Age: 25
Hometown: Naples, FL

"I've gone from a size 20 to a 10!" *

I first went to the Duke Diet & Fitness Center (DFC) in 2001. My sister was the first to go, and she kept telling me how great it was and urging me to try it -- so I did.

In the six years that I've been following the DFC program, I've lost a total of 90 pounds. I've gone from a size 20 to a 10! Plus, I have lower blood pressure -- it's at a very healthy level now.

The great thing about the DFC is how much you learn. They tell you everything you need to know, from how your metabolism works to what your goal weight should be to how many calories you should be eating. The knowledge the DFC gave me -- especially about nutrition -- has really helped me continue to lose weight and keep it off. I didn't know anything about what I was putting into my body before the program. Now I'm aware of what I'm eating. I ask for dressings and sauces on the side, and I've eliminated fried and creamy foods.

Exercise has really helped, too. I started doing cardio workouts a couple of months before starting the program, and just kept it up afterward. I try to get to the gym at least four or five days a week, doing cardio on the elliptical machine. I love taking the classes at the gym too -- it's easier just to let someone else tell you what to do, for how long, and how to do it!

My confidence has improved 100 percent. I feel healthy and good about myself. I can go to "regular size" clothing stores and know that something will fit. Plus, I can climb a flight of stairs without getting winded. I feel lighter, as though there is less strain on my back and legs. And I'm just happier in general!

Best compliment: People tell me I'm so beautiful and I look so great. I love the reactions of people who haven't seen me in a couple of years the best -- it's an expression of surprise mixed with confusion and disbelief!

Favorite snack: Low-fat cottage cheese with jam.

Advice to others following the Duke Diet program: Don't let setbacks bring you down -- it happens! And always remember that you can eat anything in moderation and not feel guilty about it.

*Results not typical.