[rachieready]

Hello everyone.
My name is Rachel. I'm a 37 year old mother of 3 gorgeous boys from Oklahoma, and I'm married to an amazing and supportive man.

I've decided (for the first time in my life), to find some support with this. I've always attempted to fight this battle on my own... out of embarrassment, stubbornness, denial, whatever...

I'm not really sure what to say. I've lurked on many message boards throughout the years, but never gotten involved. I've registered, skimmed some posts (there are so many!), and decided to introduce myself.

I suppose I'll start by offering some insight about myself.

I got married (the first time) when I was very young. When I was 21 years old, I gave birth to a little boy (Bryce) who had severe hydrocephalus. (many people know it as "water on the brain") I had no idea during my pregnancy that anything was wrong. He wasn't expected to live through the night... and I didn't think I would either. (He did live, and is now a strong 15 yr old boy, though severely disabled)

For the sake of keeping this an introduction, and not a life story... I'm condensing this story and the emotion attached to it beyond what I can even convey... but I felt it was important to include in my intro because it was the pivotal point (I feel), at which my health, weight, and mental/emotional well-being spiraled out of control.

That being said, I've always struggled with my weight. I'm 5'3, and hovered around 150-160 throughout high school. Then around 185 entering into my 20's before having children. After I had Bryce, I fell into a depression. I didn't have time to deal with the depression or my own health. Nor did I care whether or not I did.

My first marriage didn't survive. I did managed to start college, get Bryce through many many surgeries, therapies, finish college, meet and marry an AMAZING man, and have two more (very healthy) boys. Now I find myself sitting at over 250 lbs.

I believe I've finally emerged from my "fog"... I'm ready to get back to "me"... I'm ready to reach out to others... I'm looking forward to getting to know you all... and I'm really hoping to find a home... some place I can actually be honest, and share and learn and grow and listen to others...

Thanks for reading, and looking forward to it~

Rachel

[OtterMommy]

What a story! We are here to help you!

-Melinda

[Tibbits2u]

Welcome !

[zero vector]

You sound like an amazing woman who has been through quite a bit! I know how depression impedes us both mentally and physically. Good luck on your journey, you have already made several steps in the right direction!

[Kaitie9399]

[lovely30]

Yay! You are amazing. It's great to reach out. To do something different than what you did before. Cheers to getting back to you.

[AdorkablePG]

Welcome! So glad you have your way here. I am a newbie here as well but feel like I am not doing this alone here. The support already has been great.

[rachieready]

Thanks everyone!

[Rhiko]

[Stars]

You have such wonderful strength and courage. That tells me you are a strong woman that can accomplish anything. You are going to do great on your weight loss journey! Welcome to 3FC!

[Mozzy]

Welcome and good luck on your journey!!