Hi all,

I have been in the weight loss game for MANY years!! I am now 44-will be 45 in August.

I have lost over 200 lbs.

I tried all the different ways to lose weight-like most of you. I gained and lost and gained and lost.

For me-it came to the point where I was becoming immobile-my knees and hips could do no more for me.

I finally considered weight loss surgery. I did not take this decision lightly. I studied and researched for a very long time. I refused to even consider the surgery until I worked on the emotional issues which brought me to it in the first place.

Even when I did decide to go for it-it took another two years!

I started out at 383. My lowest was about 150-ish and I am 173 today. Although I know some bounce-back weight is to be expected, I am not comfortable with where the weight is today.

There is no "there" on our weight loss journeys -whether it be surgical or non surgical. I would also add there is no "easy way out". In order to have success it's a total package deal. Mind, body, soul. It's a MUST.

Another thing-this journey should NOT be taken alone. I know many of us are/were isolators of the worst kind. I got to the point where I feared leaving the house-because people were cruel and it hurt.

So-now. Here I am. Just over 4 years out and doing "OK". But-OK is not good enough. I need some support and I would also love to lend some support. All I have is my experience to share.

I know what it is like to stand at the starting point looking into the distance and wondering if you are going to make it. I also know what it is like to have to use assistance to walk. And-I ALSO know what it is like to RUN up the stairs with wild abandon-only to burst into tears of joy at the amazing feat!!

I am grateful. I am also human and am at the mercy of the same things as you. Stress, fear, low self esteem, hope and dreams.

The one thing I have with me today-which is the same thing I had with me on the day of my surgery is my "TRY". That is all that is needed. One try turns into another-one foot and the next.

So-I am now going to assemble my treadmill which arrived this week. C'mon. Who am I fooling? I need to MOVE this behind of mine!!

Thanks for the great site and I am really hopeful and looking forward to meeting some new friends!!

Peace,
T

Welcome. Congatulations on your remarkable loss. I suggest you look for a Support Group or Challenge to join; a small group of friends to help keep you motivated, find one that inspires you or fits your needs, and just post to join.

Hi and Welcome

Wow, you have lost a lot of weight already! Well Done

And I know you will find plenty of support, motivation and inspiration here to reach your big and final goal!

Best of Luck!

Thanks all! I really appreciate the welcomes and input! I totally agree-time to join a group for a bit of a kick in the pants! LOL!

Great post! Welcome and congrats on your fantastic accomplishment! You look amazing!!!

Welcome and good luck!

Dhani

Thanks all very much for the kind welcomes!! I am really looking forward to sticking around!

Hi and welcome to 3FC.

Congrats on your success and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

Welcome to the forum! Good luck achieving your goals!

Welcome!! I really enjoyed this post!! You write really well and made some fabulous points. I can not wait to read more from you! You've joined at a great time, a new month will be starting soon and there are month long challenges to join. I am on the edge of my seat these days, waiting for the August challenges to show up.

Welcome to 3FC, you will find a lot of support and information here

Bravo on your progress! Good luck with your continue efforts!!

Thanks all! I am loving this place. Everyone has been VERY friendly and it honestly makes me feel much better and hopeful!!