Newbie Inspired & Seeking Help

Facts: 5'7 height. 168 in weight. Female, 26 yoa.

I had a foot injury in May at work causing me to be sent home for recovery. I had surgery in late July. I have been out of the cast now for two weeks, and begining to gradually learn to start walking with applying only 25% body weight on foot. At the begining of my injury I fluctuated from 173-177 regularly. Little past history: In the last two years I gained 25 pounds, shot up from a size 2/4 to a size 9/10. I have been unhappy with my weight for a while now, and I think with this injury has really made me focus again on the importance of a healthy lifestyle. I work in law enforcement and in the last couple years working late nights, eating like crap, eating out alot and complete laziness has brought me to where I am today. I'm tired of it. I want my complete overall health and fitness to better, and help me during my recovery.

My biggest concern are 1. returning to work fully without restrictions. 2. Fitting in my uniform (has really been keeping me up at nght. and 3.) shed the pounds.

Im happy to say I have atleast maintained (lost a couple lbs) in the last 4 months with all my strict limitations. But now that (I hope) am getting closer to recovery I want to assure I take the right steps to 1. Eat better, 2. Feel better, 3. Lose some LBs. I have been reading some of the threads, and it seems like the community here is very educated in weight loss, fitness, lifestyle changes and frankly I'm impressed, but mostly I'm seeking advice, help and tips.

1.) I bought a rowing machine about 2 weeks ago, I have worked up to rowing 5times a week for about 30 min. Keep in mind I have been rowing with only one leg, so I'm constantly making sure my good leg, knee, and foot are ok and I don't wan't to over stress it.

2.) My eating is ****ty. I need to clean it up. I need help in this department. When I eat "healthy" I'm constantly starving.

3.) I need help!! Advice!! Tips!!