Incredible Body Makeovers

For most of her life, Stacey Halprin has struggled with her weight—and at one point she weighed 550 pounds. Depressed and alienated, Stacey fed her sadness with more and more food.

After the tragedy of September 11, 2001, Stacey decided to take control of her life. She started by having gastric bypass surgery and followed up with a steady exercise routine and a healthier diet. She's since lost more than 300 pounds!

Although the surgery and exercise helped immensely, Stacey says that she first needed to make the decision to reclaim her life. "People say, 'How long did it take you to lose 300 pounds?'" she says. "I go, 'My entire life.'"