Hi Niki, I'm new here as well, and in the same boat. I'm so tired of being in pain from the extra weight, and I'm ready to do what I need to in order to change my body. I want to be around for my daughters, and a big part of my motivation to change is this forum and being able to have the support from others here who know what this is like. Congratulations on taking these steps to get healthy, I think it takes a lot of courage.