[ToBThinAgain]

Hi everyone... I'm 57, mother to five and grandmother to one. Over the last twenty years I've had some medical problems - hypothyroid and hypertension. I've gained a lot of weight! Medication kept me heavy, but now I've changed the way I manage my health and believe I can lose weight now. I'm counting calories and exercising, and am here for support, networking, and friends. My current weight is 240 and my goal is 160. I'm 5'8" and twenty years ago I was normally 145 lbs and thin. I don't expect to get that thin again... I think 160 is a great goal. So... I need to lose 80 pounds. One day at a time!

I'm looking forward to meeting everyone here and finding out more about how this message board works!

[CLCSC145]

Welcome to 3FC!

[Deena52]

Hi and welcome.

I'm also 57 and also gained a great deal of weight due to medication so I can totally relate. The medication I was on literally shut down my metabolism and when I finally stopped it, I did have to struggle for a bit to get my metabolism working again....but I persevered and it's finally paying off.

I'm only 5'4" and had never been that heavy, even pregnant....and boy, was it ever uncomfortable. I'd had no idea until I had to experience it for myself. I could hardly tie my own shoes....not pretty, that's for sure.

There is SO much great information on this site. I've been reading for a few hours almost every day and have learned so much. I also just joined a group here for over 50's..one of the support forums here, called "golden girls" and the women seem very friendly and supportive there. You can find it if you look under "support groups" on the main page of the forums here.

deena

[SouthernMaven]

Welcome!

Yes, you can do it...I'm 58 and finally had to make the decision to get the 40 menopause pounds off once and for all. Blood pressure was up, I felt cruddy all the time, you name it.

Sounds like you're on the right track! I've found that this time the exercise is the key. Keep it simple; I am now up to walking 4 miles a day with a plan to add that fifth mile starting in January.

You will be amazed at how much your blood pressure will drop with just a few pounds of weight loss!

You hit the nail on the head with your last line "One day at a time!"

[Violet73]

welcome! you have lots of support here! good luck on your goals!

[leeway]

Hi ToBThinAgain!
Sounds like you're off to a great start with determination and realistic goals -the support you need is here.

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! There's also info and first hand advice on different eating plans and exercise to help get through the ups and downs. You might be interested in the Calorie Counters or the 50+ group to start.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a few months myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you 've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

All the best - good luck with your goals,
Lee

[Onederchic]

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle