Started at 320, goal 190

LittleGirlWithin

Hello, all you MFPers! I must say, I'm so proud to have joined your ranks. Though I just started using this app and following a calorie-restrictive diet, I do have a lot of previous experience with weightloss. I've been overweight since kindergarten; I have just recently turned 43. I'm disappointed that I have missed out on so many things life has to offer, all because I'd rather stuff my face than eat a healthful diet and be active.

In 2006 I reached my peak weight of 394# (at 5'10"). Early that year I experienced several life changes; in January I separated (later divorced) from my husband of nine years and in February I had a major surgery. I had a number of serious complications related to the surgery, forcing me to be in and out of the hospital for two months. Early on my road to recovery, I began to follow a calorie-restricted diet loosely based on the Weight Watchers points program. I dropped almost a hundred pounds in less than a year, simply by changing my diet. Later I joined a gym, hired a personal trainer and eventually reached the weight of two hundred thirty seven pounds, a loss of 157#. Unfortunately, I did not keep it off.

I remarried in 2009 and the weight gradually crept back on. I had all kinds of reasons (excuses) for regaining much of the weight, but at the end of the day the only reason I regained is because I stopped counting my calories, over-ate and reduced my activity. I am ashamed to admit that my poor lifestyle choices have impacted more than just me; my husband and daughter-in-law (she lived with us for over two years) have also piled on the pounds. I am here because I've stopped making excuses and I am ready to make some PERMANENT changes. It is my hope and my secondary mission that my improved diet and fitter, more healthful lifestyle will have a positive impact on those around me.

I am highly motivated to reach my goals and am eager to connect with positive, like-minded individuals. Feel free to ask me any questions, share tips, etc. I am totally open to communicating with anyone.

Shelle

***I probably ought to mention that I do have a severe Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), a physically-debilitating autoimmune disease not caused by or directly related to obesity. Unlike osteo-arthritis, which is typically an age-and-lifestyle-related condition that causes joint deterioration, RA is a biochemical, systemic disease. It can strike anyone at any age, even children (Juvenile RA), but typically targets women ages 25-40 and, once diagnosed, is here to stay.

BIGLeagueQ

Hello, Shelle! Permanent change is my ultimate goal as well. I wish you the best of luck with your journey!

ymca1968

We can do this together. One day, one pound at a time

amandahugndkiss

Welcome!
Life just seems to get the better of us at times. I have yoyo'd myself from an early age, but for now I'm just looking forward. You can do this!

lizlovell627

Hi there! This goal is very similar to mine! Wishing you luck and on your journey. I am hoping for permanant change for a healthier lifestyle!

jordantheginger

Hello, I have a similar story in that I also have RA. I also have a similar goal. Recently, I ballooned up to 330# and would like to lose 150#, I am 6'. Diagnosed with RA at the age of 18 and am now 28. I've struggled with weight loss my whole life but have been successful in the past. I just want to find something that will help motivate me to make permanent changes. Good luck in your journey!