Hello all...Its very comforting to know that I'm not alone in the fight to lose weight. I know its silly to think that I'm the only one, but all I seem to notice are the thin, happy people who can go through life not worrying about their weight. You can't understand what its like to be overweight unless you've been there. I've tried all kinds of diets. I had the most success 5 years ago when I used a medical weight loss shake program and lost 85 pounds in 6 months. It took less than a year to gain it all back. As soon as I got off those miracle shakes the weight creeped back and devastated me. I'm a 28 year old woman, I work full time and I have a live in boyfriend. That seems nice, but I want soooo much more. I want to get married and look gorgeous in my wedding dress. I want to have babies and have the energy to keep up with them. Most importantly, I want to live a long time and not have the same health problems as my parents (diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol, knee and hip replacement surgery). I can't pretend anymore that I'm happy living the way I am, a compulsive overreater with very little physical activity. So, I'm willing to give myself another chance. I'm worth it and so are all of you. I'm glad to be here! I look forward to chatting with all of you

welcome!! This is my first post, too. I am excited this community is here and can't wait to use everyone here to keep motivated! You can totally do this! You will be a beautiful bride in no time!!
The medical weight loss shakes- was that Medifast? I have friends that are on it, and they lose the weight very rapidly- but as soon as they go off of it- they gain everything and more back.

I did Optifast, pretty much the same thing. I consistently lost at least 4 pounds a week. It was like a miracle, after the first week, your body gets used to fasting and you feel fantastic, lots of energy and never hungry. But, exactly like you said, once you're off of it, you gain it all back. If I could've been on it forever I would've. I learned A LOT, but after depriving myself for 6 months, all I wanted to do was eat all the foods I missed. I definitely think its better to change you whole lifestyle. Good luck to you!!

welcome!! ive had many failed weight loss attempts myself. i lost around 30 lbs in high school just from changing food and exercising but gained it all back and extra! this is the longest and best attempt I have made in a long time. you can do! all u need is will power, patience, and SUPPORT! and this is a great place to come for that

Hi Size3wannbe!
SO many of us here have lost only to gain it back (& sometimes more!) - but it sounds like you're ready to get it done, no looking back, no beating yourself up, just moving forward - 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. Try the 20 somethings and the weight loss support forums, they're active and very helpful - also the Success stories are a definite 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 - here's to having the life you want and deserve,
Lee