RALEIGH, N.C. — Losing weight is almost always reason to celebrate. At TOPS meetings, the celebrations are a group event.

Taking Off Pounds Sensibly

is a non-profit weight loss program with chapters across the country, including several in the Triangle.

One Raleigh chapter meets weekly at Millbrook Baptist Church. Each meeting begins with a weigh-in.

"Everyone applauds when you lose weight," said Laura Wickwar, a TOPS captain.

And if someone gains weight?

"We support that person too," said Beatrice Jamerson, a TOPS member.

That support system is what drew Jamerson to TOPS two years ago.

"I was overweight. I had high blood pressure, high cholesterol," she said.

Through weekly programs on health, exercise and nutrition, Jamerson changed her eating habits and started exercising.

She has lost 35 pounds and is now a proud member of KOPS -- Keep Off the Pounds. It is an honor for those who reach their goal weight and keep weight off.

Jamerson said the scales are her motivator.

"I think the main thing is knowing that I have to face those scales every Tuesday," she said.

Nancy Streeter has dropped more than 35 pounds and is also a KOPS member.

"It wasn't that hard to do," she said.

TOPS is open to men, women and children who have at least 10 pounds to lose. A participant's goal weight is set by their doctor.

The program is not a quick fix, but a support system for those who want to lose weight and keep it off.

Annual dues for TOPS cost $20, plus an extra dollar or two for chapter fees. For more information on TOPS call (919) 870-0479.