[broadwaydreamer]

All my life I've wanted to be on Broadway. I've been told, by family, friends, teachers, directors, fellow actors and reviews, that I've got what it takes vocally and as an actress. The thing I've always felt a bit too broad to get there.

My family is a big family, in numbers and waists. Diabetes, high cholesterol and high blood pressure run through our veins. While I do indeed have high cholesterol, I am one of the only kids in my generation that has not yet developed diabetes. My parents, while incredible, have never been great with my weight. They always encouraged exercise and better food but never followed the rules themselves. Right after freshman year of high school, I herniated a disk in my spine and had to quit softball and dance, taking away the little exercise I did. Throughout high school, bad relationships, parent fights, and bad self esteem, led me to battles with bulimia. My weight fluctuated and I was constantly getting sick. Theater and music have always been my solace. I sing or act or play the piano or dance and everything is better.

After starting college, where I am studying theater, I started various small attempts to lose the weight I thought I finally could after leaving home. But frustration with lack of progress and laziness took over. My incredible fiancee, who I love more than words and tells me how beautiful I am. I feel so lucky to have him in my life and I want more than anything to see what he sees in me.

I want to be happy with myself. I want to have legs that look great doing the high kicks that after years of physical therapy I know I can do. I want to try on single digit dresses for the first time ever. And for some reason, I know this is the year. I've tried starting a million times but this time something is different.

I'm headed back to school on Monday, confident and ready to take on a new semester and new challenges. I'm starting at 186 lbs, hoping to get below 150 lbs.

I'd really appreciate any encouragement you have, be it words of wisdom or just a hello. I'd love to talk to people as I feel like it would help me along.

I wish you all the best, thanks for reading.

[CLCSC145]

Welcome! I agree, talking to others struggling (and winning) with the same issues is really helpful. Glad you're here!

[Onederchic]

What great aspirations, I love this so much. Thank you for joining the forums here and good luck with your goals

Hugs
Michelle

[leeway]

Hi BroadwayDreamer!
You sound like an awesome, beautiful and talented young lady (everyone tells you so) but until you can reach the goals you have set for yourself, you will never truly believe it and be all that you can be - the support you need is here - we'll all be here to cheer you on.

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 and inspired - you'll be a wonderful addition to any of them. Try the 20 somethings and the weight loss support forums, they're active and very helpful - also the Success stories are a must for motivation.

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 since last fall, 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 going off track or giving up. It has made all the difference in my success so far.

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

All the best - good luck with your goals - watch out Broadway,
Lee

[musicalme223]

I know that this post is over a year old, but I just wanted to let you know that I share your dream! I hope you are making great progress