Let's try this again...

Hi all,

About a year ago I started with MFP and was able to really lose weight and get fit for the first time in my life. Being 22 and obese was not fun but I could never get myself motivated-- my entire life I had been gradually gaining weight and became more and more unhealthy. Last June I graduated from college, moved back home and got a real job. I wanted a new start and I got it-- I committed myself to MFP and keeping myself accountable for what I was eating. Within a few months I was down to the smallest I have been since high school and was at the gym every day. I even started jogging, which was a HUGE accomplishment for me! (I have never EVER jogged before in my life!)

Over time, my job became extremely stressful and I gave in to the pitfalls of the workplace-- I started munching on snacks at my desk, ordering chinese or pizza with my co-workers and going out for a beer (or five) after work. I wanted to fit in and make friends and I did, but I also sacrificed the progress I had made. I moved in with my fiancé in November and could no longer afford my gym membership, started making excuses and working 50+ hours a week, which only meant I was eating more and more (and worse!) to deal with my stress. I am now the heaviest I have ever been at 340 lbs (5'11), up from the goal I had reached of 310 lbs just a few months ago. I became so disappointed with myself and felt like I didn't deserve to be happy again or to work hard for my own health.

I'm getting married in March and although I've already purchased my wedding dress at the size I currently am, my first fitting is in January and I am re-committing myself to work harder than ever before to get healthy. I quit my job a week ago and am starting a PhD program in September. I am taking this as an opportunity to focus on myself and my fitness goals-- one day I do want to have children and I want to be there for them and my (future) husband. I need to live a long and healthy life and I know I am the only one that can make that happen! That being said, I could really use the support of those who are in the same place as I am. Feel free to add me if you need an MFP buddy.

Wishing you all the best & thanks for listening!

Cassie