In October 1994, Rick Stonehouse, of Nova Scotia, Canada, while visiting online weight loss sites, posted the question, "Are there any TOPS members out there?" Cecilia B. was the first to respond. Shortly thereafter, Lynne Zoyiopoulos, Colorado, the only remaining charter member on cyberTOPS, responded. Friends of friends began to join in the discussions. Twenty-three TOPS members joined the first email list. Joan Maki came up with the name CyberTOPS and, with permission of TOPS Club, Inc. to use TOPS in the name, CyberTOPS was born.

CyberTOPS was presented to the "world" at IRD 1995, held in Halifax, Canada. "Father cyberTOPS," Rick Stonehouse, started the email list after IRD. Susan Trones, Barb Cady, Ruth Gielow, and Nancy Best joined as a result of IRD 1995.

In May 1996, Lori Russell joined cyberTOPS. Shortly after joining, she took on the role of the "official" Weight Recorder. When Rick was unable to actively participate on cyberTOPS, Lori filled in for him and kept the list going. Later, the list had to find a new home and Lori stepped in and became the "list owner." Over the years, Lori has kept the list active and involved with roll call, challenges, contests, pledges, and anniversary and birthday greetings.