sure they bring their own snacks and drink a lot of water. Teamwork is what led this mother and daughter to the happiest they have ever been in their own skin.

Emily and Kathy before:



Emily and Kathy after:



FAST FACTS:

Name: Kathy Fendley
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 61
Height: 5'1"

Starting weight: 179 lbs.
Goal weight: 135 lbs.
Current weight: 132 lbs.
Program start date: January 2006

Favorite food: Hamburgers.

Biggest temptation: French fries.

Biggest motivator: Getting rid of clothes that no longer fit.

Biggest obstacle: Cooking/preparing her own food to follow the plan.

Old eating philosophy: Ignoring calories, and just eating anything that was fast and tasty.

New eating philosophy: Planning ahead, having good and healthy food in the refrigerator, and talking to the waiter if she goes out to eat.

Best thing about losing weight: Having more energy, feeling better about herself, and not having to stand in front of the closet and wonder what pair of pants she can get into today.

Best weight loss secret learned: Don't let yourself get hungry. Stay ahead of your hunger pain.



Name: Emily Jenkins
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 26
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 185 lbs.
Goal weight: 132lbs.
Current weight: 143lbs.
Program start date: January 2006

Favorite food: Any kind of cake.

Biggest temptation: Cake and pizza.

Biggest motivator: Being able to buy clothes she wants to buy.

Biggest obstacle: Watching her husband eat, because he can eat whatever and stay skinny.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever was there.

New eating philosophy: Controlling portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Getting compliments and knowing she looks better.

Best weight loss secret learned: Use fat-free Cool Whip on fruits to make it more like a dessert.

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.

Tennessee mom's last resort

Cheryl Miller is a mother of four, a loving wife, and a caregiver. Her active life left her with little personal time to take care of herself. She was constantly on the go, working for a preschool, caring for her sick grandmother, and trying to care for her own four children. This all played a major role in her weight gain.

Each of Cheryl's pregnancies put a toll on her body. After Cheryl had her second child at age 23, her weight increased and she started suffering from severe back pain. Her back pain sometimes required her to be carried or pushed in a wheelchair, or even to be on bed rest for a week.

Finally, she went to the doctor's when the pain was so fierce she could not walk. The doctors took X-rays, and discovered flipped discs, fragmentation, and nerve damage -- all due to the weight she had gained after having children. The doctor recommended back surgery as the only cure to her suffering if she did not lose weight.

Cheryl was 29 years old, almost a size 20, and her weight was continuing to increase. Cheryl was not ready to undergo back surgery and take time away from her family. Cheryl tried to lose weight on her own, but still did not eat right and was unsuccessful. She did not understand why the older she got, the more she ate and the more weight she gained.

Cheryl decided to look into LA Weight Loss after a suggestion from a friend of the family who was on the program and had also suffered from back pain. Cheryl liked the LA Weight Loss program because of the accountability it offered.

Within the first two weeks of the program, Cheryl lost close to 20 pounds, and people started to notice. She received positive reactions from friends and family, which encouraged her to commit and stay on the program.

Cheryl's diet changed from eating red meat, fried chicken, pasta, fast food, and canned vegetables, to eating lean cuts of turkey, fresh green vegetables, and plenty of fresh fruit. Water has also become Cheryl's choice of beverage.

She lost 103 pounds on LA Weight Loss! Cheryl has not pulled her back out since her youngest son Parker, 6, was six months old. Her new lifestyle also encouraged her to exercise more. Cheryl started walking every day, doing exercise work outs on TV, and lifting weights to tone her arms and legs.

Cheryl has a new level of confidence. She is no longer hiding herself from others. She went from a size 22 to a size 4, playing softball in the summer and keeping up with her active children.

She also gained the confidence to be more outgoing and approachable, allowing her to connect with people. She finally feels that people listen to her while she talks, always asking for more insight. After all the years of caring for others, she believes this is the first time she is truly caring for herself.

Cheryl is an inspiration to those surrounded by her and to us all! You look great Cheryl, keep up the hard work for yourself and for others!

Cheryl at 226 pounds:



Cheryl at 123 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Cheryl Miller
Hometown: Kingston, Tenn.
Age: 35
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 226 lbs.
Goal weight: 120 lbs.
Current weight: 123 lbs.
Program start date: April 27, 2006

Favorite food: Chinese food.

Biggest temptation: Chocolate.

Biggest motivator: Her kids.

Biggest obstacle: Not getting the encouragement that she needed for others.

Old eating philosophy: Eating pizza, pasta, Chinese food, fried chicken, French fries, and hamburgers.

New eating philosophy: Enjoying turkey, asparagus, grilled chicken, broccoli, blueberries, and bananas.

Best thing about losing weight: Being a role model to others who want to lose weight.

Best weight loss secret learned: Lowering your sodium intake can help you lose weight.

Tennessee woman gets the gift of life

Christa Early is a wife and mother of two from Knoxville, Tenn., who grew up in a household where her parents lived a very active lifestyle. Christa's parents were an example to the rest of her family, all trying to live a healthy lifestyle. But Christa's health has never been a priority to her until later in life.

After having her first child Nolan, Christa struggled to regain her pre-pregnancy size. She tried diet after diet and still could not meet her goal weight. Christa would lose weight then gain back all she had lost and more. She dealt with illness, and then death of her father-in-law by binge eating and inactivity.

After the death of her father-in-law, Christa and her husband wanted to celebrate the gift of life again. Christa got pregnant pretty quickly in January 2006 but then miscarried after two months. Christa was depressed and was not taking care of herself. Before long, Christa was the heaviest she has ever been.

In April 2006, Christa received the news she was pregnant again. Later in December, after her daughter Katie was born, Christa was tipping the scales at 229 pounds. Christa's diet was filled with fatty foods such as enchiladas, milkshakes, and fried foods.

After weighing 229 pounds for about a year, Christa had a defining moment when she knew she had to change. The Early family took a vacation to South Carolina in June 2007. When they returned home, Christa saw a picture that was shocking and upsetting.

She did not like the way she looked in the picture, and realized how much weight she had gained. Christa couldn't forget the problems she had keeping up with her family at the beach, and how miserable she felt in the sun. She was truly embarrassed.

Christa's friend suggested she sign up for LA Weight Loss. Her friend had already lost 30 pounds, which was all the motivation Christa needed to drive to her local center.

LA Weight Loss has taught Christa how to make healthier choices. For breakfast she would measure out a half cup of oatmeal and a cup and a half of blueberries. And she started eating fish, something she never ate before. Christa now eats a ton of fruit, and drinks plenty of water.

Christa also had an emergency plan in case she ever couldn't get out of the office for lunch. She would pack herself bread, and was always sure she had peanut butter stashed at the office.

In April 2008, Christa decided she wanted to start running more. When she was able to run a mile without stopping, she became even more motivated. Christa also inspired a coworker to start running, and the two of them completed a 5k charity race together.

These days, road races are a regular event for Christa. Right now, she's training for a 10k taking place next fall. Really impressive for someone who couldn't even run a mile one year ago!

Besides running, Christa got hooked on Tae Bo, which allows her to stay inside during the cold weather.

Christa is very excited for the upcoming summer. She can't wait to go boating, biking, hiking, and camping with her family. And she knows this year, it'll be her family who has to try to keep up with her!

You look great, Christa! Keep up all the hard work!

Here's Christa at 229 pounds:



And here she is now, at an amazing 128 pounds:




FAST FACTS:

Name: Christa Early
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 37
Height: 5’1”

Starting weight: 229 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 128 pounds
Program start date: July 2007

Favorite food: Ice cream

Biggest temptation: Pizza

Biggest motivator: Seeing the results each week when she weighed in.

Biggest obstacle: Planning meals for the family.

Old eating philosophy: Chowing down on fast food, enchiladas, burgers, fries, and milkshakes.

New eating philosophy: Eating well-balanced meals with foods such as blueberries, fish, squash, zucchini, salads, and yogurt, and drinking plenty of water.

Best thing about losing weight: Having the energy to do activities and feeling sexy.

Best weight loss secret learned: If you choose healthier foods, you can eat all day long and feel full and lose weight.

Tennesse mom gets closer to her husband ... literally!

Rachael Wyrick is a loving wife and mother from Tennessee who has struggled with her weight all of her life. Both of Rachael's parents struggle from being overweight, which allowed Rachael to believe it was hereditary. With the lack of exercise and poor eating habits, Rachael just thought her weight was something she could never change.

Rachael struggled with her weight all through high school and college. She remembers walking across campus feeling insecure. Still struggling with her weight, Rachael met the man of her dreams and vowed to spend the rest of her life with him. She even wore a plus-sized wedding dress on her big day.

Rachael knew she had to change. Her defining moment was having two beautiful children. Gaining around 50 pounds from each pregnancy, her husband became concerned with her health. Rachael thought she ate healthy by eating salads, tuna, and chicken, but she didn't know how to control her portions or would cover the salad in dressing. She also ate a lot of starches and creamy, fatty sauces.

Rachael knew she could not pass her unhealthy lifestyle to her family. With the help of her supportive husband and children and the guidance from LA Weight Loss, Rachael became committed to making a change.

Her eating habits soon changed. For breakfast, Rachael would eat cereal or oatmeal; for lunch, she would have a turkey or peanut butter sandwich. And at dinner, she would eat a salad with chicken or tuna. Rachael also made sure to make lunch her largest meal.

Rachael incorporated exercise into her new healthy lifestyle. At first, Rachael could only walk on the treadmill or do the elliptical for 20 minutes. Now she spends over an hour doing cardio exercises at least five times a week! LA Weight Loss taught Rachael how to document her exercise along with what she ate to help identify what worked and what didn't.

Since losing the weight, Rachael has never felt so limitless. She now has the energy to keep up with her children, go to the pool, or ride a bike with her daughter. She even went hiking over Valentine's Day!

What is the best part about being thinner? Rachael says it's her husband bringing her close and wrapping his arms all the way around her.

Congratulations, you look beautiful Rachael!

Rachael before at 252 lbs.:



Rachael now at 140lbs!




Fast Facts:

Name: Rachael Wyrick
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 35
Height: 5’7”

Starting weight: 252 lbs.
Goal weight: 140 lbs.
Current weight: 140 lbs.

Program start date: Aug. 8, 2006

Favorite food: Chicken

Biggest temptation: Already-made snacks

Biggest motivator: Her husband

Biggest obstacle: Attitude

Old eating philosophy: Fried chicken, rice, macaroni and cheese, Chinese food

New eating philosophy: Salads with grilled chicken or tuna, asparagus, tomatoes, blueberries, and apples

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling happy about what she accomplished

Best weight loss secret learned: Chewing gum while preparing meals to avoid overeating

Theresa Painter becomes the picture of health

Many mothers see the birth of a baby as the perfect motivation to lose weight and get healthy for the sake of their children. For Theresa Painter, that motivation came a little bit later, in the form of her first-born grandson.

Theresa was overweight her entire life. She struggled with her weight growing up, and her bad eating habits kept her weight high as an adult. She constantly snacked throughout the day, and meals usually consisted of heavy pastas, greasy pizzas, and anything fried.

When Theresa's husband lost weight after a bad case of food poisoning, Theresa ate with him as he tried to rebuild his figure. Unfortunately for her, that meant a lot of cakes, pies, and fatty foods. It's not surprising that her husband wasn't the only one putting on the pounds.

Being overweight left Theresa physically and emotionally drained. She hated that she had let herself go, and she struggled with daily activities. Her back and knees were constantly aching from the extra weight. Theresa tried dieting, but couldn't shed any weight.

When her first grandchild was born, Theresa was determined to get healthy for good. She knew if she didn't get healthy then, she never would. In July 2007, Theresa joined her local Knoxville, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center.

With help from her one-on-one weight loss counselors, Theresa learned how eating right could transform her life. Her counselors helped her change her diet from heavy to healthy. She cut back on the carbs, thick sauces, and greasy dishes, and replaced them with grilled meats, stir fry, and fresh fruits and vegetables.

Theresa learned the importance of portion control, and broke her diet down to three meals and three snacks each day. Whenever she was hungry between meals, Theresa found L A Lite bars hit the spot.

It wasn't long before the weight starting melting away. After exactly one year on the program, Theresa has lost 108 pounds, and currently weighs 171 pounds. She's only 21 pounds away from her weight loss goal of 151 pounds!

Theresa has found that everyday activities are so much easier with a smaller body. Even chores are more enjoyable. Theresa has fun shopping, and loves all the new styles and sizes that are available to her now. And she's able to devote at least 30 minutes each day to new exercises, such as dance videos.

Even better, she feels great about herself, physically and mentally. Theresa's confidence has increased, and she feels like she can do anything. And now, she knows she'll be around for her grandkids. She loves taking them on walks and playing with them at the park.

Way to go, Theresa!

Here's a 279-pound Theresa with her first grandson in 2007:



And here she is today at 171 pounds with her second grandchild. What a difference! Great job, Theresa!



FAST FACTS

Name: Theresa Painter
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 49
Height: 5'0"

Starting weight: 279 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 171 pounds
Program start date: July 2007

Favorite food: Vegetables.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Staying healthy for her grandchildren.

Biggest obstacle: Eating well when her husband doesn't.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever, whenever.

New eating philosophy: Focusing on herself and making wise decisions.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better and happier.

Best weight loss secret learned: It's all about portion control!

Stacie Guines finds a friend in weight loss

A person is lucky to have a true friend who will support her through good times and bad. Or, in Stacie Guines's case, through weight loss.

Stacie was overweight her entire life. Her mother cooked healthy meals, but Stacie never learned how to eat in moderation. Though her family tried to help her, she kept piling on the portions.

As she got older, Stacie ate out more often. Fast food became a staple in her diet. Breakfast consisted of donuts or pastries. Lunch was chicken nuggets, fries, and soda. And dinner was more of the same. To top it off, Stacie always had a glass of juice in her hand, and drank about a liter and a half of Kool-Aid a day.

Stacie never weighed herself, so she had no idea how heavy she was until she had a routine physical. The results were sobering. She weighed 340 pounds, had high blood pressure, and was at an increased risk for diabetes.

Stacie tried losing weight a few ways, but nothing worked. She knew that without support, it was going to be a difficult journey. So her friend Felicion took on the challenge with her.

In July 2005, they signed up at their local Chattanooga, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center, and were paired with a personal weight loss counselor.

Stacie learned how to incorporate healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean meats into her meals; and greatly reduced her fried-food addiction. Stacie also replaced Kool-Aid with water.

In addition to monitoring what she ate and drank, Stacie learned the importance of watching how much she consumed. Her counselor measured out a proper portion for her, and Stacie stuck with it.

Stacie and Felicion supported each other throughout their weight loss experiences, and it wasn't long before they started reaping the rewards. When Stacie saw how quickly the weight came off, she continued to reset her weight loss goal lower.

Stacie's now 186 pounds thinner, weighing 154 pounds! Felicion is doing great too!

Life is much better for Stacie. She has more energy than ever before. Not only is walking never a problem, but Stacie can also run up to five miles without stopping.

She loves shopping for new clothes too. She looks good, and she knows it! Stacie and Felicion plan on supporting each other all the way to the weight loss finish line. And at the rate they're going, it won't be long! Way to go, Stacie!

Here's Stacie in 2005 at 340 pounds:



And here she is today, looking fantastic at 154 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Stacie Guines
Hometown: Chattanooga, Tenn.
Age: 26
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 340 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 154 pounds
Program start date: July 2005

Favorite food: Chicken.

Biggest temptation: Fast food.

Biggest motivator: Seeing how quickly the weight came off.

Biggest obstacle: Resisting temptation.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted, whenever she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Being aware of what she's eating, and having the willpower to say no.

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

Best weight loss secret learned: Stick to the proper portions.

Nikki Robinson finds her happy number

Eighty-six is a semiprime, a nontotient, a noncototient, a happy number, and a self number. It appears in the Padovan sequence, right after 37, 49, and 65. And it's the amount of weight Nikki Robinson plans to lose with L A Weight Loss.

Nikki struggled with her weight her entire life. Throughout childhood, she kept active with a variety of sports. But high school and beyond saw Nikki's lifestyle significantly slow, and her weight gradually climb.

By the time she was 21, Nikki weighed a hefty 250 pounds. She was pre-diabetic, and on medication for high blood pressure. Worse, Nikki couldn't do many of the things girls her age were doing, because she didn't have the confidence to flirt with boys or wear cute clothes. And she felt sluggish all the time.

Nikki knew she was too young for such burdensome health problems, and became determined to lose weight. She tried other diets, but didn't learn about balanced eating, and never felt accountable for what she ate.

Then in April 2006, Nikki joined her local Morristown, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center. There, she was paired up with a personal weight loss counselor, who helped slim down her diet. Nikki learned about proper portion sizes, and added fruits, vegetables, and lean meats to her meals.

It wasn't long before she started dropping weight. In fact, Nikki's already lost 51 pounds. And that puts her at 193 -- only 28 pounds from her weight loss goal of 165!

The support has been fantastic. Nikki's family and friends have backed her the entire way, and celebrate all of her weight loss milestones with her.

Watching Nikki succeed has motivated her younger sister to join L A Weight Loss, too! And the compliments from guys haven't been too bad, either. ;-)

Plus, Nikki's energy is soaring. She feels like an entirely different person. Her health has improved, and she's off all of her medications.

Best of all, Nikki feels good about herself. And she knows that as her weight keeps dropping, life will only get better. Eighty-six certainly is a happy number -- Nikki's happy number. Keep up the good work!

Here's Nikki at 250 pounds:



And here she is today, looking much slimmer at 165 pounds:



FAST FACTS

Name: Nikki Robinson
Hometown: Morristown, Tenn.
Age: 21
Height: 5'8"

Starting weight: 251 pounds
Goal weight: 165 pounds
Current weight: 193 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Biggest motivator: Getting compliments from friends and family.

Biggest obstacle: Resisting temptation.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Sticking to proper portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Enjoying all the new attention.

Best weight loss secret learned: If you're committed to losing weight, it will happen!

Tennessee grandmom smashes weight gain cycle

People often eat because they're unhappy -- and they're unhappy because they eat too much. That's exactly the vicious cycle Kathy Kegley found herself trapped in.

Kathy was overweight since childhood. A lifetime of bad eating habits, including consuming huge portions of unhealthy foods, left her struggling with her health and happiness. By the time she reached her 40s, Kathy tipped the scales at 279 pounds.

Her weight caused myriad health issues, and she was on medication for back and stomach pain, joint aches, nerve problems, and depression. Not to mention the fact that Kathy could barely get from the house to her car without losing her breath.

The worst part about being overweight was how others treated her. When out in public, people acted like she wasn't in the room. Kathy hated feeling lonely, and this only made her eat more.

She tried a number of diets throughout the years, but nothing worked for her. Kathy knew she needed to change her life. But when her insurance company denied her request for gastric bypass surgery, she was lost for a solution.

Then Kathy discovered L A Weight Loss in 2003. Feeling that it was her last chance to lose weight, Kathy joined her local Knoxville, Tenn., center, where she was paired up with one-on-one weight loss counselors.

Kathy worked closely with her counselors to stop her bad eating habits, and replace them with healthy alternatives. She cut down her consumption of red meat, macaroni and cheese, and fast food, while enjoying more fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains.

When Kathy hit a plateau, her counselors were right there to help her through it. Their constant encouragement kept Kathy focused and motivated. And whenever she needed a sweet treat, Kathy rewarded herself with an L A Lite bar.

Soon the pounds started to melting away. Kathy has dropped 121 pounds, and is just five pounds away from her goal weight of 153 pounds!

At her new size 8, Kathy can do she things she never dreamed of doing when she was overweight. She exercises five times a week, and still has energy to run around and play with her four grandchildren.

Kathy's health problems have become a thing of the past. She is off all of the medication she needed due to her extra weight, and all of her aches and pains are gone. Best of all, her relationships with the people she loves most are stronger. Her grandkids can wrap their arms around her for the first time!

People are in disbelief when they see pictures of Kathy before she joined L A Weight Loss. This is the smallest she has been since she was 12 years old. Kathy often has to look in the mirror to remind herself that she's no longer the 279-pound woman she used to be.

Most important, Kathy's learned that she no longer needs the comfort of food to make her happy. She can do that all by herself. Way to go, Kathy!

Here's Kathy at her heaviest, 279 pounds:



And here she is today looking fantastic at 158 pounds! Congrats, Kathy!



FAST FACTS

Name: Kathy Kegley
Hometown: Lenorr City, Tenn.
Age: 48
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 279 pounds
Goal weight: 153 pounds
Current weight: 158 pounds
Program start date: December 2003

Favorite food: Grilled chicken.

Biggest temptation: Eating out.

Biggest motivator: Receiving constant support from her counselors.

Biggest obstacle: Getting over her self-doubt.

Old eating philosophy: Eating huge portions.

New eating philosophy: Letting her mind control her meals, not her eyes.

Best thing about losing weight: Changing your diet changes your life.

Erin Bradley succeeds with weight loss 'trickle effect'

You normally measure weight loss success on a scale no larger than a square foot. But in Erin Bradley's case, it was measured on a scale much bigger than that. She calls it the weight loss "trickle effect," and it's the reason behind her new figure.

Her journey to discover it began in high school. Erin wasn't active and didn't eat healthy. She hardly ate fruits and vegetables, and instead consumed a lot of pasta and other carbs. Salty and fried food were her staples.

Erin continued these habits into adulthood, and piled on the pounds. Erin weighed 270 pounds by age 25. The extra weight aggravated Erin's asthma, and she often used an inhaler, especially when she worked out.

She thought about losing weight, but was too embarrassed to talk about it. She tried to work out and eat healthy, but it didn't work. Erin needed a more structured plan that kept her accountable and focused.

But she didn't struggle alone. Her mom, who lived in West Virginia, also battled with her weight, and felt unhappy with herself. Some church friends told Erin's mom to try L A Weight Loss, a program with which they had success. She took the advice and signed up. The trickle effect began!

Erin's mom was soon 40 pounds lighter. Inspired by her success, Erin decided to join the Franklin, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center. She immediately began working with her personal weight loss counselors, Phyllis and Jaime, to develop a customized eating plan that fit her lifestyle.

She incorporated more fruits, vegetables, and seafood into her diet, and cut out salt, red meat, and fried foods. She also learned to cook balanced meals at home, which helped her avoid fattening and unwieldy portions at restaurants. Erin supplemented her eating plan with L A Weight Loss's cereal bars, snacks, and smoothies.

Erin's counselors motivated her to stick to her weight loss regimen by making her accountable for what and how she ate. She followed their guidance, and believed in herself and the program.

She thought her goal was easily within reach. And she was right. In just 10 months, Erin shed 93 pounds!

Now weighing 177 pounds, Erin has a better self-image and more confidence. Her asthma is greatly improved, and she uses her inhaler less frequently. And that means she can work out more often, and is training to run a 5K in January.

Erin says L A Weight Loss is a decision she made for the present and the future, so she can be healthier now and for the rest of her life. And the success is continuing to rub off. Erin has inspired a friend from her church to join L A Weight Loss.

Great to hear, Erin and everyone at church who's found similar success! We're so happy for you!

This is the before Erin, weighing 270 pounds:



And check her out today, 93 pounds lighter at 177! Great job, Erin!



FAST FACTS

Name: Erin Bradley
Hometown: Antioch, Tenn.
Age: 25
Height: 5'9"

Starting weight: 270 pounds
Goal weight: 178 pounds
Current weight: 177 pounds
Program start date: January 2007

Favorite food: Sushi.

Biggest temptation: Sweets.

Biggest motivator: Losing the weight.

Biggest obstacle: Learning how to cook for herself.

Old eating philosophy: Ignoring portion sizes and eating whatever, whenever.

New eating philosophy: Balancing her meals, and eating only when she's hungry.

Best thing about losing weight: Wearing new clothes.

Best weight loss secret learned: Balance your diet.

Tenn. man gains (portion) control of his life

There are many things that can send someone's life spiraling out of control. Drugs, alcohol, a tragic event, or even food, to name a few.

Often, people don't realize they're losing control until it's gone. That's how Matt Beal felt about his weight gain.

Matt gradually packed on pounds after college. The combination of eating out often, dining on fatty foods, and eating at irregular times of the day fueled his weight gain.

When Matt ate out, he ordered humongous portions and ate until he physically felt like he couldn't eat another bite. Then he washed it all down with high-calorie soda or sweet tea.

Matt soon weighed 320 pounds. He worked in retail, which kept him on his feet all day. But carrying around so much weight made his feet ache. Matt also suffered from high blood pressure, and struggled with sleep apnea and snoring.

Matt's weight affected him emotionally as well. He hated having to constantly worry about fitting into places. When he flew, he had to ask for seat belt extensions. And squeezing into roller coasters and other rides was always a struggle.

After returning from a trip to Mexico, Matt saw a picture of himself and was shocked at how heavy he looked. It seemed like Matt's weight had spun out of control without him even noticing. He knew he had to do something to regain control of his body and his life.

Matt tried dieting a number of times, but he couldn't shed the weight. He thought about gastric bypass surgery, but then a better idea struck. He decided to take the less invasive path and join L A Weight Loss in July 2006.

L A Weight Loss paired Matt with one-on-one weight loss counselors who helped him adjust his diet. He added fresh fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and fish to his meal plan. He replaced his sodas and sweet teas with water. Most important, Matt learned portion control.

Matt loves that he can still go to his favorite restaurants, but knows how to make better meal choices. Instead of ordering the 14 oz. steak and baked potato, Matt will order the 7 oz. steak and a salad. Now, he eats until he's full, not until he's absolutely stuffed.

Throughout his weight loss journey, Matt was motivated by constant encouragement from his friends and family. Little by little, Matt whittled the weight away. After one year on the L A Weight Loss program, he lost 110 pounds!

The same day Matt reached his goal weight of 210, he was promoted at work! That's what I call a fabulous day! Matt's success with L A Weight Loss inspired him to keep going and set a new goal weight of 188 pounds. He's on track to meet it, now weighing 195 pounds. That means his total weight loss is 125 pounds so far!

Matt's entire life has changed since he lost the weight. He can't believe how much better he feels, emotionally and physically. Matt says he never knew how tired he was until he started feeling more energetic, and he never knew how depressed he was until he became happier.

And the best part about losing weight is the reactions from people who haven't seen him in a while. It's fun and motivating to bump into old coworkers and friends, and watch their jaws drop when they realize it's Matt. Our jaws dropped too!

With a healthy body, a healthy mind, and a great new position at work, Matt has regained full control of his life. And he looks great!

Here's Matt before at 320 pounds:



And here he is now at 195 pounds -- almost half his size! Wow! Great job, Matt!



FAST FACTS

Name: Matt Beal
Hometown: Cookeville, Tenn.
Age: 34
Height: 5'10"

Starting weight: 320 pounds
Goal weight: 188 pounds
Current weight: 195 pounds
Program start date: July 19, 2006

Favorite food: Apple pie.

Biggest temptation: Pizza.

Biggest motivator: Stepping on the scales, looking in the mirror, and seeing the changes.

Biggest obstacle: Resisting the temptation to eat bad food.

Old eating philosophy: Eating what tastes good, and eating until he was stuffed.

New eating philosophy: Having the right portions of the right foods at the right times of day.

Best thing about losing weight: Looking great and feeling even better.

Best weight loss secret learned: It's not about secrets, gimmicks, and tricks. It's about common sense.

Tennessee softball mom hits weight loss home run

Who doesn't love to eat? Whether sitting around a large table at a family celebration, or enjoying a tasty treat all by yourself, eating can be incredibly enjoyable. A problem arises, though, when your love for eating compels you to eat anything, anytime, without thinking about the repercussions.

Take Stacy Peters. Stacy had struggled with her weight most of her life. Controlling what and when she ate had always been difficult. She simply loved to eat. And often, her will lost the battle to her stomach.

At 5'6", Stacy weighed 251 pounds. She suffered from high blood pressure and low energy. As a coach for her daughters' softball team, Stacy often struggled out on the field during practices. She napped often, and knew she wasn't healthy.

She tried a number of diets, but nothing taught her how to eat right, so Stacy never kept the weight off. Then her mother tried L A Weight Loss -- and it worked wonders! Inspired by her mom's success, Stacy went down to her local Crossville, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center in August 2006.

There, the softball mom worked diligently with her one-on-one weight loss counselors to transform her diet. She reduced the amount of sweets and starches, and cut greasy and fried foods from her diet completely. Instead, she added fresh fruits, vegetables, and lean meats.

Stacy's counselors also taught her how to cook with ingredients such as olive oil, whole wheat flour, and sugar substitutes to cut additional fat out of her home cooked meals. In fact, Stacy's cooking was so much healthier, her husband lost 30 pounds just by eating with her!

Better yet, Stacy herself lost a total of 73 pounds!! Losing weight has truly changed her life. She feels healthier, no longer needs to nap, and has watched her blood pressure go down.

Stacy even has extra energy to practice sports with her girls in the yard. Coaching softball is easier and more fun. And Stacy and her daughters walk together every night.

Best of all, Stacy is much happier and more self-confident. She appreciates everything L A Weight Loss taught her, in addition to her loving and supportive family. Stacy truly feels she has the perfect life. Now that's what we call a home run! We're proud of you, Stacy!

Here's Stacy lugging some extra weight on the softball field:



And here she is 73 pounds later! All right, Stacy!



FAST FACTS

Name: Stacy Peters
Hometown: Pikeville, Tenn.
Age: 36
Height: 5'6"

Starting weight: 251 pounds
Goal weight: 170 pounds
Current weight: 178 pounds
Program start date: August 2006

Favorite food: Chicken.

Biggest temptation: Chips and other snacks.

Biggest motivator: Getting constant support from her husband.

Biggest obstacle: Passing up all the temptations around the holidays.

Old eating philosophy: Eating whatever she wanted, when she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Thinking about what she puts into her body.

Best thing about losing weight: Being happier.

Best weight loss secret learned: Drink plenty of water!

Tennessee mom drops the baby ...

... er, weight that is.

The average weight of a newborn baby is 7.5 pounds. The average weight a mother needs to gain for a healthy baby is 20 to 30 pounds. But once baby is born, many mothers find it difficult to lose that extra 20, 30, or 40 pounds they packed on over the previous nine months.

Take Jeanette Henderson. She never struggled with her weight until she became a mom. With each of her four pregnancies, Jeanette found it impossible to shed the extra weight. By the time she gave birth to her fourth child, she had gained 40 pounds she just couldn't shake.

To make matters worse, Jeanette constantly snacked with her kids. Her diet consisted of large portions, a lot of starches, and too much fried and junk food. And whenever she became depressed about her weight, Jeanette only ate more.

She knew she wanted to lose weight, but didn't know how. Jeanette tried a number of different diets that didn't stick, causing her weight to yo-yo. Then her two closest friends each lost 100 pounds on L A Weight Loss. Jeanette became determined to make it work for her, too.

Working closely with her personal weight loss counselors from her local Hermitage, Tenn., L A Weight Loss center, Jeanette transformed her diet. She replaced her usual unhealthy habits with more fruits and vegetables, and more steamed and baked dinners, rather than fried. Jeanette also loved L A Weight Loss food options, such as L A Lite bars and Slim Downs.

Since starting her L A Weight Loss program, Jeanette lost 31 pounds -- one pound more than her goal weight! Her self-esteem and confidence are soaring. Plus, Jeanette's busy schedule doesn't wear her out any more, and she has plenty of energy left to exercise.

In fact, Jeanette is so happy with her weight loss results, she's trying to convince her husband to join the program! Now that's what I call spreading the good word. Way to go, Jeanette!

Here's a 160-pound Jeanette before L A Weight Loss:



And here she is 31 pounds later! WOW!



FAST FACTS

Name: Jeanette Henderson
Hometown: Hermitage, Tenn.
Age: 42
Height: 5'3"

Starting weight: 160 pounds
Goal weight: 130 pounds
Current weight: 129 pounds
Program start date: July 2006

Favorite food: Turkey tacos.

Biggest temptation: Mexican food.

Biggest motivator: Knowing the plan works.

Biggest obstacle: Admitting she needed to lose the weight.

Old eating philosophy: Paying little attention to portion control.

New eating philosophy: Learning portion control.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling great about herself.

Best weight loss secret learned: Eat six times a day, don't starve yourself, and drink water.

Tennessee woman serves herself a new life

When life hands you lemons, some people make lemonade. Others make lemon meringue pie -- and then eat the whole thing. Jenny Williams falls into the second camp.

Jenny struggled with weight most of her adult life. After her first marriage, her eating habits fell into decline. Jenny routinely dined on fast and fried foods, with the majority of her diet lacking any nutritional value.

Jenny's two pregnancies (twin daughters and a son) sent her weight higher. And the stress of parenthood and a second marriage made her eat even more.

Then tragedy struck. After her second marriage ended, Jenny met the man of her dreams, but he passed away from a massive heart attack during their engagement. Eating became Jenny's therapy.

Her weight made it difficult to do everyday things, like bending down to pick up her grandchildren. She also suffered from high blood pressure, joint pain, depression, and low self-confidence.

Jenny spent years talking about losing weight, but never tried hard. Instead, she only dabbled in weight loss programs. Nothing fit her life. Then one day, Jenny's boyfriend snapped at her for complaining about her weight, and suggested she join L A Weight Loss.

That was the slap in the face that sent Jenny to her local center in Maryville, Tenn., in April 2006. Still, she was unsure of the program, and decided the first negative comment she received would send her walking.

But the comment never came. During a year on the program, she heard only constant encouragement from the L A Weight Loss staff. Her caring, one-on-one counselors worked diligently to help Jenny transform her life from the outside in.

They helped her overhaul her diet of fried foods, fatty meats, and high-calorie iced teas. Instead, she enjoyed healthier foods such as yogurt, fruit, lean meats, vegetables, unsweetened tea, and lots of water. With a positive attitude and determination, Jenny watched the pounds melt away.

After losing an 71 pounds, Jenny is well on her way to her goal weight of 120 pounds! Since losing weight, Jenny's own family barely recognizes her. She now enjoys the nickname "Skinny," and has blown people away with her progress.

Jenny also loves doing things she couldn't do before, such as riding horses, taking her dogs for long walks, and playing with her three grandchildren. And for the first time ever, she loves to shop!

One of the best things about being thinner for Jenny is knowing how proud she made her children and parents. Plus, it's much easier for her to cope with life's stress, and she no longer turns to food for comfort.

Jenny's confidence has skyrocketed, and she feels like a new woman. Anyone up for some lemonade?

Here's Jenny with a new bundle of joy at her starting weight of 226 pounds:



And here's the new Jenny, 71 pounds lighter, and filled with her own joy. Way to go, Jenny!



FAST FACTS

Name: Jenny Williams
Hometown: Maryville, Tenn.
Age: 48
Height: 5'3"

Starting weight: 226 pounds
Goal weight: 120 pounds
Current weight: 155 pounds
Program start date: April 2006

Favorite food: Steak.

Biggest temptation: Homemade ice cream.

Biggest motivator: Getting excited about losing weight, and the potential to look and feel better.

Biggest obstacle: Dealing with relationship difficulties and the stress of daily life.

Old eating philosophy: Cooking and eating whatever she wanted.

New eating philosophy: Making healthy choices, and eating smaller portions.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling healthier and more confident.

Best weight loss secret learned: Have confidence and stay positive! You can do it!

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.

Tennessee mom discovers fountain of youth

It's amazing what having kids can do to your body. All of a sudden, bulges that never existed are squeezing out from under your clothes. It can be depressing and extremely frustrating when your efforts to lose weight just aren't working.

Kim Duckett of Maryville, Tenn., was once in that boat. She was energetic and active when she was young, cheerleading and playing softball. But after she had kids, her weight problems began.

She gained 50 pounds during her first pregnancy, and didn't lose very much of it. After giving birth two more times, Kim's weight ballooned to 228 pounds.

Being a stay-at-home mom kept her weight in the red. Kim wasn't as active, and always gave into her cravings for chocolate, potato chips, and fast food. Even when she started working again, Kim still turned to high-calorie snacks after work.

Baggy clothes hid an unhappy Kim from the world. She didn't have much energy, and felt terrible about herself. Her knees and ankles also hurt when she walked. Plus, her mom had high blood pressure and diabetes, and Kim feared developing these conditions.

She tried several diets, but her weight only yo-yoed. At age 43, Kim realized she was too young to feel this old. She was sick and tired of feeling sick and tired.

Meanwhile, Kim's friend Barbara was on the L A Weight Loss plan, and lost a lot of weight. So Kim decided to see if L A Weight Loss could work for her too. She signed up in October 2006.

The personal weight loss counselors taught Kim how to change her cravings so she desired less unhealthy foods, and more healthy foods. She learned how to opt for grilled chicken Caesar salads over pizza, apples instead of potato chips, and L A Lite bars rather than chocolate.

She also ate six smaller meals a day. This made Kim skeptical as she felt she was eating too often. But her thoughts soon changed when she lost 20 pounds after only four weeks!

Kim stuck with the program, and her weight drooped as quickly as it had increased. Total weight loss: 69 pounds on the L A Weight Loss program, down to 159 pounds!

Now, buying baggy clothes is a thing of the past. Kim loves shopping for smaller sizes. Plus, she receives compliments on her looks, which she hadn't gotten in years. Her daughter tells friends and family that her mom is prettier now than ever before!

Kim is also much closer to her husband. They now enjoy hiking in the Smoky Mountains together. She also walks two miles daily, something she couldn't have done at her heaviest.

Kim's energetic, outgoing personality of her youth is back. She feels losing weight has significantly improved her health, and helped save her life. She knows she'll stick with the L A Weight Loss plan to keep her weight low and confidence high.

There's no more feeling old for this mom! Congrats, Kim! Keep up the great work!

This is Kim before at 228 pounds:



And this is the new, younger-feeling Kim now at 159! Looking fabulous, Kim! Way to go!



FAST FACTS

Name: Kim Duckett
Hometown: Maryville, Tenn.
Age: 44
Height: 5'4"

Starting weight: 228 pounds
Goal weight: 160 pounds
Current weight: 159 pounds
Program start date: October 2006

Favorite food: Grilled chicken Caesar salads.

Biggest temptation: Sour cream and onion potato chips.

Biggest motivator: Being encouraged by her husband to improve her health.

Biggest obstacle: Curbing the munchies.

Old eating philosophy: Enjoying lots of pizza, fast food cheeseburgers, and potato chips.

New eating philosophy: Balancing healthy portions of fish, chicken, whole grains, fruit, and vegetables.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better physically, and loving the way her husband looks at her now.

Best weight loss secret learned: You can eat six times a day and lose weight!

Graduate student earns top honors for weight loss

Many people are born leaders. Others are born athletes. But some folks are born heavy.

That was the case with Michelle Dumas. She arrived in this world at a hefty nine and a half pounds -- and went up from there. As the only overweight person in a family of athletes, she hit 201 pounds at age 12, with no energy for physical activities.

Michelle continued this inactivity into her college years, adding poor eating habits to the mix. She frequented the local hamburger joint, and relied on quick, easy, processed foods -- like fried chicken, hot pockets, and cheese puffs -- to get her through the day. By the time she graduated, she weighed a scale-tipping 391 pounds.

Then tragedy struck. Right after Michelle earned her bachelor's degree and was preparing to start her master's, her father died from diabetes complications. With the disease running on both sides of her family, Michelle knew she had to act quickly, or risk losing her life too.

Her new goal: lose 230 pounds -- more than half her size. But she needed help to do it. After trying other weight loss programs and supplements without success, she decided to join the L A Weight Loss center in Nashville after seeing it work for some of her acquaintances.

There, she teamed up with her personal L A Weight Loss counselor, who helped her plan healthy, easily prepared meals. Michelle saw immediate results, losing five pounds in the first three days, and 10 pounds in the first week!

When she got down to 230 pounds, Michelle also started exercising. Four to five times a week, she'd hit the treadmill, the elliptical machine, and the weights to cut inches and tone her body.

It was this combo of diet and exercise that helped Michelle lose 97 pounds by the time she completed graduate school. But she kept on going. Her grand total over two years: nearly 200 pounds! This puts her at a fit 195 -- a mere 30 pounds away from her goal weight!!

Weight loss has made a tremendous difference in Michelle's life. She now has the confidence and energy to attend networking events, socialize with friends, and shop for new clothes.

Michelle especially sees the difference in her career, where looking more professional has created more opportunities for her to advance, and make full use of her graduate degree.

Way to kick those pounds to the curb, Michelle! And good luck on the last leg of your weight loss journey!

Here's Michelle sporting a bit more than the usual freshman 15:



And here she is fully matriculated from the school of weight loss. Way to go, Michelle!



FAST FACTS

Name: Michelle Dumas
Hometown: Knoxville, Tenn.
Age: 30
Height: 5' 9½"

Starting weight: 391 pounds
Goal weight: 165 pounds
Current weight: 195 pounds
Program start date: January 17, 2005

Favorite food: Pizza.

Biggest temptation: Peanut butter.

Biggest motivator: Wanting to reduce her chances for developing diabetes.

Biggest obstacle: Being around other people who ate unhealthily.

Old eating philosophy: Indulging in pizza, fast food, Doritos, and anything with cheese.

New eating philosophy: Enjoying healthier foods, including eggplant, cabbage, broccoli, bananas, and apples.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling healthy and energetic.

Best weight loss secret learned: Avoid eating carbs at night.

Carb addict finds the way to stay on the wagon

Addictions are powerful forces. Often they're so strong, you just give in. But when you give in again and again, you can fall deeper into despair, as Julie Grey did when she became addicted to carbs.

After Julie's parents divorced when she was five, her grandmother smothered her with love -- and food. She began gaining weight, which continued into adolescence and adulthood.

By the time she wed her husband Phillip in 1998, Julie weighed 200 pounds. A year later when she graduated dental school, she was up to 230 pounds. And after having two children, her weight ballooned to 282 pounds.

Her weakness: carbs. Any kind, any way. Pasta with creamy Alfredo sauce. Macaroni and cheese. Rice and gravy.

She tried almost a dozen diets to get over her carb cravings. None worked. She would lose a few pounds, but couldn't maintain weight loss. With obesity bearing down on her, she had little self-confidence and no energy to keep up with her rambunctious toddlers.

Julie's life was filled with a loving family and a great profession, but something was still missing: love for herself. Without that, Julie continued her old eating habits -- until she found L A Weight Loss.

She joined the Nashville L A Weight Loss center in October 2005. When reviewing her eating habits with her personal weight loss counselor, Julie said, "I love rice." Her counselor responded, "Well, rice does not love you."

So, working with her counselor, Julie started eating more chicken and vegetables, and cutting back on carbs. She acquired a new appetite for low-carb meals and lean proteins, and the weight started coming off.

She also began walking 30 minutes a day, four days per week. She soon took up Pilates, and added aerobics to her exercise routine.

Julie dropped 132 pounds and is down to 150 pounds! The takeaway: She has found self-confidence and self-love, and has the energy to move forward with her life.

Julie can say with absolute certainty, she will never be obese again! Way to go, Julie!

Here is Julie, at a carb-crazy 282 pounds:



And check out the carbs-under-control Julie now, at 150 pounds. Looking great, Julie!!



FAST FACTS

Name: Julie Grey
Hometown: Franklin, Tenn.
Age: 37

Starting weight: 282 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 150 pounds
Program start date: October 2005

Favorite food: Rice.

Biggest temptation: Carbs and creamy sauces.

Biggest motivator: Finding self-love.

Biggest obstacle: Limiting her favorite carbs.

Old eating philosophy: Consuming lots of pasta with alfredo sauce, macaroni and cheese, rice, and creamy gravies.

New eating philosophy: Revising her diet to include more lean proteins and less carbs.

Best thing about losing weight: Loving herself and the way she looks.

Best weight loss secret learned: Stick with your weight loss plan -- it's the best thing for you, and worth the effort!

Losing the weight for a warm embrace

There are few things in this world Judy Pederson misses more than her daughter's arms wrapping all the way around her. Yet that's exactly what she was missing when she tipped the scales at 272 pounds, and her daughter could no longer give her a big bear hug.

The 48-year-old physical therapist also found it hard to motivate her patients while she was carrying all that weight. To complicate matters, Judy's blood pressure crept up, and she began to experience some arthritis.

While Judy tried other weight loss plans, she was never able to keep the weight off. Desperate, she even considered gastric bypass surgery, but the procedure's complications scared her away.

Finally, Judy's frustration level hit its peak when she couldn't enjoy going out anymore. So she walked into the Madison, Tenn., L A Weight Loss in June 2005 -- and lost 10 pounds just in the first week!

Motivated by this early success, Judy began walking 2 miles a day. Now, she has worked her way up to walking 4.5 miles a day!

The new eating habits and exercise helped Judy meet -- and surpass! -- her goal weight of 150 pounds. She's now a slender 130 pounds ... and that's an accomplishment worthy of some hugs. Way to go, Judy!

Here's Judy at 272 pounds:



And look at her now at 130 pounds! Wow, Judy, great job!



FAST FACTS

Name: Judy Pederson
Hometown: Nashville, Tenn.
Age: 48

Starting weight: 272 pounds
Goal weight: 150 pounds
Current weight: 130 pounds
Program start date: June 2005

Favorite food: Pizza.

Biggest temptation: Freshly baked chocolate chip cookies.

Biggest motivator: Getting on the scale each week and seeing the numbers go down.

Biggest obstacle: Getting outside to exercise during the winter.

Old eating philosophy: Eating buttered bread, pasta, donuts and muffins.

New eating philosophy: Cooking grilled chicken, fish, vegetables, and whole wheat pasta.

Best thing about losing weight: Building a positive attitude about her life.

Best weight loss secret learned: The right combination of a healthy diet and exercise will help you lose the weight -- and keep it off!

Firefighter burns fat, saves his own life

Couple hot flames with bulky suits and 60-pound oxygen tanks, and fighting fires can wipe out even the healthiest people. That's why firefighters need to be in tip-top physical shape to do their job safely and well.

But for volunteer firefighter Ryan Hargis of Kingston, Tenn., his physical shape was holding him back. At 253 pounds, Ryan had borderline high blood pressure and cholesterol. He couldn't keep up with his fellow East Roane County firefighters or his seven- and nine-year-old boys like he used to.

In fact, Ryan's doctor told him to get his blood pressure down in three months, or face medication. That was the final straw for Ryan.

You can hear about this moment of truth and more from an interview Janelle and I recently conducted with Ryan. We talked about being a firefighter, and how losing weight has affected his life. Warning: It's a scorcher!



Can't take the heat? Here's the short version of Ryan's journey:

After mulling over his diagnosis, Ryan remembered seeing TV commercials for L A Weight Loss, and thought the plan looked like something he could easily follow. So he took a short trip to the L A Weight Loss center in Knoxville, Tenn., on April 15, 2006 -- the first step toward dousing his high blood pressure and cholesterol.

Since that date, Ryan has lost 65 pounds and is now down to 188 pounds!! He credits his success to how little he had to change his life. The L A Weight Loss nutritionists taught Ryan how he could still eat his favorite foods, but in moderation. Ryan also learned how to overcome his carb cravings with healthier options such as fruits.

Ryan's blood pressure is now normal, and he has a lot more energy to fight fires and play with his kids.

When Ryan reached his initial goal weight of 200 pounds, he started to incorporate exercise into his healthy lifestyle to keep his muscles strong for just about any physical challenge.

In fact, it was Ryan's newfound energy and strength that enabled him to make a big difference for his firefighting squad and his county. Toward the end of last year, his team was called to put out a large house fire. Thanks to a fit and trim body, Ryan was able to support his team every step of the way without getting winded. The squad saved the house!

In recognition of his efforts, Ryan won the Firefighter of the Year Award for East Roane County. Way to go, Ryan and team!

Here's Ryan before, at 253 pounds:



And here's Ryan after, at 188 pounds. Looking hot, Ryan!!



FAST FACTS

Name: Ryan Hargis
Hometown: Kingston, Tenn.
Age: 36
Height: 5'11"

Starting weight: 253 pounds
Goal weight: 190 pounds
Current weight: 188 pounds
Program start date: April 15, 2006

Biggest motivator: Getting support and love from his wife.

Biggest obstacle: Finding a weight loss plan that fit into his hectic schedule.

Old eating philosophy: Burning through three big meals a day.

New eating philosophy: Eating several small meals throughout the day, and going for healthier options such as fruits and L A Lite bars.

Best thing about losing weight: Feeling better physically and emotionally. Now when he looks in the mirror, he doesn't see the same big person staring back.

Best weight loss secret learned: Everyone has periods when they get discouraged. The winners are the ones who keep at it. Keep going, and the results will come!