Hey my name is Ashley and i am 19 years old. I have been going through a constant battle to lose weight for the past 2 years. The problem isnt actually losing the weight as much as sticking to the program. Im joining this forum in hope to keep my motivation going because that is usually why I fail because I don't have the support therefore I lose motivation. I was always very petite when I was younger, I was very active and played tennis and ran 2 miles a day.. now I run out of breath after running 2 feet!! (not literally) I am 5'2 and 156 pounds. I don't know when I started gaining weight but I went from 117 to 155 in the matter of some months!!! I don't even remember ever seeing 130s. I knew I was gainin weight but didn't know how much until i seen a picture of myself from a party I attended.. I couldn't even believe it.. Since then I have NO self confindence.. and I find myself avoiding cameras, going places, and even making eye contact because of my extra pounds!! But hopefully that is all going to end!! I started the Apple Cidar Vinager Diet January 25 and have already lost 4 pounds!! I really want this to continue so I NEED MOTIVATION!!

Welcome!! I am pretty new here also......I have found a lot of support and great information!

I'm new too and know how you feel. I went from about 150 to over 200 in about 9 months. I got fat so fast at one point I think I skipped size 14 and went straight to a 16 from a size 12. I'm still trying to laugh about that. I do the same things of not allowing pictures to be taken of me and avoiding public places where I feel like everyone is watching me. This site has already started to help me even in the short amount of time I've been here. There are a lot of good people here for support.

Hi Ashley!
So mnay here understand exactly how you feel, it's amazing how the pounds seem to just appear - sounds like you're off to a great start - 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 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,
Lee