With her luminous dark eyes and to-die-for smile, it's clear Sherline has always been attractive, even back before her surgery. She's naturally upbeat and admits to being "pretty optimistic about life." So she wasn't worried when the pounds began to collect in her early twenties. "I knew who I was," she explains. "I wasn't changed by the weight."

That self-confidence served Sherline well two years ago when her erratic menstrual cycle sent her to the doctor. Weighing in at 288 lbs, diagnosed with PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) and borderline diabetes, she recognized the wake-up call. She'd heard about the Bariatric program at nearby St. Vincent's and was intrigued. "Once I met with Dr. Ehrlich, I knew I could do this," she says. "My boyfriend and family knew I could, too." She started her pre-surgery exercise program, met regularly with the Bariatric team ("they were so supportive!") and went in for surgery. "I even missed my ten-year high school reunion to do it," she laughs.

It's been a year and Sherline has lost about 95 lbs. "I exercise daily and eat differently," she says. "Not really less, just differently." Her menstrual cycle is normal, there's no sign of diabetes, and she loves coming back to St. Vincent's for her checkups and to see the friendly staff.

How does she feel now? "Great," says Sherline. "I can't wait for my next high-school reunion!"