My unique journey (w/ pics)

After months of exploring these forums and learning about other people's stories, I've cometo find that my story is a bit different. I was not always overweight. I do not have a history of yoyo-ing. I have, however, always struggled to have a positive body image. I was trim and fit most of my adult life, but I was never satisfied. Then over the course of the past 2-3 years, I got stuck in a vicious cycle of depression, low self esteem, overeating, and inactivity. I gained ~50lbs. and completely lost myself and my identity. I'd always been athletic, I'd always been fit, and now here I was, overweight and disgusting (that's how I saw it). It wasn't until my best friend reminded me that I can still do things that I enjoy that it crossed my mind that I didn't have to remain in this funk forever. I got back to coaching cheerleading, got back in the gym, and became mindful of what I was eating. I've developed a passion for fitness and become super educated about my body and nutrition. I still have growth the experience, but I'm proud of my progress. I've lost the 50lbs I gained and developed an appreciation of myself that I've never experienced before.